Where to start?
The Davis family helped remind me of all the things I love about El Salvador. The pupusas, the delicious rice, the smoothies. The friendly, animated people. The coffee country, the volcanoes, the big rock that supposedly looks like a pig in the ocean, the fascinating history. They were amazed by every little thing. Ron and Don began talking to strangers, even though they couldn't speak the language. We laughed and played. It was a great adventure.
My favorite day was when we went to the hot springs of Santa Teresa outside of Auachapan. We took the bus, and got off at the stop. "1 kilometer" it said. We can walk! So, we began walking through a very rural area, passing farmers and butterflies. Every 10 minutes or so we would see a sign that said "you're almost there!" By the time we got there, (more than 1 kilometer later), we were hot and sweaty. We wandered over to the geyser, wondering if it would be worth the walk.
It was worth it.
They have made 10 pools or so made of natural hot springs water, varying from cooler to very hot. It was so fun trying the different pools, relaxing and enjoying the warmth. We got to put on some facial sandy white stuff (?) and be silly. It was such a fun day! And, we caught a taxi home. Phew.
Another exciting thing was that Chris and I got asked to be the godparents of the kindergarten graduation in La Mora, the rural community where I work. We bought a cake, and a present for each child. It was a a great opportunity. I have been so fortunate to receive gifts for Christmas, birthdays, and special events. It was a nice chance to give a gift to kids who don't receive many (if any) presents.
I did find myself a bit sad. I have worked with these kids for 7 months, and really have watched the kindergarteners grow up. They're still wild and crazy, but now a tiny bit less than before! It has been sweet to build relationships with them.
This week, another volunteer Laura and I started leading a theater camp for 10-12 year olds. We are putting on Snow White (a very funny, short version) complete with a Thriller dance break. None of the kids have ever been in a play before, and some of them have never seen one. We are answering questions like: What is a stage manager? What is upstage, downstage? What is blocking? What do I do if I forget my line? (Oh, and how do I say all that in Spanish??)
In Suchitoto we are getting ready for the patron saint fiestas, and enjoying the sweet, sweet November breeze. It is still raining some, which has worried the farmers for their corn and bean crops. Hopefully it will stop soon.
In other news, Chris and I are looking forward to being home for a whole month in January! I will be getting my 200 hour yoga certification, and Chris will be studying for the GRE and getting his CNA license. At this point in our journey we are feeling a bit homesick, so it will be nice to be back in North Carolina for a while. In February we will return to Suchitoto for 5 more months of volunteering before moving back to the states.
A lot to be excited about - and a lot to be grateful for.
