much belated update

Please forgive me for my lack of updates as I've been here in the Dominican!!

To get you a little updated. This is my job: I get to visit the various ministry sites that Students International offers. I record the activities as well as serve along side the missionaries and interns at each site. Then I edit, a lot! And compose what you are about to watch. This video is given to each outreach student. Here are at least two video's (one still being uploaded)...

May 21st- 31st       http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PlqmdptX7YY
June 3rd- 15th        still to come!
June 17th- 29th      http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fnXcDFj3_uI

un año

One year ago today, I stepped off the plane for the second time in the Dominican Republic; this time traveling alone to spend my summer serving the people God has placed here. I never expected all that would transpire, nor did I expect my heart to be broken, stretched, molded, and grown. It was amazing to me that I could feel and understand the depth of Jesus' love towards me, through the people I encountered and grew to know. My fellow interns, Jess, Chelsie, and the varsity volleyball girls were among the many people God placed around me to teach me about His love. I have been blessed with the opportunity to return for yet another adventurous summer, and to continue to see Jesus' affection and character revealed towards me and His people.

terminé

welp folks, I just finished a month of Spanish class and immersion here in Guatemala! Its been a growing experience in more ways then one, but I am very thankful for the journey. I head to the Dominican Republic Monday morning where I will spend another 3 months learning Spanish, loving on my volleyball girls, taking pictures, and seeing God's unfailing love.
So very thankful for this opportunity!

                                         

party or war zone?

Here in Antigua I haven't quite gotten used to the celebratory atmosphere that parades not only the streets, but sky. I have learned that the people of Antigua have much to be celebratory about, yet I'm not always so sure what it is that they are celebrating. Almost every morning I startle awake by the sound of bombs being shot into the sky, starting as early as 5am; and of course at night many more bombs explode over head. Occasionally, I will even hear them during the day. As in right now. I asked my host family and teacher, "por que los bombos?"and all they say is "San Jaun Pedro", (or someone's name). I'm assuming this guy is an important figure in the Catholic church because all of the bombs are shot from within the church walls. There are about 9 churches in the town, two of which are right around the corner from my house. I'm pretty sure after the bombs erupt, debris falls on the tin roof at my house, which creates another surprising sound.
Yesterday, today, and tomorrow there is a parade that will flood the streets around the down town park. This parade is to celebrate the 50th anniversary of a school here in Antigua. It is complete with 5 different bands, important men in the church, important graduates from the school, and the children of all grades who currently attend the school. The parade was neat to watch, here are some pictures:

my teacher's daughter above and bellow:

My teacher's son:

Café Urbano

With an urban twist to a latin city, this café plays well into its name;
Café Urbano is rather small, but they offer much when it comes to service. I would have to say this a favorite café if I'm missing home. Contemporary music accompanied by English speaking owners, and the taste of home as well with B.L.T sandwiches and the best kind of fries. I dig the burlap seat covers and hanging pallets that add to the atmosphere of a café in the states.

Francisco

So I have told you a little about Francisco, but I want to tell you more.
This man is my professor outside of school. My confidant. My friend away from friends. I cherish my time with him. We have begun to meet in the park at 5pm on occasions; a complete hour of talking about life. Well mostly his 60 years of living. He explained to me today, that this past December marked the 23rd anniversary of being alcohol free. He was alcoholic for 10 or so years of his life until he attended AA. During AA the told him he had to stop smoking too. He smoked for 15 years of his life. I also learned this past week that Francisco is a realtor, has two daughters and a son, a bunch of grandchildren, and is a widower. He is a sweet and kind old man. I'm thankful to of met him.

He told me I need to give him a copy of this picture and write on the back, "Francisco's friend Corny" :)

mi casa

I cannot believe I have yet to post about my house here in Antigua!
Well, mi casa is very cute. And the family that resides within the structure is extremely nice and have welcomed me with open arms! I don't live there alone. There are two other students attending my school who are renting rooms. Tim, from Pennsylvania on the journey of a lifetime with his motorcycle. He has traveled from Alaska and will continue on to the tip of central America. My other house mate is Kaiko, a girl from Japan who has come to learn Spanish and live here for two years working with an organization. Two people who have stepped out to explore the world. It amazes me.
Here are some pictures. I'll hopefully post more pictures with my host family.

                                            

                                         

La Casaca

Heard about this café from some of the D.R. staff on their journey to study Spanish a year ago.
Located across from the central park, squeezed next to a bakery and restaurant, this skinny café makes up for the width, with hight. Towering over its competitors with a third story over looking the park, this rustic café has crepes that are told to be heavenly. I of course went for the chai. :)

Café Barista

today I wanted to visit a café that I had been hearing about amongst the students at school. Located on the corner of the square at the central park, layered in brick and inviting open windows; the place draws many tourists as well as locals. 

I was drawn to the word CHAI on their menu.

Chai Frap it was. And I must say it is one of the best I have had. 

I will gladly spend the Q.25 for a taste of deliciousness!!

Café Tú Piña

I admire the quaint town of Antigua. The rich culture and worn streets. Buildings that have endured much longer than those that accompany them. How family and friends greet with a holy kiss. And of course the restaurants and cafés that beckon one to relax and savor not only food, but an atmosphere of laugher and love.

As this month transpires, my desire is to visit the various cafés, post a picture or two and tell a few words about what I tasted during my time spent within the walls.
I hope you enjoy reading as much as my taste buds will enjoy the adventure.

Here is a café not too far from home:
Café tú Piña. I am a frequent visitor and enjoy the friendly service. A woman from Norway works alongside a few younger Guatemalans. Their salads and sandwiches are a delight!