brow down!
When I first signed up for this trip, I didn’t know what to expect. I didn’t know anyone going on CMYA 2008 and I was scared of leaving my family and friends for such a long period. Once we landed in Armenia I knew that the choice I made was right. Hayastan is everything I hoped for and more. Walking out of the airplane and seeing everything written in Armenian made me realize that this was truly going to be the time of my life! Everyone attending CYMA was so nice and welcoming, which made it very easy for us to become a close family in less than a week. Our coordinators, Mkrtich and Sarah are awesome! For the first four days in Hayastan, we had no luggage since our first flight was delayed. Everyone had to go shopping and get clothes from random shops and boutiques that are near our hotel. On Saturday, everyone was eagerly waiting for our suitcases to arrive and when they did everyone ran down the stairs like a huge stampede. By the looks on everyone’s faces, you would have thought it was Christmas morning.
The site seeing is absolutely breathtaking! Although all the walking has caused my feet to swell up, it is definitely worth it. So far my favorite place from our tour is Geghard. To see a church built out of the side of a mountain, from the top to bottom was unbelievable. The best part was going upstairs to the highest room, which was known for its acoustic sounds, and listening to a man play the doodook. Closing my eyes and listening to the music in such a serene setting broke me down in tears. it’s amazing to see buildings that have been around for over 1000 years since they are significant monuments and churches that have had a huge impact in our faith. the food here is DELICIOUS!! This week we are going to attend meetings and socials with ACYO-I which is formed from different ACYO chapters all over the world. Since it is the first assembly ever, we are all truly honored to have the chance to experience this type of convention.
I am so glad i came on CYMA this year. So far, this journey has been so much fun. Whether its randomly shouting out sticky moose, listening to Mkrtich say jokes, or pointing out all of the brow down club members on the street (inside joke), i know that this trip will never be forgotten.
July 8th, 2008 at 10:10 pm
great blog… We are loving it back home! Keep it up CYMA 2008! You guys rock!
July 9th, 2008 at 8:32 am
Our dear daughter
We are so happy that you are enjoying the trip to our homeland… and yes, you were very courageous to decide to take this trip with CYMA not knowing any of the traveling youths..As your blog describes, you will be making lifelong friends and memories..and an undying connection with our “Hayrenik”.
We are so proud that you have been moved with the beautiful sights that you have visited so far…. The long and “boring” Armenian classes and your involvement with our AZ-ACYO over the years have been very fruitful, as your blog describes your emotions visiting those historical and precious places….
A special request- when you visit the Genocide memorial “Dzeedzernagapert”, say a prayer in memory of “medzmama” and all the martyrs..
Til your next entry
Be safe, have fun, create momories…
Love, mom and dad
July 9th, 2008 at 9:11 am
Great blog Liana, love the insight, thank you for sharing.
Can’t wait to hear more stories and definitely can’t wait to hear some of Dcn. Mkrtich’s jokes.
-Will
July 9th, 2008 at 11:20 am
Really great entry Liana! Your words take us all back to the sights, sounds, tastes and warmth (albeit sometimes humid
that is Armenia!
July 10th, 2008 at 10:01 am
My dear Liana,
As Surpazan Derderian’s words quote…”A trip to Armenia is worth more than one thousand sermons.”
The overwhelming emotion of “being Armenian” is so powerful! It is that dynamic of our heritage that has kept and will continue to keep our Hye spirit thriving! Take in all those fantastic sights…wait until you get to Etchmiatzin and partake of the Divine Liturgy. Enjoy every single precious moment and be ready to share all of your stories with me.
Just me,
-Aunty Rita
July 13th, 2008 at 11:27 am
LIIIAAANNAAA!
Awesome post! What a great way to share your trip with everyone. I am completely envious of you! I bet you are having the time of your life, meeting new people, seeing amazing sights. Everyone that goes to Armenia comes back a changed person. I can’t wait to experience that feeling.
Have a good time girl!
Miss youuu,
Tamar