Day 9

It was the best of times; it was the first of times. While the native Guatemalan can split a rock in about four easy swings in less than ten seconds, a group of ten of us succeeded in splitting zero rocks in two hours. We were told the rock (Jennie’s rock) was too tough, but now looking back it may just have been a nice way of saying “you guys are pathetic.” The work took place on a hillside and involved two pick axes, a sledge hammer, a mini sledge hammer, one mini wedge, and something that involved creating the hole for the wedge. While Dr. Rust observed from the lovely shade of a lime tree after giving out surveys for the hospital, the students demonstrated their rookie skills at breaking rocks in the hot Guatemalan sun. Fun was had by all.
Next was lunch for which we had to serve and clean up for all of the groups. After this we heard stories from Chona, a woman who works in the kitchen of the mission. She shared with us the history of the Mayan culture, as well as stories from the civil war that happened around 30 years ago. Her personal stories from the civil war were shocking and moving. Chona also sold us hand woven items made by the women in the parish that were widowed by the war. Gifts were bought by all.

Dinner was then served, after which we moved to Hotel Toliman for the second consecutive night in order to update everyone at home. Later at our hotel, a skills competition was performed with a Nerf football and an empty water bottle as a target. Remarkably, although Jeana’s aim was poor, no one was injured in the effort…except Nate. But don’t worry Mama K, he walked away with a bruise. Twas the grandest affair on the promenade of Hotel Inquitio. ...P.S. Jennie loves Pitbull.

Authors: Lindsay, Andrew, and Nate