Guatemala 2009

Even though I’ve already posted twice today, there are a few gaps in the story of the day, so I’ll fill the details in quickly.

This morning we gathered together and our luggage was loaded on to our bus. Some of the children came out to give last hugs and say goodbye. When I saw Molly holding her sweet little lamb, Claudia, I wondered how she had the strength to stand there without crying. After Claudia begged to go to Spencer, I went up to Molly and asked her how she was able to say goodbye. She replied, “I don’t know. I think I’m about to cry.” And then she did. I gave her a big hug, and we held each other and wept over the seeming injustice of a little girl who doesn’t have a home, and who is going to be transferred away from Eagle’s Nest. After a good cry, we wiped our eyes and tried to compose ourselves.
A few minutes later the rest of our group arrived, and Joyce led us in singing “We Fall Down” acapella. After that, we sang the Doxology, including the “Amen” at the end.

Then it was time for a big group photo, so we gathered and squished and invited some of our favorite folks from Eagle’s Nest to come into the photo with us. The bus driver snapped a few photos using Bill’s camera.

Then we piled into the bus, and headed out, with more waving and goodbye’s out the windows.

The trip down the mountain was several hours, but we all survived, and arrived in Antigua safe and sound. We did a little more shopping, and had lunch at the beautiful McDonalds there. Before too long, it was time to head back to the bus, which we did very cheerfully, knowing that a nice motel was waiting for us in Guatemala City. A short hour later we were climbing back out of our bus at the motel. It felt like home to those of us in the first group who had spent a day here last week. We were eager for the Group Two folks to see our lovely place.

Our rooms were ready quickly, and we headed upstairs by 4:30, with directions to report in the lobby for supper at 6:00 pm. A few of the younger kids headed straight for the pool, while others rested or relaxed in their rooms.

Suppertime found us walking to the Pizza Hut nearby. It’s very big, and even has a play-land inside. It’s been decided that the fast-food restaurants in Guatemala are far fancier than the ones in the U.S. They’re really amazing and beautiful, and the food is delicious.

Now everyone is tucked into their rooms, complete with a phone call from Dr. Ray checking to make sure all are in their rooms, and reminding us to report to the lobby at 3:55 a.m. to catch our shuttle to the airport.

Tomorrow will be a busy day. I wasn’t able to post while in transit last time, so I’m guessing it will be the same this time. But I’ll be sure to post an update when I can.

Thank you all for your prayers and notes of encouragement. We’re very eager to get home.

Love, Christie…. for the team.