The Beginning

Hola! Wow, my first blog in Guatemala. It still blows my mind that I'm actually here, and here to stay. It's definitely been a learning experience so far, and there are so many things to get used to! Before I came, I really didn't know what to expect. Was I going to love it right away? Was I going to cry every night and miss my family? I was praying for one and not the other! Honestly, it really hasn't been one or the other. Some moments are difficult, but God also gives me moments of joy and purpose. 

The first few days were kind of difficult for me. I was quite overwhelmed with the idea that I'm going to be a teacher. I have to organize my classroom, make lesson plans, and study a curriculum. If you know me, you would know that I'm not the most organized person in the world! It's also difficult to want to speak to others so badly, but not be able to. However, I am definitely learning! Even though it's frustrating, it was more frustrating the first and second and third day. My Spanish gets better every day! 

I love my host family. I love Mama Elena's patience and hospitality. I love little Anna and Marie, my two sisters. Anna's silliness and bright eyes, and Marie's kind heart. I love Alex (pictured below), a boy who lives in the neighbourhood. Alex is shy and kind and he puts a smile on my face every day. 

God gives me the greatest joy in my little friends, whether it be passing a ball around in the street, or climbing trees and picking avocados. I can feel God stirring my heart, and I know that this is my first year in Guatemala. It is the first of many. This is only the beginning. 

Please continue praying for me. Pray that I would see God in every moment. Pray that God would give me the gift of learning Spanish. Pray that I would be able to love and that I become more like Jesus every day. Thank you so much for all of your support!