Running the race

Although she didn't win the race, Elena ran with all her might on the track at the official stadium of one of the biggest soccer teams in Guatemala. As I sat in the stand looking down on the kids (Kayla raced, too) they looked so small compared to the massive stadium. As a part of their PE grade for the year the children participated in two events, a short sprint for speed and a longer run for endurance. Hard to believe a 6 year-old and 4 year-old would be required to race! The important thing is: they did their best and loved it!
I don't really think it's about whether we win or lose, become experts in our field, own the most things, earn the most money, or even how "spiritual" we are. Maybe the important thing is how we run.

Easter Family Photo

Nell, Mikayla, Elena and Kyle

Growing up in Guate

This morning Kayla and Elena woke up in the family room and quickly realized that a strange man was sleeping in their room. "Mommy, Daddy, who's the man in my bed?" Oh, that's Uncle George and Uncle Bob is in the guest room, they slept here last night. Without hesitating Kayla and Elena went running in to talk to the guests and became fast friends. George and Bob were in Guatemala speaking at a consultation for missionary trainers, and although Kyle had only met them days earlier, they needed a place to stay and a ride to the airport the next day, so they ended up in our home. We had breakfast with them in Antigua (a colonial city just 20 minutes from our house) and took them shopping before they had to catch their plane. As we dropped George and Bob off at the airport, Kayla asked, "Mommy, why they only stay for one night?" Which really means, "Why couldn't they stay longer?"

Hosting guests has become a part of our "normal" life here. It is so fun to meet people from all walks of life, chat with them over a meal, show them a little bit of this country. For our kids, I guess it's just part of growing up in Guatemala.

Here we go...

Yes, I have officially joined the blogging world! I have no idea what I am doing, but my intent is to be able to communicate more often with you. Hopefully, you will soon be able to read little snapshots of our lives here in Guatemala! In the mean time, I thought I'd send a picture of one of the cutest girls in the world, Elena (I may be a little biased), standing in the park in front of our house. Hope you enjoy this and future updates!

[P.S. - click photo to see biggie size]