I would like to thank all the people who made this year's dehai retreat possible. From attending six retreats in the past, this year was the best one for me. I really enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere, hanging with the veteran and new retreaters. Even though we missed the bonfire, we were still updated on the new jokes. I especially enjoyed braiding hair, sharing jokes and other life experiences with retreaters; and the best one was listening to the 12 year old charmer, semhar, gual Asmara .

Hiking was one of the most enjoyable events this year. The beautiful weather and the stimulating conversation we were having contributed to the choice we made to continue hiking even after some people got tired and stopped to go back. The sun shining on the Hills of West Virginia was just gorgeous that day.

The weather on Saturday afternoon was perfect for playing sports and for sitting in the lawn talking.  I had a great time playing volleyball except for the bruised arms we all suffered afterwards:-) It was a lot of fun.

The memorial service for my best friend Mulu confirmed to me what I have always known about retreaters been wonderful and caring people. The planting of the tree took me to the moment I heard about mulu's death which was on Sunday April 27th at 1:00 pm; it was indescribable... thank you everybody for comforting me and showing interest in honoring her life. She was an amazing Human Being.

As always the seminar was very educational. I learned a lot about the history of filming in Eritrea and the various aspects of sawa training. The question/answer session on border conflict and other issues facing Eritrea was educational as well.

Finally, the joyful and memorable evening party and the flag raising ceremony were a reminder of how precious dehai retreat is !!!

See ya next year!

your sister,

Emnet T. Kflu