Thanksgiving

This morning Dick picked me up and we headed over to Hermano Pedro to take a few more kids out to camp.  These were kids who couldn’t stay overnight, but we thought would enjoy a day trip.

After some confusion about which Christina I had gotten permission to take to camp (we ended up taking both after Christina #2’s cries touched Dick’s soft heart!), we were on our way. 

What I had not anticipated, though, was how much the kids enjoyed just riding in the van!  Christina #2 sat in the front seat, waving at everyone we passed, for all the world looking like a “queen” riding through the streets acknowledging her subjects.

This three week camp is a joint project of Bethel Ministries and Hope Haven Ministries from Rock Valley, Iowa.  Pastor Bill VanDyken is the driving force behind the camp.  We had worked together a bit on projects in Omaha, and since Bill had had some medical problems this last year, it was especially good to see him.

While we were there, the campers put on a number of skits, including a number of the kids from Hermano Pedro.  Bayron was the “magic mirror” in Blanca Nieve (Snow White). 

 

 

Henry “interviewed” a number of campers and did an excellent joy.  He loved being the center of attention.

 

We had a great lunch and I got a chance to visit with some of the kids from villages who had come in for camp.  I’d met a number of them on trips, and it was fun to catch up.  Also, the kids from Hermano Pedro who were staying at camp were excited to see us.

After helping change diapers for a number of kids, we headed out to the grassy area to spend some time just rolling around on the ground. 

 

Ervin was a bit anxious at all the freedom, and kept “walking” over to the van, ready to get back to the security of the orphanage.  The best part, though, was that he was WALKING with minimal help.

One of the best things about camp is the freedom it gives the kids to just be kids.  Moises, who has trouble even pushing his wheelchair himself, enjoyed showing off for the camera.

Moises showing off for the camera.

Returned home to Thanksgiving dinner with 20 friends and family.  I had done most of the cooking yesterday (since I knew I was going to camp) and Mari did the turkey. 

 

 

   Buffet before. . .

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    Buffet after. . .

 

 

And, in true Guatemala fashion, the evening ended with a marimba dance fest!

For not being a holiday in this country, we sure lived it up!