Women For Women International

This morning 14 of us piled into one van – a bit cozy but the energy was upbeat and we were ready to go meet the group of women sponsored by the Women for Women program. After a two hour drive we arrived at their training center.

One by one we got out of the van and were greeted by the women. They were excited about our visit and welcomed us warmly. Peace, our guide from WFW, who traveled with us today, introduced us. I was so proud to have the Esther Home girls, who were wearing their light yellow Esther Home t-shirts, and my sweet daughter with me. My heart was full!

My sponsor sister stepped out from the hut and directly into my arms. It was good to see her once again. Unlike our last visit she wasn’t as shy and showed such eagerness in greeting me.

Because the sun was so intense they lead us into a large hut that they use for training. Today was banking day where a small amount of funds were being distributed to the women. There were three groups there training - a total of 80 women. I introduced the Esther Girls and explained the program - the women clapped and whispered among themselves. Then I introduced Nicole – that brought them to their feet, their smiles widened and they muttered something in their language. They loved the fact that we were mother and daughter.

Wearing The Button

Yvonne, the Esther Home Leader, moved forward and began taking about the simple message of “You Are Beautiful” and how wearing the buttons we had brought them would spread this simple but powerful message through out the village. She went on to tell them that they were all beautiful women with a beautiful heart. We had brought with us enough buttons to give the 80 women. We all began mingling among them pinning them to their dresses. It was an amazing experience – each woman was so thrilled to be wearing the button.

Together In Song & Dance

The women then sang and danced for us. Following their performance, Evas, another Esther girl, lead the Esther girls in song while Claire and Patience also entertained them with the traditional dance. The women were so thrilled and they too joined in clapping and singing with them.

Let's Dance

We then moved onto the other two groups. Our last visit was to the group outside who were sitting in the shade under a large tree. They immediately sang and danced for us. This group was even more energized and when the Esther Home girls began to sing and dance the women sang and danced right along with them. At one point Evas and Claire gathered Nicole and I together and started dancing with us, other Esther Home girls followed and before we knew it we were dancing with the women in the group. It went on and on. It was electrifying.

It was then time to leave these beautiful women. They all extended their good wishes to us and after many hugs we were on our way.

We stopped at my “sister” Claudine’s home as she had a gift for me. She had made me a large Inkangara basket and gifted us a box of fruit. Her parents were most welcoming and were once again overjoyed at our visit.

As we drove away our hearts were full and it again validated the great work that Women For Women International is doing.

During our visit to Rwanda we have met several other women that had been in the program and were profoundly impacted by their experience and training by the WFW organization.

I believe that the Esther Home girls too were inspired by the program and the impact it is having on the people of their country.

You Are Beautiful

Yes indeed … To the women we visited today and to the Esther Home girls – You Are Beautiful!

The Bartels & Their Gift From the Heart

The rain made for extremely muddy roads today and we had a hard time maneuvering the van into the village to make our visit to two of the sponsor child’s homes. It is a school holiday so many of the children were outside playing in the rain and running after the van yelling “muzungu muzungu”. The smiles on their faces were never ending.

Once we arrived at Ismail’s home – Nicole gathered up the small gift that she had brought for him. Immediately his little sisters took hold of Nicole’s hand and lead us to their home. The mud was so slick and I had such a hard time walking – after a few steps I had an inch of thick clay-like mud on my shoes making it difficult to move forward.

When we arrived we were so surprised at the appearance of their hut – it looked as if it was newly constructed. The smiles on their faces were so wide.

During our trip to Rwanda in September with Dan and Bunny we visited Ismail’s family. The condition of their home was in great need of repair – the roof had large holes in it, thus was in no condition to keep the rain out. Since the rainy season was on its way and the need for a new roof was so apparent, our wonderful friends, Dan and Bunny generously gave funds to Pastor Emma to provide this family home with a new roof.

When Africa New Life delivered the sheets of metal to them they were surprised and overwhelmed with joy and appreciation. They also had enough funds to repaint and make the needed repairs.

To see their home now was so incredible – to know that our two very special friends - Dan & Bunny had gifted this to them was even more overwhelming.

This was truly a gift from the heart!

Feeding The Refugees

We woke up to heavy rain – we were a bit nervous that our trip to the Kageyo Refugee Camp would be cancelled and the roads would be un-drivable. We packed our rain coats and prepared ourselves for a muddy and rainy 3 hour drive. We rented another van to accommodate all of us – Robert, Hilary, our attorney, Pastor Emma and the Esther Home girls.

45 minutes into the drive we arrived at Kayonza and the rain subsided. We were all thankful. We met with the Mayor of the district – he was most welcoming and so appreciative of our mission to feed the refugees. The last time the refugees were feed was three months ago and there is no feeding scheduled for the next few months as the rains makes the transporting of the food impossible. The Kayonza district is no longer able to sponsor the feeding programs so they rely mainly on private donors. The camp is progressing and has been planting some corn to subsidize their food supply. The last time that Ron and I traveled to the camp to pick up Maria, an Esther Home girl, there were no signs of agricultural there.

On our trip to Rwanda in September we were touched by the people of the camp and recognized the need and the impact of the Refuge feeding program. Our family has been very blessed and collectively we wanted to participate in this program. The multiple bags of corn meal and beans feed 1,780 refugees. Distribution of the food is given to each member of the family. As the first refugee approached the feeding line I scooped out five cups of corn meal into their large flour sack. I was taken back at the small amount given to each of them – and then to realize that this will need to last them until after the first of the year – it was inconceivable.

Moving Forward

Because of the road conditions everyone was loaded into one van and the Mayor supplied us with a four wheel drive truck in case we couldn’t reach the camp with the Vans. We traveled some distance before we reached the dirt roads where we then traveled another hour or more. We finally caught up with the Dump Truck loaded with the food – the roads were slippery and we moved forward with great caution. About three miles from the camp the Food Truck got stuck – we parked the van and the group of men borrowed the hoes from the villagers and worked at getting the truck moving again. The girls were loaded in the back of the four wheel drive truck and we moved closer to the camp. The camp is located on a flood plain so alternative roads were washed away and the refugees had to travel in ankle deep water to reach the feeding site.

Kageyo Refugee Camp

While they were unloading the bags of food the Esther Girls, Nicole, Robert and I made our way to the camp - walking cautiously through muddy roads. Nicole fell into a mud hole and I managed to get my shoes filled with mud. The sun was so intense at that time that Nicole’s clothes dried in no time. After a two mile walk under the scorching sun we arrived at the camp. We were warmly greeted by everyone – they were all so happy to once again see Maria.

Maria’s brother was so overwhelmed to see all of us and to once again hold his sister in his arms. It was an experience that will be embedded in my heart forever. As orphans and refugees from Tananzia, they have a bond like no other I’ve seen. The Esther girls made their selves at home in the small bedroom hut escaping the afternoon sun. Maria’s smile was wide and never ending. It filled my heart to have her Esther sisters experience this with her. After our introduction to the CARE International camp staff we made our way back to the feeding area.

Our gift to Maria

Refugees were slowly making their way through the flood plain to the feeding area. To get out from under the sun they crowded together under a nearby isolated tree. The Esther girls mingled among them – at one point Claire started weaving a basket.

Emma and the camp director spoke to the refugees and introduced us. They clapped in appreciation and they were so proud to have one of their daughters of the camp (Maria) have this opportunity. Once again I felt the tears sting my eyes and I was deeply moved.

We arrived back in Kigali after dark, exhausted, hungry and our hearts were full. It is hard for one to imagine the greatness of it all and the powerful impact that this act of giving has. We are truly blessed to have had this opportunity to share this great day with the Esther girls and our friends.

This day was our gift to our new daughter Maria and her extend family at the refugee camp. Once again we are reminded and appreciative of all we have been blessed with.

Family ... the core of life

The phone rang – it was our wake up call – I laid there for a few minutes not sure that I wanted this day to start – knowing that we were headed to Butare with Esther to see her family. Another emotional day to endure and a long 2.5 hour drive.

Once we arrived in Butare we went in search for Esther’s brother at the orphanage only to find out that he was spending the weekend with their father. He sees him often on the weekends traveling 20 miles on foot. We once again made our way deep into the village on the deeply rutted roads. You could see the excitement in Esther’s eyes and in her wide smile .

We arrived and found the brother. The father and sister were attending the village church. The neighbor man immediately got on his bicycle and went to retrieve him. When the father arrived he was wearing his Sunday best – the clothes that Ron and I had bought him while in prison. He was so excited to see all of us and couldn’t hug Esther enough. The father now has his own hut that is next door to the god father he was staying with upon his release from prison. It was a small hut – he rents it for 1,000 francs per month which is equivalent to $2 U.S. dollars. He was proud to have a place to call home. He was so surprised at our visit and was deeply touched to see Nicole. He asked for Ron several times through out our visit and asked that we greet him – he truly has a special connection to him.

Other neighboring villagers gathered around – kids were excited to see the “muzungus”. I took photos while Nicole talked with Esther’s family. It was such a heartfelt moment. Our little Esther’s smile diminished and she got so sad as she listened to the conversation. Her father continued to remind her to keep her faith and pray for what ever God has planned for her. The brother and sister stood close to her and hugged her continuously. As I witnessed this I felt an overwhelming presence of God and realized that his plan was to work through us to reunite this family after thirteen years of abandonment. I can not find the words to describe this.

Nicole gave Esther, her sister and her brother small bracelets – each matching – with the Kinyarwanda word “family” engraved on each and told them to always believe in family and love one another. Nicole also told them to let these bracelets remind each other of their love and their commitment to one other. My heart was swelling.

Robert gathered the village kids together, and with Esther in the middle of them, they all started singing and clapping – once again our hearts were lifted.

It wasn’t long afterwards that a dark cloud hovered overhead and we hurriedly said our goodbyes. We needed to move on so we wouldn’t get caught in the downpour. It doesn’t take long for the rains to turn the roads into mud thus making them un-drivable.

The goodbyes were so heartbreaking and little Esther retreated into herself. After we reached the city and stopped for a few snacks she once again regained her smile and cuddled closely to her mummy Nicole. It was another amazing and emotional day. I must admit that this trip to Butare was a bit more relaxed and not as stressful as the many trips prior.

Our journey home was filled with roadside travelers returning from the Isoko (markets). I continue to be amazed at how they manage to transport their goods and the distance in which they walk to reach their destination.

I want to send love to all of you – I wish I could pack you all up and bring you here to share these experiences. Each time I am here I continue to be touched and confident of how we are all making such a difference in their world.

To those of you who sent us your good wishes and comments on the blog – we thank you - we look forward to them.

Happy Birthday To You!

Happy Birthday to you,

Happy Birthday to you,

Happy Birthday dear Ron and Beatrice

Happy Birthday to you!

Today is the day that the angels did sing - two special people were born on this very day thirty four years apart. Beatrice, one of the Esther Home girls and Ron share this birthday.

All the girls sang the birthday song to Beatrice in English and then in their native language sang it to Ron - Happy Birthday Dear Ronnie - happy birthday to you!

We had just finished with song and dance with the village women with Women to Women International. As the girls were singing happy birthday as the women looked on in awe and some started clapping with the beat and moving in dance.

Ron - we have you in our hearts and we wish you a wonderful day - even though there are many miles separating us on this special day - we celebrate you and you are with us in spirit!

Happy Birthday To You! We love you!

Enjoy your day!

With love Joyce - Nicole and all your Esther Home Girls!

Greetings!

Hello to my family and friends - below you will find a few days of activities - blogging has been difficult but we are hopeful to catch up in the next few days. Enjoy!

Esther Home Grand Opening

Mothers, Aunts, Brothers, Uncles, Sisters -they all arrived at the Esther Home with great anticipation and pride in their hearts.

Today was the Grand Opening of the Esther Home – a day to share the home and the Esther Home girls with family members.

We filled the large living and dinning areas with folding chairs to accommodate the guests. The girls have only occupied the house for two weeks; we are still in the process of furnishing it.

Charles and Florence, co founders of Africa New Life, along with several staff members greeted the guests as they arrived. The girls were so proud to share their new home with their relatives.

After introductions from the families and the ANLM staff; Florence, Charles, Fred and Emma acknowledged the presence of each guest and then each of them provided an insight to the Esther Home program, their expectations and their thankfulness for the opportunities that has been given to each of the girls.

The girls were so proud and so thankful. I too had the opportunity to share with the guests my thoughts and vision for the program; our confidence in the partnership with Africa New Life and our faith in the Esther Home girls. Nicole introduced Esther and explained the meaning behind the naming of the Esther Home. I must say that the Esther Home girls have taken Esther into their hearts and have showered her with love and affection – they will be great role models for her.

When Charles presented himself to the guests; it was then that I felt tears sting my eyes – he was so gracious in speaking of the partnership with the founding donors, the community of sponsors in America and the impact that this program will have on his country and the girls. It was heartfelt and charismatic.

Several guests addressed us with their gratefulness and requested that each of the Esther Home girls take this opportunity seriously and guard it closely. They encouraged them to work hard in pursuing their dreams, performing well in school and becoming role models for those who will follow in their foot steps. I was touched by their appreciation and kind words.

As the opening ended – our hearts were full – great energy prevailed - a dream had come alive.

Surprise Surprise ...

Before we got into the activities of the day we made our way back to the Minister of Gender’s office. The purpose of this visit was to bring Khadija a gift to thank her for all her efforts in helping us with the adoption process. She welcomed us with open arms. One could sense her disappointment about the process and she encouraged us not to give us. We enjoyed our visit and left her with big hugs and words of appreciation. We then, with a great attitude and strong confidence, directed ourselves to the office of the Minister. We had a letter of request to retrieve our original documents. It was only a few minutes after we entered the reception office that the Minister came in – she was stunned to see us and surprised at my return visit and to see that Nicole was there. One could see how uneasy she was at our presence. I introduced Nicole to her – told her that we received her response letter and that we acknowledged her decision but we were saddened and did not understand it. I then went on in conversation about how we were aware of a child just being adopted earlier that week where she made an exception. The stunned look in her eyes was so visible – she quickly responded in saying that she will contact us and get our number from Khadija. We said goodbye and made our way to the Van with a little hope in our hearts but a realization that she was just being political.

We now understand that in Rwanda it is who you know and how persistent you are. So with that in mind we have taken it to the top and today visited the Prime Minister’s office to seek an appointment. We met with his director and requested an appointment – he took our information and told us that he would be in touch. We have not yet been granted an audience with the Prime Minister and his schedule may not be able to accommodate us prior to our departure but we are confident that our persistency is worth this effort.

Once again – these two American women have made their presence known here within Rwandan Ministry.

Hugs Hugs and more Hugs ...

Our hour journey to Kayonza was with great laughter and conversation. Robert, our sponsor son, who will be attending the university in January, Yvonne, an Esther Home girl, and two ANLM staff members, accompanied us. We pulled out bags of Beef Jerky that we had brought from the States and the bags were emptied in a matter of a few minutes.

Once we arrived at the New Life Academy (and even in the midst of the all of the laughter and conversation) I could feel the anxiousness of Nicole - her eyes were wide and in search for Esther. We made our way to the parking area by the large cafeteria and I could see Esther coming across the property in search for us. She ran into Nicole’s arms and tears filled both of their eyes – everyone stood there with such emotion in their hearts and tears in their eyes. The 80 children from the orphanages quickly gathered around us as they all were anxiously waiting for Nicole’s visit with Esther. After we composed ourselves we extended hugs to each of the children – one by one. We then made our way to Esther’s orphanage where we visited with the children. They sang for us in their beautiful voices and then Esther, Barbara and Sara danced the traditional dance. It was so sweet and enduring. Again our eyes filled with tears.

Esther took Nicole to her bedroom that she shares with five other girls. Under each bed was a backpack stuffed with their clothes and private possessions – Esther’s photo album and letters from us and other special treasurers were locked in her friend’s backpack. Together, with a group of girls and with such pride, Esther went through the photos one by one. The girls were all very aware of who was who in our family and made comments about each of them. They said that Opa (Ron) was someone who is in films (basically they thought he was a movie star). Then they said that when they have a chance to watch films (movies) they would often tell Esther that maybe she will see Opa in the film. Nicole and I had to chuckle at their characterization of Ron.

Party Time

It wasn’t long afterwards when we made our way outside to start the activities with the children. This day was extremely warm and the sun was more intense than it had been in the past two days. It brought back memories of our first mission trip here with Glacier. All the children were asking for her. They constantly were touching my long hair and posing for photos. Then we brought out the dozen jump ropes – some long some short. The kids grabbed them and start jumping and singing – it was the most exhilarating sight. - 80 children singing and jumping.. Nicole taught them the double dutch using two long jump ropes – they were a bit hesitant about it at first and one by one they tried and eventually a few managed to do it. Pastor Emma even tried his skills and the kids were so excited to see him jumping with them – he truly is loved by each and every one of them. Of course Nicole and the rest of the team jumped while I stood by watching each of the groups perform. At one point we brought out the Twister Game and the Where’s Wado books – the kids loved that.

Lunch Is Served

Then it was time for lunch – after gathering up the jump ropes we all made our way into the large dining hall. Today we were sponsoring a lunch for them with meat – meat being the key entree – a food that they rarely ever get. They lined up and one by one received the overflowing plates of rice, matoke, flat bread, meat and a banana. Some even went back for seconds – we were just in awe of how much they could eat. After the main meal – Robert got out the key board and started the music - they all got up and danced. Our little Esther truly had the rhythm and moved and grooved like no other. The cake was brought in – it was all decorated as if it was meant for a wedding. Cake and pop was served to each of the kids – it truly lent itself to a party atmosphere. Robert then continued to play, and together with Yvonne, they sang for us. Then Esther, Sara, Barbara and another boy from the choir sang for us. This is when my emotions took over – Esther was up there singing with such passion – at times she would close her eyes as if she was elsewhere. I could sense that Nicole was feeling the same.

As we ended the party each of the children thanked us and said their good byes – more one on one hugs. Esther and Barbara gathered up their back packs and we all got in the Van and headed back to the city. Nicole and Esther spent their 45 minute drive cuddling and talking – a scene that will be embedded in my heart forever. We dropped the girls off at Barbara’s grandmothers and headed back to the hotel.

The sun, the emotions and the activities with the children not only filled us up but left us a bit lifeless. It didn’t take long before we were fast asleep.

To be with the children, to fill their hearts with love and to play with them was once again so rewarding. Their big eyes, wide smiles and heartfelt love just consumed us. It was a great day.

Family Visits

An early morning start got us up and moving – our late night talks continue to leave us a bit on the groggy side as we start our days. We were greeted by Florence and three of the Esther Home girls. Today was our day of traveling to visit Esther Home families - a 2 ½ hour drive to the Mutra providence of Rwanda.

Our first visit was to the small village of Kibondo where Justin’s family lives. This part of the country not only supports agriculture crops but long horned cattle were found roaming the area. As we went deeper into the village we noticed that many of the people had not seen white people before – some were scared while others chased behind us – yelling “muzungo muzungo” (white people). We arrived at Justin’s home and were greeted so warmly by her parents and family. They live in a small three room hut with no furniture. We noticed that the main floor area was covered with new straw mats and there were two wooden chairs - which lead us to think that they had prepared for our visit. One by one more extended family members arrived. Neighbor children were crowded in the doorway staring in. Justin was excited to see her family as it had been several months since she had seen them. At one point, in an area of about 6’by 10’ there were about two dozen family members crowded together sitting on the floor visiting. The father, who was injured in the Ugandan war, and Justin’s mother, told us their stories and repeatedly expressed their gratitude in regards to Justin’s opportunity for continued education. Her mother’s name was Joyce and she was so excite that we shared the same name – many times she would randomly wave her hands in the air and in her native language express her appreciation and excitement. Justin is the first of her family to be educated through high school and now college.

Justin is the fourth born, first girl and the oldest living child of the family. There were 10 children in the family. Five of her brothers died – one was part of the RPF and was killed in the war the others died of disease. After the loss of her five brothers her younger sister died leaving only four children. At present the parents are raising two other small children from an uncle who recently died.

They wanted to prepare lunch for us, as we gracefully declined the offer; they served us a large bowl of bananas. Justin’s brother who is 16 years old is not able to go to school as he has no sponsor and the school in the village does not provide education pass primary class. It was sad to see many young boys just sitting outside their homes under the intense sun doing nothing.

We left with great joy in our hearts and it truly validated our scholarship project. Neighbors gathered as we were leaving – as I lifted my camera up to take photos of the children they would scatter - many of them had never seen a camera before. We said our goodbyes and then we were back on the rutted roads to the small village of Kabarore.

Claire's Home

We arrived at Claire’s home and were greeted by her mother, two sisters and one small brother. The father, who had been a school teacher in the village, has been hospitalized since June with diabetes. Claire comes from a family of ten children – three of which were taken in after her uncle’s death. Claire has lived with her family off and on during her childhood – with so many children Claire stayed with her Aunt in Kigali in order to go to school. Claire was sponsored off and on during her education and when she entered her last year of high school she had no sponsorship available so she went to work for the Serena hotel earning 370 francs per hour (70 cents US) - she worked long hours and would study late into the evening. Claire is a hard worker with a lot of drive.

Claire heard about the Esther Home scholarship while she was riding in a taxi (a taxi here is a small mini van with passengers packed in it like sardines). Claire overheard a conversation about the scholarship and then went in search for Africa New Life and applied. After she was accepted she started volunteering at the Dream Center each day working with the street children and other sponsor children. She has great enthusiasm, strong determination and drive - she will be a great asset to the Esther Home.

After we were served warm milk and had a long conversation we left Claire’s family home.

Florence and Mom

We settled ourselves in our seats preparing for our long ride (another 53 miles) to Reehem’s family home. Before we reached Reehems’ home we stopped at Florence’s mother for refreshments. After we were greeted, she served us a bowl of dumpling shaped cornbread (Amadazis) and pop. After our stomachs were filled and before we said our goodbyes we said prayer – Florence’s father had just passed away a few weeks prior (after a long cancer illness) – thus our prayers were with deep emotions.

Reehem's Home

We continued our travels and arrived at Reehem’s home. Her mother was just returning from the Gacaca – which is held in the villages every Tuesday – it is mandatory that each member of the village attend and are fined if they do not do so. The Gacaca is where the prisoners come in front of the community and proclaim their innocence; if any community members witnessed the prisoner’s participation in the genocide they are not released. We passed truck loads of prisons clothed in their pink uniforms being transferred back to the prison. It is said that very few are released as a result of the Gacaca. Reehem’s two brothers were killed during the genocide. Three older brothers died of aides and other diseases. She currently has two older sisters. Reehem’s mother was extremely appreciative for Reehem’s opportunity. Reehem is the oldest of Esther Home girls because she missed several years of schooling for lack of sponsorships and family deaths. Reehem, whose smile and personality is so warm and loving, was so overjoyed to see her mother and have us visit her home.

Reehem was our interpreter when we did our mission in 2006. She has great personality and character.

During each visit we shared photos of the Esther Home and the Esther Home girls – each looked on with such wonder and interest.

Our mother-daughter presence took each family by surprise - we would catch them staring at us with such curiosity.

It was a long day; we arrived back at the hotel exhausted but with our hearts full. Each day we find it hard to blog – our days are full and there is so much to share but we enjoy sharing our experiences with all of you so hopefully we can be more consistent with our posts.

Once again we thank you all for journeying with us.

Resting ...

Yesterday's blog writing stretched me into the early morning - finally at 2 am the blog was finished. As I woke up this morning I felt the impact of my late night blogging. - our day was filled with emotions that ranged from laughter to tears. We arrived back at our hotel exhausted from our journey so for tonight I am taking time to recuperate - my blog will continue after a good night's rest.

We appreciate all the support and encouragement. I encourage you to visit the Raymond Blog. www.fourskibums.blogspot.com

Our Journey Back To Rwanda

After a 24 hour flight Nicole and I were welcomed to Rwanda in the darkness of the evening and to a soft mist covering the tarmac. We gathered our 200 pounds of luggage and made our way to the welcome committee of four. It was once again good to inhale the Rwanda night air and feel the embraces of our new and dear friends.

The next morning we awoke to the bright Rwandan sun. Our agenda for the day was to be a light one – light it was but truly emotional. After a late morning meeting with our Esther Home partners - we adjusted our attitude and dug deep within ourselves for the strength to travel to the Minister of Gender and Family Promotions’ office. As we made our way to the office I could feel the presence of the undeniable strain and anxiety amongst the four of us. My heart was aching in knowing what Nicole was to encounter. Upon arrival, I stepped myself into protection mode and lead the way into the office and down the long stark corridor. The staff was surprised at our presence – the energy in the room was unwelcoming, distant and confrontational. They immediately ordered the paperwork to be officially sealed and processed. Nicole positioned herself opposite of the two secretaries’ desk while I pushed my way right next to them. We started the conversation with small talk and then without hesitation I lead the conversation to the adoption and expressed our disappointment and confusion in regards to their decision. Conversation always came back to the same thing – “it is unfortunate but it is the law”. The Law? What Law? Frustrated, I felt the need to conclude our conversation. We then requested a meeting once again with the minister – they informed us that they would have to get back to us. With dignity and pride, we gathered up the adoption response letter and excused ourselves.

In silence we walked shoulder to shoulder to the van – I felt that my heart would burst any moment. I dared not to look at my sweet sensitive caring daughter knowing that her dream had just been shattered. There were no words for the emotions and sadness that I was experiencing. Once we were settled in the van we read the response letter. Nicole slowly turned her face to the window – I saw her eyes well up with tears and then her emotions, in a quiet and gentle way, took hold of her. My heart was breaking and there were no words of comfort to offer. Once again a trip to the Minister’s office was devastating.

Contagious Smiles

The ride to Yvonne’s family home was in silence – we were all making an effort to breathe new energy into the remainder of our day. We were so welcomed at Yvonne’s home – love was in the air, laughter surrounded us – their smiles were contagious – we felt the heaviness lift. Yvonne’s mother was so thankful and appreciative for Yvonne’s opportunity to continue with her education.

In Rwanda only 15% of the students that pass the national exam are accepted by the government to continue their education. Although Yvonne passed the exam with high scores she was not in the 15%. Her mother encouraged Yvonne to repeat high school so she would have another opportunity to retake the test. Thus, the Esther Home Scholarship opportunity was offered to her and the alternative option of repeating high school was no longer considered. Yvonne’s family consists of five girls and one boy. Her brother and one sister shared the visit with us.

Yvonne’s family returned to Rwanda after the Genocide in 1994 from Brundi. After an lengthy conversation we learned that Yvonne’s mother had been sponsored by Women For Women International for one year learning new skills – she was proud to show us her tie dye work that she accomplished during the training with WFW.

Yvonne’s leadership and superb English skills landed her the position of the Esther Home Leader - voted on by all the girls. It was a wonderful visit and it truly took the edge off of what we just had encountered earlier in the day. We ended our visit with a photo session, lots of hugs and well wishes.

Our day concluded with a meeting with our attorney – after much conversation and frustration about the decision - we finished our discussion in agreement that filing for a judgment would be the best course of action. A few phone calls later, a Wednesday court date was scheduled. Although we did not feel convinced that this would change the situation with the minister we felt somewhat energized by moving forward.

As we laid our heads on our pillows we surrendered ourselves to a deep sleep. We ended our day with sadness in our heart but with such love and great affection for Yvonne and her family – we felt blessed.

To our loving family and our great community of friends – we hold closely your spirit, love and support – we are profoundly thankful!