Zambia Day 8, 2023

Today was our last day before we headed back to the U.S. which is very sad since we have enjoyed our visit here and we have seen how God has changed the lives of the kids we served and how he has helped grow each one of us in special ways. We all will miss Zambia and the bonds we have made with each other and the kids. 

We started our day on a safari. We left Lusaka and headed towards Chaminuka. King Barnabus drove us there. We were mostly dancing (a word Barnabus use to describe bumpy roads) during the ride to the safari. We started our safari with a ride into the wild. Bumpy ride but very fun. Saw wildebeest, elephant, monkey, giraffe, zebra, goats, and others. There was 3 elephants. One momma elephant and two baby elephants. One of the babies went very close to the vehicle and it was pretty cool. 

Next was a boat ride, a calm and peaceful ride. Saw a few nice birds and learned the type and how they behave. The view from the boat was nice except it was very cold. Went fishing but did not catch anything probably because it was too cold. 

We then relaxed/ slept on comfy chairs, lounge chairs, while we were waiting for lunch. Just chillaxing was so worth it since it has been cold for the past few days. Lunch was amazing. Everyone said the food was good. One of the best foods we have eaten. In fact all the places we have eaten out the food has been terrific. After lunch we did another activity that was so fun.

We then headed back to CURE. Decided to play with the kids since this might be the last time seeing them. Very sad. We decided to do balloon animals and coloring. Some of us saw the transformation of one of the kids post surgery and it was so special and amazing. It was incredible to see the before and after of a kid. 

Dinner was amazing, we had nachos using Doritos and it tasted great.

We ended the night playing a fun card game and listening to music.

I cannot believe these ten days are come to an end. This experience in Zambia was exhilarating and has helped all of us grow in our faith. Although the next few days and hours will be on a plane or in the airport there is still so much that can happen. So much more bonding and memories to be created.

These bond we have created with each other will last forever!

The rest of the group and I also want to thank the leaders of this trip Quinn and Callie!! Thank you so much for leading this trip. There was so much laughter, joy, and amazing moments during these past days!! Cannot believe it is almost over. Even with this we know that you guys will always be there for us if we ever need someone to talk to. Thanks you Quinn and Callie again!!!

- Elijah M