Final Post

May 14th, 2009 by Katie Gibson

Namaste!

This will be my final post as a 2009 GVN/VSN volunteer in Nepal. What to say?? This has been an incredible experience – and leaving is bittersweet. Originally my trip was supposed to be 4 weeks volunteering + 2 weeks travelling. There are several reasons for cutting the trip short, namely my difficulty adjusting and the political situation (which at the moment poses no real threat but has the potential to suddenly deteriorate). I should mention that the decision to leave has nothing to do with GVN/VSN – in fact, the organizations have been extremely flexible, supportive, and caring throughout the entire process. I recommend them to anyone wishing to challenge themselves with a trip to Nepal!

All-in-all, I am pleased and thankful for this opportunity. I have seen and experienced many things that I had only dreamed of before – eating traditional ‘Daal Bhat’ with my host families, providing medical care to children who truly deserve it and seeing them smile while I attempt to speak their language, seeing the most beautiful Hindu and Buddhist temples, and flying through the breathtaking Himilayas – it has all been extraordinary.

For the remainder of our time here in Nepal, Paul and I will sightsee Durbar Square and relax in the Garden of Dreams. We’ll also do some souvenir shopping! I think we are both looking forward going home but saddened to leave knowing there is so much more we could have done. However, I honestly beleive this opportunity (or another) will come again soon (and I’ll likely be crazy enough to grab at it!). Again, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to GVN/VSN for their continued contact and understanding. I am happy to remember Nepal forever!

Katie xo.