Guatemala Trip Overview

I am in Guatemala now. This has been an amazing trip and I am with such a wonderful group of ladies. This whole experience has been so overwhelming and I am having trouble putting all my thoughts and feelings into words.

I miss my kids like crazy and have been enjoying the updates from home. This morning my note read

Everyone is doing beautifully! Sela is taking care of Onyx and Mishu; Oreo & Mishu are taking care of Sela; Nathan is taking care of Oreo, Onyx, & Sela; Onyx is taking care of Sela & Mishu...

mom also added

Everyone is clean, happy and following their regular Monday schedule

I am almost afraid to ask why she felt the need to mention that they were clean!! I know they are in such good hands at my parents house, and I am so glad to know that they are all watching out for each other, even if in interesting combinations.

We are back in Guatemala City after our visit to Pana, and this morning we plan to go to the artisan's market before catching our flight home. We have been staying at the Marriott in Guatemala City, the hotel I stayed at when picking up Nathan. So many wonderful memories have come flooding back. I remember walking up and down the halls and the lobby pushing him in a stroller, trying to get him to sleep or settle down. Those first few days with him here were a bit challenging for us both, but once we got home, it seemed to all fall into place.

Guatemala is such a beautiful country. We were able to see so much on our trip to Pana, driving down the windy roads and up and down the mountains. It was fun to see cows on the side of the road eating grass or the women walking down the street with large bags carefully balanced on their heads with a child strapped to their backs. It was an amazing experience to be able to walk through the city of San Jorge which is located on the side of a mountain overlooking the beautiful blue lake. The views were just priceless.

Returning back to Guatemala City last night, we had a real Guatemalan experience. We were on a narrow two lane road winding through the mountains, when we abrubtly had to turn around. Our driver was told something in Spanish that we were unable to understand by two passing cars, and all the sudden, we started going backward down the mountain at full speed. When he got to a good point, he turned around this big vehicle on a narrow road with such skill and expertise and drove quckly away. We learned that there were armed banditos on the road ahead, and our driver concerned for our safety and feeling responsible for us, quickly got us out of danger. We did have to take the long way home, but it certainly made for an interesting trip.

We were all glad to return to the Marriott last night, and a hot shower and comfortable bed made for a terrific night. I am so sorry that this trip is coming to an end, but look forward to returning home to my family.

When I get home, I will download all my pictures and post stories about our visit.