Wednesday, January 13, 2016

One day at a time

As we enter 2016 the excitement for this trip builds.  Over the past few weeks I have been fundraising so I can embark on this journey with CGA.  I've been selling water bottles with the CGA logo as well as sending out a fundraising letter to help me reach my goal.  All of the funds raised will go straight to aiding families affected by the earthquakes and helping the children at Deeya Shree School expand their knowledge.
This country has been through a lot of change in the past year but its history and culture remain the same.  Nepal is home to some of the tallest mountains in the world including Mount Everest.  Nepal's diverse geographic landscape allows for many different ways of life to be present in society.  From the Himalayas to the bustling city of Katmandu Nepal always excites.  Most of the population is Hindu and is represented by the many temples across the country.  Hindu festivals take place such as the Machendrajatra festival, which is celebrated as a main festival by many Buddhists.  This is very interesting because it's two religions that can celebrate something in harmony.  Not only does Nepal have different types of religion and people but also has many new and intriguing foods.  The foods range from a variety of regions with different styles and ingredients.  One food that keeps my attention is Yomari, which is a combination of rice flour on the exterior and a sweet substance known as choke on the inside.  I love to go to a new place and become immersed in the culture, life, and world that these people live in.  As the trip approaches I can hardly contain my excitement to go change and improve the lives of the children at the school and the families affected by the earthquake just this past year.
Everyday I try to imagine walking into the school and seeing the faces of smiling children excited to learn.  To compare each trip with one another is impossible because each country, culture, and environment is so distinct.  Nepal will be another incredible learning experience for myself and the kids at Deeya Shree School.