Habitat for Humanity Jutiapa

Welcome to Jutiapa!

2007-08-24T13:53:00.000-07:00

Bienvenidos and thank you for visiting our site. Here you'll find the journal of our Guatemalan adventure -- 17 perspectives on one journey. You can also check out some of the many, many photographs we took.

Some things are so phenominal, they're hard to express in words and pictures. I hope you enjoy our humble attempt.

" Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has." ~ Margaret Mead

July 28 - August 6, 2007

July 28 ~ Patti

2007-08-24T13:52:00.001-07:00

Our team is flying from all over the United States to gather in Guatemala City for our big adventure: The Habitat Build in Jutiapa.

I took a midnight flight from Sacramento to Huston, then I waited fro my flight to Guatemala. Right now, there are a couple of us already in Guatemala City-Dena and Dave, our hosts, and Mark. Everyone else is on their way to the airport for their flights or already on their way. The adventure begins!

July 28 ~ Nora

2007-08-24T13:51:00.000-07:00

Wow! Walking into the airport I felt like a movie star- the lines of people starring at us (some lights & cameras would have made it complete). I am so excited to be back in Guatemala & back in a Habitat community. Let the experience unfold…

July 28 ~ Carley, Chris, and Kellie

2007-08-24T13:49:00.002-07:00

American Flight 983:

Shortly after landing in Guatemala City the captain came on the intercom. He said we had blown a tire and that the breaks had over heated so we might start to see smoke. We were stopped in the middle of the runway to wait for a fire truck. A man in a silver jumpsuit started at the damage for a while which made us all a little nervous. They turned the plane off and taxied us off the runway. Fire trucks came and sat as the man in the silver jumpsuit put on an oxygen tank and the pilots got off the plane to examine the damage. We un-boarded so unfortunately we never got to see what happened.

July 28 ~ Valerie

2007-08-24T13:49:00.001-07:00

The wave of blue shirts welcoming each other with open minds & hearts. Each of us coming for some of the same reasons & some different but all anxious & excited. I am thrilled to be part of this group & looking very forward to getting to know everyone.

July 28 ~ Dena

2007-08-24T13:48:00.002-07:00

We already miss you Ken!

July 29 ~ Chris

2007-08-24T13:48:00.001-07:00

Antigua is a very interesting & intriguing place. It was amazing to observe some of the local children watching us withdraw “Q’s” at the ATM. I am happy that we will have the opportunity to explore Antigua more next weekend.

July 28 ~ Kellie

2007-08-24T13:47:00.002-07:00

A trip to Antigua’s market for clothes with Silvia (Since AA has lost my luggage somewhere): learning how to barter, changing clothes in the middle of a store, learning to measure waist size by wrapping them around your neck.

July 29 ~ Patti

2007-08-24T13:47:00.001-07:00

We’re enjoying dinner at the Hostel del Centro in Jutiapa, our new home away from home. It was a long day, beginning at Antigua , we have had a wonderful “El Tipico” breakfast: beans, eggs and fried plantains followed by a local parade of mini scooters decorated for the Dia de Fiesta of the patron St of Guatemala- St Peter.

July 29 ~ Ken

2007-08-24T13:46:00.002-07:00

Interesting day as I arrived late, alone and was convinced that I would miss everyone. The team waited for me and I ecstatic.

July 29 ~ Erica

2007-08-24T13:45:00.001-07:00

Waking up in Antigua, Guatemala was a fabulous way to start my Golden Birthday! After breakfast, we headed out to the airport to pick up Ken who was already waiting for us! The drive to Jutiapa was pleasant and we stopped for lunch about half way through. Our hostel or hotel there in Jutiapa was very welcoming and I think all of us are happy to be able to settle in for the week. We explored the city today, walking around the main square for the last day of local “ferias” or festival. It was a very lively atmosphere with street stalls and music. Some of us also ventured in the church hall and observed a youth group enthusiastically singing.

At about 4:30 we commenced the official opening ceremony with the affiliate representatives and the families we will be building homes for. We learned a bit about them and they were eager to learn about us as well. Many of the team members were able to put their Spanish skills to good use as translators!

As a team we all learned a little bit more about each other/ some things were very surprising! It’s dinner time now and we’re all realized and looking forward to our first visit to the work sites and 1^st work day tomorrow.

July 29 ~ Alison

2007-08-24T13:44:00.003-07:00

Meeting the families this evening, I was struck by how young they are! I an around the same age and can’t even begin to imagine being in their situation.

July 29 ~ Carley

2007-08-24T13:44:00.001-07:00

Meeting the families I was amazed at what they have to go through to survive. One of the couples hardly gets to see each other because they take turns doing 12 hr shifts at the hospital! During most of the introduction to Jutiapa I played with Ashley, the daughter of the other family. In doing this I also got to talk to the mom. I truly admire her for her aspirations of wanting to go to college in a few years while working and raising Ashley, who’s only 7months right now!

July 29 ~ Valerie

2007-08-24T13:43:00.002-07:00

The team of volunteers are so interesting & diverse, a testament to how full they live life. Everyone is so genuine in their excitement to be here. The families are hard working & seem very worth candidates of a home. I am excited to get started on Monday seeing their dreams come true. Thank your to our organized & generous guides- David, Dena and Sylvia.

July 29 ~ Mark

2007-08-24T13:43:00.001-07:00

Excuse my penmanship; my best class in dental school was how to write sloppy. Seriously, I am loving all the people and personalities on the group. Looking forward to talking more with the families we’re working with.

July 30 ~ David

2007-08-24T13:42:00.003-07:00

Wow, wow, wow! What a fantastic group of people! Its day one of the build and I can already tell that no one is a stranger to hard work. From digging ditches, to handling concrete to breaking up rocks with a pick axe. One of the main reasons I came on this trip was to meet some wonderful people. I have no been disappointed. I am so proud and honored to be with you all on this build…and this is day 3…

July 30 ~ Sam

2007-08-24T13:42:00.001-07:00

Today was our first day on the site. My first impression was that we are truly in the middle of nowhere and starting this project form scratch. The highlight of the day was interacting with the children. I wish I knew more than just a few Spanish words, but even my broken conversations, gestures, and translated words with the kids were a true joy..

July 30 ~ Ken

2007-08-24T13:41:00.003-07:00

Today the work was hard but fulfilling. We dug, lifted, missed and wore ourselves out. Thanks to Advil we can start all over fresh tomorrow.

July 30 ~ Chris

2007-08-24T13:41:00.001-07:00

Lost of fun but hard work today. I will not forget Dena’s quote to Sam right after his near catastrophe falling into the ditch with a bucked of concrete” “You were the kid with the rings around his neck”

July 30 ~ Valer

2007-08-24T13:40:00.003-07:00

I love this country. I feel like I’m home, a more tropical home, but home none the less.

July 30 ~ Carley

2007-08-24T13:40:00.001-07:00

Today was almost overwhelming. We got to the worksite and the ditches were hardly dug for the foundation. We started off having to remove the muddy water from the rain the night before, then dig many 4in deep squares which proved much more difficult than it looked because of the rocky terrain and the extremely sticky mud. I thought this alone would take all day! However, after lunch we started putting re-bar into the ditches and by the time we left we had mixed and poured a little concrete into the foundation. I left completely satisfied that that kind of hard work and heavy lifting we did today isn’t the kind of you can ever get at the gym because it was full of heart, soul, & purpose.

July 30 ~ Nora

2007-08-24T13:39:00.004-07:00

Taking a glimpse at our worksite this morning I thought- here we are in a cornfield! Then when we ate lunch in the patio & the chickens came to visit us, I really thought there is no division between outside and inside, and it felt really good.

July 30 ~ Jen

2007-08-24T13:39:00.003-07:00

Today I fell in love with the people of Guatemala. Everyone was so welcoming when we arrived at the worksite, and you can tell the family is so excited and grateful for their new home. The area is beautiful beyond words; I can’t stop taking pictures! My favorite part of the day was interacting with the children. There were so many children at our worksite and they were all so full of life. I couldn’t get over how happy and joyful they were! They were so friendly and loved seeing pictures of themselves. It was so fun getting to play with and talk to them-I hope we get to know them better in the coming days. Before coming on this trip, I knew I would have a wonderful time, but I can already tell it will be even harder to leave than I thought! I’m also extremely impressed with the Habitat team David & Dena put together-everyone is so genuine and they are all SUCH hard workers! I am so thankful to be part of this team and am so grateful to share in this experience.

July 30 ~ Dena

2007-08-24T13:39:00.001-07:00

Although a lion’s share of the work fell at first to our amazing team of men- Mark, Sam & Chris. I was so moved by the strong women we have- it is still a wonder to me so much was accomplished today. I am also so excited that everyone is jumping right in with Spanish- we are all learning new words all the time.

Need I say- I love this team!?

July 30 ~ Anna

2007-08-24T13:38:00.002-07:00

Telenovela Section

Episode One

What an amazing day! Who would’ve imagined, as we were knee-deep in mud, that a love was blossoming from afar. It was love at first site for Wilmer, a 17-year—old at our worksite, when he spotted Carley. Within the first few hours he has already told me that she was the one he was going to marry. He knew she was the most beautiful girl he’d ever seen, he had the ring; all he had left to do was learn her name, a task that took almost all day. I will say that I was having quite a bit of fun myself playing matchmaker for the two, through I’m not sure how married life would be considering that he forbids her to work and wants her to stay at home- unless she threatens to leave him. If what he says is true though, he’ll do pretty much anything she asks. He was really shy about talking to Carley, but I harassed him all day to talk to her- without communication who else would a marriage work? He would always tell me that he didn’t want to talk to her because she didn’t understand, but it was really him that didn’t understand when she spoke to him in Spanish. Despite the language difference, he tried his hardest to learn English for her like key phrases such as “Kiss” and “my love”. Though his English was limited they did share a few tender moments in which words were unnecessary. He followed her around all day, mixed cement at her side, and helped her carry a bucket of concrete to be poured. Other times, he enjoyed watching her hard at work while reclining on the rock pile in the shade (despite the fact that he wanted her to stay at home while he worded). His rest was only broken when Carley posed for a photo with Christ and put her arm around him. He knew right away that they must be dating; why else would she have put her arm around him? After learning from several reliable sources, including Christ himself, he realized that Carley was still available and his broken heart mended. With newfound conviction, he stepped up his game, chatting quietly with her alone by the fence and asking for her phone number at the end of the day. It’s a wonder this feat to so much courage considering that earlier in the day, he asked Carley for a kiss. “Maybe Thursday” replied Carley “you have need to know more besides my name and that I’m pretty.” Reminding him that time was of the essence he only had a week to win her heart, I urged him to take advantage of his opportunities with her. He decided to take his chance and prove his love by choosing to be with her over going to school. While he was cutting class, he attempted to impress her and prove his masculinity by sitting on Isidro’s motorcycle for long amounts of time. Will he impress her tomorrow? Will he remember her name? Will he get his kiss? Find out next time on Amor Sin Fronteras, the story of Carley and Wilmer.

July 31 ~ Patti

2007-08-24T13:38:00.001-07:00

I am amazed at the difference in cultures when it comes to construction. In the U.S. we have sophisticated machinery and exact measurements. But in Guatemala I am amazed at the simplistic solutions to problems or that necessity is the mother of invention. We make the loops that make the foundation rebar frames. Hoses are used for measurement of levels, concrete is mixed on the road side, mortar is levels with strait sticks. I appreciate modern technology, but marvel at what is accomplished through simple tools, basic physics and sheer intelligence.

July 31 ~ Nora

2007-08-24T13:37:00.001-07:00

The day started out with a perfect scene- David running after our van. No, our driver wouldn’t stop for him, so Valerie yells- go back- and we drive the loop and go back to join him at the hotel. Then we got on our way to work as a complete team.

July 31 ~ Anna

2007-08-24T13:35:00.000-07:00

Amor Sin Fronteras, Part II

Today was a day of high hopes and heartaches for Wilmer. Dressed in one of his finest shirts, he was anxiously awaiting Carley’s arrival when we pulled up to the worksite. Not reading any encouragement, he greeted her and begun his pursuit anew. Much to our disappointment, however, he left shortly afterward to work, eagerly learning in order to prepare for his life that waited in Carley. Once he returned and was reunited with his love, Wilmer tried once again to win her heart, first by a subtle blown kiss and later by longingly gazing at her of a romantic lunch of PB &J with a side of Guatemalan Fritos. Again he didn’t want to go to school, as it would tear them apart for several agonizing hours, but he went at Carley’s request, aiming to please her in any and all ways. Returning in a new crisp white shirt with the few English phrases Mark had taught him “Carley is Beautiful” and “My name is Wilmer”, he was ready once again to prove his devotion to Carley. However he realized in a quite and earth shattering moment that his devotion was not reciprocated by Carley. There she was on the far side of the house completely enthralled in conversation with Isidro. With his broken heart reflecting in his sad, brown eyes, he walked dejectedly back to the rock pile, as Carley had clearly chosen Isidro over him. As he sat on a rock, head buried in his hands, paining for his lost love, he confessed to me that he wouldn’t be returning for Carley the following day. After all he had only come to see her, but what was the point if she didn’t want to see him? He stepped aside to let her be with Isidro. Putting her happiness before his own, he made the great sacrifice in the name of love. Will he win her love tomorrow? Will he even return to fight for her? What will his future be without Carley by his side? Find out tomorrow on Amor Sin Fronteras.

August 1 ~ Laura

2007-08-24T13:34:00.002-07:00

If you wake up at 5am and need something to do, check out our roof. The building blocks the sun so you can’t actually see the sun ride. But the sky looks amazing, and it’s so quiet that all you can hear are crickets, roosters and the occasional firecracker.

Post Script: Tomorrow is Pattie’s birthday!

August 1 ~ Valerie

2007-08-24T13:34:00.001-07:00

Today David’s team visited the local school. The children were a bid shy, but warmed up during our visit. We brought them some supplies: notebooks, colored pencils, rulers, paper and some posters. We gave them to the grateful teacher who shared them with the kids. We colored some pages from a coloring book, the kids were so eager to please us and were so happy to give us their completed pictures. The kids only go to school for ½ day and only 3 days per week. Education isn’t as valued in Guatemala. Visiting the children and interacting with them was an amazing experience and I hope that it opens their mind to consider what exists outside their village community. I will think of them often.

August 1 ~ Jen

2007-08-24T13:33:00.000-07:00

This team is incredible! Everyone has worked so hard the past 3 days, I am so impressed and so happy to be a part of this! Today the weather was a little cooler, which was nice. I think our masons are getting more comfortable with us, they have started joking and laughing with us. Here’s to 2 more days of great work and may more happy memories!

August 2 ~ Nora

2007-08-24T13:31:00.002-07:00

~Felize Cumpleanos a Patanator!~

We celebrated Patties Bday yesterday at the karaoke bar. It was fun, but I’m feeling it right now- we went to bed at 10pm! To late for an early morning of starting work. We’ll manage…

I just have to add that Valerie screamed out of the van yesterday as we were heading back to our hotel “the cow is burning!”

August 2 ~ Jen

2007-08-24T13:31:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday Patti! Have an incredible day!

August 2 ~ Patti

2007-08-24T13:30:00.000-07:00

It’s my birthday! The three things I wished for came true: and adventure by myself with meaning. The added bonus was being surrounded by fascinating wonderful people. Last night at the local restaurant I was serenaded by the local Karaoke singers: the restaurant staff & the Habitat Choir. Nora sang a solo that translated to “you are a cheating butterfly, “ Erica was singing and translating “Hotel California”. We finished with a slice of coconut birthday cake with candles. It a fine birthday.

August 2 ~ Sam

2007-08-24T13:29:00.004-07:00

I am starting to feel more and more at home at our site. Three things stood out yesterday. First, we are now experts at creating rebar – 20 feet in less than four minutes. Not bad for a bunch of Gringos. Second, Narim has warmed up to us a lot. It is clear that he will be talking about the crazy Americans he managed for a long time to come. Third, I played with Renaldo, a 3-year-old nephew of our family for quite a while. It is striking how happy and content the children around us are with very little material wealth.

August 2 ~ Valerie

2007-08-24T13:29:00.003-07:00

Today was a great day. I truly felt part of our community today. We worked really hard today and it was seamless. We finally knew how to do most tasks and could anticipate what came next. We celebrated with the family at the end of the day, their gratitude for our time and friendship was genuine and plentiful. We felt grateful for their open minds and hearts. I can’t believes the week is over it has gone so quickly. I am so happy with my experience and it has exceeded my expectations. The team members are so neat and interesting I just can’t say enough. Till tomorrow.

August 2 ~ Jen

2007-08-24T13:29:00.001-07:00

Another incredible day in Jutiapa! This has been such an unbelievable experience, and while I am excited for our time in Antigua, it is going to be very hart to say good-bye to all of the friends we have made here.

August 2 ~ Allison

2007-08-24T13:28:00.002-07:00

Today was a very satisfying day! We accomplished so much at the work site, but more importantly we had a chance to sit and chat with our family and our masons. We shared a lot of laughter and a lot of gratitude- now I really feel the impact of our efforts here.

August 2 ~ Carley

2007-08-24T13:28:00.001-07:00

This trip has been incredible! I feel like I have been a hands on observer because everything is so new and different and interesting, my eyes don’t want to miss a thing.! Every day there is something new to learn. Either how to make re-bar completely on our own in under 4 min, mix cement, carry tons of blocks efficiently and how to communicate with minimal Spanish are only the beginning of the lessons I have learned in Guatemala. I have learned about patients with other cultures and come to love them with a deep seeded respect. I have also learned to slow down and truly enjoy the beauty of a place and its people. Additionally, it had become quite clear that age is NO boundary for friendships, teamwork, and fun! Finally, this being my first trip truly out of the country I have acquired travel skills and experiences that will become quite useful in the years to come!

August 2 ~ Erica

2007-08-24T13:27:00.002-07:00

The best things about having Patti as my roommate is that I got to celebrate her birthday along with her since the moment we woke up this morning, thanks to AL!! Today was by far the most monumental day for our team, IMHO. Celebrating Patti’s birthday with our family, masons and crew were unforgettable! We also saw a lot of progress on the house- you can actually see where the doors are gonna be and the walls are coming up slowly but surely. Watching our group dynamic evolve has been fascination. We all sorta got into a working groove, but work really well together when it comes to the conga-block-line! Allison adds all the rhythm we need to it! Nora has been our translator extraordinaire… and I helped out a bit, too J. I think the best thing about our experience has been getting to know each other, our masons, and our family- all gradually and simultaneously! Spending time with everyone day after day has been a great learning experience and I think we have all grown to appreciate and respect what everyone else offers to the group. Cheers to Dena and David for rounding up such a truly diverse team. The highlights of the day were two for me…the rain, simply because it was so spontaneous and a cool break for everyone and our afternoon birthday/farewell fiesta, for basically the same reason it was a cool and spontaneous break! That and..we were able to interact with our new Guatemalan “co-workers” and friends in a fun and relaxed way! Very kind words were exchanged about how this experience was new and enlightening for everyone involved, bringing us all together and “making the world a little smaller,” as Patti said. I think we really impacted our masons and it was such a treat to see them warm up to us and to finally unwind a bit.

Oh, just a note about yesterday night- Carley is an awesome salsa dancer! It was also interesting to try and sing “Hotel California” with English/phonetic lyrics or was it some sort of Island dialect?! I got a kick out of that.

August 2 ~ Patti

2007-08-24T13:27:00.001-07:00

I was so lucky to spend my birthday with such and amazing group of people, be in such a fascinating country with s many special moments. It’s truly humbling to have so many people make me feel so special so far from home. Breakfast started with a card from all and a candle ceremony featuring a huge cookie. At the side the family brought out the boom box, “por tu cumpleanos,” and I danced with Grandma. After work at 4pm the family invited us back to the courtyard table where they hade cervesas for everyone- they said it was for my birthday but that it was as good excuse as any. Out came the moonshine- homemade brew in a Pepsi bottle. After a round of happy birthday in espanol from the crew, two of the masons sang a Guatemalan song, and then more dancing. What made the afternoon more special was the sentiment expressed from the masons and family on their gratitude for our help and friendship. We reciprocated with thanks of our own for the privilege of getting to know them, for their acceptance of us into their family and their hearts, and for friendships shown by the tow groups of people for the different backgrounds and cultures who appreciate the goodness in all people, no matter our background or birthplace.

August 3 ~ Laura

2007-08-24T13:26:00.000-07:00

I tried not to have many expectations about this trip, but I expected a lot of hard work. There was so much I didn’t expect. I didn’t expect the awesome malaria dreams. I didn’t expect the fabulous food every day- especially the cumpleanos. I didn’t anticipate how well we’d get to know the families & each other or how good Gallo & guacamole tastes at 5:05pm! I didn’t anticipate how beautiful the sunset would be from the roof or what it would feel like to set the alarm off at 5:30am ( yeah, that was me) I didn’t realize how relaxing it could be to work outside all day & rest on a giant pile of stones or how exciting it was to hear the cinderblock kids sing us a song that welcomed Gringos to their school! I got my passport 3 days before this trip & it makes me think how close I was to missing all this. I wonder how many of you were in the same position. Maybe you almost didn’t get to come. Maybe you almost didn’t tae the time off work. Maybe you almost went on a cruise instead. Maybe you only got to go because someone else dropped out of the group or you applied on the last possible day. One twist in the road and we all might have gone another way. I’m so glad we all found our way here.

August 3 ~ Nora

2007-08-24T13:25:00.000-07:00

We are now traveling back to Antigua- risking our lives in the minivan. The past couple of days have been magical, there has been multiple “pinch-me” moments where I can’t believe I am where I am. I can’t remember what day it was this week, but I remember this moment where I was busy creating U-block and I looked up and saw our whole team and masons working in natural unison. Valor and Ken were mixing concrete, Allison and Dave were laying block, Valerie and Erica were filling the spaces between the block, and Patti was bending the re-bar hooks, (While also waving at the kids) and Octavio, Don Romero and Don Filo were all hard at work- doing pretty much everything. As I looked around I was so amazed and touched that everyone found their niche and was feeling so comfortable in their dirty clothes, concentrating on their task at hand. It was perfect harmony, and everything felt like it was in place.

I am so grateful to be humbled this week. Humbled by the simpleness of tools, work, water, shade, a smile, and Guatemalan life. My heart has grown in happiness this week and I feel so fortunate to have shared this special country with such a fun Habitat group.

-Nora AKA Nena Nora

August 3 ~ Dena

2007-08-24T13:24:00.000-07:00

What happens when a dream comes true- only better? Team Guate 2007! I saw our site the first day and thought- Ohmygosh! BUT- we rocked!

Images:

Mark, Chris and Sam starting their first moment on the job in that crazy, hot ditch- and hauling concrete on their shoulders. How did they survive that day?
Jen with kids and camera- they came like bees to honey!
Anna whistling and always smiling!
Carley- the amazing- hauling, picking, shoveling and fielding Wilmer’s advances-probrecito!
Laura our jack of all trades, doing whatever was needed
Kelli missing until even Narim admitted she could do it alone!
Nora & Erica translators supreme!
Allison- elegant even in concrete and mud!
Ken- up at dawn adventuring
Valerie- the dedicated shopper for photos and school supplies
Patti- birthday gal
Valer- our quite, strong youngster with such a mature soul
Dave- the strong partner I know he’d be!

I am humbled by you all- and so glad we are now patches in each other’s quilt of life.
<3>

August 5 ~ Carley

2007-08-24T13:23:00.002-07:00

Last night was amazing! A very fine meal followed by dancing the night away in the bar! We definitely got the party started there.

Today’s hike was well worth the $20 and 5Q’s for the walking stick! From the group game of “Deep but not Profound” that lasted the rest of the day, to the side of the volcano practically exploding, to quite literally bush-whacking our way down the mountain on a “short-cut” path in the pouring rain with the melodic voice of Allison keeping our spirits high, it was truly the experience of a lifetime! Despite the fact that it began to pour and Patti had to move a little more slowly because of her injuries we really came together as a team to keep everyone moving safely to the bottom. I think that the valiant-ness and chivalrous-ness of the hearts of our team were tested, and shined very brightly today!

August 5 ~ Mark

2007-08-24T13:23:00.001-07:00

As the trip ends I am humbled by my memories, the “group”- all of you- my new found friends. Out leaders picked a wonderful group of amazing people. I loved working closely with Narine and Julio to make them as efficient as possible. Julio takes such pride in his work. It was incredible to see Mildred mixing cement and shoveling dirt with us after working all night at the hospital knowing that her son had a fever and worms. I will always remember Mildred’s words from the heart thanking us for our work; her tears; then seeing Laura tearing up; then tearing up myself. My memories of this week will occupy a special place in my mind forever.

August 5 ~ Sam

2007-08-24T13:22:00.004-07:00

“No problema. Es tipico,” said our guide, Paco. Typical or not, I had no interest in getting any close to molten lava and an exploding volcano. The hike up the mountain, view of the lava, and rain-soaked walk down were a perfect capstone to Habitat Guatemala.

August 5 ~ David

2007-08-24T13:22:00.003-07:00

Wow, wow, wow!!! This group has been amazing. Every single person has found their place in the group and we function very well together. Whether we are working hard on a house or dancing or fleeing from molten lava (well maybe not if we’re fleeing from lava) we make a wonderful group. There are some amazing people here. Thanks to all. Here’s hoping the friendship continues. My first group lead will always be very, very special for me!

August 5 ~ Dena

2007-08-24T13:22:00.001-07:00

As will it be for me- thanks just can’t cover it- you all have a place to stay in Arkansas any time! Sam, that’s close to Oklahoma! Close to …..

Close to Branson anyone? Saying goodbye is too hard so lets just say “Adiosito y ….

Con un amigo muy fuerte

<3>

August 5 ~ Allison

2007-08-24T13:21:00.001-07:00

This has been a spectacular trip!! My expectations have been exceeded beyond belief! Today’s volcano hike was a perfect topper- I never expected to be 50yrs from molten lava…Saying goodbye will be difficult, but I hope to see many of you again on my travels, and am already looking forward to another Global Village experience someday! Muchas gracia por todo!

August 5 ~ Chris

2007-08-24T13:20:00.002-07:00

This entry has been a long time coming. Besides the hard-work, friendships forming, and fun we had in Jutiapa, I will always remember a quote form our beloved Fernando on day 2. Fernando was being dragged by an older child- probably 8 or 9- but the road, while shouting, “No!, Hay Gringos!” repeatedly. This quote even bested Erica’s wit today on the way to Volcan Pacaya: “Threesome, but not twosome.”

August 5 ~ Jen

2007-08-24T13:20:00.001-07:00

Wow! This has been an unbelievable trip! I honestly wouldn’t change a thing. The people were amazing and everyone interacted so well together. Iwill always remember and cherish the friendships that I have fourmed, and I hope they will contiue to grow. Guatemala, and especially Jutiapa, hold a very special place in my heart. The volcano hike (and “near-death” experience) today was the perfect end to such an incredible week. Thanks to all for the hard work and the sweat, the fun, the laughter, and the tears.

If anyone is ever on the east cost call me and we’ll get some good ol’ Maryland crabs!

I hope everyone continues to travel and has many more wonderful and meaningful experiences!

Mucho gusto team Guatemala!

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August 5 ~ Laura

2007-08-24T13:19:00.002-07:00

One jouney ends;

Another begins.

I hope our paths cross again someday. Until then, happy travels!

August 5 ~ Ken

2007-08-24T13:19:00.001-07:00

This trip has made me realize how much hw have and how much we need to give back. I will be doing more volunteer for in the future with HFHI or some other program.

August 5 ~ Erica

2007-08-24T13:18:00.002-07:00

Dena & Dave,

I just want to thank you two again for putting together the best group ever!!! Spending time in Guatemala had defiantly piqued my interest about central America and I pray that I’ll have the opportunity to come back again soon I will do my best to spread the word about Habitat and about all the good work that is done through the organization.

I know this trip was a once in a lifetime experience and I’m so glad all of our paths crossed! We were all so open to meeting new people and it was so wonderful to interact with everyone. I’m so glad we had breakfast and diner times and nights our on the town to further enjoy each other’s company! Getting into the last bar yesterday was exciting and memorable and I will cherish the memory of those moments.

Thanks again to all of your guidance and leadership. You’re the best!

Much love,

-Erica

P.S. Dave, if I ever climb and active volcano again, I hope you’re by my side! J

August 6 ~ Patti

2007-08-24T13:18:00.001-07:00

Thank you to everyone connected to this trip- Dena and Dave ( my volcano hero), the Habitat staff in Guatemala, the families involved in the houses, the people of Guatemala for opening their hearts to us, and especially to an amazing, devious, warm, funny, energetic, and gracious fellow teammates who make this trip a truly memorable experience. I will hold each person in my heart/the team and the Guatemalan people.

Muchas Gracias, vaya con dios, and we will meet again at our reunion build!

August 6 ~ Valer

2007-08-24T13:17:00.001-07:00

Last day in Guatemala. This is all so bittersweet. This trip has been amazing. I’ve met so many interesting people and seen so many interesting things. I’m very touched. Thank you David and Dena for making this trip so wonderful.

August 6 ~ Kellie

2007-08-24T13:16:00.000-07:00

Even though it’s our last day in Guatemala it feels as if we only just arrived. Maybe that best describes our journey- opposites that are really not: people who have only just met and yet feel like life long friends, hard work that makes you feel lighter, beauty in poor conditions.

Thank you to everyone for a life changing experience.

August 6 ~ Erica

2007-08-24T13:15:00.000-07:00

Spending time with the people of Jutiapa in Guatemala was gratifying in countless ways and I am left with so many wonderful memories of our week together in Guatemala. I think we were all tremendously lucky to meet one another. The hard work, cooperation, kindness and leadership displayed within our team was truly remarkable and very inspirational. I am sure many new bonds of friendship were formed. It has been wonderful seeing people share thoughts, pictures and videos to document our experience. I would definitely be up for another Guatemala trip or Habitat reunion elsewhere! Dave and Dena, you guys leading any other trips soon? Keep those emails coming!

Besos and abrazos para todos!

- Erica