GUATEMALA - August 7, 2012

Day 2 is almost in the books for this week. Cynthia called the group “experts,” but there is a common awareness of how little we know as we attempt to minister to the needs of so many children. Just today, 2 new arrivals: EVELYN and MELANIE came to the Center. They are in the Canaries, which means they are young developmentally.

EVELYN

MELANIE

Their arrival allowed WALTER and ROSA to move up to the Bunnies...finally! They were the most improved and walking well. 

Our lack of “expertise” is compensated for by the love shared with the children of the Center.

We are so excited to have an elementary art teacher with us this week!  We have been doing some cool stuff.  Craft time was extra fun today! The Ducks and Squirrels were able to kick off their socks and shoes and stomp around in paint. The Chicks and Bunnies also had a go at crafts, but they ended up eating their crafts.

With such an awesome recreation team, we've been able to do some really fun activities with the kids, too!  Surprisingly, even the Canaries were able to participate in recreation today and enjoy some time outside in the sun.

Today was haircut day. All the little girls couldn't wait for their new style!  Some of the boys were very upset about their new buzz cuts and pitched a fit as soon as the clippers came near them, but they are all looking very dapper with fresh haircuts!

It’s amazing the way God puts the team together... During haircut time, we realized that we actually had a pro who could cut hair for the girls; low and behold, Debbie is a beautician, and Cynthia was more than happy to relinquish her job and let Debbie do the girls’ hair and Preston buzz the boys' hair!

The Center has a “Palacio de Pollos” (Chicken Palace) which houses over 200 chickens. One of our team members this week, Donna, is a veterinarian. She went out and looked over the chickens and is working with Basilio (chicken caretaker) teaching him how to better protect the flock from diseases and to make them more productive.

Construction and maintenance continues, as we continue to get the new Comedor in tip top shape, along with yard care, painting, and putting up murals. One of the major ongoing construction projects has been the replacement of all the ceiling tiles and this week is no different. Removing the old asbestos tiles is not only hot and sweaty but requires learning a little about Guatemalan building techniques.  Multiple projects continue throughout the year and the team this week is working hard to add to their completion.

Day 2 is coming to a close; last minute details have to be taken care of to prepare for our journey back to Antigua.  According to Howie though, a surprise awaits for the team once we return to the hotel. Orphan’s Heart takes excellent care of the teams that come, so we know that whatever it is, something unique can be expected!  Stay tuned!