Some of the crazy, awesome, annoying, blessed,
not so fun, interesting experiences thus far on The World Race:
I have bleach stains all over my khaki shorts from attempting to bleach the bottoms of our shoes from being at the city dump. Good memories.
The children, mothers, fathers, and elderly are so warm and hospitable to us. They treat us like we are a part of their extended family. You can wave at almost anyone and get a smile and a wave in return.
I take Pepto-Bismol and Peri-Colace like they’re candy. Our teammates either have constant diarrhea, constant constipation, or for some fortunate souls, a happy medium.
I have never had this much cheek action in my life (i.e., the traditional Guatemalan greeting is to put your hands on someone’s upper arms and kiss his/her right cheek)! When we visit different churches in Puerto Barrios, it seems like the whole congregation wants to shower love on us.
Guatemalans are fascinated by white people. When we are walking ANYWHERE outside of our home, Casa Verde, everyone and their mother stare at us.
Guatemalans enjoy teaching Americans their culture and are proud of their country and traditions.
My stomach doesn’t want to digest authentic corn or flour tortillas. I love indigestion.
Never in a million years would American guys playing a pick-up game of basketball at the park, stop their game, and allow five girls to join in on the fun. One of our ministries is at a local park. Our teams go to the park every week and build rapport with the break dancers and play pick-up games of basketball.
I take a freezing cold shower every night. Enough said.
American children tend to be shy and apprehensive, but Guatemalan children can’t get enough of our lovin’.
The humidity of Central America makes you profusely sweat at any point in time (e.g., while in the Maxi Bodega [Wal-Mart-like store], rustling in my purse for money to purchase a few items, I broke out into an intense sweat for no reason whatsoever. I definitely got a weird look from the cashier attendant).
Some of the poorest people here in Guatemala wear quite expensive clothing (e.g., Armani Exchange, Polo, Lacoste, Puma, Nike).
It is not uncommon to see a dad, mom, and a small child, such as a 6-month old, unharnessed on a moped or motorcycle going 45 MPH. Guatamalans have no fear.
When we are travelling about our ministries, meeting the locals of Puerto Barrios, we have experienced immense generosity. If we compliment someone’s earrings, food stand, etc., it is not uncommon to be given that item as an act of kindness.
We pile at least 15 people in an old, 1980 Dodge Ram white panel van, with no seats I might add, for all of our transportation needs. Since there are holes in the roof, there is a good chance you’ll have a wet bottom if it is raining.
