Hola from Guatemala!
Our apologies for getting this blog started a little later, we have had a busy last few days with travel and spotty wifi connection. We hope to give you a brief overview of our activities and travels as the week progresses and God's hand at work!
Day 1- Friday (Travel Day)
The group left Grand Rapids airport at 6 am on Friday morning, and the flights went smoothly with a short layover in Atlanta. While walking to the next terminal, we encountered Uncle Si from Duck Dynasty. He was gracious, and allowed us to introduce ourselves and take a few photos! We arrived on time in Guatemala City, and after a quick immigration process we collected our luggage and were greeted by Antonio, our translator. We boarded the bus for the final and longest leg of our journey to Huehuetenango. Soon after leaving the airport, our bus driver thought that our bus had a problem with the transmission, so half an hour later we were able to switch buses. Antonio told us later that our original bus while being driven back to the city had the rear brakes lock up and lose control, causing an accident. Thankfully, no one was hurt by God's grace! Thank you for your prayers! We were able to continue on our trip without any mishaps and arrived late that evening at 8:30 Guatemala time, and 10:30 Michigan time!
Day 2- Saturday
Our day started right after breakfast with a bus ride to Fundacion Salvacion, in Huehuetenango. The hotel where we are staying is a short 15 minute drive to the orphanage, which was a welcome change after the long travel day yesterday. We had the opportunity to spend a few hours with the children in the morning playing games that the leaders at the orphanage arranged. After the games, we enjoyed lunch at Pollo Campero (a local fast food restaurant specializing in fried chicken). Then, together we shopped for food. We will be providing snacks and some meals for approximately 120 people during our time at the orphanage. People were staring at the Americanos who had supplies that filled four carts full!
With supplies in tow, we rode to nearby Mayan ruins. Especially for new members of the mission team this stop was enjoyable and fascinating. The ruins were a popular attraction for locals as well. The weather was sunny and warm and a great way to spend an afternoon before the upcoming work week.
That evening, we headed back to Fundacion for popcorn and movie night. The kids enjoyed watching The Secret Life of Pets along with the snacks. After the movie we returned to the hotel for devotions and a needed nights rest.
Day 3- Sunday
After breakfast we headed into downtown Huehuetenango to attend a Guatemalan worship service, however, when we arrived, the service was almost over so instead we returned to the orphanage. It was a great opportunity to better connect with the children by talking and playing games. We were also able to take a look around to assess the plumbing needs and other projects. In the afternoon we began VBS with songs, a Bible story, and crafts, followed by cookies and juice and more wonderful time interacting with the children. For the first time mission team participants, this was about the time where the kids started to open up. After seeing us yesterday, and learning that we would be back this week, the kids really responded and we had a great time playing and interacting with them. Their memories of the other mission team participants from previous years did not go forgotten! We pray that God will bless our time with the children along with our work starting tomorrow.
