Xenecoj is a beautiful village nestled in the mountains of Guatemala, just 30ish minutes from Antigua. It’s winter time here, so it’s chilly most days (In the 60’s). Just walking through the streets of this place you can become mesmerized by the view.
There are two languages spoken here. Spanish, of course, and Kaqchikel. Why two languages? Well, Guatemala is home to a large population of Mayans, and Kaqchikel is there language. It keeps things interesting while doing ministry. On more than one occasion, German has had to translate from Kaqchikel to Spanish so that one of our squadmates could translate from Spanish to English so we can have a conversation.
The dress in Xenecoj is more traditional…SO pretty! I love the vibrant colors of the skirts the women wear.
The flowers here are BEAUTIFUL! The flowers bring plenty of hummingbirds around, which is always fun to see. Oh, and I saw orange roses for the first time here.
The main road that runs through Xenecoj leads up the mountain to roads the break off and lead to 18 more villages. We’ve made our way to 2 of them… The first time we went to Ayapan was the first time that Americans had been there. It was incredible, and getting to go back the second time was even better!
When we travel places, my favorite spot is standing in the back of the pick up truck while the wind blows through my hair.
Coffee in Guatemala is absolutely wonderful!
A bus ride from Xenecoj to Antigua is only 7Q (8Q = $1)! Getting back is another story.
A snickers bar is more expensive than a bag of chips.
Playing card games with everyone has definitely unleashed my competitive side.
We are blessed with having hot water for showers!! On that note, having a hot shower requires metal, electrical wires, and running water to all be within a 4-6 inch space. (Fun stuff!)
I found 2 new favorite foods to add to the list–nachos from the hostel…and the black beans here are on point!
I don’t typically sleep past 6:30 anymore. (The sun is already rising, and the huge trucks trying to make it up the hill scare you out of your sleep)
Horses are a big part of transportation here.
A machette is a popular accessory to see.
Seeing volcanoes smoke is still new to me, so they keep me fascinated by themselves! 🙂
We got to meet some of the long-term and CGA people at the AIM base in Guatemala…it was really awesome to meet them and hear their stories and to see their heart for what they are doing!
Well, I think that about covers it for now. 🙂
With love,
Ash
