So our time in Guatemala has come to an end, for now. How do you sum up 10 weeks working hand in hand with my husband and children serving the Lord?
The last day of classes that we attended, March 21st, was a special day for Seth to be able to say goodbye to his friends while Heath and I wrapped up some details (and also said some sad goodbyes). We let Seth choose some of his toys to give to any of his friends. We thought he'd choose 1 or 2 toys that he didn't like and give them away (kind of like adults do with can drives) but nope, he pulled out 3 bags and put his favourite things into each of them. Esmelin got all the favourite Buzz Lightyear figures and several cars, Carolyn got his favourite books on cd and some other things, and Samantha got some wind-up toys that Seth has loved forever. He so eagerly brought these toys to his friends and LOVED giving them away.
On the last day of school, Seth also chose a sponsor child for Eden (he had already chosen to sponsor his best bud Esmelin from class). For Eden he chose Estrellita, also from JK. This little girl (whose name means little star) sat beside Seth most of the year and quietly helped him in class. A very cute and gentle little girl....much like our Eden.
So...what did we accomplish while helping at the school? We worked closely with the teachers to implement 4 parts of a literacy program - Shared reading, independent reading, guided reading, and reading to the children. Each grade (JK to 5) has been using books in any class possible to teach. Heath made classroom libraries and resources by printing and putting together leveled books. We assessed the reading levels of the whole school.
More importantly, we learned about sacrifice and not complaining. These teachers all work and serve because they love God and love these kids. They have so much to complain about (where's a stapler, why don't we have power today, what, no water again?, etc.) but they never do. I just got home from doing groceries and spent more time complaining that I had to wait in line for 10 minutes than any of the teachers complained in the 10 weeks that I got to spend with them.
There is so much more to say. Basically, we took away friendship and life lessons that will stay with us forever. It was a renewing and refreshing time for us spiritually. We are so thankful to Global Shore for the opportunity to serve with them and look forward to when we are able to return to Guatemala.
Here are some pictures of last day at the school and some of our favourite friends. Thanks for following the blog and please challenge us with questions or reminders of anything that we've shared!
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| View from back of school |
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| School when we arrived in January - no roof |
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| School when we left...and much more progress has been made in April |
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| Bottom floor of school complete, top floor ready for paint and flooring |
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| Prepa classroom (SK) at start of year...now there are words, rhymes, and stories all over the walls! |
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| Grade 2 class now - with lots of literacy on the walls |
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| Seth & one of his teachers "Seno Alexia es mi favorita" |
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| Heath & Luis (the do-everything guy & he speaks English, therefore Heath's buddy!) |
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| Seth with Seno Pahola (SK teacher, who speaks English so often helped Seth if he was stuck!) |
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| Estrellita y Carolyn (from Seth's class) |
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| Seth giving his toys out |
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| Eden with her 2nd mama - the principal Seno Karina |
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| Diane with some Grade 3 & 4 girls |
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| Recess everyday looked like this...Seth & Esmelin hanging out and trading snacks |
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| Recent pic of the kids...early April |
:) Diane and Heath
