Farewell Nepal...

2 weeks later… I am writing from our hotel in Jordan overlooking the Dead Sea. We feel a little spoiled, but after 2 weeks of modest accommodations we appreciate this place that much more. Before we write about our time here, we must dedicate this post to our experience in Trishuli (now that we have internet).

For 12 days we worked at National Bethel Academy, a small but well-developed school with 82 students ages 4-9. If we knew this place would steal a piece of our hearts, we would have planned to stay longer. On our way there we had no expectations, but we left feeling inspired and hopeful to return in the future. Trishuli is a small village 3 hours north of Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. It was a long and windy ride there as we were cramped in a “micro-bus” with 18 locals. When we arrived, the Principal of the school and Pastor of the church kindly welcomed us at our hotel, “Hotel Trishuli”. Each day we enjoyed a 30-minute walk to the school. Trishuli is a very beautiful place. Surrounded by rolling hills, rice fields and a flowing river that looks and sounds unreal, the scenery is quite picturesque. It was a very peaceful place to spend 2 weeks. Our days consisted of helping in each of the four classrooms, playing with the children, and conducting a one-hour English class for the teachers after school. The students are adorable! They speak little English, but when asked “How are you?” in their innocent voices they reply, “I’m fine. Thank you. And you?”… so precious. We tried not to have favorites but at times we couldn’t help ourselves, a few of them were borderline Elsie cute, if that is even possible.

Most of the teachers are our age, so we instantly connected with them. At first it was hard to communicate, but by the end their English improved and we were able to have conversations, if we spoke slowly. Joel, the principal, is fluent in English so he translated when needed. All together there are 10 staff members, 8 teachers, an accountant, and the principal. They all have amazing hearts for this school and it shows in their passion and dedication. Hearing their stories and how God brought them there was inspiring. We saw first hand the positive impact this school is having on the community and the quality education it’s providing to many children. We feel blessed to have been a part of it for a short time.

Right now we are on our way to Petra. I still can’t believe we are here. We will blog again in a few days when we get to Israel. Love you all and miss you!

Jacque