My final days in Guatemala, first in El Salvador and The Big "Opps"

The last few days have been filled with new experiences…and a lot of travelling. I am excited to tell you all about Perquín and all it’s natural beauty but first, let me take you a little further back. It was September 25th the evening of what I have titled, “the night of the big opps”

I had been pondering what to do with my hair for some time now. It had gotten rather long and I LOVE long hair so even though I never do anything with it I appreciated it being there. However on the evening of the 25^th I was not all that fond of it. Particularly the rather dead-ends that felt straw like and nasty. I wondered how much more comfortable it would be if they no longer existed.  I had been considering for some time visiting a near by salon but upon finding a pair of scissors in my bedroom I got another idea at which point I promptly goggled “how to cut your own hair.”  Seemed easy enough.

I am not sure what gave me the nerve. Perhaps I had a weird sense of capability having lived in Guatemala for a month, maybe I was feeling more adventures in a new place, or it could be that I was just very tired of paying for haircuts and what better place to learn then central America.  Could have been a combination of all three.  All I know is…I hardly trust a hairdresser in Canada let alone my own two clutzy hands.

But somehow I had the motivation, the scissors and the courage and I started snipping. I took it slow in the beginning cutting little by little. When I thought I was finished I put my hair in a braid on the side and was a little disappointed to see rather large chunks of shorter hair sticking out at different lengths. No matter I could cut it a little shorter. This may have been where I got too confident… and went a little crazy. I am completely unsure of what happened but for any of you Anne of Green Gable lovers you can reference the scene where she dies her hair green and that will give you a pretty clear depiction of the emotions running through my head. And just for a nice visual here’s a picture. 

 

Whoops...

Oddly enough after I noticed the damage I had done the shock of it was quick and rather painless. It was bad, yes, but hair grows back and what better time to try short hair then in the tropical climate of El Salvador! The next day I had language class, and after telling the amusing story to my teacher she instructed I take my hair down so she could see it. She then said we could leave class early and she would take me to get a haircut. Yes…it was that bad.

So for the first time since I was a toddler my hair is a little above my shoulders. I still have a great love for long hair…but I am happy to try out something new.

Short, short hair. P.S this is the park in the centre of Perquín, and this photo was taken by a vary nearly three year old! Not bad Ellie Chapman!  

Friday was my very last Spanish class. Edna my Spanish teacher and I had a chance to go out for lunch the day before (after the haircut) and talk a little bit about El Salvador and ways for me to continue learning Spanish. I am very grateful she was my teacher!

 

My wonderful teacher Edna and I! Many a hours were spent struggling though Spanish together. Towards the end I started a fun little twitch when I was particularly frustrated with something. We thought it was funny.

Friday morning I had to say goodbye to my very lovely host family, and Manches.  They said I could come by for a visit anytime and if I ever needed a place to stay in the city their home was open to me. I do plan on visiting them when I am able. Possibly sooner then later since I recently realized I left a pair of shoes behind. It’s impossible for me not to leave a trail.

In my last 5 minutes I realized I had never gotten a picture with my Guatemalan host family. In result I ended up being 20 minutes late for my last class. Memories are important. Meet my host mom Victoria and host sister Ingrid. Two awesome people that made my stay in Guatemala that much more enjoyable! 

Friday afternoon we loaded into the MCC van and headed for El Salvador!  The Chapman family, fellow SALTer David and myself had a rather spacious ride in the 13-seat van.  Since it is a rather lengthy trip (aprox 9 hours) we stopped at the ANADES compound where we stayed the night. ANADES is the NGO that I will be working with through the daycare in Perquín. They have a small compound in San Salvador which I am sure will serve me well throughout the year. Especially while travelling from Perquín to Guatemala City, which will be required several times during my stay here.

 

My first meal in El Salvador. The one and only Papusa! I am not sure exactly what the process of making these are but I am sure I will have the opportunity to learn since they are infamous in El Salvador. 

First bite of my first Papusa. The first of many many more to come! The only way I can really describe a Papusa is comparing it to an undercooked pizza...but it tastes better. Just going to have to come try one for yourself (hint, hint) 

From San Salvador we traveled to Perquín. Upon stepping out of the van I was taken back by the natural beauty of the area. Rolling hills provided a scenic view which I much preferred to the hectic Guatemala City.  We have been staying at Hotel Perquín Lenca where the showers are hot and wonderful! I have grown to appreciate hot showers in a whole new light! The hotel has provided a great balance between accommodating Westerners while exposing a more traditional aspect of El Salvador.  A great place for visitors to stay (hint, hint).

 

Vastly different from the view I had at home. 

While staying here we got the chance to meet the Hotel owner Ron, a very hospitable man from the U.S but who has been in Latin America for over 30 years. He began construction on the hotel after the war to serve as a development project for the community. The entire town of Perquín was completely displaced after the war since anything that moved in the area was considered the enemy and were tragically targeted and killed.  The war was such a short time ago that many of the people in Perquín have an understanding of the destruction of violence in a way I could never fully comprehend. I look forward to having opportunities to learn from their insight.

After attending church this morning I met my new host family. My family consists of a mother, father, daughter, son, and granddaughter.  The granddaughter and me already have a deal, I will teach her some English if she helps me with my Spanish. I think we are going to be very good friends.  The family seems to be good-hearted, kind people. They have already addressed very openly some of the needs they assume I will need addressed. For example, they do not purchase their water but they know that the water they use might make me sick. Just knowing they are aware of these differences in culture is comforting. They have also already invited me to different community events like the ladies soccer team and a bible study. Apparently several of the women at the Bible study have expressed interest in learning English. I am glad to hear I might be as much of a help to them as they will be to me.

 

The one and only church in town. Murals similar to this are all over the artistic village Perquín. 

My understanding is that my host family has a very interesting history involving the war. In fact, my host dad’s parents were two of the three people whom for whatever reason did not evacuate Perquín after it had become a very dangerous and hostile area.  Far from the artistic town it is today. There is so much history here for me to grow and learn from. A different form of learning then I am use to in the classroom.

The community of Perquín is absolutely beautiful. Cultural murals have been painted all thought-out the town and music can be heard coming from any given building. The only negative aspect I have so far is that there are so many dogs and I have been advised against petting them. I love dogs.  Maybe their presence will be nice even if I can’t go near them.  My verdict overall is that even though I foresee a lot of challenges adjustment wise, I think I will really like it here! I am excited to see the school, meet the kids, and get to know my host family and the community.

Excited to see how it all plays out!

Lastly I would like to thank you for all your prayers and kind words after hearing of my Grandmothers passing. I have never wanted to be in two places more. Your kinds words and prayers truly helped with the heart ache. Blessed to have had an amazing grandmother blessed to have great friends and a great family, all the while blessed to be in Perquín! 

Miss you all! Prayers are as always appreciated and don’t forget I have email and Facebook! I love hearing about home J

A month in Guatemala

I can’t believe it has been over a month since I left Canada. So much has been seen, heard, tasted, and learned since I left. I am sorry I have not kept you more informed. But I will rectify that now as well as share a small excuse story for my blogging absence.

The view from the plane. Asking the gentleman sitting next to me to take this picture was my first encounter with language barrier.  

Flying to Guatemala cannot really be described. To many words and mixed emotions.  I was worried, excited, nervous, anxious etc.  I am surprised my body didn’t just collapse on the spot from so much uncertainty in my brain. It didn’t feel like that long of a journey but after stepping off the plane I felt very, very far from home. 

David my travelling partner and co-SALTer and I were warmly greeted by the El Salvador, Guatemala Reps, Michael and Mellissa Chapman, as well as Nancy Sabas who works closely with the reps and different tour groups who visit Guatemala.  These people have been an invaluable help to my cultural adjustment over the last month. They have given much appreciated advice from there own experience which has proved very helpful while navigating though another culture.

From Left to right Mellisa and Micheal Chapman the Guatemala, El Salvador Reps, Michel is holding his daughter Hazel, the wonderful Nancy Sabes and adorable Ellie Chapman. She speaks the cutest Spanglish ever! 

Our first week in Guatemala we participated in a in country orientation. Over orientation week David and I got the chance to met and get to know Berraldo an YMENer who is serving in Saint Marcos Guatemala this year. Berraldo is from Columbia and was more then willing to help David and I with our limited almost non-existent (on my part) Spanish.  The week was a great time of bonding as a team and learning more about the culture we will be serving. A helpful preparation for what lies ahead.

During orientation week we had the opportunity to see a little more of the city, including a bird’s eye view of the city dump. The dump has become many peoples lively hood by capitalising on any thing of value. It has also become a residence for many who have set up camp and rely entirely on the dump as a way of life.  Not far from this startling reality is the Miraflores mall, which is an assortment of high-class, expensive restaurants and stores.  From one end of the spectrum to the other, a brutally visible divide that is not near so evident in Canada. 

 

One day during our orientation week we were able to explore Guatemala with the MCC reps and Nancy. This is an image of the Guatemala City cemetery. This magnificent resting place next to the much smaller, more affordable alternative was a clear visual of the huge gap between the rich and poor. 

As mentioned, here is the city dump. A truly heartbreaking scene of immense poverty and economic injustice. 

After completing orientation phase two began, Language classes and living with a Guatemaltecan host family. I was excited about the opportunity to live with and learn from a Latin American family. I was also scared silly of the language barrier. But I am happy to inform you my experience with this family has been absolutely phenomenal.

I am currently living with a mother, daughter three adorable dogs, a turtle, cat, and seven birds. I really appreciate all the animals. Especially since I get to enjoy their company and don’t have to clean up after them. :P

 Meet Manches! We spend a lot of time together. I will really miss this little guy when I leave for El Salvador. 

This cat hates me. This is as close as I have ever got to her. And this is on zoom. 

This turtle usually wonders around the tropic backyard. Except the one time I found him under the kitchen table. Likely took him all day to get there, only to be picked up and brought back outside. 

These budgies constantly remind me of Jamal the Budgie I left at home in the care of my family. I hope they have been feeding him. 

My host sister is incredibly fun and so helpful. Conversation can be difficult and gruelling but each time we chat I find myself feeling enlightened whether from expanding my Spanish vocabulary or learning something about the Guatemalan culture or family.  Mind you we have had our fare share of miscommunications. One evening my host sister came into my room and asked if I was hungry I tried to let her know I had already eaten and was full. As it turns out that was not what I said. In fact I must have said quite the opposite because she made and brought me one of the largest sandwiches I have ever eaten.  This is just one of several funny stories that come included in the package deal of “surviving a language barrier”.

I could write a whole blog article based solely on the food here! This is one of my favourite breakfasts but not a very traditional Guatemalan meal. However it's good example of how caring my host sister is, making pancakes extra special just for me. She also makes the most delicious smoothies and fresh juices! 

My room. I can't claim the bed since I was told on the first day it was Manches's bed. 

A small but cozy living room 

A very practical kitchen! Although my host family cooks a lot they seem to make do with this small space. 

Though communication can often be a hit and miss I do believe my Spanish speaking skills have come much further. That being said, a friend and Spanish classmate recently reminded me I had nowhere to go but up. Literally…I could not get much worse then I was. 

Learning Spanish here in Guatemala is nothing like learning in class as UWaterloo. The main difference being, my Spanish class here is entirely in Spanish. Four hours of Spanish class in the morning then returning to my Spanish speaking family in the evening I am truly immersed.  I am amazed by how my teacher, Edna is able to understand my poor Spanish and has figured out the ways in which I learn best. I have also realised how much hand gestures, tone, facial expressions and speed of conversation help with my comprehension. 

The entry way into Casas (the Spanish school) that I walk though everyday. Many hummingbirds take advantage of the hanging nectar. 

At Casas

A view of the courtyard at Casas. An oasis! 

Conversation in a second language takes extreme concentration and is mentally exhausting. Some days I find myself gaining confidence only to later become extremely frustrated. Confidence is short lived around here.  This humbling experience has forced me to rely on myself less and on God more. Overall, a important lesson to be learning, even if it has to be done the hard way.

I do have one encouraging communication story and my excuse for having not updated you for so long. Just before I left for my travels I had an unfortunate computer happenstance, and after talking with a tech savey friend I was advised against buying an iPad to bring. This super awesome friend actually ended up letting me bring his old computer. Just one example of needs being met through God and His giving children. So that was AWESOME! However, upon coming here I did not realise that this computer did not have a port for a memory card.  I needed a USB memory card adaptor.

Over the past few weeks in Guatemala I have been trying to build enough confidence to go into a store and explain in Spanish my needing this adaptor. I finally got up enough nerve to attempt the impossible. That was strike one.  Neither of us understood each other and rather then spending twenty minutes painfully trying to communicate I decided to leave and hit the Spanish books.  I was unable to download pictures and didn’t want to post a lifeless blog with no images so I got up the nerve to try again. Same store, different clerk. I explained to him what I wanted and I think he understood me and said the store didn’t carry it. I considered the legitimate communication an accomplishment giving me just enough confidence to try again in a different store. Once again I explained what I needed at which point the store clerk walked away grabbed a small black square from behind the cash register and handed it to me. BINGO! Exactly what I wanted!

Now, whenever I feel like I will never be able to articulate my thoughts into words (which is quite often) I can look at my little USB adaptor and remember that one time a sales clerk new exactly what I wanted! And on a side note I can also blog with pictures!

I have five Spanish classes left before I leave for Perquín El Salvador. Similar to the emotions I experienced on the plane ride to Guatemala I am all over the gauge from excited to terrified. Knowing I have such a great support system at home has been very calming so thank you! I have also found comfort in a specific passage of scripture.  Before coming here we were instructed to make ourselves a small spiritual renewment aid. I wrote several of my favourite Bible verses on queue cards to set up on my shelf. One is particularly helpful when looking at my upcoming transition period.

Mathew 6:35

Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more then food, and the body more then clothing?

It is comforting to know I don’t have a thing to worry about in the grand scheme of things! Why worry about life when you don’t have to?

Spiritual Renewment! 

Here are some pictures with small captions that describe some other things I have seen and done here in Guatemala. Each experience deserves a post in itself but I would rather save a little something to tell you about in person! 

  

This is the National Cathedral in Antigue, a short drive away from the city. A beautiful building that holds many stories from Guatemalan history. 

 The Catholic church has taken the responsibility of collecting as much information as they can on people who died or went missing during the civil war. Multiple pillars such as the one above have been inscribed with the names of victims of the tragic event that happened a short 17 years ago. The pillars surround the national cathedral and pay a tribute to the death of these individuals as well as a reminder of the devastation brought by war and violence. 

Just because I love taking pictures of flags! Guatemala's national colours! 

A beautiful fountain in Antigua. Antigua was previously the capital of Guatemala before an earthquake destroyed the town and the capital was relocated to what is now Guatemala city. The small town has been restored and provides a unique escape from the hustle and bustle of city life while visiting multiple tourist attractions. 

This was the group I spent one week of orientation with. This photo was taken at our final supper together before starting new adventures. Berraldo (on the left), left the next day for his placement in Saint Marcos Guatemala. And David (middle) and I would start our month of language training! Also, I must point out...Elli and I match! We didn't even plan that. 

The very famous and beautiful arch in Antigue. 

Gorgeous architecture! Beauty 12 o'clock! (That one was for you Hannah Johnson)

We got to go to the market! Since coming here I now have a deep appreciation for markets! You can find almost anything at the market, and it has proved to be a very affordable shopping experience.  I am excited to discover markets in El Salvador. I love barging in English, why not in Spanish? 

Just one of many great things about working with MCC is the encouragement to travel and connect with different people. I got a taste of what that is like during the MCC team retreat. Our team of about 12 met in Alta Verapaz for discussion and team bonding exercises. It was great to get to know other MCCers, hear about there positions, and learn from there experiences in Guatemala. This image was the view of Alta Verapaz from the hotel we stayed at. A relaxing time away from the noisy city. 

During the team retreat were able to stop and visit two projects in Alta Verapaz. This picturesque river, hike and cave seen below surrounded a unique form of international development.  We were able to take a tour of a farm surrounded by mountains and cloud forest. The farm works to maintain the health of the cloud forest while working along side the Kek'chi community providing girls the incentive to continue education past the age 10 or 11.  

Lillian, a fellow MCCer 

You can never take a good picture inside a cave. 

I tried and failed but still thought I would share. It was right around this area that I tripped on a rather slippery and very hard rock. I discovered a considerable sized bruise afterwards. 

Independence day in Guatemala! What a fantastic experience. My host family has a tradition of going to the Independence day parade every year. I was very glad for that! It was not a parade like any I had seen before. One of the main differences was this one lasted over 2 hours while a lengthy parade in Clinton would last right around 20 minutes. 

This one is for my dad who after my telling him I would be attending the Independence day parade immediately responded with "I bet there will be people with masks". Yes dad, yes there were. 

A beautifully colourful community. I can't imagine trying to wear that thing. 

Marching band after marching band, many of which were playing American music. It has been interesting to see how much influence the Western Hemisphere has had on Latin American culture. 

It really was quite an incredible parade.  

Not sure these umbrellas would hold up in the torrential downpours I have experienced here in Guatemala.  But they are pretty and match the dress. ;) 

A more traditional example of Guatemalan heritage. 

Baton Twirling is a very popular sport. Hobby? Form of exercise? I do know what it qualifies as. But the point is it is very popular in Guatemala! 

This one is for my sister Lizzy. THERE ARE CHEERLEADERS HERE! And the crowd loved them. Although it's not quite as popular as baton twirling.

And finally, (thanks for sticking with me) I would like to end this blog with a few prayer requests. Prayer that I will have the courage to make unavoidable mistakes as I venture through this language barrier, prayer for a safe journey too Perquín El Salvador on Friday, prayer for patience both for myself and my host family in Perquín while we adjust to the needs of another culture. And lastly prayer that God will be glorified though all!

I hope you find yourself well. Know that you are greatly missed. Would love to hear updates on your life you know how to reach me!

Manches and I! If Manches knew you I am sure he would miss you just as much as I do! 

Thanks for reading, skimming or maybe just looking at the pictures! 

Your interest in my life through whatever form means a lot to me!