We came... we saw... and we wish to return...

It all began, with Tomi acquiring a few computers and monitors, that would have to be taken, to the "Csángó-Hungarian-Association" in Moldva. Tomi and David had already visited Moldva last year, in their little, green UAZ-auto, to deliver Christmas gifts, from the "Godparents" (Keresztszülők) from Hungary. Since they were really taken by their experience in Moldva, and Toni found a new, better route, i decided to join the group, out of curiosity.
We could not drive our poor-little UAZ, for we had acquired a lot of miscellaneous gifts, such as computers, clothings... etc., and it could not carry everything, not to mention, it would have used too much gasoline, on the 2000 -km. journey. From day to day, the gifts increased... carpets, pillows, clothes, books, washing-machine, shoe-liners, bed-clothes (sheets, pillowcases)... etc. Also, a lady asked us, over the telephone, to please, take her gift-package to Gajdár. Finally, the big Day arrived.
We began our journey to Moldva, Wednesday morning, with Tomi's Father, uncle Gyula, who provided the rented truck. On the way, we were slowed down, by the detour, at Eger and the unexpected defect, at Tiszapüspöki, that delayed our arrival to the Csángó-Kollégium (School) at Csikszereda, early morning. There, the sleepy-eyed students, with Ferencz Éva's guidance, quickly removed the donations, meant for them, and after, in the frosty morning, much desired, hot coffee was served to us.
We arrived in Gajdár, early afternoon, where we gave a package, that was meant for one of the students, to two young teachers. These teachers reside in a home, that is small but comfortable and also houses the school-room, where we were able to observe the activities of the little-students.
After Gajdár, we headed to Klézse, where Duma András, the leader of the "Szeret-Klézse-Fund" received us, along with the clothing, books and toys, meant for the Foundation.
From Klézse, we were off to Bákó, the center of the "Association of Csángó-Hungarians in Moldva" Here, we handed over the much needed computers and the other donations. We quickly filled the ground-level storage-rooms of the Association with the help of Adrián, Attila, Levente and others.
Our warm welcome was "crowned" with dinner, at seven o'clock. We could hardly wait, to sample the unique, delicious soup, made with cream, hot-pepper, garlic... etc. We ate, until almost bursting, therefore, we were in "trouble", when Levi decided to take us to the Magyar-Ház, (Hungarian-House) in Külsőrekecsin, where Bori and Melánia served supper, for us.
The newly built spacious, bright school-building, by it's style and size, stands out, from the villages other buidings. There is a separate room for internet/information. The ground-level houses the kitchen and even the heating system is up to date and exceptional.
After a long day, we retired, but in the morning, the noise of the carriages passing-by and the constant crowing of the rooster, woke us. We were quite busy, helping Levente and Monika move from their house, that was also used, as a Hungarian school. In between, we also studied the function of a "still" or distillery, beside the stream. During the afternoon, we delivered a boiler for a teacher, in Lujzikalagor and after, the president of the Association, Adrián, invited us, to have some drinks with him. We continued our drinking in the evening, at Levente's new home, with other invited guests, where we all had a grand time! Once again, we were late to retire to our beds. The next day began later, but was even more busy. With Levente's guidance, we were all-over Csángóföld. First, in Lábnyik, from there, to Diószeg, delivering window's, to aunt Marika.
On our way, we traveled to Rekecsin several times, to deliver, from the Association's depository to other places, clothes, bed-clothes, wheels... etc. It occured to us, that after our extensive experience, we could start a moving-business, once we return to Hungary. Toward the end of the busy day, we were delighted, when Melánia and Bori prepared for us, a fine farewell supper. Monika and Levente also came, to bid us farewell. The bottles of excellent wine, from Tokaj, assured, that everyone had a great-time, that lasted, until late night.
The early morning "wake-up" at 2:30 a.m. did not feel good at all, and in the frosty night, while the village slept, only the star-light shone, on the wet road. None, but the rooster's call, once or twice, in their dream, accompanied our steps, to our auto. Quietly, we left Külsőrekecsin, but in our heart, we would have gladly remained! To bring and help, to take part, in the work of the Association and it's dedicated people. Thank you, for all your kindness, we are certain, that we will return!

Wirth Kata

The 9th of November 2009

Ilona Kiss Hooper translated the article from a Hungarian language

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