Summer 2016: What is it About Guatemala?

"What is it about Guatemala," I'm often asked. "Why do you like it so much there?" My response: "Everything!" But it really comes down to 2 things.... beauty and people. Specifically beauty IN people. (Well... and coffee. Haha!)

HOME SWEET HOME

One of the best things about Guatemala is the hospitality of the gracious people here, especially my dear friend Roxana, who always goes out of her way to welcome me, show me beautiful places and make sure I have wonderful experiences in her country. Here are some photos from a fun afternoon with Roxana, Andrea and Josue exploring the gorgeous Hotel Puente Viejo and enjoying its stunning views.

Josue's picture of his mom, himself, his twin sister and me. I'm the extremely tall one. And just look at all of that long curly hair!!

Another dear and amazingly hospitable friend.... Lesly, who always welcomes me like family, is always up for fun adventures and lots of laughter, and is also a wonderful cook. Here she has 3 skillets going at the same time and is demonstrating how to make a special breakfast of eggs, tortillas, and a variety of vegetables.

OLD STUDENTS and NEW

Catching up with 2 former ENRO students whom I met during our first trip in July 2014... Astrid and Yeya are all grown up now, and Yeya is a mom to pretty little Anyelinna.

New scholarship student, Jeremias. He's getting a degree in secondary education with a concentration in education administration.

It is always great to see Dario, our very first scholarship student, who came to visit, talk about his college experience, and bring this special gift....which he made himself and was gracious enough to demonstrate how.

Then, he volunteered to help with a home improvement project - converting the front room into a coffee roasting and cupping lab!

Laguna De San Pedro with Roxana

Cute Boy.jpg — Look at this little boy's expression!

Fun day Monday at the VIP theater with Cyndi and Bev. If I look a little guilty, it's because I was!

Welcome baby Canela! Cyndi and I made a trip to the city to adopt her new min pin and nearly got kicked out of Wal Mart (not really!) when we used Cyndi's purse to smuggle in the sleeping pup.

In Guatemala City

Visiting former neighbor, Rocio, and Mrs. Rosa (whose 88th birthday we celebrated in February)

Another great day with Roxana, Andrea and Josue ... we enjoyed a lunch in a fun setting at La Hacienda de Don Juan and went home full, tired and happy.

Hanging out with my Spanish teachers, but I think the the main subject was Silliness!

Fun Times in La Fábrica

A special visit from one of Ali's PUPPIES! She looks a little different than when I saw her last.

puppies Oct 5 2015.jpg — 8 months earlier

Latte Art Lessons from Victor and Josue

Crepes with Byron.jpg — Crepe making lessons from Byron

Photos from my last day in Monjas ... Lunch and a fun afternoon with Walfred, Roxana, Andrea and Josue.

Roxana sent me home with lots of Guatemalan souvenirs

Last adventure before heading home: Road trip to Antigua, eating delicious savory crepes at a French restaurant, and hanging out at Fat Cat Coffee House.

Until next time...