A great game of hoops.  Thanks to a wonderful donor.

 see post below regarding how you help us add more animals to be more self sustaining.

 the kids checking out the mama pics

 A wonderful hike in our Brooks shoes. Thanks Brooks!

A wonderful first day.

Breathing in the Rwandan air as we exited the plane filled my lungs and heart with joy.  It’s home. 

People ask me where I live. I say NY, Mpls and Rwanda as each time I head to one of those locations as say I am “going home.”  Seven years of traveling to Rwanda has ensured that it will be for a lifetime.

I recently told my family and some close friends that when I die, I want to be buried in Arkansas or Rwanda. Funny – ya extremes.

I usually sleep both legs of the trip to Rwanda but Harvin and I had a great time chatting, watching movies etc.  I truly only get to see him when he comes to Rwanda and maybe a couple of other times during the year, so we have lots to catch up on.

He is also the man…so he can do lots of heavy lifting, which comes in handy when you have 9 supplies bags!

We downed our Dramamine and started the drive down the windy, curvey mountains to New Hope Homes.  2+ hours we arrived.  A brief 29 hours since we left for the airport.

The kids were sleeping so we got our bags unloaded and hidden away before the kids awoke in the morning.  In a travel comatose, we enjoyed one of finest new treats – wine from the Kigali airport.  Best prices by ½ of the local prices.  Nothing like a glass of red wine and some Tylenol PM to take the travel edge off.  J

We agreed we would knock on each others door in the AM to greet the kids together. (We weren’t sure who would awaken first).

When a house of 27 kids awakens…the world awakens. No way to sleep through!  I leapt from my bed, changed back to my travel clothes and went to see if Harvin was awake. Prince and Nshimeye spotted me, but didn’t reveal the secret.  Harvin joined me as we walked around surprising kids.  The kids came running as they didn’t expect us until that night.  Big hugs and kisses all around.

We spend the day being kids.  Shooting hoops. (Kayetisi hold the record for 6 baskets in a row).  Watching the kids on the tramp.  Just chilling talking etc etc.

An important part of our mission now it to get continue our push to be a self sustaining as possible. That means crops and animals. We are so grateful for the people who helped us buy our pigs, rabbits and our soon-to-be-arriving chickens! 

We have lots more room for pigs especially.  If you care to help us achieve our goal vision: pigs are $300/each, chickens $9 and rabbits $6.

The easiest way to make a donation is through facebook as they don’t take any processing fee.  The link is http://tinyurl.com/mxz56yc

It will take you to CALM, but I will flag it for the animals of your choice when it comes through.

Yes, rabbits breed quickly, chicken provide eggs and pigs…well you got…yum. Yes, the circle of life. BUT…as I have told some dear colleagues lately. Focus on the EGGS, not the BACON J)).n

Erica,  Grace from Sonrise school and Jan from Houston came over for visit. Erica smashed the basketball game with very little effort. She’s amazing.

We then took ALL The kids (except Desami who can’t yet walk) on a LONG hike through the neighborhood. We always did it at the old house, so it was time to explore our new neighborhood. As you can imagine, the 26 kids parading through the walking paths, up the hills and through the back area creates quite a stir.  We again are like the pied piper picking up lots of kids along the way to who wan to figure out who the heck these people are. We are always stop and greet people, especially the elders out of respect. They love our limited Kinyarwanda and appreciate that we really try. J

Back at home we played more. Talked more.  Loved more. And simply caught up.

But afterall – isnt’t that just what family does when they have been away from each other for a few months.

The day quickly passes

                      

The days quickly pass as we ready the house for the grand opening on Saturday.

The progress Chantal has made on the house and land since December is nothing short of miraculous. Truly.

The inside of the house is now painted, and we have some basic furniture like beds and a few couches.  The kids bunk beds have been re-sanded, vanished and possess new mattresses, sheets, pillow and blanket.  The rooms like great. Chantal has done a beautiful job picking colors for all the rooms, but most especially the kid’s rooms.

The outside has made even more significant advancements.  The corn has been harvested and the beans are now planted. We have the pig pen built – just need the pigs, same for rabbits and chickens….but it’s a start.

The playground is coming along beautifully, thanks to the many of you who contributed.

Some women from the village came over and helped wash the floors and windows. They also made up the beds in the kids rooms.   It truly takes a village.

So much to do, so little time and so many more funds to raise.

Celebrating Ian and Kristen's beautiful family

Pinch me – it’s really happening. AKA the Cavallo | Little family is in Rwanda!

That’s the thought that kept running through my head when Kristen, Ian and their wonderful kids were in Rwanda.

Wait. Let me step back.

Kristen and I became soul sisters in the business about 8 years ago. We met when working in similar positions in similar companies for IPG.  I was immediately drawn to her brain power, her integrity and her faith.  We joined forces countless times to help each others companies grow over the years.  She has held me up in the darkest moments, prayed my father through from the brink of death and challenged me when I needed a good kick.  She has celebrated every important winning life and career moment with me – especially the last two years. They say it’s rare to find a real friend in the work place, especially among competitors, but she IS that rare find.  I am constantly blown away by her smarts, her ability to grow companies and most importantly her humility. I am honored to be her friend.

Kristen has been a part of my journey of New Hope Homes from nearly the beginning. She has been a strategic mind to think through our ambitions, a financial supporter, a visitor to Rwanda.  She has a wonderful family that enabled her to step away from them to come to Rwanda over the holidays about 3 years ago. It takes a special person and family to allow/encourage their Mom to give up winter break time to travel all the way to Rwanda.

In that 1^st trip the kids fell in love with Kristen. It’s easy to see why, but they did.  She made very special connections with some of the kids – especially Esther.  We also actively skyped with her family and through that experience her husband Ian made a really strong connection with some of the boys over football (aka soccer) most especially Sande.  Currently they sponsor Sande, Innocent and Esther in boarding school.  In the trips that followed I would simply fire up the skype and let Isaac, Sande, Lionel and Innocent just chat with Ian. They would go off to another part of the yard and just talk.

Ian also found a way for us to set up a web conference when where the boys could watch a soccer match through Ian’s computer set up and facing the TV.

A few weeks ago Kristen called and said her who family wanted to come on this trip. Really? Really? We had talked about it before but it was clear this was real.  Chantal graciously offered to host them as adding hotel expenses to airfare and Christmas supplies is a bit much. 

I was giddy about the prospect of the boys – especially Sande meeting Ian in person and the kids getting to finally meet Matt and Kate their 15 year old son and 8 year old daughter.  It was sure to be a great way to celebrate Kristen's bday and ring in the New Year.

Harvin and I arrived a few days ahead of them so they had no idea we had more coming. One of my most favorite memories is of Ian walking through the gate  with a soccer ball and just standing in front of the house tossing it in the air.  He just stood there.  Some of the kids started to come out. Led by Sande.

Sande approached and said “Ian?” Yes! was his reply and the endless hug began.

Ian is a football (aka soccer) coach and was so eager to play with the kids.

He was terrific in organizing our bigger kids and the kids that came to play with us each time we appeared. His constant shouts of encouragement and tips were so motivational for the kids.

Ian also has an expertise in global higher level education so he was so helpful to Mbanda has he talked about his dreams for New Hope Homes. Ian has the connections, wisdom and passion to help make a difference in Rwanda. We look forward to learning from him.

Matt surprised me.

Imagine you are 15 years old and are told you are heading to Rwanda to hang with the kids of New Hope Homes. Sure you are happy that Ian and Mom like the kids, but what about the language barrier? What about all the little kids? Etc etc.

Matt was magical.  Of course the older boys loved talking to him for endless hours about soccer teams around the world and the various players. It was like they were simply all just hanging after school shooting the breeze about sports. Yes, that I hoped for, but what was really special was how he embraced the little kids that really impressed me. It’s not every 15 year old boy that will let a pile of kids sit on your lap, comb your hair, make faces with you etc etc. He was endlessly engulfed by their instant love for them.  Well done Matt.

Then there is Kate.  Dear sweet Kate.

She is at the center of all things wonderful.  She and Esther were instant sisters. They knew of each other the years and have the same pillows and some of the same outfits, but now they met in person and were like long lost sisters. It was so sweet. It was effortless.

In addition to connecting with Esther, she was in the middle of everything that was fun. Giving Harvin grief, playing goalie, jump rope, piggy back rides. EVERYTHING. She was very attentive to spreading her love around.  She was also an amazing organizer around the Christmas gifts and sizing.  She has an infectious personality that makes everyone smile.  I loved her first night at Chantal and Mbanda’s when Chantal said “Kate who did you meet today, give me the full report!” I wish had a tape recorder as her commentary was absolutely precious. 

Kristen, from the bottom of my heart I thank you for being a beautiful witness to the world about being a wife, mom, career maven and still finding time to give your love and resources to the kids of New Hope Homes.  You have blessed us in so many ways, but most especially in sharing your family with the kids of New Hope Homes. I  can only imagine the things you could have done instead of investing in this trip, but I am so grateful you did.

I look forward to watching your kids and the kids of New Hope Homes grow up together.

Ian and Kristen. you have shown us such great love, we thank you.

Small voices yelling “Harvin Harvin” or “Harv Harv”

Small voices yelling “Harvin Harvin” or “Harv Harv”           

Those are the words that echo through the grounds of New Hope Home day and night when you are there.

This, my friend, is your trip end summary.  I am writing in the 1^st person, but I will  post on the blog for many to enjoy.

You - Harvin are a blessing to New Hope Homes.

I know your pov on faith is different from mine, but if you look of the word blessing, it means a beneficial thing for which one is grateful; something that brings well-being.

If you don’t accept the word, I hope you at least accept the definition, because it’s true. You are a blessing.

I am grateful. Chantal is grateful. And above all, the kids are grateful.

The kids well-being is certainly more complete when you are with them teaching them, coaching them and loving them.

THERE…do you accept that you are blessing???

You’ve made 3 trips in 12 months. 

I can’t believe that statement is true, but it is.  You could have taken your time and financial resources to take a fab vacation, climb another mountain, bought some fab stuff for your Chicago apt or simply played. But you have made the journey THREE TIMES in 12 months.

I remember our 1^st brief conversation at my annual fund raiser last year when you asked about what we need.  I distinctly remember saying that we need “good men who simply want to come love our kids, to play with them, so show our boys what it means to be a strong and kind leader.” 

Little did I know that when I rang you a week later that my trip had been rescheduled that you would be spontaneous and join me 4 days later. 

From the moment you reached out and hugged our boys at the airport I knew you would be so loved here.

Then when you had break-through moments with Isaac, I knew you were important to us.

Then when you had everyone running through the hills in the morning and doing yoga at night, I knew you could not only love them but inspire them to see how strong their bodies are and how they can use that control over their bodies to be still and find peace when they are scared or stressed.

THEN, on this trip, as we make due with our tiny rental house,  you gave them a new gift. The gift of simply being present.  With no classroom to teach, no field to play baseball, no makeshift basketball hoop you simply gave them you.  I don’t think you even saw the transition, but it was very present to me.

You effortlessly transition between the older girls sitting with you and asking all sorts of questions about your life to the young kids simply wanting to be attached to you in some way. From rubbing their fingers through your hair, to cuddling under your arms, or bouncing on your knee- they all wanted a part of you. The older boys went from doing sports with you to simply hanging and talking. I see them mirror your best qualities.

The gift of Harvin. A real treasure. 

In your ability to simply be present, you opened yourself up to more connections with more kids. You found some more hidden treasures.

I always say that each trip is different, but this trip was perhaps the most unusual.

Thank you too for being such a wonderful host for Kristen and Ian’s family.  You put them first the entire time they were here.  You served as tour guide, chauffer, water boy, football assistant.  You wanted to be certain, above your own interests, that they had a wonderful experience, as you know how much they love the kids of New Hope Homes and how much they do for our kids.

I know this trip was harder than other others as you battled the flu for the 1^st leg. Even in that, you pushed yourself to recover quickly and you insisted that I should go see the kids even when I wanted to stay to ensure you were ok.

And of course, the least glamorous part of the trip is all the logistics: measuring shoe and clothing sizes, writing thank you notes to sponsors, skyping with sponsors…thank YOU for being very present to these jobs. They are so important to the ongoing work of New Hope Homes and I often find myself having to be the operations person to ensure this happens. I so appreciate the spirit by which you proactively embrace the to-do lists and share the load with me. I can’t find the words to express how much I appreciate it.  I know it takes time away from playing and being with the kids, so I want you to know how much I value it.

And yes, for me, I love when you join me in Rwanda. People ask me …”who is Harvin?” I say…we worked at the same company for years, but didn’t really know each other. And now, we basically see each other in Rwanda.  It’s a funny, but very true answer.

My work is halved and my joy MORE than doubled when you are in Rwanda. Yes, it’s nice to have my personal chauffer and scooter driver, but more than that I value your unique insights into our work here, the kids, and me.  You have a clear pov that is delivered with compassion. You have opened my eyes to a so many important things. You also do a great job of holding me accountable. Yes – friends – he’s a strong one!  Having you in Rwanda also ensures I have a little play time for me – which I value.

It’s simply better when you are here. Period.

Your heart is so beautiful.

You open up your heart so fully when you are with the kids of New Hope Homes. They know you really love them. Not that you are just here to play or make them laugh, but you love them. Really love them. They can count on you. As orphaned and/or abandoned kids, they really value people that get below the surface and love them for who they are.  You are now in that special small group that can COUNT ON to love them, coach them, reprimand them and be in their lives.

Never doubt how important you are in their lives. Never.

When will you be back? 1.06.13

When will you be back?

Today this is the question that is asked.  Especially of Harvin. 

Departure day is often known as “a very bad day!”.  The kids say the words with almost a stubborn proclamation.  The tone combined with the accent makes it quite impactful.

We started the day finishing packing, a quick breakfast with Chantal and Mbanda and we were off to pick up the kids for church.  The big kids walk, but we offered to go pick up the little kids in the van.  We arrived at the house to find most of the kids gone.  As it turned out, they started to walk before we arrived and we drove right past them on the road as Harvin and I were gabbing about the morning plan.  The kids gave us, but especially me, grief as they were on my side of the van.  I don’t know how we missed the parade of our kids, but I believe it was because we were watching a big parade of kids dressed in boy scout like uniforms marching down the road on the other side.

Church in Rwanda is a lengthy adventure. The praise and worship lasts at least an hour with multiple choirs.  Mbanda is Bishop here so we attend services at the cathedral.  It’s a very large building with simple artwork but a very very lively and engaged congregation. Given that it was our last day we were able to sit with the kids at church vs in the front row.  Sande translated for me and Kayetesi, Fabiola and Alice took the opportunity to sit close to Harvin and translate.

It’s surreal that this is Harvin’s 3^rd trip in 12 months.  The kids absolutely love him.  The boys want to be boys with him and the girls just want to talk to him and know everything about his life. They love to sit in his lap and just have him hold them, or run their fingers through his hair or make funny faces for him. The sound “Harv, Harv” echos throughout our home day and night.  His ability to connect with the kids is effortless.  He is as comfortable having one of the tiny kids want his attention as the big.  His presence is greatly missed when he is not on one of my trips.

Services lasted until nearly 1 (having started at 9) so our remaining time with the kids was short. Harvin later commented to me that perhaps this is the best way to exit. We decided to go out in style.  We had a few more pics to take etc.  A woman I work got one of her kids classes to make papers with each of our kids names on them done in a very special way.  We wanted to take pics with them so the kids in NY could see how much they appreciated all of their creativity. 

We then decided to dance our way out for this exit to keep the kids from getting sad. First we did a dance party and then we improvised a bit with the song they traditionally sing – it’s  a simple song…goodbye Harvin, Harvin, Harvin, goodbye Harvin, we shall meet again.  Harvin suggested we sing the song to them versus them singing it AND we did it for each child. We simply trapped each child in our joint arms and sang the song. We covered everyone including the Aunties, Uncles and of course Mama.

The kids giggled nonstop as we approached them. The little kids anxiously got in line to ensure we knew to include them. This was preceded by a horrific version of so long, farewell, from the sound of music.  We were terrible, but we laughed and the kids loved our show. In the end we made a little speech about how much we love them…is it this big (fingers close together – to which they reply NO!  then the game is repeated until our arms are spread as wide open as possible. Then they shout “yes, that much”. 

It was then time for hugs and tears.  I have gotten much better with this but it is still so hard to simply say goodbye. I know I will be back in early April but that feels like forever. For Harvin, he knows there is a next trip in his future, but not sure when that we will be, so this goodbye was a bit more emotional.

The rain came as we drove off to lots of “flying kisses” as they call them. Big kisses on their hands that are thrown to us.  The rain was perfect setting as our hearts were full of love but very very sad.  I wept in the van as Harvin once again maneuvered the bumpy road and the 2 log bridges.

We zipped back to Chantal and Mbanda’s to grab our bags and begin the journey to Kigali. The wndy roads, rain, mudslides and an over turned safari vehicle reminded us about how fragile life is and danger that hides on these beautiful but windy raods around the hills back to Kigali.

We were warmly greeted by Abby at the airport. Due to the extended travel time we had to forgo our favorite burger joint in Kigali – Mr Chips, but we wanted to connect with Abby to say goodbye, ,even if it was a short visit at the airport.

We now on our long journey home as we sit beside each other on the plane trying to again process the lessons are come with each trip.  May we hold them dearly.

A profound day

Jan 4, 2013

A profound day

Today was the 1^st day we managed without Kristen’s family and Abby.  We sure miss them. 

Harvin and I took the scooter to the house this morning soaking in the joy that is our adventure.  We played with the kids and worked on some more thank you notes to people for the Christmas presents and people helping with school fees.

The kids really took their time to find the right crayons and paper to craft their notes.

Then, we had the most profound portion of our day and likely the entire trip.  But first..let me back up.  Last Fall, Harvin set up a meeting with a wonderful private college in Mn and Chantal’s husband Mbanda in NY. The Director of Admissions agreed to one child at sonrise boarding school a 4 year scholarship to their school.

Today we had the utmost responsibility and privilege to meet with the 3 finalists under consideration for the scholarship.  I had been thinking about it all night and all morning.  Harvin will make the final decision on our recommendation, but as you imagine it is a very weighty decision to determine who should be giving this life changing opportunity.  We met with a young woman and 2 young men all of which had special stories and would bring special things to this opportunity.  Of note was a 21 year young man who had both parents killed in the genocide. Despite that he has excelled in school in epic proportions and dreams of getting a medical degree.  The stories went on and on, with each offering something so unique.  I prayed that we would make the right decision for their futures.

We scooters back home and took the big kids for another walk down the road to go play football (aka soccer) on a big field near a church. It’s an easy and fun game of pick up that is nonstop fun.  Those that didn’t want to play found other ways to stay entertained with hand games, jump rope and hide and go seek.

The kids were also excited to connect with Auntie Sieba , their social worker who was back from Holiday.

The journey to and fro are always fun as the kids seem to open up about all of life’s special times.  It’s all good except tryung to cross the busy road with 13 kids and 2 adults. 

Back up we chatted a bit and set off for Chantal and Mbanda’s home and then a thank you dinner for them for all the love and care they showed for all of us the last 10 days.

Tomorrow we plan to skype for as long as possible!  Join us.

Matt's blog entry 1.1.13

1/1/13

Hi, I’m Matt Cavallo from Richmond Virginia. I am on a trip in Rwanda, Africa to visit orphaned children in a program called “New Hope Homes.” First of all I would like to say that this has been an amazing opportunity for me to see what life is like here. I have only heard stories and seen pictures, but I never thought that I would come here. I am having a ton of fun with the kids and have grown to love them all very much.

I will talk to you about the day I had spent with them. We started the day by going to the church service with the kids. I was very interested to see how the service went, being that in the U.S. ours is usually an hour long. Here the service was almost four hours! I had never been to a service that long before, not to mention it was much different then the ones I usually attend. It was very interactive and everyone could get involved by singing with the choir, speaking about experiences and praying. It was a very good way for me to see how the people in Rwanda conduct the services.

Next was lunch, after church we went to eat at a local pizza place. They also had pasta, but I still ate pizza. I had the Hawaiian style, with pineapples and ham. It is my favorite kind of pizza hands down. We stayed there for a little over an hour and talked about all sorts of things. It was very relaxing and lots of fun.

We finally got to see the kids and played a great game of soccer with them. We played at the field next to the church for a few hours. There were lots of local kids who joined in throughout the game. It was a lot of fun and I enjoyed playing with the different kids, it was some very creative soccer. Soccer is something everyone can relate to, I love it. It is my favorite sport and most of these kids love it too. It got dark so we had to get the kids home and ourselves. We dropped them off, said goodbye and went home to dinner.

It was dinnertime, and also my mom’s birthday. We all ate and then my mom went to her room to watch a movie. While she was in her room we made a cake for her, and had to finish it before the movie ended! Once she came out of her room we had the cake ready and sang happy birthday. We all sat down in the dining room and enjoyed our cake.

Our day started and ended on a good note. I had a great time but was exhausted. So I went up to my room and crashed.

Kate's report 1.13

Today’s report from 8 year old Kate (Kristen and Ian’s daughter)

Today we celebrated Christmas with the kids. Before we talked about Jesus and Isaac, Kayitesi and I read from the bible. There were some really hard words.

They got all kinds of things. They got shirts, shoes, a present, pjs, socks, underwear, a backpack, a jacket, pants, a waterbottle, and a toothbrush. It was really fun.

After we took some pictures and played with our things. Then the kids had to leave and we gave them big hugs and said goodbye.

 And my mom slept in this morning and my brother and dad went Gorilla Trekking.  They followed the Ugenda group of gorillas.  This group is special because they have two Silverback leaders where most groups have just one.  The paths up the mountain were very muddy and many people fell going both ways.  But, they came home without being hurt, they were just very muddy.  THE END!!!!!!!!

Kristen, Ian, Matt and Kate are here!

  Ok, just prior to that arrival…..to back up for a tiny bit...

  I arose early and walked the grounds of the Cana center prior to our departure at 6:15.  It was a beautiful crisp morning as hillsides slowly awoke.  It is so peaceful in Kibeho. A time to simply be still.  And yes, well all know I need more of that so I savored the time.

  Harvin and I left Kibeho at 6:15 as the sun had just peaked over the distant mountains. The colors were breathtaking as they spread their array of yellows, pinks and reds across the hillside breaking through the dense fog as it danced across the sky.

  Morning is my favorite time to be out and about. People are out and about with the business of their day.  Yellow jerry (water) can are everywhere as people head out to replenish the water they need for the days. Goats walking along the side of the road with small boys who tend them.  Everything is atop the head. Fruit, pots, grass for cattle, etc etc. If you can carry it, it’s best on the head.

  We zipped back to Kigai in perfect time to pick up Kristen Cavallo and her husband Ian, their son Matt  (15) and daughter Kate (8).  It required 2 vehicles to get us back, but was about an hour or so late so we enjoy the flexibility that is Rwanda and simply enjoyed each others company and grabbed a bite.

  Eventually we were ready to rock and stopped by Abrahams for some gifts and the bakery for some bread for Chantal.

  Kristen and the kids road with me, Ian and Harvin took the van.  The ride from Kigali to Musanze is extremely windy with deep cliffs on the side of the road.  The drivers dash in and out around the people, animals and trucks. Kate wasn’t digging the fast speed so we talk her to say Slow in Rwanda.  Whenever she got scared, she would simply say boo-whore-row, boo-whore-row to ask Innocent to slow. He was quite sweet with her.

  Arriving at Chantal and Mbanda we were greeted by some lovely new friends and enjoyed a wonderful feast.  While we were absolutely enjoying the fantastic company and food we were all anxious to see the kids.

  Harvin drove us to the gate. Ian got out and went in.  He stood in the front  with a football (soccer ball)  and just tossed it in the air.  The kids came out and just looked at him to greet him but weren’t sure who it was. Sande was one of the 1^st.  He and Ian are great friends but only have been able to skype.  Sande looked at him and said,  “Ian?”  “Yes!” was Ian’s reply and the hugs began, The rest of us got out of the van and greeted everyone.

We sat in a circle to do introductions.  Once the formality was done, the fun began, Kristen lead a dance party with Harvin.  Ian started a makeshift football match on the stoop while Matt was at the bottom of a dogpile of kids who wanted to be close to him. Kate learned a bunch of new games with hands and feet.

  Then people naturally switch positions. It was so wonderful have more arms to hold more of our kids.

  After lots of play time Ian asked if we could go for walk.  We aske Mama if we could take everyone for a short walk. Usually we take the big kids and go on longer walks, but we wanted today to be special so we could take everyone. Today’s intense rainstorm left our dirt road slippery and full of puddles. Yes, any kids dream.  We went down the road, down an embankment, across the field and up a road. As dusk was approaching we reversed our route and headed back.

  Is I trailed behind taking pics, I tried to present to the gift of Harvin and Kristen and Ian’s family to these kids. A most remarkable moment.

On  ce home we began to re-sort all the Christmas Presents so we could ensure we are ready for tomorrow. Yes…New Years Eve will be our Christmas. To make it even more special Abby will be with us!  Yeah!!!

  Dinner around the Mbanda table is always filled with love and tonight was no exception.

  We snuggle in for the night and cherish the opportunity for another sweet day tomorrow. Matt and Kate are such a blessing to all of us.

A Very Good Day.

  Harvin was feeling much better today. Not whole, but better.  Good enough to visit the kids.

  We started the day by driving to the new home we are building.  It’s come such a long way since August and we were so happy to continue the building now that we raised a bit more money.  Our goal is to open in April.  It’s about a 20 min drive in the rural area.  It was almost hard to make out the house as the corn that our team has planted is super tall. For those that don’t know our story, the kids are living in a very small rental house now while we build the new home. Our goal is to be as sustaining as possible, therefore we have purchased a huge plot of land and will nestle the home amongst it so we can live off the land as much as possible.

  This part of the country is unique in that we get 3 harvests a year so we will rotate corn 2x and the other will be beans.  Our goal is to have our cows nearby.  In Kigali someone on bike had to ride 45 mins each way to get the milk.  Unfortunately, our remaining cow will be put down in the next day or two. It broke a hip in a ditch and despite treating it, it is not healing. We are letting the medicine get out of it’s system a bit and then will butcher it for meat vs waiting for it do die and not getting any potential benefit.

  Many of you may have read about the hefier cows which are $500 each.  We have the premium cows here which produce DRAMATICALLY more milk while eating the same amount of food – unfortunately they are $2000 each. If you know of anyone who wants to donate for a cow, let me know J.  Until then we’ll need to buy the milk from some other place.

  The home is going to be spectacular.  It’s really really wonderful. As you can imagine housing this many kids, plus mommy, aunties and uncles is quite an undertaking.  Chantal has been super smart about how she approached it. As the kids get older she wants to ensure there is physical separation between the boys and girls.  Boys enter and go up stairs, the girls so up the other stairs and there is no way they can sneak between.  As Chantal says…while we are one big family, these kids are not blood relatives…so we don’t want any New Hope Homes Grandchildren J.

  I will also have a permanent room in the house. I leave all my things here in storage each time so I can use all my personal bag allotment for supplies, but now I will be able to keep my things in place and just pick up where I left off when I left.  I am also happy the it is a visible sign for the kids that I will always come back. They are family and I intend to be with them until the day they put my ashes in the ground there or in Arkansas.

  We have much to do yet on the home, but celebrate it’s progress as we raise incremental funds here and there. Once we get the remaining funds for the home, we will start to work on the grounds.

  A special thing about this home. There is an avocado tree on the property that has never produced avocados.  As we started to build our home, it began to produce avocados. The locals are amazed. We believe it is a blessing for our kids.

  Next we were off the see the kids. Harvin and I jumped into the semi-funcational van that is our transort for the kids and headed down the road, through a portion of the town and over two log bridges.  When we arrived at the gate, Manuel was just leaving so he was opening the gate. He was thrilled to see Harvin.  When we drove in the kids all yelled Miss Donna, Miss Donna and then Muzungo which means white person. They didn’t realize it was Harvin until get pulled all the way in.  Then they squealed for joy.  Some of the aunties and kids were in back, so he got a double surprise.

  The next few hours were spent with the kids piled on top of Harvin and a handful with me. They had to know everything that was going on in his family, like and work.  This will they put their fingers through his hard and cuddled every possible way it was to get a piece of him !  They love him so so so very much.

  Esther remains unhappy that Kristen Cavallo is not here. She asks to call her about every 5 minutes. Finally at about 7:30 EST we did. This was after she posted a note on her facebook wall about how much she misses her and wishes she could come NOW! Well the great part is, Kristen, her husband Ian and two kids Kate and Matt will be here in 2 days.  OMG –it’s going to be a big big reunion.

   After lunch, the kids and I took Harvin on our favorite adventure up the hills, through the ditches, over the log bridges to our stream and played forever.  Harvin of course is a boy and thus made the water time more fun encouraging them to walk up stream which I would not let them do the day before when it was just me.  Needless to say, the laughter filled the hillsides.

  The walk home gave us an opportunity to show Harvin how we make a human chain to get through the big ditch by helping each other.

  Our time on these adventures is so precious. The kids talk and tell stories, just being kids.

We wanted to stay out longer but decided it was best to get home to be the little kids and show we are good big brothers and sisters to them. There wasn’t a peep of disagreement amongst any of the kids.

  Back home we started working on the thank you notes for the donors.  We used the new crayons that a Kathleen, a friend from my office donated. They are all the made the more special because she donated them after she lost just about everything she had in the hurricane.  She send along some very fun art supplies. I was blown away that in her suffering she wanted to bring our kids some joy.  Yes, I am very blessed to work with the people that I do. I count these art supplies as perhaps the most precious cargo I am carrying on this trip.

We also had a fun visit with some family that is staying with Chantal and Mbanda when they came to meet the kids. They are a very beautiful family inside and out and we have loved our evening fellowship around the table until the nearly midnight each night.

The rest of the day was the same.  More love. More Hugs. More laughter.

All good here in the land of 1000 hills.

Tomorrow Harvin and I heading to Kibeho for the day. Will not likely be online until the following after we greet Kristen, Ian and their kids.

Seems like yesterday and seems like forever ago

  That’s what it feels like to be in the arms of our kids.  It’s like time stood still from our last embrace (ignore the fact they are all taller!) as the love is so overflowing.  At the same time it feels like forever since I have been able to connect with them and ask how they are, what is good about their lives etc etc.  While I visit every 4 months, it is so very hard to be away from them.

  Unfortunately I had to go over solo today as Harvin seemed to have gotten a serious dose of food poisoning in route and spent the night worshipping the porcelain throne including sleeping on the floor in his bathroom.  This morning he was a little better, but decided to stay home and sleep. By this evening he doing great. Should be rockin’ tomorrow.

  Chantal drove me to the kids as  my scooter did not make it from Kigali.  She had me hide in the SUV.  She greeted the kids and then eventually opened the door on my side. The kids squealed for joy and the endless greetings and hugs began.  Chantal had made them cookies so they all sat down and enjoyed her homemade feast.

  Sending her off to go back home, the girls all came to chat with me and ask me so many questions. How is Harvin? How is Kristen? When does she come? How is Holly Potter?  Does Tina have a baby?  How is Jennifer Wolf?  What about Lisa? How is Rebecca? And DJ? And Liles? It went on endlessly. Then they asked about each of their sponsors.  You simply can’t fully appreciate how top of mind you all are. They know so many of you are out there helping them.

  After the little kids when down for their nap, we asked Mama if I could take the kids out for an adventure.  They learned the word adventure last time.  They now know it is when you go some place without knowing where you are going and believe that no matter what it will be fun.  So off we went on our adventure.

  We took my favorite trek from August. Down the dirt road by our home, cut through the grass near the prison then climb down a big hill with boulders, then cross through a ditch that requires us to make a human chain to get everyone from one side to the other and then…and only then…do we come to our favorite place of all. The stream.

  The water was over the banks today and flowing rapidly. The good news is the water is only about a foot so I can safely manage watching 13 kids. At first they are timid just standing at the bank watching it flow. Then eventually, one by one they get in until they all splashing and laughing until their guts are about to split. The locals come out and watch us thinking we are a little nuts. But, that’s part of the adventure.  While they played, others came to fill their water jugs for their long journey home and others came to do their wash, so it is indeed a community gathering.

  Kids are kids, no matter where they live. Thus water, splashing and laughter are all universal.

  The sky was looking increasingly like rain. I gave the kids the 15, 10 and 5 minute warning prior to departure. Then we had to decide which way home. The long way, hoping the rain would hold off or the more expedient route, the way we came.

  They of course convinced me the rain would hold off so we could take the long way.  Ya, ya.  We set off to climb the big hill, then down the next, then over the board to cross the seriously rushing water. As we emerged, I said it smelled like rain.  They asked me how I could smell water. Well, I said I can.  3 mins later the light rain began and then the massive downpour. When it rains in Rwanda. It rains. Heavy, like Hawaii.

  The kids ran ahead as I tried to run while finding some way to wrap up my iphone in  my Rwandan dress and someone else shorts that were damp but not soaked. As you  can imagine, running in the rain with kids is about as fun as it gets, so the giggles filled the mountainside.

   Arriving home, the kids quickly changed out of their clothes and I attempted to dry off, but it’s not that easy.  Ahh… well you can get warm when you have a pile of kids sit on your lap and hug you.  Thankfully, and frankly unbelieveably, the iphone survived.

  We spent the afternoon talking. Most of it was answering endless questions about their sponsors.

  I decided it was best to head home early to check on Harvin.  Waving goodbye they all kept yelling “see you tomorrow, see you tomorrow.” Yes indeed my sweet ones…see you tomorrow and I will have a big surprise with me…Harvin.

Nearly 100

Nearly 100. That is the number of people who have helped make this trip possible. So many hands joining across the globe to help the kids of New Hope Homes. I am so very grateful for all of you. Our work would never be possible without your kindness, compassion, funds, prayers, and love these kids.

It really is remarkable the 29 kids could be the recipient of such a grace.

Harvin and I get the easy job. We simply hand deliver your love.

Please know that we tell the kids about each of you. They know many of you by name if you have been with us for more than a year. They ask about you.

This trip be extra special as we have a wonderful family coming in a few days. Kristen Cavallo, her husband Ian, their daughter Kate and son Matt are going to be with us for 5 days. They have loved our kids since the beginning! Kristen came over 2 years ago, so we are all eager for everyone to finally meet in person. Ian and Sande have a very special relationship so that is perhaps the most anticipated part of it for me. These 2 skype football (aka soccer) friends will finally be able to discuss all the critical assessments of teams around the world. I figure that alone will take 3 days! ☺ .

We are going to hold Christmas until they arrive so we can make it a really special celebration.

We have just arrived at Chantal and Mbanda’s after a 27 hour journey. It’s late.
Tomorrow morning, we will get on my scooter and surprise the kids that we are here. Giddy with anticipation.

This trip comes to an end.

Adventure

The last two days have been so jam packed that there was not time to blog.
For those who have been to New Hope Homes, you understand the nonstop nature of the everyday life when you are one person.

We’ve had treasured time together.

I was able to update the sizes and Christmas wish lists for the kids. This is a huge feat. Try to imagine working with 29 kids age 2.5 to 12 to properly measure their foot size noting current and estimating for growth. I was working from a master list of year ago and each of the older kids had to know how much bigger their feet are now. There was surely a sense of pride. I took the kids in alphabetical order which made for lots of tears from the little kids as they kept coming up and saying “me, me” thinking I was going to forget about them. I tried to point out their names on the list, some understood and skipped off the other just wept until I got to them in the sequence.

Next trying to sort top and bottoms. Fabiola, was a huge help with measuring feet and Innocent was awesome at checking size tags. Of course about ½ the tags didn’t have sizes that were visible or they were simple things like small or large which doesn’t help in the process. In each of those cases the child would need to go to their small clothes cube and bring me something else that fits., then we would check for tags. The process goes on and on.

Fabiola was especially happy to see that her foot was big enough to move to the adult foot measuring system.

Then each of them would give me an idea of a small gift that they would love for Christmas. Last year was the first year we were able to do a real Christmas for the kids where everyone got a lovely hand made bag by Deb and inside a pair of shoes, underwear, a small toy and a new outfit. We hope to be able to do the same this year. I explained to the kids that I can’t promise it, but we’ll see if people are again able to help us.

The popular gifts appear to be dolls with hair (remember our kids have shaved heads), scarves (Rebecca, you set the tone last year!) and toys with remotes (Christine you started a trend)

I wish I could make a video of this process because it is so noisy and crazy that you simply need to be here to get it.

We also did several “adventures”. The kids are starting to get the idea of the word. You simply leave the house and go someplace you have never been in order to try to see what fun will come of it. I have a rule that it always has to include something new. We can start in the same direction, but we must make a new turn at one point. This process has yielded great benefits. We found an open field for the kids to play soccer (aka football) in amidst some cows and foot traffic of the local people. We found an area that is used to cut big logs that we can use as a volley ball net. And the best of all, when we climbed to a high place we found a beautiful stream below that has served for two days of great fun splashing and just being goofy kids.

In the process of fun, one of Esther’s flip flops floated away along with our new Frisbee. The kids all freaked but I told them that it would bless someone else downstream and they liked that idea. Hopefully someone will understand the idea of a Frisbee or it will serve as someone’s plate!

The kids were all supportive of Esther as each lent her a shoe on our way back trading out every little bit so someone was always walking without a shoe! They proactively each offered to help.

One of the DVD’s I brought was Chimpmucks – the sequel. In it is the song “all the single ladies” . The older girls love the song and have started to work on a routine with it. They do it everywhere, from the stream to walking the hills to the front yard. It cracks me up big time.

We got a lot of much needed rain yesterday, This almost cancelled our adventure as Issac thought it was too wet for the kids to play. We had wanted to go to the stadium – not sure what that is, but they say it close, to play soccer, but Isaac and Sande said they would sink to their knees if we did.

Eventually I coaxed them into the local adventure knowing it would be a bit muddy, but we would be fine. It was, after all, my last day. The stream was on the hit list so we tried a different way to reach it which involved crossing a few muddy terrains. Well, not so much muddy in the traditional sense as it was slippery dirt. They quickly got the concept of creating human chains to help us all cross! It worked brilliantly and the giggles continued. It’s especially meaningful when I can get the older boys Isaac and Sande to turn into giggling kids as they are often so serious.

I LOVE LOVE our new city where we will be raising the kids. While I don’t know that area like I do Kigali and Kicukiro where we have lived the past 6 years, this place seems simple and lovely.

Chantal created a special opportunity for the older kids who did not get to go to Kibeho stay overnight at Chantal and Mbandas. She also included anyone that was 1, 2 or 3 in the class as another special reward. We want the kids to excel in school as we believe it is the way out of poverty so having small rewards like this is another encouragement.

Since they have wifi we were finally able to skype with people. Some were scheduled, some were just random dials when the kids saw they were “green” on skype – meaning they were online.

So sorry for not being able to connect with more sponsors this trip, but it was so short and I didn’t have working Internet for most of it. We’ll be sure to make it happen during Christmas.

Perhaps the most important adventure for me of the day was seeing our new house under construction. For those of you who are new to the our journey, we have made a change in the last few months.

We moved sold the 3 homes the kids had been living in for the past 6 years, bought some property near the boarding school that they kids attend and have started construction of a single home for them to live.

While we loved the idea of 1 home per 10 kids, each with their own Mom, it is outside of our current financial situation. One home will be more cost efficient and importantly the piece of land we have will allow us to be more self sustaining. We hope to grow all our own vegetables, have chickens and rabbits for food and have our cows nearby for milk. The vision is wonderful. Now we simply need to raise the money to make it happen.

We have made great progress on the house, but need the funds to finish it.
If we can raise $48,000 more, we could be in the house by Christmas. Additionally we need $17,000 more for operating cost through the end of the year. Yes, these are big numbers and I have not idea from where the money will come, but I believe that by being transparent with you about our needs someone somewhere will know someone who can help. Every $ matter, so if you are even able to give $10, please do. I know that sometimes people think they need to give a lot to make a different, but I do mean it. $10-$25 will matter.

This home will be for our kids they place that will we know as home for their lives. It will be filled will love and we will help them meet their God given potential. We will be the hands if you can be the part of the support system to allow us to meet the kids of this wonderful children.

LUNCH WITH THE KIDS DOING WELL AT SCHOOL
As is our new tradition, anyone who is 1,2 or 3 in their class gets to go to a real restaurant and with me and be celebrated for their accomplishments. In April Harvin and I took Grace and Alice. This time, they were joined by Dorcus, Caria and Ariene who are in preschool. They were so excited to do something previously reserved for the big kids. We went to a pizza place and celebrated and talked their success.

I asked by good grades are so important. Grace said “it is because we want a good future!” Yes, indeed sweet one. You got it! Thanks to all their school sponsors they will indeed have their best shot.

This is the first trip where Dorcus, Ariene and Caria have spoken a little English. Dorcus is really really starting to understand a lot, despite how much English she speaks. It been amazing to see her go from a baby to this wonderful pre-schooler.



The final drive.
Chantal agreed that the 4 oldest kids could drive with me to the airport. It used to be 20 mins away but now I need to leave 3+ hours earlier. I reminded the kids that it is a long drive and told them they didn’t need to come. Isaac said “no one will refuse you, because we all like to go places in the car!” It’s true, their lives are focused at New Hope Homes, school and Chantal & Mbanda’s so if they get to see anything else, its such a treat.

Exits are hard. I usually have to fight back the tears for the kids and work extra hard to keep it together and fun for them as they feed off our emotions. This trip, for some reason was a bit easier. I think it because it was so fast and the kids knew it would be so they were just thankful for our time together. Usually they start withdrawing the last day as they start protecting their little hearts from another goodbye. The combination of the hike and playing in the water prevented that from happening this time. It’s hard to be sad and withdrawn when you are playing in the water!!!

The next little trick is ice cream! About 30 mins before I have to leave, we put the kids in groups of 3 and put a small container of icecream in front of the little kids and away we go! Laughter, giggles and good fun. As the eating came to a close I ran around to each of them and hugged them telling them I loved them and would be back at Christmas. People that have been part of this in the past will be very surprised to know I did it well for the first time. Only a few moments of tears well hidden and then off to the car with Isaac, Fabiola, MarieRose and Sande.


The windy roads in the dark make for quite a drive as our driver works to avoid so many people on foot. We talked a bit and slept a bit. They of course wanted to have the ipad so they could play with my fifa app that they love. I made the wait until we got just outside of Kigali as I didn’t want anyone to throw up in Chantal’s car. We stopped by Abrahams to get a frame for my painting and he gifted me with a beautiful scarf that matched my Rwanda dress! Thanks Abraham, I wish we had more time together.

Getting to town plenty early, we had time for a burger and fries at Mr Chips. It a tiny burger place that opened a year ago and had been my favorite place by our old house so it was fun to drop by.

As we waited for dinner the kids noses were down in the ipad having the time of their lives, so I just let them be. I did however, keep giving them grief about how much I was enjoying our quality time together! NOT!!! They looked up, laughed to ensure I was kidding and then back to the match. When dinner arrived their play time ended. I look forward to sitting across the table from these kids when they are 20 and 30 years old to see where life’s journey takes them.

On the drive to the aiport they wanted to know everything that I do with the planes after I say goodbye. So I gave them very detailed info about the security, checking bags, passport control, connections etc etc including getting home Thursday night and going back to work on Friday morning. Phew. They got it. They got it so well they said…”wait…you do not have time to relax when you go back, you go back to work right away?” “Yes, we need to raise money and me working is part of making that happen.” They said I needed a job where I could come live with them for 2 years. I told them I have a great job with a great boss who lets me come see them 3 times a year. That is a very special place for me to work as not many companies anywhere in the world would let that happen. They understood.

Arriving at the airport they said they were all going to cry. I made them stop by saying “ya ya, you’re crying because the ipad it leaving not me!” They thought was was pretty funny. In a remarkable turn, Isaac actually walked me to the door of the airport with the other kids. He always finds a way to suddenly disappear and stay in the car so he can cry privately, but this time he made it all the way. You have no idea what a break through this is for us. I hugged and kissed each one of them, telling them I loved them until they couldn’t take it anymore. Then gave them one from Harvin as the kids are so excited to see him at Christmas.

They walked away and I went to stand in line to begin my return back to my other life…