August and September Recap

August and September were activity packed months for the children of Hope for Tomorrow Children’s Home.  It started just a few days after we took the older children to the movies in July.  Since we didn’t want to leave the little ones out, together with our volunteer Kristina we organized a trip to Islaventura, a gigantic play place that we have taken the children to in the past (see pictures of our trip to Islaventura here).   The preschoolers had a blast climbing and running around the three story high jungle gym, especially Carlos who feels at home since there are so many places for him to grab ahold of.  This was also a great environment for us to interact with Rosa and Diego since they had just came to our home a few weeks back.  Both of them had constant smiles on their faces and it was evident that they had never experienced something like this before in their lives.  After we returned, the older children were a bit jealous, but we graciously reminded them that they went to the movies just a few days before.  “Oh, yeah, you’re right,” they replied as they recalled the trip.  While it’s fun to do activities with all the children together, it’s also good for us to be able to split the children up and do age appropriate activities with the different groups as well.

The following week, our second oldest Edwin, turned 10 years old.  To make the event unforgettable Kristina lovingly paid for a clown to come to the party.  It was something we had never done with the children and we knew it would be a hit.  However, when the clown came to the home dressed up with his painted face, red nose, and big shoes, Edwin ran away screaming!  He hid behind Blanca, noticeably shook up, as Clown Peace rolled his suitcase of props into the living room.  Diana and I both looked at each other wondering if we had made a huge mistake.  If Edwin didn’t like the clown then the entire party would have been a disaster.  But the clown, very professionally began his show and little by little, Edwin warmed up to him.  It was obvious that this wasn’t the first time the birthday child had been scared of a clown.  Within a matter of minutes, Edwin was volunteering to be the clown’s assistant and spent the show helping him perform “magic” tricks.  Edwin felt like the king of the afternoon, exactly what we wanted!  All of the children (and adults!!) had a blast and it was wonderful to hear, weeks after the party was over, the children still singing the songs they had learned with the clown (see pictures of the party here and watch videos of Edwin’s party here).

Independence Day Parades and Activities

A few weeks later we were in the month of September and all kinds of crazy took place.  September is usually a busy month because Guatemala celebrates its independence on the 15th and most schools have some sort of patriotic activity with their students, be it a parade or presentation.  The school the older children attend has a first class marching band and the entire school participates in some way.  The first graders, where Lidia is, dress up as different representations of cultural aspects of Guatemala.  This year, Lidia was the Guatemalan flag!  The second graders on march normally behind the band, but the students with the highest grades become flag bearers and have the special honor of carrying the different flags in front of the other grades.  This year, we are proud to share that Amelia had that honor, as she had the highest grades among her second grade peers.  It was an incredible feeling to watch Amelia, wearing white gloves, walk with her head high as she carried the flag and led her class in the parade (see pictures of Amelia, Lidia and the parade here).

During all these festivities, Miguel and his fifth grade class were back at the school getting ready for the typical market to begin.  All of the older classes split up in groups with some cooking and selling food and others, like Miguel, putting up decorations.  Everything from the parade to the market afterwards is a wonderful time for the children to not only have fun but also to learn about their country.

Continuing with the independence festivities, the following week our own preschool organized a market day as well.  The morning began with the preschoolers doing some dances common among the indigenous populations.  All the children get dressed up in cultural outfits and they even painted little mustaches on the boys!  After the dances, the children helped make and serve Guatemalan food like “tostadas” (hard corn tortillas with guacamole and cheese in top), “chuchitos” (potato based ball filled with chicken), and “atol de elote” (a thick corn drink that is hot and sweet).  Last year, when we did the market there were only 3 children that participated in the dance.  This year, with the addition of the new children, there were seven!  Oh, how we have grown (see pictures of our Hope Preschool Market Day here).

The special school activities came to an end with Edwin’s school and their presentations.  Like last year, Edwin participated in a cultural dance, but this year he was paired with a girl!  It was adorable to see Edwin and his partner dancing away.  By far they were the cutest couple (see pictures of Edwin here and watch him dance here)!

To the Park

As the month of September was coming to an end we did one final activity with the children, taking advantage of the fact the children were out of school due to the presidential election.  We always like to take the children on new adventures so this time we went to a huge park outside the city (see pictures of our trip to the park here) on the way to Antigua.  Unfortunately when we arrived it began to drizzle and we were sure it was going to ruin the morning.  Thankfully, within a few minutes it let up, the clouds parted, and the sun began to shine.  While we have gone to parks before in the past, this was by far the biggest and the children really let loose.  They were running around enjoying the freedoms on the great outdoors.  Lidia, bless her heart, fell down about a half dozen times, since the ground was a bit slick from the recent rain.  And being the rather sensitive person she is, she probably spent half of the time crying on Diana’s shoulder!

About half way through the morning we got a group basketball game together and it was fun playing as a family, passing the ball back and forth and helping each other score.  A little later, we played some hide and seek and during one round, Diana laid 2 year old Daniel on a tree trunk that was slanted at almost a 90 degree angle.  It was hilarious because he fit perfectly on the trunk and laid there as still as he could as he waited for someone to find him.  When someone did find him he would just giggle and grin.

Goodbye Daniel

September came to an end with a bittersweet moment as we took Daniel to his court hearing. After spending the past three months with us, it was now a judge’s decision on whether or not Daniel would stay with us or if he would go home with his family.  During Daniel’s time with us his family visited every moment they could and they were heartbroken when they had to leave.  The only peace they had was knowing Daniel was in a wonderful children’s home and was receiving great care.  By the time the court appearance came, it was evident that Daniel needed to be with his family.  Thankfully, after a short, but nerve-racking hearing, the judge ruled in favor of the family and Daniel could finally go home.   Tears of joy streamed from his mothers eyes as she embraced her son.  She repeatedly thanked us for everything we did for Daniel and all we could say is that it was a privilege for us to play such a crucial role in the life of this family.

The experience with Daniel has truly encouraged us and has given us a new perspective on our ministry.  We have come to see that we are not only called to restore the lives of orphan children, but also the lives of entire families.  To children that have been orphaned and abandoned, we have become their family.  One by one, with the direction and power of God, we are restoring their lives and giving them the opportunity to become the men and women God has called them to be.  But for other children like Daniel, that are only with us a short time, it is evident that they have been placed with us so we can help restore their broken families.  We have the opportunity to not only minister to the child but also the mother, father, aunts and uncles.  Many times the mistreatment that a child receives at home is because the parents themselves are hurt and burdened and we have the privilege to speak truth to their lives and watch as the Lord repairs the brokenness.  What an incredible honor and calling.

As I sit down to write my reflection on my trip, I find myself at a loss for words.  It is impossible for me to describe just how this experience has been.  I have been gone for two days, but it seems like a lot longer than that.  I really miss the kids.  I think it is obvious, but I did not want to leave.  I missed my family but the 12 children and the 6 workers had become a part of my life. A very important part in my life as my world revolved around them and their schedules for a month.  Before I even left, I began to plan in my mind when it would be possible for me to return, which I hope is sooner rather than later.

Some of the most profound moments include the times I realized just how much the timing of my trip and my trip in general was the will of God.  The number of children grew in a very short amount of time from seven to twelve.  Also, while I was at the children’s home, one of the employees resigned.  She left during my second week, which had given me enough time to get used to the schedule and the children before I had to fill her spot.   I was nervous about filling her position but the other employees made the transition easy for me.

Some of my favorite experiences and memories include baking cookies with the girls, taking the older kids to the movies, and the going to the play center with the younger children.  I also enjoyed the crafts we made together.

I have such great memories getting the kids up, eating meals with them, brushing their teeth, helping them with their homework, and telling them goodnight.  I could not have asked for a better experience.  It was a true blessing, and I saw God working in so many ways.  I am sure I will continue to see Him work through this experience as I share my photos and stories of the children.

I wanted to say a special thank you to all the people who made this trip possible.  God will bless you through your support and prayers.  Thanks also to the workers at the Children’s Home who have dedicated their time and love to the children.  They are more than child care providers, they fill a parental role for the children.  I am honored to have served next to them, and to have been a part of this ministry.  I hope this will not be my last trip, but until then I will pray for the children and share this experience and the blessings God has given to me with everyone.

Hasta Pronto,

Kristina

Today was a very special day for all of us- it was Edwins 10th Birthday!  We celebrated with a clown that came to the Children’s Home and entertained all the children and adults.  We all laughed and enjoyed it very much.  We also celebrated with cake of course, which was something Edwin was really looking forward to.

It was so nice to be able to celebrate the life of someone so special.  Edwin is such a blessing to be around.  He is very loving and compassionate and it was great for all of us to have the opportunity to share such an important day for him.  He is growing into a wonderful young man.

Here are some photos from the day.

Remember, once you click on an image and it enlarges, you can navigate to the next image by clicking on the right side of the image (a “NEXT” button appears) or return to the previous picture by clicking the left side of the image (a “PREV” button appears). When you are done, click the “CLOSE” button or click outside of the picture. 

Today we went took the younger children to a play center.  It was so nice and all the kids had a really great time!  It was a perfect place to take the children because it had something for everyone.  There was a place for Angel and Daniel to play, and it also gave Carlos full access to everything because it was easy for him to climb around and be a kid.  The workers and I had a great time as well because we were able to be more care free and play with the children.  We enjoyed it just as much as the children.  This was more than just an outing for us and the kids, though.  It was a wonderful learning experience.  The kids were able to explore and learn!  They loved having the freedom to roam around.  This outing also gave us the ability to spend more time with the kids individually.  There were 9 children, and 6 adults so if the child wanted attention, we were able to grant it more easily.

By the end of the outing all the children were exhausted which is a good sign that they had a great time!  Here are some pictures from the day.

Remember, once you click on an image and it enlarges, you can navigate to the next image by clicking on the right side of the image (a “NEXT” button appears) or return to the previous picture by clicking the left side of the image (a “PREV” button appears). When you are done, click the “CLOSE” button or click outside of the picture. Finally don’t forget to view the next page of photos by clicking the “NEXT PAGE” link below the pictures.

One weekend the children and I made picture frames.  This was a fun activity for the children to be involved in.  It allowed them to be very creative.  After the picture frames were completed a Bible verse was added to them.  The verse selected was “Te alabo porque soy una creación admirable!  Tus abras son maravillosas, y esto lo sé muy bien!  -Salmo 139:14, or in English “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well”.  It is very important for all of us to keep this verse in mind, but I think it is even more important for the children.  I think it holds and even more special meaning to know that regardless of any imperfections they think they had they were made in the image of God.

One of the children here, Carlos, comes to mind when I think of this verse.  He has Cerebral Palsy, but he definitely does not let that slow him down.  He has an incredible spirit.  His mobility has improved dramatically since my first trip here.  He is seven years old and can now walk on his own, feed himself, and use the restroom on his own.  He is a very intelligent boy, whose favorite past times include riding a tricycle and working puzzles.   He is unable to form complete words, however he is able to express himself through signs.  This has allowed him to be more independent as he gets older.  Beyond the education and therapy he receives here at the home, he also attends physical therapy two days a week a block away from the children’s home.  This exercises his joints and I think he really enjoys the extra attention from the workers there.  I have had the honor of taking him during my stay here and I particularly enjoy my walk with him to and from the children’s home.  I think we get along pretty well, not just because he is so lovable, but because we are able to carry on a conversation despite his speech impairment, and despite my limited Spanish.

God truly has created each one of us wonderfully and perfectly.  We all have a purpose here on Earth, and we all have gifts we can use to share the love of God with others.  I am sure that all of the children here will discover their own spiritual gifts, if they have not already.  I have no doubt in my mind that they will find a way to bless many people’s lives while serving God, I know they have already blessed mine.  Even the things the world considers imperfections, for example Carlos’s handicap, can be used to further the kingdom of God and I can’t wait to see how God uses him and the rest of the kids here!

-Kristina

It has been said, “The fondest memories are made when gathered around the table”. I would say, for me this is true. I grew up in a household that valued time spent together as a family. We gathered around the table every night to have a family dinner and to talk about our day.

When I came here I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. I knew this would be a completely new experience, from anything else I have ever done. This was a total immersion experience. I have taken part in every aspect of the children’s lives. I have spent time with them from the second they get up until the second they go to sleep, and I have enjoyed it very much. For me, I have been able to witness what a strong family unit the children and the workers here are. They are all very close. The children have the utmost respect for the workers, and the workers reflect God’s love and grace when caring for the children, two qualities which are very important when caring for such a large number of children.

I love getting the children up in the mornings, and playing with them, but I must say, my favorite time of the day is at the very end, when we are all gathered around the dinner table. I love hearing the children share about their experiences that day. It is very exciting for me to just sit there and listen to all the conversations that are taking place. At times we laugh, at times we cry, and at times we all laugh until we cry. I cannot describe how fantastic this experience has been for me thus far. The children and the ladies that work here have allowed me to become a small part of their family. They have welcomed me with open arms and have been gracious enough to allow me to take part in their daily activities. This has been evident to me from the first meal I shared with them. My family has now grown by 12 amazing children, and 7 godly women.

On Saturday I will be cooking a traditional meal from Kentucky, Biscuits and Gravy. I am very honored at the opportunity to prepare a meal for them and serve them. Pray this goes well as I am a little nervous of this endeavor.

Kristina

This past Saturday, Kristina, a college student from UK, came to Guatemala to start a month long journey with us at Hope For Tomorrow Children’s Home.  After a trip here in 2008 with her church, she felt called to come back and serve over a longer period of time.  In just the few days she has been here she has already been an important part of the team.  With the addition of 5 new children in less than past 2 months, having her extra hands and presence has made caring and loving on the children easier for us all.  We are so thankful to have Kristina with us and look forward to seeing how the Lord uses her among our children.

In the meantime, I have asked Kristina to share a little about her story and what she expects over the next month:

For the past three years, I been praying about returning to the Children’s Home in Guatemala.  I went with a team in 2008 and have wanted to return ever since.  I have been waiting for the right time and have been praying about the children and my return.  I fell in love with the children and learned so much from them.  The experience really impacted the decisions I have made since, for example, my decision in wanting a career in teaching and missions.  I knew that those were my passions prior to the trip but the experiences in Guatemala helped me to find the path I wanted to take to merge these two passions together.

The memories from my previous trip combined with the impact the children had on my life, made me want to return.  I strongly believe in what the organization is doing for the children that are under their care.  The workers there truly excel when it comes to caring for the children, and all of this, along with some anxieties, were on my mind, as I traveled to the airport.

I did not know what to expect upon my return.  I knew that many of the children were still there from my previous visit, and I was really looking forward to seeing them again.  I knew, however that this time it was not going to be as simple.  The last time I came to the Children’s Home, I came with a group and the trip was only for one week.  This time I would be traveling alone, and staying for one month.  I would also be staying there 24/7, spending all my time with the children.

I hope to gain a lot from this experience.  I feel that there is so much I can do during my stay.  I would like to think that the children will gain a lot by my spending time with them.  This is at least my goal.  However, I will probably gain more than they will.  I feel like I learned so much about myself the first time I went.  I will never be the same after my first experience with the children.  They will forever be a part of my past and future.  They have inspired me to do so many things and I want so much to be able to give to them as well.

I will be staying at the orphanage for the month that I am there helping with the children in their daily routine.  I am honored to accompany the women that work at the Children’s Home in their daily activities.  The children have the upmost respect for them and they are all amazing women.  I believe strongly in this organization, and am proud to be a small part of it for a while.  I know that each one of the employees are working to enrich the lives of the children, and during my stay here, I will too.

Kristina