7/10 - Border2Border

From June 16-23, I had the pleasure and privilege of being involved in one of the most exciting projects that PC Armenia has created, Border 2 Border. This initiative was started by PCVs last year. Essentially, two groups of PCVs walk from village to village across Armenia delivering educational seminars on health and environmental issues. This year, I was a part of the southern team. Unfortunately, due to some other commitments, I wasn't able to complete the entire walk. But I did walk approximately 70 km (43.5 mi) from the city of Meghri to Kapan. This leg of the walk took about a week, with four teaching days built into it. I'm trying to think of what the most meaningful part of this experience was, but I can't quite put my finger on it. I loved walking slowly through the Armenian countryside.  I have been down to visit the southern part of the country before, but usually I am asleep or just zoned out on the marshutni/taxi ride. While I was plodding along with B2B however, I gained a new appreciation for the absolutely gorgeous views Armenia has to offer.

the southern B2B team

I also got to hang out and talk a lot to some PCVs who I hadn't previously spent much time with. In addition to learning more about these wonderful people, I met a lot of great Armenians along the way. We randomly met a lot of people, of course, just walking along the street. One man even joined us on the walk for a few kilometers. He was on his way to pick a certain herb in the mountains, but decided we were more interesting. At first he was wearing rubber boots, but took them off due to the heat and walked barefoot! Also, in one small village, we met a great man who was the store owner, school director, and makeshift taxi driver. He opened his shop early for us and drove our heavy bags ahead to the next town (it was a particularly hilly day). 

me and one of our
translators, Satine

We also met great people at all the schools & organizations where we delivered the seminars. At each site, we had team teachers/translators to help out. These Armenians were very excited and eager to help us. Often they were rich teaching resources in themselves.



So, if I had to pick one thing, I guess I'd say that the people and the scenery were the best parts of B2B. (and by one thing, I mean two things)

above all, I'll
remember being EXHAUSTED
during B2B 2012

To see details of all the project and the sites we stayed at, check out the official B2B blog, walkacrossarmenia.wordpress.com. There's also a nice video from a local news station (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NG4M5ZM25O8&t=7m32s). See if you can spot my butt!