Dear Parentals and Siblings,
Sorry I am posting so late, I had a bit of a delay that you will read about later on. Okay so here I go. Wake up time today was at five thirty today because breakfast was at six thirty. We ate bananas, watermelon, eggs, and pancakes. We were all enthused that we had the most delicious orange juice again and for others they had their choice of water coffee and watermelon juice. At seven we packed into two vans and drove for a half an hour to the beach or coast. Thank goodness the AC worked. At the beach we picked out fins and put on sun screen. Afterwards we drove 45km to the island called Cayos Cochinos. On the boat ride over, the weather was nice and only one person became sea sick. As we approached the island, the water began to change color. We learned that the dark, rich and royal blue color was where there was coral reefs underneath and where is was turquoise there was white sand. Once we arrived at the island, we were able to take pics and we came across iguanas. We watched a video and learned about the reefs and then we were ready, or "estamos listos" as they say it here. The boat drivers took us to various places where we snorkeled. I personally have to say I was in awe with the beauty. The coral was rich in color and movement. There was purple and blue and green everywhere. The fish were jaw-dropping as well. Have you ever seen a fish with five colors? It was astonishing. I got to swim with schools of fish and dive in the glass-clear water. Oh and the water is so warm here. Absolutely nothing like our beach. The jelly fish are even different here. Today I would have to say was the first time I have ever been stung by a jelly fish. It was an interesting feeling. Others got stung too, but we are all okay. On the different islands there were houses on the small and isolated pieces of land. At one of the places we stopped to snorkel and rest there were coconuts that we could purchase. I shared one with Shelby. The guy we bought it from used a machete to clean it and poke a hole so that we were able to drink the coconut water. It was rich and flavorful and refreshing. After the water was gone the guy took the Machete to make a spoon out of the coconut skin and then cut the coconut in half to eat the pulp. I was surprised. The pulp of the coconut was soft and moist. I also learned that the pulp is used to make coconut milk. After our stop we ventured to the next island to explore the jungle on a hike with our guide, Melvin. As we approached maybe one hundred meters from the shore we were in the jungle. Melvin stopped at a tree--full of termites. Termites taste minty. Enough said ;) We furthered into the jungle where we were looking for boa constrictors, better known as snakes. We found two. Steve volunteered himself to pick one of the snakes up. Dont worry no one was bit. He picked it up successfully and we played pass the boa around for about fifteen minutes and took a lot of pictures. The boys also thought it was hilarious to scare the girls by touching their legs and hissing. Melvin scared Shelby Byer by putting the snakes tail on her leg. I have to agree it was hilarious because it wasnt on me. After our little tour in the jungle we went to a different island to eat. For the meat eaters, the chefs brought out a whole fried fish--with a face. Personally I loved it and cleaned it until there were only bones left. Others pretended to eat. We were able to have free time, which we spent buying suvineers and swimming in the water. After our free time was up, we headed back to the beach by boat and then headed home by the vans that we used earlier. Once we arrived at the hotel, we all took showers and waited for the bus to meet the Hogar children at Pizza Hut for pizza. Dinner was so much fun. It felt like I was eating with my family. The food was good and the children were happy. We were also able to play on the indoor playground and play soccer with the kids. As an hour or so passed, it was finally time to say goodbye--the hardest part of the day. Emotional breakdowns in the parking lot are not fun. I do appreciate the tias who watch the children everyday and barely get to see their own family. Yolanda, a tia at the Hogar, told me that her husband is seven hours away working so she barely gets to see him or her children. The children hate saying goodbye, but they have to wake up early for school. I am appreciative for the time we get to wake up for school opposed to the childrens time which is 3:45 in the morning. Paola, one of the orphans, holds me tight as we both say goodbye but never let go. Its hard to let each child go. They are so thankful for the little they have in their lives. Most of the children have been abused in some way shape or form. They adore all of us and geuinely love us all as we do them. Being someone who doesnt cry in front of people, i found myself trying to hold back tears. I cannot bring myself to realization of the terrible experiences the children have gone through or the desparation each one has for a permanent figure to be in their lives. I want to take them all home. Well its getting late so I will wrap it up. I was delayed in writing the blog because I was the lucky one to get pierjos ( LICE!). Its actually not as bad as i thought it would be and i can cross it off my bucket list. No one else has it and now i have a whole bed to myself, which is a major perk of having lice. Im not completely shunned, but I try to avoid any contact with our group as possible because I am contaminated. My lice is being taken care of though. While i was getting bugs pulled out of my hair, a group was able to explore the town with Stewart, or Estewart, as the kids call him. As usual, we all spent time together in the same room and now we are off to bed. Buenas noches. We love all of you guys.
-Brianna Michalkiewicz :D
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Day Four: kickin´ ass
Hello! This is Chloe accounting for the fourth day on our incredible trip.
Our day began as it typically does, bright and early for a 7:00 a.m. breakfast as a group. It was a groggy morning for all as we are feeling the effects of two days of hard work and lack of sleep. We had a breakfast feast of french toast, eggs, and fruit. Luckily, we had Nicholas back as our bus driver (he has been in Tegucigalpa) and departed at 7:45 a.m. however, today we only had a two hour work day .Our first set back this morning was when Eloisa, the girl whose house we will hike two hours to on saturday, ran into the hotel racing towards the toilet. She is suspected to have either worms or some kind of virus and needed to be tken to the doctor. Mrs. Glennon and Kyla volunteered to stay with her, which the kids at the school were not to excited about that decision given that they are the two most prized people here. Eloisa was a true inspiration smiling and laughing at our horrible spanish skills, even as she raced to the bathroom. We don´t realize how necessary it is to appreciate our health and support until people like Eloisa make you realize how easy it is to get to a doctor or even have sanitation laws to protect you from these types of ordeals. With her in mind, we all went to pay our dues to all these great people who appreciate everything, even the tiniest things that they have. It was clear that our motivation had improved since yesterday, we charged up those stairs hauling bags of sand one after one for two hours staright wth hardly a complaint to be heard. Although, it helps that the kids help us out on every recess break while smiling and waving at us in their classes to keep us inspired. As the days go by, we are really becoming a group and working together as I like to say a little Honduras family. The Boys all worked extremely quickly in order to finish the second route on the irrigation system and were able to complete the task, although they had to put in a little overtime. Steve Baker is especially dedicated to the task and will not back down, even when the main water line is cut instead of the goal of actually getting something productive done. Stuart, or ´´ estuar´´ as he has been nicknamed this year, is doing his version of spanish to the workers and contributing not only with his work ability , but his contagious smile and intense hand gestures. The massive sand pile at the bottom of the hill is dwindling down slowly, but surely and it looks as though we will be going back for a fourth day on friday and will be able to finish the pile entirely. Although the humidity was really getting us down by the end, the ligth at the end of the tunnel was the promise of a basque in the river.
The girls finished first, and certainly were not in the mood to wait for the boys, and therefore rushed off to the river leaving them behind without a thought. However, today there was no jumping off rocks. Instead everyone only had the energy to jump in and stand against the current. Amanda, Alexis, Aubrey, and Shelby B. all climbed up the rocks to catch a few extra rays. Ryan and Jesus were the first to join us out of the boys. Ryan was showing off his basball skills by obliterating the rocks from the river and Jesus has quickly become the girls´ ´´ new brother´´ and was welcomed with open arms as well. However, when Nick and Brian came was when the true discoveries were found.The two of them have been fast friends and some major entertainment for everyone on the trip. Most of the girls had left when they came back to get us to tell us of a massive rock to jump off of atleast 40ft high. It took some convincing but Jesus, Amanda, Nick, Brian, Steve, Stacey, and myself took the hike to get to this supposedly amazing rock. I have to admit that the boys were right this time and the rock truely was an adrenaline rush and made for some really great memories in the future. Steve recorded us all as we jumped on his camera and it is some pretty hysterical footage every parent needs to ask to see.
I have to take a second to talk about he scenery on this trip. The amount of greenery and natural beauty that Honduras hides around every corner is indescribable. We often refer to it as just like a postcard. The trees are endless and the color is so vibrant it sincerely does take our breath away. It almost makes it seem easier on the people with such hard lives here to be able to endure their hardships, by the bliss that engulfs them. The river is so sparkling, and even though it is really low this year, it is easy for us to see how the river is so ncessary to the culture of the people and how much people rely on the natural way of life in this country. They don´t have much, but what they do have is so important to them and makes us apreciate how much we have once again, but also makes us really jealous of their beautiful country.
The next step on our day was to seperate intwo four groups, with one spanish speaker in each and hike to some of the jungle school kids homes in order to be taught how to make baleadas. Baleadas are basically homemade tortillas, beans, and cheese. I volunteered to go with Mrs. Glennon, Nick, Shelby B., Mckenna, Steve, and Nikki to the farthest hike. We all felt pretty dumb when we were dying after all day in the sun and working taking a hike up in the jungle with limited water and heat on full blast. However, we all agreed that it was worth it. The family we went to was so welcoming and generous it almost brought me to tears. They are basically squatters on a rich guys land and lives on close to nothing with four children and two adults. They´re level of poverty did not stop them from welcoming us with a fresh coconut to drink and eat for each of us, as well as fresh bananas and a delicious new fruit called cacao that we all swooned over. As we cooled down and waited for them to prepare the kitchen the man talked to us about their lifestyle and how he is controlled, by a rich boss who owns all the lan, while he does all the work. Nick was especially appauled that in order to have a home they have to pay rent to do work for someone else. Although, he was talking about these sad concepts that we in America are never really faced with, he was unaware of our shock and sadness for him. His demeanor remained happy and joking and was nothing but welcoming to us spoiled Americans gorging on everything he offered. Then we were ushered to the kitchen and taught how to shape homemade tortillas and prepare food as the poor people do here. Stacey, Nikki and Nick all kept dropping their attempted tortillas and the hosts were nothing but jubilant and graceful the entire time. The land was filled with sick chickens and tiny puppies that seemed nothing but unhealthy to us, but was clearly normal for the farm life out here. Something once again we are protected from in America. As we descended down the hill we were all stuck on the experience we just had, and realized that not only should we be thankful for their hospitality, but for hard work and continuous determination in order to survive. You can see in the eyes of many that they have already given up. It makes you wonder what kind of person you would be if you were put in such a hopeless situation with no option to leave, like we have.
We gathered back together as a group and went to the hotel. We quickly showered in order to make it to the Hogar de Amor by the promised time of 6:00 for a movie night and Spaghetti with the kids. We were supposed to watch the Sorceror´s Apprentice, but for us anytime with the kids is playtime and very few were able to sit still for very long amounts of time. The bonds are really becoming clear among the kids and they are continuously asking us when we are going to come back on another trip and making us promise that we will return again tomorrow (hopefully with some more candy and gum).All of the girls are flirting with Nick and Brian and all the boys especially love their tricks and muscles. Brianna brought a huge bag of candy to the Hogar and was a huge hit with all the kids. Alexis and Reyna are even more insperable as ever, however Carlos is adding himself into the picture by making her a new bracelet every day for when she arrives. The spirit in the kids of the Hogar is really strong in all of them as they have been given the chance to blossom and know the feeling of having undying love and support. Even since the trip last year their ability to branch out to more than one person and be able to allow themselves to form bonds has progressed. In comparison to the kids at the school they are worlds apart. Kyla has said that many abuse cases are happening right now among the children, and they are way more timid and cautious to allow you to ask them any question or even smile back at you. David Ashby, the founder of the Helping Honduras Kids foundation, has affected the kids so tremendously, but the most important impact is his role as a constant father figure for the Hogar kids and giving them the ability to trust and confide in people around them again. This trip can only be described as bitter-sweet. The country and the poeple are so genuine and beautiful, but the hope for a brighter future seems to be a bleak prospect. Also, the kids get to expand their horizons to knew education, people, and cultures, but where it will take them in the future is really up in the air. Few will ever leave the country and most will always be haunted by the horrifying pasts that they come from. It is hard to accept that while we are doing as much as we can as high school students, that we can not take them under our wing and protect them like we have always been. We can help, but we can not change what has already happened. The best course of faith we can stick to is that the hard work of HHK is providing hope, which can and is changing lives.
In order to keep ourselves from going insane with this constant tug-o-war on our morale we are looking forward to our first day off tomorrow visiting Cayos Cochinos and having a pizza night with the kids. It should be a fun and exhausting day just like the rest.
Goodnight!
PS I love you Mom and Dad!
Our day began as it typically does, bright and early for a 7:00 a.m. breakfast as a group. It was a groggy morning for all as we are feeling the effects of two days of hard work and lack of sleep. We had a breakfast feast of french toast, eggs, and fruit. Luckily, we had Nicholas back as our bus driver (he has been in Tegucigalpa) and departed at 7:45 a.m. however, today we only had a two hour work day .Our first set back this morning was when Eloisa, the girl whose house we will hike two hours to on saturday, ran into the hotel racing towards the toilet. She is suspected to have either worms or some kind of virus and needed to be tken to the doctor. Mrs. Glennon and Kyla volunteered to stay with her, which the kids at the school were not to excited about that decision given that they are the two most prized people here. Eloisa was a true inspiration smiling and laughing at our horrible spanish skills, even as she raced to the bathroom. We don´t realize how necessary it is to appreciate our health and support until people like Eloisa make you realize how easy it is to get to a doctor or even have sanitation laws to protect you from these types of ordeals. With her in mind, we all went to pay our dues to all these great people who appreciate everything, even the tiniest things that they have. It was clear that our motivation had improved since yesterday, we charged up those stairs hauling bags of sand one after one for two hours staright wth hardly a complaint to be heard. Although, it helps that the kids help us out on every recess break while smiling and waving at us in their classes to keep us inspired. As the days go by, we are really becoming a group and working together as I like to say a little Honduras family. The Boys all worked extremely quickly in order to finish the second route on the irrigation system and were able to complete the task, although they had to put in a little overtime. Steve Baker is especially dedicated to the task and will not back down, even when the main water line is cut instead of the goal of actually getting something productive done. Stuart, or ´´ estuar´´ as he has been nicknamed this year, is doing his version of spanish to the workers and contributing not only with his work ability , but his contagious smile and intense hand gestures. The massive sand pile at the bottom of the hill is dwindling down slowly, but surely and it looks as though we will be going back for a fourth day on friday and will be able to finish the pile entirely. Although the humidity was really getting us down by the end, the ligth at the end of the tunnel was the promise of a basque in the river.
The girls finished first, and certainly were not in the mood to wait for the boys, and therefore rushed off to the river leaving them behind without a thought. However, today there was no jumping off rocks. Instead everyone only had the energy to jump in and stand against the current. Amanda, Alexis, Aubrey, and Shelby B. all climbed up the rocks to catch a few extra rays. Ryan and Jesus were the first to join us out of the boys. Ryan was showing off his basball skills by obliterating the rocks from the river and Jesus has quickly become the girls´ ´´ new brother´´ and was welcomed with open arms as well. However, when Nick and Brian came was when the true discoveries were found.The two of them have been fast friends and some major entertainment for everyone on the trip. Most of the girls had left when they came back to get us to tell us of a massive rock to jump off of atleast 40ft high. It took some convincing but Jesus, Amanda, Nick, Brian, Steve, Stacey, and myself took the hike to get to this supposedly amazing rock. I have to admit that the boys were right this time and the rock truely was an adrenaline rush and made for some really great memories in the future. Steve recorded us all as we jumped on his camera and it is some pretty hysterical footage every parent needs to ask to see.
I have to take a second to talk about he scenery on this trip. The amount of greenery and natural beauty that Honduras hides around every corner is indescribable. We often refer to it as just like a postcard. The trees are endless and the color is so vibrant it sincerely does take our breath away. It almost makes it seem easier on the people with such hard lives here to be able to endure their hardships, by the bliss that engulfs them. The river is so sparkling, and even though it is really low this year, it is easy for us to see how the river is so ncessary to the culture of the people and how much people rely on the natural way of life in this country. They don´t have much, but what they do have is so important to them and makes us apreciate how much we have once again, but also makes us really jealous of their beautiful country.
The next step on our day was to seperate intwo four groups, with one spanish speaker in each and hike to some of the jungle school kids homes in order to be taught how to make baleadas. Baleadas are basically homemade tortillas, beans, and cheese. I volunteered to go with Mrs. Glennon, Nick, Shelby B., Mckenna, Steve, and Nikki to the farthest hike. We all felt pretty dumb when we were dying after all day in the sun and working taking a hike up in the jungle with limited water and heat on full blast. However, we all agreed that it was worth it. The family we went to was so welcoming and generous it almost brought me to tears. They are basically squatters on a rich guys land and lives on close to nothing with four children and two adults. They´re level of poverty did not stop them from welcoming us with a fresh coconut to drink and eat for each of us, as well as fresh bananas and a delicious new fruit called cacao that we all swooned over. As we cooled down and waited for them to prepare the kitchen the man talked to us about their lifestyle and how he is controlled, by a rich boss who owns all the lan, while he does all the work. Nick was especially appauled that in order to have a home they have to pay rent to do work for someone else. Although, he was talking about these sad concepts that we in America are never really faced with, he was unaware of our shock and sadness for him. His demeanor remained happy and joking and was nothing but welcoming to us spoiled Americans gorging on everything he offered. Then we were ushered to the kitchen and taught how to shape homemade tortillas and prepare food as the poor people do here. Stacey, Nikki and Nick all kept dropping their attempted tortillas and the hosts were nothing but jubilant and graceful the entire time. The land was filled with sick chickens and tiny puppies that seemed nothing but unhealthy to us, but was clearly normal for the farm life out here. Something once again we are protected from in America. As we descended down the hill we were all stuck on the experience we just had, and realized that not only should we be thankful for their hospitality, but for hard work and continuous determination in order to survive. You can see in the eyes of many that they have already given up. It makes you wonder what kind of person you would be if you were put in such a hopeless situation with no option to leave, like we have.
We gathered back together as a group and went to the hotel. We quickly showered in order to make it to the Hogar de Amor by the promised time of 6:00 for a movie night and Spaghetti with the kids. We were supposed to watch the Sorceror´s Apprentice, but for us anytime with the kids is playtime and very few were able to sit still for very long amounts of time. The bonds are really becoming clear among the kids and they are continuously asking us when we are going to come back on another trip and making us promise that we will return again tomorrow (hopefully with some more candy and gum).All of the girls are flirting with Nick and Brian and all the boys especially love their tricks and muscles. Brianna brought a huge bag of candy to the Hogar and was a huge hit with all the kids. Alexis and Reyna are even more insperable as ever, however Carlos is adding himself into the picture by making her a new bracelet every day for when she arrives. The spirit in the kids of the Hogar is really strong in all of them as they have been given the chance to blossom and know the feeling of having undying love and support. Even since the trip last year their ability to branch out to more than one person and be able to allow themselves to form bonds has progressed. In comparison to the kids at the school they are worlds apart. Kyla has said that many abuse cases are happening right now among the children, and they are way more timid and cautious to allow you to ask them any question or even smile back at you. David Ashby, the founder of the Helping Honduras Kids foundation, has affected the kids so tremendously, but the most important impact is his role as a constant father figure for the Hogar kids and giving them the ability to trust and confide in people around them again. This trip can only be described as bitter-sweet. The country and the poeple are so genuine and beautiful, but the hope for a brighter future seems to be a bleak prospect. Also, the kids get to expand their horizons to knew education, people, and cultures, but where it will take them in the future is really up in the air. Few will ever leave the country and most will always be haunted by the horrifying pasts that they come from. It is hard to accept that while we are doing as much as we can as high school students, that we can not take them under our wing and protect them like we have always been. We can help, but we can not change what has already happened. The best course of faith we can stick to is that the hard work of HHK is providing hope, which can and is changing lives.
In order to keep ourselves from going insane with this constant tug-o-war on our morale we are looking forward to our first day off tomorrow visiting Cayos Cochinos and having a pizza night with the kids. It should be a fun and exhausting day just like the rest.
Goodnight!
PS I love you Mom and Dad!
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Hello Everyone who has been tuning into our travels in the lovely La Ceiba, Honduras. Tonight I, Bree Shaw, am writing to tell you about our emotianal experiences today.
Like yesterday, our day started with an early rise at about 6:30 for a 7:00 breakfast that unfortunately some of us did not attend. As it turned out the feasting of red meat at El Gordos the other night had not been appetizing to some of our digestive systems. After some much needed medications were taken everyone loaded onto the bus to begin our journey to the Jungle School.
Unlike the first day, we did not begin by saying ¨Hola¨ to the kids, but instead went straight to work on minimizing the sand pile that never seemed to change shape or size. While the teenagers and Glennon started moving the sand up a chain, Mr. Stewart and Mr. Baker went to their water system to see what new work was on the schedule. Sand was brought up and down the tire steps and loaded and unloaded again and again. By around the third trip up the steps, everybody working looked pale and ready to take a nice long nap in the shade. Fortunately the bell rang for the kids to have a snack break and we were afforded a few minutes to say hello and catch our breath. When our break was over the chain of teenagers began hauling sand to the back of the school once again. Yet, no matter how much tiring work is repeated, I have not heard a single complaint from any of the group members. Everyone realizes the importance of why we are here and are willing to put all muscle into accomplishing our goal. Everyday at our homes in California we know that the toilets will flush and we will have water to wash our hand and brush our teeth; the kids here are not given such luxeries. Installing the new water line has become the new milestone in everyone´s mind.
When lunch time came, our whole group was ready to rest. The 5-gallon water jug was all but gone and the dirt pile looked suprisingly smaller. Lunch came and went and the next event on our schedule became known. After a quick 45 minutes at the hotel to wash off we were heading out to the Campesinos Village, Solares Nuevo, to give out some donations. The Campesinos Village is a village of peasant farmers and their families, they are very poor and do not live in good conditions. Once we came to the village, the change in the living conditions were immediate. On the drive down to the unloading stop, I myself saw a little boy hitting a puppy on a lead again and again with a knife. The puppies yelps broke my heart but I understood that the boy didn´t know any better. The children are raised in abusive families and the only thing some of them know is to express their anger and feelings on less dominent things.
Once we got out of the bus with 6 children from the Hogar we heard the story of the farmers. Around 4 years ago the government had kicked the families off of their farming lands with no place for them to relocate. David and Helping Honduras Kids stepped in to help these poor people. They relocated them and all of their supplies to the place they are now and bring donations, food, money, and other necessary stuff whenever they can. After hearing their hearbreaking story we took a quick look around before passing out donations. We observed and talked to teenagers 15 years old who already had their first child, and children who were dressed in shirts and underwear, not having anything else to wear. The first things passed out were toys and stuffed animals. The young boys went crazy with the footballs, soccer ball, and frisbees and the girls all held the stuffed animals with such adoration and care it was impossible not to tear up. When clothes started being passed out David informed us that the maximum was 2 clothing items per person. Even when this minimal amount given, there were still many people who did not recieve anything. Leah even had a young girl ask her if there were any stuffed animals left for her long after they had all been claimed. Watching the way these people live was enough to make everyone freeze with shock and brought an even bigger amount of respect to the children and adults who live like they do every day. When it was time to say goodbye we all left wishing there was something more we could do to help.
After visiting the Campesito Village we headed back to the Hogar to spend 30 minutes with the kids. While some kids and teens went outside to play soccer, tag, or marbles; and some people played foosball with the kids, a few pairs settled down to read some books. Stacey and Carolina, Danielle and Charlyene, and Sara and I read books in English and Spanish with the kids and their pride in being able to read to us was overwheming. It is amazing how much we all feel attached to the kids after only a few days together. Brian and Nick were among the first few to become ¨Padrinos¨ to some of the boys there and the girls found themselves as ¨Madrinas¨ before they new it. At 7 it was time to say goodbye because thechildren have to wake up at 3:45 to get ready for school.
From the Hogar we went to ExPatriots and had a meal of beans, chips, and meat or fish and then headed out to the souvenir shop to find gifts for you people back home (and for ourselves too!) From there our tired bunch headed back to the Hotel for some sleep.
After this exciting and very emotional day, it is hard to keep my eyes open. My roomates are all upstairs ready to hit the sack and due to the fact I forgot a key, I want to knock on the door before they fall asleep. I hope you all enjoyed my journals on the activities of the day, thank you for tuning in, and goodnight! :-)
-Bree
Like yesterday, our day started with an early rise at about 6:30 for a 7:00 breakfast that unfortunately some of us did not attend. As it turned out the feasting of red meat at El Gordos the other night had not been appetizing to some of our digestive systems. After some much needed medications were taken everyone loaded onto the bus to begin our journey to the Jungle School.
Unlike the first day, we did not begin by saying ¨Hola¨ to the kids, but instead went straight to work on minimizing the sand pile that never seemed to change shape or size. While the teenagers and Glennon started moving the sand up a chain, Mr. Stewart and Mr. Baker went to their water system to see what new work was on the schedule. Sand was brought up and down the tire steps and loaded and unloaded again and again. By around the third trip up the steps, everybody working looked pale and ready to take a nice long nap in the shade. Fortunately the bell rang for the kids to have a snack break and we were afforded a few minutes to say hello and catch our breath. When our break was over the chain of teenagers began hauling sand to the back of the school once again. Yet, no matter how much tiring work is repeated, I have not heard a single complaint from any of the group members. Everyone realizes the importance of why we are here and are willing to put all muscle into accomplishing our goal. Everyday at our homes in California we know that the toilets will flush and we will have water to wash our hand and brush our teeth; the kids here are not given such luxeries. Installing the new water line has become the new milestone in everyone´s mind.
When lunch time came, our whole group was ready to rest. The 5-gallon water jug was all but gone and the dirt pile looked suprisingly smaller. Lunch came and went and the next event on our schedule became known. After a quick 45 minutes at the hotel to wash off we were heading out to the Campesinos Village, Solares Nuevo, to give out some donations. The Campesinos Village is a village of peasant farmers and their families, they are very poor and do not live in good conditions. Once we came to the village, the change in the living conditions were immediate. On the drive down to the unloading stop, I myself saw a little boy hitting a puppy on a lead again and again with a knife. The puppies yelps broke my heart but I understood that the boy didn´t know any better. The children are raised in abusive families and the only thing some of them know is to express their anger and feelings on less dominent things.
Once we got out of the bus with 6 children from the Hogar we heard the story of the farmers. Around 4 years ago the government had kicked the families off of their farming lands with no place for them to relocate. David and Helping Honduras Kids stepped in to help these poor people. They relocated them and all of their supplies to the place they are now and bring donations, food, money, and other necessary stuff whenever they can. After hearing their hearbreaking story we took a quick look around before passing out donations. We observed and talked to teenagers 15 years old who already had their first child, and children who were dressed in shirts and underwear, not having anything else to wear. The first things passed out were toys and stuffed animals. The young boys went crazy with the footballs, soccer ball, and frisbees and the girls all held the stuffed animals with such adoration and care it was impossible not to tear up. When clothes started being passed out David informed us that the maximum was 2 clothing items per person. Even when this minimal amount given, there were still many people who did not recieve anything. Leah even had a young girl ask her if there were any stuffed animals left for her long after they had all been claimed. Watching the way these people live was enough to make everyone freeze with shock and brought an even bigger amount of respect to the children and adults who live like they do every day. When it was time to say goodbye we all left wishing there was something more we could do to help.
After visiting the Campesito Village we headed back to the Hogar to spend 30 minutes with the kids. While some kids and teens went outside to play soccer, tag, or marbles; and some people played foosball with the kids, a few pairs settled down to read some books. Stacey and Carolina, Danielle and Charlyene, and Sara and I read books in English and Spanish with the kids and their pride in being able to read to us was overwheming. It is amazing how much we all feel attached to the kids after only a few days together. Brian and Nick were among the first few to become ¨Padrinos¨ to some of the boys there and the girls found themselves as ¨Madrinas¨ before they new it. At 7 it was time to say goodbye because thechildren have to wake up at 3:45 to get ready for school.
From the Hogar we went to ExPatriots and had a meal of beans, chips, and meat or fish and then headed out to the souvenir shop to find gifts for you people back home (and for ourselves too!) From there our tired bunch headed back to the Hotel for some sleep.
After this exciting and very emotional day, it is hard to keep my eyes open. My roomates are all upstairs ready to hit the sack and due to the fact I forgot a key, I want to knock on the door before they fall asleep. I hope you all enjoyed my journals on the activities of the day, thank you for tuning in, and goodnight! :-)
-Bree
Monday, March 28, 2011
Honduras Day Three
This is Ryan Gura experiencing the thrill of reporting back home to our failthful supporters and especially loving family members tonight.
Today we began our first day of work at the Jungle School. Our project is centered around fixing the water line which has broken leaving the school without a water supply. The group arrived on the scene eager to begin contributing with our valiant labor skills in any way we can. The Jungle School atop a rather steep hill creates a tough environment for hauling the sand necessary to create concrete. Being such scholarly individuals, our group was able to establish a very effective assembly line system to maximize production. The actual trail leading to the water source is above the school and winds through difficult jungle terrain. The boys (Brian, Jesus, Nick and myself) dedicated two hours of picking through the slanted wilderness to create a passable trail. We were paticularly proud of our efforts with the finished product drastically reducing the possibility of an untimely fall into a nearly endless abyss. The first couple hours was probably the hardest labor I have ever experienced. I have to tip my hat to Nick, Bryan, and Jesus for the extraoridinary task of hauling multiple bags all the way up the hill without any break. WOW!
I only thought the trail was hard work until I began carrying bags of sand as the seemingly infinitely strong girls had been doing the entire morning. Nobody complained and were all genuinely enthusiastic to be able to make such a difference to the kids that have become like family to our group. The saying "an honest hard day´s work" has never been more appropriate than what we experienced today.
TheJungle School is a special place especially during the day when the kids are around. As soon as they were released for recess they proudly began commandeering our work and were even fighting over who could take the next bag. After being around the children for the first time and really beginning to comprehend their lifestyle, I have become so impressed with the copassion and quality of their charater. This same principle also applies to our group and the efforts put forth to interact with the children. The relationships have developed so incredibly that Brianna Shaw was given a delicately hand drawn picture representig the faith and inseparability of the meaning behind our efforts.
Following the exhausting work day we headed to the river to experience some Water Rafting!! I know this activity was not included in the itierary, but I can safely gurantee it was carried out with the utmost emphasis on safety. We began by taking a swim throught the rapids and jumping off rocks into the refreshing water below. Nikki was able to conquer her initial fear of jumping and enjoyed an experience which had previously been fearful to her. There were several measurable rapids including one which ejected Shelby Grates and myself from the boat. No harm done to either of us though as it was probably the most exciting part of the trip. Everyone had a geat time and we were so happy to share such a fun afternoon with each other facing the "vicious rapids".
We concluded the evening by eating at the comically named El Gordo Restaurant and enjoyed another fine meal of Carne Asada and Chicken. All of the food has been carefully and excellenly prepared resulting in no sickness from anone in the group. Im sure that will make you parents rest a little easier.
The day to day experiences we have been a part of have been incredibly touching with each day bringing a distincly new aspect to appreciate. As Harper noted there is a critical balance between the countryside and the city. Each has been fascinating to me so far and Im proud to say I am truly to see what experience tomorrow will bring though hpefully not accidentally stranding Kyla by asuming she had already left the mountain Ooops! Our morale as a group is just amazing with everybody getting along so well. It has been so enjoyable to become closer to the people I have spent four years in school with and Im confident that everyone else has enjoyed it as well.
It has been a pleasure being able to write on the blog tonight. I hope my post has been enjoyable and a good representation of what we have and are contiuing to do. Make sure to continue following our adventures and if your child has not been keeping in touch, dont worry we will care of that and you will be hearing from them soon.
Today we began our first day of work at the Jungle School. Our project is centered around fixing the water line which has broken leaving the school without a water supply. The group arrived on the scene eager to begin contributing with our valiant labor skills in any way we can. The Jungle School atop a rather steep hill creates a tough environment for hauling the sand necessary to create concrete. Being such scholarly individuals, our group was able to establish a very effective assembly line system to maximize production. The actual trail leading to the water source is above the school and winds through difficult jungle terrain. The boys (Brian, Jesus, Nick and myself) dedicated two hours of picking through the slanted wilderness to create a passable trail. We were paticularly proud of our efforts with the finished product drastically reducing the possibility of an untimely fall into a nearly endless abyss. The first couple hours was probably the hardest labor I have ever experienced. I have to tip my hat to Nick, Bryan, and Jesus for the extraoridinary task of hauling multiple bags all the way up the hill without any break. WOW!
I only thought the trail was hard work until I began carrying bags of sand as the seemingly infinitely strong girls had been doing the entire morning. Nobody complained and were all genuinely enthusiastic to be able to make such a difference to the kids that have become like family to our group. The saying "an honest hard day´s work" has never been more appropriate than what we experienced today.
TheJungle School is a special place especially during the day when the kids are around. As soon as they were released for recess they proudly began commandeering our work and were even fighting over who could take the next bag. After being around the children for the first time and really beginning to comprehend their lifestyle, I have become so impressed with the copassion and quality of their charater. This same principle also applies to our group and the efforts put forth to interact with the children. The relationships have developed so incredibly that Brianna Shaw was given a delicately hand drawn picture representig the faith and inseparability of the meaning behind our efforts.
Following the exhausting work day we headed to the river to experience some Water Rafting!! I know this activity was not included in the itierary, but I can safely gurantee it was carried out with the utmost emphasis on safety. We began by taking a swim throught the rapids and jumping off rocks into the refreshing water below. Nikki was able to conquer her initial fear of jumping and enjoyed an experience which had previously been fearful to her. There were several measurable rapids including one which ejected Shelby Grates and myself from the boat. No harm done to either of us though as it was probably the most exciting part of the trip. Everyone had a geat time and we were so happy to share such a fun afternoon with each other facing the "vicious rapids".
We concluded the evening by eating at the comically named El Gordo Restaurant and enjoyed another fine meal of Carne Asada and Chicken. All of the food has been carefully and excellenly prepared resulting in no sickness from anone in the group. Im sure that will make you parents rest a little easier.
The day to day experiences we have been a part of have been incredibly touching with each day bringing a distincly new aspect to appreciate. As Harper noted there is a critical balance between the countryside and the city. Each has been fascinating to me so far and Im proud to say I am truly to see what experience tomorrow will bring though hpefully not accidentally stranding Kyla by asuming she had already left the mountain Ooops! Our morale as a group is just amazing with everybody getting along so well. It has been so enjoyable to become closer to the people I have spent four years in school with and Im confident that everyone else has enjoyed it as well.
It has been a pleasure being able to write on the blog tonight. I hope my post has been enjoyable and a good representation of what we have and are contiuing to do. Make sure to continue following our adventures and if your child has not been keeping in touch, dont worry we will care of that and you will be hearing from them soon.
Sunday, March 27, 2011
day 2: fun at the river
Hello everyone! I feel like I should start by saying it is Harper writing today´s blog, so hopefully that can account for any noticeable alterations in diction.
Two days into this journey and it already is feeling like home. We were fortunate enough to have a later start today, which many of us used to catch up on the sleep depravation we had accumulated over the course of our journey here. The boys (Nick, Brian, Ryan and Jesus), who were some of the earlier risers, managed to finish breakfast, meet a Honduran English speaker, and buy a copuple of very ornate and intimidating machetes, all before most of the girls had even gotten out of bed. After everyone had made it out of bed in the various shifts, a few of us went with Kyla to walk to a local supermarket and get our first taste of the culture of La Ceiba. The supermarket was relatively modern, and not terribly unlike any of ours at home, but it was painted in so many varying bold and brilliant colors and had music blaring throughout the whole store, making the shopping experience all the more enjoyable. We also walked down the streets that were lined with venders. There were so many trinkets and smells. I personally enjoyed seeing all of the different kinds of fruits. A few of us sampled some freshly sliced mango that was absolutely delicious!
Once we all made it back to the hotel and had all of our things together, we loaded onto our tiny bus and started driving towards the river. One striking element of the Honduran scenery is the stark difference between city and jungle. If one were to confine their visit to the city life, I am not sure there would be an overwhelming drive to return. Not that the city is altogether hopeless, but it definitely lacks the wealth and overall splendor and excitement we tend to associate with North American cities. It is small, and relatively dirty, and grey. The jungle, on the otherhand, is absolutely breath-taking, and that can be seen even from the confines of a tiny bus crowded with teenagers.
Once we arrived we walked a short distance to get to the river. The water was cool, and refreshing and as we waited for the kids from the Hogar to come and join us (they had been at church) many of us waded in. Brian, of course, was the first one to discover the perfect set of rocks to jump from. Clad in tiny cross country shorts, and dirt-stained running shoes he immediately ran into the river, swam across, scrambled up some rocks, and jumped. Son it became a bit hit, and everyone joined in, even those that were more cautious. Mckenna stood ontop of that rock for a good half an hour, but with more than a little coaching, and bravey, she too finally joined in the fun. Even Mrs. Glennon was talked into to trying it once when coerced by a group of darling, smiling Honduran children.
Already the children are making fast friends with us. Gerson, one of the older boys of the orphanage, already found his favorite in the lovely Brianna M., to whom he gave a hand-made bracelet. Reina, of course, is practically glued to Alexis´ side and is all giggles and smiles around her crush Brian, and Leah and Jesus seem to charm all of the kids with their mastery of the language and their fearlessness in leaping from the rocks.
During our stay at the river we enjoyed swimming, and playing. We ate lunch and we were able to put together a make-shift soccer game: Girls vs. Boys. The girls, of course, were victorious. We even met a sweet, and very skinny dog. Aubrey soon became its favorite as they shared a lovely turkey sandwich together.
Finally around 3:30, we began to pack up. The kids joined us as we drove to another group sponsored by HHK called Grandma´s Kids. In this community, orphans are left in the care of their grandmothers, and HHK helps to maintain their living and provide them with the food and resources they lack. There are about 30 kids who are raised by 2 grandmas. The poverty of this community is absolutely shocking. There seems to be children running around everywhere, each one sweeter than the next. There are emaciated dogs roaming between the sheet-metal shacks. A lot of the children have mental illnesses. This, David (head of HHK) explained, is often the result of incest. We came to this village with toys and candies and the children loved it. Many of us were able to see old childhood stuffed animals of toy cars find a new home and I don´t think that could have been anymore rewarding. The chiildren in the community had fun playing with our cameras and taking pictures of their new friends and their new toys. It was a shockins, but rewarding experience.
We drove home with the children of the Hogar, singing songs and learning eachothers names. Once we dropped them off we came back to the hotel, took quick showers, and then headed off to dinner at beleadas, a Honduran specialty. They seem to be a mix of a burrito and a taco, but they were all hand made, and completely delicious! Many of us helped ourselves to seconds and thirds, while drinking our various bana and grape-flavored sodas.
Now we are all back at the hotel, echuasted. But, of course, being a group of teenagers, instead of making the logical choice in going to bed, we decided to start up around of the game "ten fingers". Though we may all be sleepy in the morning, I think we can all agree that the fun we are having with friends makes it worth it :) more tomorrow!
-Harper
Two days into this journey and it already is feeling like home. We were fortunate enough to have a later start today, which many of us used to catch up on the sleep depravation we had accumulated over the course of our journey here. The boys (Nick, Brian, Ryan and Jesus), who were some of the earlier risers, managed to finish breakfast, meet a Honduran English speaker, and buy a copuple of very ornate and intimidating machetes, all before most of the girls had even gotten out of bed. After everyone had made it out of bed in the various shifts, a few of us went with Kyla to walk to a local supermarket and get our first taste of the culture of La Ceiba. The supermarket was relatively modern, and not terribly unlike any of ours at home, but it was painted in so many varying bold and brilliant colors and had music blaring throughout the whole store, making the shopping experience all the more enjoyable. We also walked down the streets that were lined with venders. There were so many trinkets and smells. I personally enjoyed seeing all of the different kinds of fruits. A few of us sampled some freshly sliced mango that was absolutely delicious!
Once we all made it back to the hotel and had all of our things together, we loaded onto our tiny bus and started driving towards the river. One striking element of the Honduran scenery is the stark difference between city and jungle. If one were to confine their visit to the city life, I am not sure there would be an overwhelming drive to return. Not that the city is altogether hopeless, but it definitely lacks the wealth and overall splendor and excitement we tend to associate with North American cities. It is small, and relatively dirty, and grey. The jungle, on the otherhand, is absolutely breath-taking, and that can be seen even from the confines of a tiny bus crowded with teenagers.
Once we arrived we walked a short distance to get to the river. The water was cool, and refreshing and as we waited for the kids from the Hogar to come and join us (they had been at church) many of us waded in. Brian, of course, was the first one to discover the perfect set of rocks to jump from. Clad in tiny cross country shorts, and dirt-stained running shoes he immediately ran into the river, swam across, scrambled up some rocks, and jumped. Son it became a bit hit, and everyone joined in, even those that were more cautious. Mckenna stood ontop of that rock for a good half an hour, but with more than a little coaching, and bravey, she too finally joined in the fun. Even Mrs. Glennon was talked into to trying it once when coerced by a group of darling, smiling Honduran children.
Already the children are making fast friends with us. Gerson, one of the older boys of the orphanage, already found his favorite in the lovely Brianna M., to whom he gave a hand-made bracelet. Reina, of course, is practically glued to Alexis´ side and is all giggles and smiles around her crush Brian, and Leah and Jesus seem to charm all of the kids with their mastery of the language and their fearlessness in leaping from the rocks.
During our stay at the river we enjoyed swimming, and playing. We ate lunch and we were able to put together a make-shift soccer game: Girls vs. Boys. The girls, of course, were victorious. We even met a sweet, and very skinny dog. Aubrey soon became its favorite as they shared a lovely turkey sandwich together.
Finally around 3:30, we began to pack up. The kids joined us as we drove to another group sponsored by HHK called Grandma´s Kids. In this community, orphans are left in the care of their grandmothers, and HHK helps to maintain their living and provide them with the food and resources they lack. There are about 30 kids who are raised by 2 grandmas. The poverty of this community is absolutely shocking. There seems to be children running around everywhere, each one sweeter than the next. There are emaciated dogs roaming between the sheet-metal shacks. A lot of the children have mental illnesses. This, David (head of HHK) explained, is often the result of incest. We came to this village with toys and candies and the children loved it. Many of us were able to see old childhood stuffed animals of toy cars find a new home and I don´t think that could have been anymore rewarding. The chiildren in the community had fun playing with our cameras and taking pictures of their new friends and their new toys. It was a shockins, but rewarding experience.
We drove home with the children of the Hogar, singing songs and learning eachothers names. Once we dropped them off we came back to the hotel, took quick showers, and then headed off to dinner at beleadas, a Honduran specialty. They seem to be a mix of a burrito and a taco, but they were all hand made, and completely delicious! Many of us helped ourselves to seconds and thirds, while drinking our various bana and grape-flavored sodas.
Now we are all back at the hotel, echuasted. But, of course, being a group of teenagers, instead of making the logical choice in going to bed, we decided to start up around of the game "ten fingers". Though we may all be sleepy in the morning, I think we can all agree that the fun we are having with friends makes it worth it :) more tomorrow!
-Harper
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Reunited once again
After a tiring day of flying and driving for hours we finally reached our hotel and filled the entire lobby with bags loaded with donations. It was a sight to see, let me tell you. I knew we had quite a few donations but this was unbelievable; I was completely overwhelmed and ecstactic at the amount we were giving to HHK. Poor Nikolas (our bus driver), had to unload and load those bags far too many times than initially anticipated but I´m sure he was more than happy to climb up on top of the bus and chuck bags at us.
Once we were showered, cleaned-up, or decided to ¨bathe¨ by swimming in the pool, we loaded up and headed out the the Hogar. Those of us who went last year ran to see all the kids who were so difficult to leave a year ago and the reunification even brought tears to some (Erica...). We handed out gum, candy, and whatever else we brought for the kids and in the middle of passing everything out, there were intense games of tag and phooseball going on. It was so awesome to see all the smiling faces of the children again and what I really enjoyed seeing was how easily all the ¨first-timers¨ jumped right in and interacted with the kids as if they had known them. Rachel, if you´re reading this, Lula has her heart set on you and only you.
As the children meandered into bed, David brought us to the backyard of the Hogar where he gave us a little speech that we did not receive last year. He went completely into detail of the living situations for the typical Honduran family, explaining that the sexual offense rate in Honduras is 40% and most of the time it is from family members. He told us that many of the kids at the Hogar suffer from PTSD and depression due to a multitude of reasons that brought tears to our eyes. He continued to explain to us that the majority of the time sexual crimes are not reported because they often lead to the victim or their family being targeted by the offender and thus they get away with everything as it is too much risk to the family to even bother with bringing the assault to the attention of the courts or police. It was heartbreaking what he was telling us. It´s so hard to accept the reality he was explainging to us. No one wants to hear the fact that people walk away with such crimes without any for of punishment. And after feeling like David had just run over my puppy, he began to thank us for the multitude of dontations they received and told us they had never had so many donations at one time. I just wanted to thank all the travelers, parents, and those who donated for helping this amazing cause; it´s unfortunate that you wont be able to see the positive effect your donations have on this community but I promise there will be extensive documentation.
All in all, we have arrived safely, no one has gotten sick (knocking on wood as we speak), and we have ordered a pizza meaning it´s time to go. Thanks for following us!
P.S. I apologize for any typos - I never realized how much I appreciate the squiggley red line under misspelled words.
Once we were showered, cleaned-up, or decided to ¨bathe¨ by swimming in the pool, we loaded up and headed out the the Hogar. Those of us who went last year ran to see all the kids who were so difficult to leave a year ago and the reunification even brought tears to some (Erica...). We handed out gum, candy, and whatever else we brought for the kids and in the middle of passing everything out, there were intense games of tag and phooseball going on. It was so awesome to see all the smiling faces of the children again and what I really enjoyed seeing was how easily all the ¨first-timers¨ jumped right in and interacted with the kids as if they had known them. Rachel, if you´re reading this, Lula has her heart set on you and only you.
As the children meandered into bed, David brought us to the backyard of the Hogar where he gave us a little speech that we did not receive last year. He went completely into detail of the living situations for the typical Honduran family, explaining that the sexual offense rate in Honduras is 40% and most of the time it is from family members. He told us that many of the kids at the Hogar suffer from PTSD and depression due to a multitude of reasons that brought tears to our eyes. He continued to explain to us that the majority of the time sexual crimes are not reported because they often lead to the victim or their family being targeted by the offender and thus they get away with everything as it is too much risk to the family to even bother with bringing the assault to the attention of the courts or police. It was heartbreaking what he was telling us. It´s so hard to accept the reality he was explainging to us. No one wants to hear the fact that people walk away with such crimes without any for of punishment. And after feeling like David had just run over my puppy, he began to thank us for the multitude of dontations they received and told us they had never had so many donations at one time. I just wanted to thank all the travelers, parents, and those who donated for helping this amazing cause; it´s unfortunate that you wont be able to see the positive effect your donations have on this community but I promise there will be extensive documentation.
All in all, we have arrived safely, no one has gotten sick (knocking on wood as we speak), and we have ordered a pizza meaning it´s time to go. Thanks for following us!
P.S. I apologize for any typos - I never realized how much I appreciate the squiggley red line under misspelled words.
Friday, March 25, 2011
The Journey Begins
Me (Stacey) and 21 others begin our adventure down to Honduras for a week and I can't even express in words how excited I am and I know the rest of the group is, too. After months of planning and loads of stress, it will pay off with a fantastic spring break trip. Follow this blog to keep up with our trip! A new person will write and share their experience every night (maybe more than one person). Hopefully we'll be able to give you a little taste of what we are experiencing down in Honduras!
See you when we get back!
See you when we get back!
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