Because the guys were so excited about shopping, we got up extra early to ensure there was enough time. Little did we know that we should have gotten them up two hours earlier since the guys were such slow shoppers. The drive up to Valley of the Angels was scenic. Unfortunately, we were unable to see much of it because of the smoke from many of the fires going here. We did see some bomberos (firefighters) who were attempting to put out some grass fires. Hopefully the rain we got tonight will help clear some of that up.
When we arrived in Valley of the Angels, we immediately connected with the group from Tegucigalpa. We are now ONE! Everyone was really excited to see one another- you’d think we hadn’t seen each other for months. The highlight of the day was pizza and ice cream for lunch. Shortly after that we headed back to Esquias armed with bags full of souvenirs. The Esquias group, who are already quite experienced at riding on the bumpy Honduran roads, enjoyed watching the reaction of the Tegucigalpa group as they drove through their first stream.
Since today was Holy Thursday we attended mass with the local parishioners. Last night, mass was said to start at maybe… maybe… 6 OR 7. Today, we finally figured out that it “started” at 7. The actual start time of mass was around 7:30- a prime example of Honduran time. We all agreed that the Hondurans enthusiastically participated in the service. This rubbed off on some of our students who began to sing with the congregation in Spanish.
We’re really packed in the dining room for both meals and junta, but we’re surviving. Tomorrow we will participate in the Stations of the Cross which will be a new experience for the students. Afterwards, the students will finally get an afternoon off to go wear off some of their energy down at the REAL soccer field. We also plan to go back to the homes where we put in the cement floors so that everyone can see how they look. We’re beginning to pack some of the bags full of souvenirs so start getting ready for our return!
Mitch Duckwitz: Hello Mother and Father. Sorry I did not write sooner. We have been very busy working and playing with the kids. We have done many things for the poor people here; mainly digging trenches, but I find it fun- it’s a lot better than McDonald’s even though it may be easier. I have missed home and feel I am ready to come back. I hope you have not enjoyed having me gone too much even though I bet it was nice. I can’t wait to come home and see you. Love, Mitch.
Becca Swalve: Hi Mom! We went shopping today so of course it was my favorite day! Can’t wait to show you everything. Miss you and love you. Can’t wait to see everyone. Miss you too, Taylor!
Connie Spears: Hi everyone! I miss you guys. Today was full of shopping and rejoining with the rest of the group. Can’t wait to see you soon! Love you!
Julie Hagen: Dear Mom/Erin, I feel much better. Please don’t worry! And don’t tell Grandma/Grandpa. Yikes! Much love. 72 hours.
Katie Doughtry: We have arrived in Esquias! The terrain is even prettier here and we have finally met up with everyone else! I can’t believe we only have 2 days left. See you all soon!
Jenny Rehan: Hey Mom, Dad, and Bren. I miss you three! We went shopping all day so I’m right at home. See you soon, love you guys!
Bailee Schultz: I’m actually starting to miss home now. Today was fun because we rejoined with the other group. Sorry Grandma, but I’ve already pet 5 dogs since I’ve been here. Love and miss everyone!
Marry Henrich: I was finally able to meet Gissela for the first time! After about 9 years of waiting, we were so happy to finally meet. I’m glad that the team is finally back together. P.S. Dad, I’m still waiting for those frogs.
Megan Tentinger: Today it rained which felt great! I’m loving the weather here! Yes you are right- the roads are making me feel icky. Only two more days. Can’t wait to see you. Love you Dad and Mom and Duke and Patches!
Ashley Ellensohn: So today we went shopping and it was wonderful. I tried to find something for everyone. I even bartered for the first time! I’m still trying to find a little kid to bring home. Love and kisses.
Mary Klein: Jim, Michelle, Nathan, Emily- We had a fun morning of shopping for you in the Valley of Angels today. Tonight we went to mass in Esquias and I thought of you too. Love you and am anxious to see you, Mom.
2023 Team
The 2023 Team
Ash no more kids. You could not do better than the four I have. Go to bed at night you guys are going to make me late for work reading these in the morning. love dad
ReplyDeleteDear Bailee---we knew you would and could not stay away from ANY animals! We were more concerned that you would sneak them food and water and YOU would not have anything to eat while you were there! The thought of you not being able to come home on Sunday makes my heart sad! I am going to say extra prayers to St. Christopher for you and your fellow travelers on time return to us! Love you muchos!
ReplyDeleteL, M
Steve and Becca-You must come home on Sunday. To wait another day will be really hard. Sending lots of prayers that they can get the fires under control. Can't wait to go shopping with you Becca. Need your advice. Love you both. Mom
ReplyDeleteHey Jenny! I miss and love you more than you, or even I, can believe. I just don't know how we'll be able to split up for college if I can't even handle ten days. You've definitely missed a lot of big news while you were away. First of all, I made it into the Biomedical Engineering program, can I get a woot woot (yeah, I said it)? I hope you're having a wonderful time. I've had comments all week telling me I'm the ungrateful twin who doesn't like to help people. Psht, probably true. I just can't wait until you come home so I can hear all your stories. Love you x1000000
ReplyDelete-Brenna
Dear Bailee--G'ma Judy wants me to tell you that she has written on this blog and has yet to see any of her posts (seems I come from it quite naturally to be technologically challenged). However, she does read what you write and she is going to spank you HARD for going NEAR the animals! She like all of us want you home on Sunday, so we will keep praying you and your companions have safe travels and on time too!
ReplyDeleteL, M
We will all be praying the smoke clears for a safe sendoff back to the states. There are just some things we can't control. It's hard to believe the journey is almost over. Embrace every last moment. To be able to celebrate this most Holy week with the Hondurans must be amazing for you all. We will anxiously be waiting for your safe return. love and hugs:)
ReplyDeleteP.S. Whoever reads this, please tell Nick- Nick, don't forget, you MUST remove contacts on Sat. for your eye appt. Tues. NO CONTACTS FOR THE NEXT 3 DAYS. XXOX. MOM
ReplyDeleteEnjoy your last days in Honduras; we are so excited to greet you in Omaha :) Walsh cousins are all coming over today to celebrate Holy week. Ben will be looking all over the house for you both !! Kyle, Grandma Seeley asked me to pass along that she spent all morning reading all your blogs !!!!! Have fun:) we love you both, HAPPY EASTER Mom & Dad
ReplyDeleteMegan,
ReplyDeleteEnjoy your last day in honduras. Hope you took lots of pics and we cant wait to see you on Easter. We love you Mom and Dad
Rachael, Hope all is well with you. Sounds like shopping was fun. Your sister is wondering what you bought for her. I think I may have bought a vehicle today and I think it might be red. Tell Anthony hello from his uncle Juan. He says to tell all the children "God Bless and have a safe trip home". He works at St. Luke's and frequently leaves treats for me on my desk. He is very nice. I need to get back to my homework, need to wrtie an eight page research paper. Yuk. Miss you and can not wait untill your home. Love Mom
ReplyDeleteKatelyn & Kyle
ReplyDeleteWe needed you both here to chase cousins!! We had an egg hunt in the front yard... so fun to watch Scarlett and Ben. Scarlett said, "I miss them" :) I promised we would do another egg hunt when you got home. We are so excited to see you in less than 48 hours ! Hooray
Love, Mom & Dad
Hey Kate Jesse is home for Easter but Bman and Maggie are staying at school. We will be in Omaha for Easter at Dede's and we'll see you then. Can't wait to see you and hear more about your experiences. Hugs & kisses from Mom & Dad and the littles.
ReplyDeleteHi Ash-this is your fav aunt amanda! Tess wants you to know Kevin says HI-and his issue is all cleared up! ;) We all miss you so much! Mason has lots of kisses waiting for you, me too! he he Can't wait to see you! Love you lots!
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