Adios Peru

Another year done at the Casa. We are all at the Lima airport waiting to get on the plane to head back to the States. Well all of us, with exception of Chris F., who was joined by his abuela and tias (grandmother and aunts) at the Lima airport. They were so excited about seeing him and spending some extra time with him in Lima. As I write the blog, all the students are enjoying each other's stories, laughing about certain incidents that involved a group of French people on the train, the holy rollers on the bus back from Machu Picchu, and of course the Asians that joined our bus and later found out they were on the wrong bus. I am glad that all the group is feeling much better and in some ways are ready to head back but also will be missing each other.

Today's morning started early with manicures, pedicures and haircuts. The girls of the group couldn't wait to enjoy the last treats before heading back. Kilo (Katie), PG, Marcia and Mel decided that after finishing up with their treats that they would head back to the market for last minute shopping. After doing some quick power shopping we meet up with Cinnabon, (Chris B), Chris F., Molly and Bridget. Yes we showed up about 20 minutes late, we quickly headed for a last quick lunch at the Plaza de Armas...nothing else but everyone craving McDonald's. Molly and Bridget refused to leave the Plaza without the ice cream so they ran to get those of that wanted a scoop just that. We then headed back to do last minute packing and head to the airport. We were all not happy with the 50+ steps that we had to come down with luggage only to be greeted with concrete rocks and some 12 Peruvian men working on the one day that we were heading out. Only in Peru does this kind of logic happen, it was rumored by our guide that Kilo was not happy and literally was kicking her suitcase down the steps when she soon found out that her wheels were not in good shape. No doubt the trip was coming to a close and we were ready to come home. Soon after we arrived at the airport in Cusco, we got on a plane and landed in Lima. We were all excited to meet Chris F's family. We were greeted warmly by them and they were so excited to see him as he had not visited with him in some time. After leaving Chris F., Kilo quickly found a $10 store. All of us walked in and walked out with a little something to take back home.

Reflecting on the trip, I can only say that I am once again so proud of my Bryant group. They all stepped up to the challenges of this trip and did an amazing job at the Casa. Raquel was very happy with our efforts, and appreciated our commitment to them. She has suffered a tough year with the economic crisis and we were one of the two groups that returned and were able to lend her a hand. I was happy and satisfied overall and am hopeful that Bryant will continue to help these women and children of the CASA that desperately need it. Every year brings new projects, new students, new experiences and new ideas. It is a great feeling to board the plane knowing that we have touched these women, and children and that our short stay has brought them a little hope. I once again want to applaude our Bryant students, last year's group and this year's for a job well done. Thank you for the journey and know your work at the CASA is one that will continue to help these women and children of Peru.

-Professor Gomez (PEEG)