April 13, 2009
[Note: This week's observations from Guatemala are plagiarized from my message to a Children International Sponsors
Google Group.]
What a wonderful first day! I met Blanca and her family today in Antigua. She seemed so somber and serious in all of
her CI photos, so I was expecting a reserved child. Her initial shyness quickly gave way, however, to an outgoing and
affectionate girl. I can´t tell you how incredible it was to see her smile for the first time! She lives in some rather dire
circumstances, but the family is close and they take pleasure in the smallest things. Talk about refreshing.
Her siblings, Sara and Ruth were also wonderful, as were their parents. For those of you who have not had the
opportunity to make a visit, you have not experienced what it means to have genuinely grateful parents thanking you
for giving their children some small gifts they are not able to provide. It makes the trip worthwhile.
After a bumpy ride over the cobblestones of Antigua, we made our way to the mall adjacent to my hotel in Guatemala
City. Everyone had a ball at the bowling alley. I was the only one that had ever bowled before, but it didn't matter.
They put up the kiddie lane devices, so they were guaranteed to knock down pins on the first roll. I will not soon forget
seeing the sheer joy on their faces with each roll.
Later we went to the food court for some fried chicken, followed by a shopping expedition. All three girls crowded into
one fitting room to try on outfits - at the same time (I have a photo of six feet underneath the door that should be a
keeper). Blanca also got shoes, and all three took home stuffed animals. Mom and Dad´s present: a quick trip to the
grocery store for the basics.
Finally, I had an opportunity to see their home, visit with relatives, watch Dad play his guitar, and exchange final gifts
and hugs. It was really, really difficult saying adios to this family. They are tight-knit, healthy and happy. Blanca wants
more photos and asked me to return someday. How could I say no?
Well, six more emotional visits to go. I´ll be an emotional basket case by Friday, but what a memorable experience.
Tomorrow: The three hour trip to Patulul to see Siomara. If my brain is still functioning tomorrow night, I hope to send
another update.
All the best from Guatemala!
[Note: This week's observations from Guatemala are plagiarized from my message to a Children International Sponsors
Google Group.]
What a wonderful first day! I met Blanca and her family today in Antigua. She seemed so somber and serious in all of
her CI photos, so I was expecting a reserved child. Her initial shyness quickly gave way, however, to an outgoing and
affectionate girl. I can´t tell you how incredible it was to see her smile for the first time! She lives in some rather dire
circumstances, but the family is close and they take pleasure in the smallest things. Talk about refreshing.
Her siblings, Sara and Ruth were also wonderful, as were their parents. For those of you who have not had the
opportunity to make a visit, you have not experienced what it means to have genuinely grateful parents thanking you
for giving their children some small gifts they are not able to provide. It makes the trip worthwhile.
After a bumpy ride over the cobblestones of Antigua, we made our way to the mall adjacent to my hotel in Guatemala
City. Everyone had a ball at the bowling alley. I was the only one that had ever bowled before, but it didn't matter.
They put up the kiddie lane devices, so they were guaranteed to knock down pins on the first roll. I will not soon forget
seeing the sheer joy on their faces with each roll.
Later we went to the food court for some fried chicken, followed by a shopping expedition. All three girls crowded into
one fitting room to try on outfits - at the same time (I have a photo of six feet underneath the door that should be a
keeper). Blanca also got shoes, and all three took home stuffed animals. Mom and Dad´s present: a quick trip to the
grocery store for the basics.
Finally, I had an opportunity to see their home, visit with relatives, watch Dad play his guitar, and exchange final gifts
and hugs. It was really, really difficult saying adios to this family. They are tight-knit, healthy and happy. Blanca wants
more photos and asked me to return someday. How could I say no?
Well, six more emotional visits to go. I´ll be an emotional basket case by Friday, but what a memorable experience.
Tomorrow: The three hour trip to Patulul to see Siomara. If my brain is still functioning tomorrow night, I hope to send
another update.
All the best from Guatemala!