Final Blog by… Devon, Maddie B, Katelyn, Abbey, and Megan

Final Blog by… Devon, Maddie B, Katelyn, Abbey, and Megan

Today’s the day we leave the place that has quickly felt like home. The 2018 Tanzania Group is one of a kind and we know that we will never forget the memories that were made. Our theme, “Live Boldly” could not have fit more perfectly, it truly showed throughout every single person. We saw it in the ways that each person wasn’t afraid to try new things and really embrace the atmosphere and culture in Tanzania.

There were many highlights of this trip. We started off with an adventure to the Marangu Falls where we were able to share our first laughs watching everyone struggle to get up and down the slippery “stairs”. A day at the falls was a great way to kick off our amazing adventure. We were all in awe of the beauty that God has created here in Africa.

Throughout the two weeks we tested our strengths at the fields with the Mamas that we grew very close to. Farming with them helped us fully understand the culture here and the way of life women in Tanzania experience. Also, seeing how welcoming and proud they were of their homes really affected everyone.  It opened our eyes to how easy we have it at home and how hard these people work for the things they have. We saw God in these Mamas and how they really care for everyone and their community. The Mamas were really inspiring because they are very strong, individual women that come together so they can have people to lean on. 

Going to Upendo Orphanage and Agano Preschool created so many life changing experiences and strong bonds we never thought we’d make. The kids at each place impacted us all in different ways. They touched our hearts with their smiles, laughter, and pure joy. It was cool to see how anxious all the kids were to learn and how much they cared about their education. We saw God through the teachers, orphanage workers, and through all the kids we met. The patience and love that all the adults showed towards the kids was unbelievable. We will never forget the smiles, laughter, and little hugs from the cute kiddos. 

Mikocheni was one of the most eye opening experiences for many. Everyone had so little, yet they were so happy. The amount of laughter in the village brought joy to our group. It was hard to see all of this and not want to help impact them in a positive way. It was turning point in our trip that allowed us to open our minds to the life here in Tanzania.

The Safari was unreal. We saw monkeys, along with many other animals! Devon specifically loved the monkeys. We camped as one big group. We had tons of fun. It was a great way to end the trip and bond with one another. It was our chance to finally feel like tourists, which was relaxing. It doesn’t seem real that we are leaving this incredible place in a matter of hours.

Overall, we enjoyed getting sunburnt, spending time with each other, spending a LOT of money, and serving others. Some people got sick, but it passed. There were many new experiences that we encountered but everyone did a great job embracing life here and we soon began to love it. It will be hard to go home. The trip was filled with many emotions including a very needed final group meeting that brought lots closure to end the trip. It will be a hard adjustment for many to leave the “pole pole” atmosphere and return to the busy life of Minnesnowta. We hope to bring everything that we learned here back home and continue to serve others. It was truly an unforgettable trip that we will remember forever.

Nikki and Rich – see you tomorrow

Tami, Jeff, & Grace- Excited to see you but I don’t think I’m ready to come home hehe

Dave and Julie- I’m ready to come home, but I know I’ll miss Tanzania a lot.

Jeff, Rachel, and Ella – Happy Easter, see you tomorrow! Love you!

Maya, we miss you so much and we’re soo soo excited to see your cute ginger face!! We hope you didn’t die without us ;)

Love, all your friends

Eric & Kay – I’m not ready to leave this place but I’m excited to see you guys and tell you all about it! Love you lots!