Congratulations to Padre Juan Halligan, SJ and the CMT for being awarded the Opus Prize for 2010! Read about the prize here! This prestigious award, given each year to two people is awarded for humanitarian work. There is a $100,000 prize - think of all the good this can do in Quito - and "is given annually to recognize the unsung heroes of any faith tradition, anywhere in the world, solving today's most persistent social problems!" (from the Opus Prize website)
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Friday, October 1, 2010
Coup Attempt in Ecuador?
For those of you who are not aware (Sue clued me in last night) there has been some civil unrest in Ecuador. The National Police Force have been protesting, the shut down the airport and have blocked some highways. The President, Rafael Correa tried to negotiate with them and he was attacked with tear gas. I messaged Sr. Cindy, expressing my thoughts and sending my prayers. She said that they are all OK, the children were scared, there was some looting of stores near CMT #1, and they have cancelled classes for today. They are hoping that the military will restore order soon.
The military is still siding with Correa. Not sure if this is actually a coup or just unrest/strike by the police force. We'll see as events unfold. Please keep the country in your thoughts and prayers. I will certainly be following these events very closely and will keep you updated.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Mission Co-op, part 2
Hi Everyone!
So since the Mission Co-Op weekend we had in July, we have shared our experiences with many different groups in the parish and beyond. On that weekend, the plan was that we would show some photos as a PPT, only, our protector died the Thursday before. We have since purchased a new projector and scheduled another date to show the photos after Mass, but also to sell the remaining items that we brought back. There are nativity sets, scarves, T-shirts, and bracelets. There are other things as well, just can't remember right now what they are!
The weekend we have this scheduled is Oct 10th - it will be after the 10:30 am Mass. Come see the photos, chat with the group and enjoy! All proceeds will benefit either Casa Damien in Guayaquil or El Centro del Muchacho Trabajador in Quito.
So since the Mission Co-Op weekend we had in July, we have shared our experiences with many different groups in the parish and beyond. On that weekend, the plan was that we would show some photos as a PPT, only, our protector died the Thursday before. We have since purchased a new projector and scheduled another date to show the photos after Mass, but also to sell the remaining items that we brought back. There are nativity sets, scarves, T-shirts, and bracelets. There are other things as well, just can't remember right now what they are!
The weekend we have this scheduled is Oct 10th - it will be after the 10:30 am Mass. Come see the photos, chat with the group and enjoy! All proceeds will benefit either Casa Damien in Guayaquil or El Centro del Muchacho Trabajador in Quito.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Sharing since Ecuador
Well, we've had several opportunities to share about the trip. Some formally, some informally.
Here's a run-down: July 17-18 was Mission Co-Op Sunday in the parish. We invited some of those who went on the trip to share their reflections with the parish, during the weekend masses. Vivian and Katy shared at the 5:00 pm Mass, Chris at 8:00 am and Victorina and Alex at the 10:30 am. All were very well received and the parishioners were definitely interested in what they had to say. After each of the Masses, we set up "La Tienda" to sell the items we brought back. Some of the proceeds we'll send to Sister Annie at Casa Damien in Guayaquil and some to Madre Miguel and Padre Juan at the WBC.
Following the 10:30 am Mass was our parish picnic. We did some informal sharing there as well!
This past weekend, I attended the YES (Youth Encountering Spirit) Conference at Mercy High School in SF. This was a two-day workshop for youth of the Archdiocese. They attended workshops and learned leadership skills. On Saturday, they had an period from 3-5 pm where they asked parishes to share through photos and display about their mission trips/service projects. One parish went to San Diego, one to New Orleans. It was cool to see what others have done.
I also shared our experiences and some photos with the St. Matthias Preschool children and staff during their "Around the World" week. For their presentation, I focused on pictures of the animals, children and classrooms.
During the week of July 19-23, St. Pius and St. Matthias collaborated and did a week long Vacation Bible Camp. The mission focus for the week was the Working Boys Center. Maris had an ingenious idea - we paired a few photos with the theme for each day! It was a great way to share and ask the children to support, which they did by bringing in coins for the collection.
On a personal note, I have shared these photos with groups of friends, family and anyone who will listen! Our experiences were so amazing that I can't help but to "shout it from the rooftops"!
Here's a run-down: July 17-18 was Mission Co-Op Sunday in the parish. We invited some of those who went on the trip to share their reflections with the parish, during the weekend masses. Vivian and Katy shared at the 5:00 pm Mass, Chris at 8:00 am and Victorina and Alex at the 10:30 am. All were very well received and the parishioners were definitely interested in what they had to say. After each of the Masses, we set up "La Tienda" to sell the items we brought back. Some of the proceeds we'll send to Sister Annie at Casa Damien in Guayaquil and some to Madre Miguel and Padre Juan at the WBC.
Following the 10:30 am Mass was our parish picnic. We did some informal sharing there as well!
This past weekend, I attended the YES (Youth Encountering Spirit) Conference at Mercy High School in SF. This was a two-day workshop for youth of the Archdiocese. They attended workshops and learned leadership skills. On Saturday, they had an period from 3-5 pm where they asked parishes to share through photos and display about their mission trips/service projects. One parish went to San Diego, one to New Orleans. It was cool to see what others have done.
I also shared our experiences and some photos with the St. Matthias Preschool children and staff during their "Around the World" week. For their presentation, I focused on pictures of the animals, children and classrooms.
During the week of July 19-23, St. Pius and St. Matthias collaborated and did a week long Vacation Bible Camp. The mission focus for the week was the Working Boys Center. Maris had an ingenious idea - we paired a few photos with the theme for each day! It was a great way to share and ask the children to support, which they did by bringing in coins for the collection.
On a personal note, I have shared these photos with groups of friends, family and anyone who will listen! Our experiences were so amazing that I can't help but to "shout it from the rooftops"!
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Almost a week since Ecuador
Well, it's been almost a week since we've returned from Ecuador and each time I share with someone our experiences, I get a warm - fuzzy feeling. The trip was so amazing, for so many reasons. One was just simply anticipation. For at least 5 years, I have been yearning to take this trip. Sister Cindy has visited the parish about 3 times since that first trip and each time, asks me: "When are you coming to Ecuador?". Finally, I was able to go. For me, this trip was all about experiencing the work that is done by the Working Boys' Center. Each year, the children and their families in our Faith Formation programs save coins for the WBC. So for me, to see, first hand, how our pennies, dimes and nickels help to support that work that they do was incredible. Seeing how the people live happily with so little was a real lesson for our group.
The other was the warm welcome and greetings that we received. Seemed to me that every Ecuadorian we encountered was happy to see us! From people driving by us, whether we were walking or driving by in a bus, people would honk and wave, shouting "hola!" out their windows to us. I got so used to the greetings, it became a habit! Almost every child we meet at the Center greeted us with hugs, some jumping into our laps or arms to be held some just snuggling up to us on a bench. Or some, like this little guy, playing and joking with us!
Or, when we visitied Casa Damien in Guayaquil and Sister Annie greeted us with hugs and kisses at the airport and took us back to the clinic. She set a beautiful example for us or hugging every single patient she saw. She explained that one patient had gone home to God, just the day before, so the patients were a little sad, but that when they saw us, it would brighten their day. We visited with the women and men and all were happy to see us.
Living in community with not only our twelve other St. Matthias group members, but also the groups from New York, New Jersey and Wisconsin and the long-term volunteers. Learning their stories, and being able to share these experiences with them was amazing. Watching and listening to our kids saying, "wait, say that again...you have a funny accent" and "what kind of shoes are those?" observing them make these observations about the differences in speech and dress amongst groups of teens in our own country while being present in a foreign country was eye-opening. Watching them learn and play other games and be "unplugged" from the technology of their normal daily lives was great as well.
I think that we were all changed in some ways by this trip. For me, this change is a greater appreciation for my friends and family, a change in my attitude. It was all about going with the flow (being on Ecuadorian time), doing what was asked of us (even if I didn't agree with the methods) and learning to be grateful for everything, the experiences that I have had.
This next weekend, July 17 - 18, we will be sharing some of our experiences with the parish. Please come and listen!
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Reflections on Ecuador
I was not able to access the blog on the trip, but I would like to say that I am stunned by the beauty of the country of Ecuador and of its people. Our experience was one of service, but we were the ones shepherded, fed, guided and affirmed not only by the Working Boys Center staff and volunteers, but by the Ecuadorians we met on the city buses and in the markets and on the streets.
There is a sense of being closer to God in the high mountain valley of Quito. There is a connection to the earth, the surrounding mountains and volcanoes, the sun, the mists, the food grown there, the variety of trees and shrubs and birds and how the people live. Many still dress in the clothes of their pueblos, women wearing long braids, skirts and fedora hats always carrying something, a child, a bag, goods to sell. There is a strong identity with "home" even though they had to leave the mountains a come to the city to survive. There are at least 10 different indigenous cultures all mixing with well dressed business people in central Quito and all seem to be kind to the "gringos". We were easily identified as being taller than most of them and of course carting our totes and back backs.
At the Centers we were humbled by their kindness when we were there to help them. This was especially true when we flew to Guayaquil and visited the Hansen's disease clinic, Damien House. Our just being there made the patients happy. They gave speeches of gratitude and appreciation for our visiting. They eagerly gave and received hugs and hand shakes and sweet Madre Annie a woman full of joy, set the tone for all of us: be joyful for the gift of the present moment. Her mantra was that these people deserve to live with dignity and to die, not alone.
I am grateful for the opportunity to have gone on this trip and I will never, forget the people we met nor the impact this trip made on each one of us. We were always aware of representing our parish and being supported by their prayers. So God bless and thanks to our St. Matthias Parish for their support. Laurie
There is a sense of being closer to God in the high mountain valley of Quito. There is a connection to the earth, the surrounding mountains and volcanoes, the sun, the mists, the food grown there, the variety of trees and shrubs and birds and how the people live. Many still dress in the clothes of their pueblos, women wearing long braids, skirts and fedora hats always carrying something, a child, a bag, goods to sell. There is a strong identity with "home" even though they had to leave the mountains a come to the city to survive. There are at least 10 different indigenous cultures all mixing with well dressed business people in central Quito and all seem to be kind to the "gringos". We were easily identified as being taller than most of them and of course carting our totes and back backs.
At the Centers we were humbled by their kindness when we were there to help them. This was especially true when we flew to Guayaquil and visited the Hansen's disease clinic, Damien House. Our just being there made the patients happy. They gave speeches of gratitude and appreciation for our visiting. They eagerly gave and received hugs and hand shakes and sweet Madre Annie a woman full of joy, set the tone for all of us: be joyful for the gift of the present moment. Her mantra was that these people deserve to live with dignity and to die, not alone.
I am grateful for the opportunity to have gone on this trip and I will never, forget the people we met nor the impact this trip made on each one of us. We were always aware of representing our parish and being supported by their prayers. So God bless and thanks to our St. Matthias Parish for their support. Laurie
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Ecuador Post script
We returned safely from Quito and today Katy and I began the process of picking up our daily lives here in San Francisco. The first things that I noticed were all of the daily blessings that we take for granted. We were able to have showers this morning with as much hot water as we wanted. My closet has so many outfits in it that I almost can't stand to look at all of my options. In every room of our house we have abundant possessions--more than we could ever use or need. Life is easy here, supported by technology, and those who come from other countries to work in our yards, and clean our homes. Today I remember fondly the clear blue sky of Ecuador, the breathtaking views of the mountains and the warmth of the people. I remember the smiles of the children who came to play with us and give us hugs. Wearing the bracelets that we bought from the women at the Hansen's clinic, I hold those who touched us in prayer today. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to go, in order to see.
Many thanks to Sabrina and the staff at St. Matthias who made this journey possible for Katy and I. It was wonderful to live in community with you all these last 10 days. We shared stories, laughter, pictures and experiences. May we continue to listen for the movement of the Spirit in our lives as we connect what we experienced in Ecuador to our lives in Redwood City. Peace, Vivian
Many thanks to Sabrina and the staff at St. Matthias who made this journey possible for Katy and I. It was wonderful to live in community with you all these last 10 days. We shared stories, laughter, pictures and experiences. May we continue to listen for the movement of the Spirit in our lives as we connect what we experienced in Ecuador to our lives in Redwood City. Peace, Vivian
Sunday - July 4th
At 11:30 we all gathered in the planeterium for a show about the stars, constellations and how the middle of the world was mapped. After that, we walked around the through some of the exhibits and shops. Maria and I decided to eat lunch in a lovely restaurant. The dining room was on the 2nd floor about some shops. It had windows which looked out onto the square where there was dancing and music. We both had llanpingaughos (they are like potato pancakes filled with cheese), mine came with pork chops, her's with chicken.
After lunch, we decided to head back to the Center. However, we planned to stop at the Mall first. Since it was Fourth of July, we were all feeling like we were missing the festivities back home, so we had gotten together with the Jersey Boys and planned a BBQ for that night. The teens hangout and walked around while the adults stopped at the Mega Maxi, the supermarket (it's kind of like a Target with a full-service grocery store) to pick up hot dogs, hamburgers, buns, chips, soda, etc. for dinner. Laurie spotted the Tony Roma's across the Mall and picked up some ribs for us.
As we were leaving the Mall, we noticed that it had started to rain. It wasn't raining hard, just drizzling a bit. We divided up the bags amongst the whole group and headed home. The Center is just about 5 blocks up from the Mall so it was no big deal to get back.
When we got back, Maria and I had a last minute meeting with the teenagers about how to clean their rooms, packing, what to bring to the airport, what to leave behind, etc. Then at 5:00 pm, Fr. John celebrated Mass in the living room for our three groups (Jersey Boys, Wisconsin group and us).
Following Mass, we began cooking. Dinner was ready by about 6:30 pm, we all sat down in the dining room for our last meal together.
After dinner and clean up, some of our group played "Catch Phrase", then Maria and I sent the teens to finish packing and getting ready to leave.
Madre Miguel and Padre Juan came in about 8:30 to say goodbye and collect our keys to our rooms. We expressed our gratitude to them once again for their hospitality and these wonderful experiences that we were able to share.
Vicente arrived at 9pm to take us to the airport - we boarded the place at 11:30 pm to begin the journey home!
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Saturday - July 3rd - Otavalo
Yesterday, we set off bright and early (well not really that early) at 9am for a day trip. We went with the Jersey Boys and the group with Wisconsin. We boarded the bus, with Guillermo as our driver and his two granddaugters with us, Kimberly and Michelle. In total, there were 39 of us. We were headed to Laguna de Cuicocha, then Otavalo. On the way there, we stopped at a vista point. It was simply breathtaking!
After about 3 hours of driving, we finally arrived at Laguna de Cuicocha. Like I said above it is a lake that has formed in the crater of a volcano. There is a lovely visitor's center there and an opportunity to take a coat ride to the other side of this island. There the boat stops and the bubbles come up to the surface. Our guide explained that those bubbles are the volcanic gases from the volcano.
Here we are on the boat!
Here we are on the boat!Following this tour, we stopped at the snack bar and got canelazo (cinnamon tea) with empanadas with cheese inside. They were delicious. We reboarded the bus for the 1/2 drive back to Otavalo (we had passed through Otavalo on the way to the lake) for shopping. This town has a huge market each Saturday were people from the surrounding areas bring their handicrafts to sell. There is also a large Farmer's Market type area where people sell fruits, vegetables, chickens, meat, etc.
We had about 2 hours at the market to shop til we dropped! Laurie and I bought lots of stuff to bring back to St. Matthias to sell - July 17-18 will be the mission co-op weekend where we will share our experiences from the trip and offer these items for sale (we will send the money back to the Working Boys Center and Casa Damien to help support them).
The Otavelenos have a distinct style of dress. The women waer black skirts, with white cloth underneath. The have these beautiful embroidered blouses, then they wear blue, black or white pieces of cloth draped over one shoulder and tied under the other arm. Sometimes, the women will have a piece of cloth on top of their head as a kind of make-shift sun visor. I asked one woman if I could take her picture, but she refused. I sneakily took these photos, trying to capture the feeling at the market.
We met back at the bus at 4:30 pm to begin our journey back home. We got back around 6:15pm. Dinner was at 7:15 pm. When Madre Miguel and Padre Juan arrived, Laurie asked them to join us for our meeting after dinner. They gratefully accepted. During the meeting, we presented them with the prayer scarves that Laurie had crocheted for them. We also expressed our gratutude to them for sharing their home with us and welcoming us to share this wonderful experience.
Today, we are going to Mitad del Mundo (the Middle of the World) -the more touristy museum (the other day we went to the indigenous museum). We will stop at the Mall on the way back and pick up some hot dogs and buns and things to grill for our Fourth of July celebration.
We leave tonight for the airport at 9pm. I am feeling anxious to get home, but sad to leave this beautiful country and people.
Friday - July 2nd - La Marin
Hi There! I have been getting a little behind in posting - so sorry about that. It's hard to find the time here to post. So here's what we did on Friday...
On Friday - our group was split into 3 parts for different activities. Steve, Sue, Alex, Chris and Katerina stayed here to conduct a soccer clinic for the boys and girls. Vivian and Katy stayed behind to help Maggie, one of the long term volunteers. Maggie and her husband Mike have been here for 3 years teaching, they are getting ready to go home. Vivian and Katy were helping them laminate some posters for an anti-bullying campaign that they have started.
Maria, Fr. John, Laurie, Lauren, Victorina and I took the city bus to the downtown center, La Marin to work. When we arrived, Roberto who is in charge of maintenance wanted to watch the Brazil v. Netherlands world cup game. Brazil lost (sad face)!
After the game was over, Roberto took us into the kitchen to clean. There is a large pantry, with several 50 pound sacks of rice, flour and sugar stacked on several sets of metal shelves. There were also a large industrial sized refrigerator. Laurie cleaned that. The rest of us scrubbed down the metal shelves, while Lauren and Victorina scrubbed down a set of wire racks. It took about an hour to complete the work and Roberto was working right along with us directing us and lending moral support! This is the same guy that the adults worked with the other day - he was a difficult task master and earned the nickname "Kitchen Nazi".
By about 12noon, we were free. I have been looking for a map of Quito to bring home with me. So we decided to walk to a few shops to see if we could find one to buy, unfortunately, we didn't have any luck. We did go to a panaderia (bakery) for snacks. Victorina, Lauren and I each got a drinkable yoghurt (my new favorite snack along with pan de yucca). Victorina got an Inca Cola, and I got this yummy pineapple pastry. My yoghurt and pastry was $1. We decided to head back to the center then, so walked to the bus stop to wait for the bus. The ride was very long, about 1.5 hours, but we got to see parts of the city that we hadn't seen before.
When we got back, Maria, Laurie and I went to lunch at the Cafe. The rest of the afternoon was relaxing, just kind of hanging out... some took a nap.
At 5:00pm we went up the hill for the 6th grade graduation at the Center. It was a lovely occasion. I was so impressed by the children, some of whom memorized and delivered a speech to the audience. It is a custom here to wear capes instead of gowns for graduation, so that was kind of cool to see too!
On Friday - our group was split into 3 parts for different activities. Steve, Sue, Alex, Chris and Katerina stayed here to conduct a soccer clinic for the boys and girls. Vivian and Katy stayed behind to help Maggie, one of the long term volunteers. Maggie and her husband Mike have been here for 3 years teaching, they are getting ready to go home. Vivian and Katy were helping them laminate some posters for an anti-bullying campaign that they have started.
Maria, Fr. John, Laurie, Lauren, Victorina and I took the city bus to the downtown center, La Marin to work. When we arrived, Roberto who is in charge of maintenance wanted to watch the Brazil v. Netherlands world cup game. Brazil lost (sad face)!
After the game was over, Roberto took us into the kitchen to clean. There is a large pantry, with several 50 pound sacks of rice, flour and sugar stacked on several sets of metal shelves. There were also a large industrial sized refrigerator. Laurie cleaned that. The rest of us scrubbed down the metal shelves, while Lauren and Victorina scrubbed down a set of wire racks. It took about an hour to complete the work and Roberto was working right along with us directing us and lending moral support! This is the same guy that the adults worked with the other day - he was a difficult task master and earned the nickname "Kitchen Nazi".
By about 12noon, we were free. I have been looking for a map of Quito to bring home with me. So we decided to walk to a few shops to see if we could find one to buy, unfortunately, we didn't have any luck. We did go to a panaderia (bakery) for snacks. Victorina, Lauren and I each got a drinkable yoghurt (my new favorite snack along with pan de yucca). Victorina got an Inca Cola, and I got this yummy pineapple pastry. My yoghurt and pastry was $1. We decided to head back to the center then, so walked to the bus stop to wait for the bus. The ride was very long, about 1.5 hours, but we got to see parts of the city that we hadn't seen before.
When we got back, Maria, Laurie and I went to lunch at the Cafe. The rest of the afternoon was relaxing, just kind of hanging out... some took a nap.
At 5:00pm we went up the hill for the 6th grade graduation at the Center. It was a lovely occasion. I was so impressed by the children, some of whom memorized and delivered a speech to the audience. It is a custom here to wear capes instead of gowns for graduation, so that was kind of cool to see too!
This photo is of Miguel (one of the Jersey Boys) and a little boy from the Center, during graduation. Before graduation began, Miguel had been playing with him, I guess he got all tuckered out and fell asleep. I just thought the scene was so beautiful, so had to take a photo.
Before dinner some of the teens and I played a game called Catch Phrase. It's a great game, sort of like charades but only with words. The game consists of an electronic device where a phrase or saying pops up on the screen. If it's your turn, you have to describe the word of phrase to the others without actually using any of the words that appear. It's a lot of fun!
We went to bed early because we were heading to Guayaquil really early the next morning.
Friday, July 2, 2010
Guayaquil - July 1st
Today we left early and flew to Guayaquil which is closer to the coast and is the major shipping port for Ecuador. Our flight arrived at about 9am. Sister Annie Credidio was there with open arms (literally!) to meet us. She greeted us all with hugs and warm smiles. We piled into her car and a van that Casa Damien uses to go tour Casa Damien and Nuevo Mundo school.
The dirve to Casa Damien was short - about 10 minutes. Immediately surrounding the airport are lots of car dealerships, hotels and generally it is much more affluent looking, however, the furtr you get from the airport, the more the poverty shows through. The residential clinic she runs is located in a bad part of town so there is a gate and a security guard, complete with bullet-proof vest.
First we visited with a women patients. They welcomed us into their home, we sat in the living room and everyone introduced themselves to each other. One women gave a very moving speech, welcoming us to Ecuador, blessing us for the work that we are doing. The teens shared some of the things that they are enjoying about the trip. Next, they took us into their rooms, each woman had set up a little shop in their rooms with handicrafts that they had made. Everyone purchased something to support the women. One woman, Mercedes, wanted to sing a song for us - it was a beautiful song which spoke of the dignity, and liberty of Guayaquil.
Next we visited with the men. They had created beautiful hammocks which several of us bought. They were so sweet to us. One man made a speech and welcomed us to his home -he said that his home is our home. Another man talked directly to the teens and shared his wisdom with them: look towards to future, get a good education, etc. Very lovely.
We visited another room which housed 4 men, all over 90 years old.
Next, Annie ushered us into the art room where we had lunch. We had cookies and chips, then potato pancakes with cheese (called Llapingauchos, in Ecuador). Then we had pan de yucca, which was delicious and some little empanadas, some had meat inside, some cheese. They were great. We also had fresh, drinkable yoghurt.
When we finished our lunch, we took a drive through the town of Duran. It is across the river from Guayaquil and is a very poor area. There are almost no paved roads, the houses are made of cane or bamboo, and most of Annie's patients come from this area.
Next our drivers took us to the Iguana Park, downtown. They had iguana's everywhere! There were also turtles and squirells gallore. It was a wonderful park with lots of families and locals enjoying the scenery.
We had to cut our visit short because we had to get back to the airport. We arrived, I went to check everyone in and there was a slight problem; for some reason, the airline didn;t have a return ticket for Vivian! We had to buy one, then I will take it up with the travel agent when we return home. The flight home was totally uneventful. We got home in plenty of time for dinner, which was nice.
The dirve to Casa Damien was short - about 10 minutes. Immediately surrounding the airport are lots of car dealerships, hotels and generally it is much more affluent looking, however, the furtr you get from the airport, the more the poverty shows through. The residential clinic she runs is located in a bad part of town so there is a gate and a security guard, complete with bullet-proof vest.
Upon arrival, we greeted the people sitting at the gate with hugs. Annie showed us into her office to leave our stuff. She then told us a little about Hansen's Disease (formerlly known as leposy - the term is no longer used because of the stigma attached to it). The disease is bactrial in nature and is not contagious. One does not contract the disease by hugging or even kissing. The Foundation was established to provide dignity to people living with this disease as they are often shunned by their families. There are about 40 patients there. Just the day before, one of the patients died, so Annie explained that folks were a little sad about that. She said that our visit would raise the spirits of the patients.
Next we visited with the men. They had created beautiful hammocks which several of us bought. They were so sweet to us. One man made a speech and welcomed us to his home -he said that his home is our home. Another man talked directly to the teens and shared his wisdom with them: look towards to future, get a good education, etc. Very lovely.
We visited another room which housed 4 men, all over 90 years old.
When we finished our lunch, we took a drive through the town of Duran. It is across the river from Guayaquil and is a very poor area. There are almost no paved roads, the houses are made of cane or bamboo, and most of Annie's patients come from this area.
Following this, we visited Nuevo Mundo school. This is a school which serves two populations. Children from wealthier families who pay tuition send their children in the morning, then children of poorer families attend in the afternoon. The school is beautiful.
We had to cut our visit short because we had to get back to the airport. We arrived, I went to check everyone in and there was a slight problem; for some reason, the airline didn;t have a return ticket for Vivian! We had to buy one, then I will take it up with the travel agent when we return home. The flight home was totally uneventful. We got home in plenty of time for dinner, which was nice.
City Tour - June 30th
Today we went on a city tour of downtown Quito with the group from New Jersey. There are four groups here right now: Regis, an all boys school in New York, St. Peter's Prep, an all boys school in Jersey City (I've been calling them the "Jersey Boys"), GYM group from Wisconsin, and us. There are a lot of groups to coordinate, Madre Cindy is usually the group coordinator, but she's in the states raising money for the WBC. So, with all that is is totally understandable that there are some mix-ups that have been occuring. For example, this morning, we arrived to the Office to catch our bus. We all thought that the Jersey Boys were coming with us this morning, that Regis was staying here, and that the Wisconsin group would be going on the house visits with Marianna and Teresa on public transportation. However, the schedule they had was different. After about 45 minutes of negotiation and communication with La Marin, we figured things out. Wisconsin group would go with Marianna and Teresa on the public buses to visit houses. The Jersey Boys and us would go on the city tour with Marcia and Regis would stay here. Vincente drove us downtown in the small bus.
He took us directly to La Basilica del been Vota Nacional which is run by the Oblate's. We were able to view the sanctuary from the balcony. Our tour guide explained that the church is built in the Neo-Gothic style, but all the decorations inside are Ecuadorian in origin. There are isises and orchids in the rose window, and no gargoyles. The teens all wanted to climb to the top in the bell towers which they did. While they were doing that, the adults stayed on the third floor in the gift shop and observation room. We concluded our tour there and got back on the bus with Vincente.
He drove us to la Iglesia de la Compania de Jesus which is a Jesuit Church. This is where the Working Boys Center got started, in the attic. This church is gourgeous inside. It features 52 kilos of gold (120 pounds). They started building it in 1605 and it was completed in 1765. Besides the gold, is made of volcanic rock from Pichincha, wood from the cloud forests and Ecuadorian marble. It is Baroque architexture, rich people attended the church, but it was largely built by Ecuadorians. We were not allowed to take photos inside because a few years ago the Church was robbed, the thiefs got away with a 5 ft. tall solid gold monstance. They were caught, but the monstrance had already melted down. They found out that the thieves had visited the Church and had taken photos of security, etc. before planning the robbery, hence, no photos are allowed.
The first Ecuadorian saint, Marianna de Jesus lived from 1618-1645, was declared a saint in 1950. She is entombed in the altar. During her life, Quito had many earthquakes and pestilance. She prayed that the city would be relieved and she offered her life to God. When she returned home, she got sick and died, but the pestilance was lestend and the city prospered.
Our Lady of Sorrows is the patron of the Jesuits in Ecuador. There is a picture of her hanging behind the altar. In 1960-something, some boys were in the church and they saw the picture blinking at them for 15 minutes!
After the tour of La Compania, we took a walk through La Plaza de la Independencia. The Presidential Palace fronts the plaza.
There was a protest going on, complete with police in riot gear. We walked through and then on to El Centro del Muchacho Trabajador in La Marin. They served us lunch, then we reboarded the small CMT bus and came home.
At CMT #2, Rodolfo put us to work. Some of the group were in charge of making some posters for the school. The rest of the group were give the task of painting some classrooms. When we had finished, we attended the Kindergarten graduation which was VERY cute. Each of the classes performed a little dance or routine of some sort.
He drove us to la Iglesia de la Compania de Jesus which is a Jesuit Church. This is where the Working Boys Center got started, in the attic. This church is gourgeous inside. It features 52 kilos of gold (120 pounds). They started building it in 1605 and it was completed in 1765. Besides the gold, is made of volcanic rock from Pichincha, wood from the cloud forests and Ecuadorian marble. It is Baroque architexture, rich people attended the church, but it was largely built by Ecuadorians. We were not allowed to take photos inside because a few years ago the Church was robbed, the thiefs got away with a 5 ft. tall solid gold monstance. They were caught, but the monstrance had already melted down. They found out that the thieves had visited the Church and had taken photos of security, etc. before planning the robbery, hence, no photos are allowed.
The first Ecuadorian saint, Marianna de Jesus lived from 1618-1645, was declared a saint in 1950. She is entombed in the altar. During her life, Quito had many earthquakes and pestilance. She prayed that the city would be relieved and she offered her life to God. When she returned home, she got sick and died, but the pestilance was lestend and the city prospered.
Our Lady of Sorrows is the patron of the Jesuits in Ecuador. There is a picture of her hanging behind the altar. In 1960-something, some boys were in the church and they saw the picture blinking at them for 15 minutes!
At CMT #2, Rodolfo put us to work. Some of the group were in charge of making some posters for the school. The rest of the group were give the task of painting some classrooms. When we had finished, we attended the Kindergarten graduation which was VERY cute. Each of the classes performed a little dance or routine of some sort.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Home Visits and WBC #2 Work Day
This morning, our group and the group from St. Peter's Prep in New Jersey (10 boys, plus leaders Ryan and Mora) left this morning on the large bus at 8:30 am to make home visits to some of the employees/volunteers and clients of the downtown center, la Marin (WBC #1). We drove through the city center, through the south side into a barrio. We arrived at about 10am. The bus dropped us off at the bottom of a hill. We still had to walk quite a ways up to reach the first home. The views were amazing!
We visited three homes. The first family was a wife and husband and his mother. Between them, they have 10 children who attend the Center. They had 2 pigs, and a couple of dogs. There house was just one room with a big bed and small kitchen area.
The next house was further up the hill. The lady who lives there has two children. Her house was little more than a shack. The entire family leaves home at 5am to go to the center and returns at 10pm. There are no paved roads, no street lights, no safety measures of any kind. She used to be able to cook inside, but someone borrowed her gas tank and has yet to return it. 
The house was neat and tidy, everything had it's place. Following these visits, we walked back down the hill (some of the kids ran down) and boarded the bus. Teresa, our guide, wanted to show us more houses - these folks are her neighbors and friends - but we were tired and didn't want to walk anymore. We drove into town and we stopped at a woman's house, she was a fish monger. She let us take a photo of her fish, but not her or her house! She had a lovely house, two rooms, but a great courtyard out front as well as a patio set up for her fish selling business. She also had a real bathroom which a lot of us used!
We continued our journey back to WBC #2 Cotocollao to eat lunch, then volunteer in the Center. Turns out they had jobs for us - painting some classrooms. We partnered again with the "Jersey Boys" to paint the two rooms. We met the Director of the Center, Marco Polo (yes, his name is really Marco Polo) who has worked her for 30 some years. When we had finished painting, he invited us to attend the Kindergarten graduation at 5pm which we did. It was so cute! Now it's down time until a slide show that Madre Miguel will show at 7:15pm, then dinner at 8:40 pm and off to bed. We have an early start tomorrow morning...and a walking tour of the city!Monday, June 28, 2010
Wachay Yasi & CMT #1 Work Day
Last night two new groups arrived - one from Wisconsin and one from New Jersey. We welcomed them and it will be fun to get to know them.
This morning began early - we were to meet Saskia (a BVM Sister who is an Ecuadorian and lives with Sister Luann) for a tour of Wachay Yasi at 8am. Turned out that she was running late and didn't arrive until about 9:30 am. We waited on the bigger CMT bus (the smaller one broke down) with o ur driver. When we finally left, it took us about 40 minutes to get to Wachay Yasi. The name means "House of Wisdom" in Quechua and it is a school for about 60 students from all over Ecuador.
There were children from 10 different cultures there, from Cotopaxi, Quito, Otavalo, etc. Saskia speaks English so was able to translate for the Director, Orieta. She showed us the garden with all the native plants. There were several different types of potatoes, several medicinal plants, and quinoa. All the gardening is totally organic, the theory is that chemicals hurt mother earth (pachamama) and our body's. They reject fast food and processed food. All the children are involved in the planting and harvesting of the food.
After the garden tour, the children gathered and performed some of their native dances for us. When they were finished, they invited us to dance with them! They also shared some jicama which us (which they called a potato, although it looked like a sweet potato, but tasted like jicama, only sweeter).
When we left, we went to WBC #1 La Marin to attend Mass at 12 noon, eat lunch and then do some work. Mass was lovely, we were able to sit with the little children today. They were so sweet, hugging us and holding our hands. After Mass, we were told to go to the library for lunch. They had cheese, ham, bread for sandwiches, chips and coca-cola and bottled waters for us.
After lunch, we were broken into two groups for work. Maria, Fr. John, Laurie, Steve and Sue went upstairs to clean the walls of the kitchen. Lauren, Victorina, Chris, Alex, Vivian, Katy Katerina and I went downstairs into the arts & crafts room to paint the window frames.
We finished sooner than they had expected and they were not ready to take us back yet. So Marcia, a teacher from the Center took the bus back with us to make sure that we got home safely. It was quite an adventure! We had to take the yellow "Metro" bus to a transfer station. Then we got off and transfered to a blue regional bus back to CMT #2. We finally got back here at about 4:45 pm. It was a long day!
Mall - Last Night
Last night we all went to the Condado Mall for dinner. It was a typical over priced American style mall. We did have pretty good food which was not too expensive. They had a mini soccer stadium in the middle of the mall, complete with sports announcer.
Maria and I went into a store called, Todo Hogar. It was a cross between a Bed, Bath and Beyond and Best Buy. She was buying just a few items and paying with cash. The cashier asked for her cell phone number, which he inputted into the computer. It wasn;t accepted. I explained that we don't live here in Ecuador, that we are from los Estados Unidos. He then asked for her passport number, which he inputted. He couldn't complete the transaction until he had inputted the correct information. He then asked for her address, but put that she lives in Quito! He was finally able to complete the transaction and print out the receipts. It was the funniest thing...
Monday, a day of dancing!
Its Monday evening here at the Center, and I am blessed to be using Sabrina's computer. Every day that we spend here in Ecuador is better than the previous one. Yesterday, we really enjoyed the teamwork, the people and being able to work with our hands at the minga. The church that we worked on was up high in the mountains, and we could definitely feel it. But the views from there were just spectacular. Karl would have loved it!
Katy and I took a break and went to Mass with the people who came to the church. We were delighted that they handed out a worship aide that had the responses in Spanish, so that we could participate. The sisters were very welcoming. The children who sat around us smiled at us and had the most beautiful faces and dark eyes.
Katy did a great job helping to shovel lots of dirt into wheelbarrows. The adults took turns moving the wheelbarrows up and over the hill. I haven't had a "runner's high" in decaades. Because of the altitude, it felt like we were floating in the air!
For lunch we had the most delicious balony sandwiches that we have ever tasted! We returned to the Center by bus, which we all enjoyed very much. Now I understand why dogs like to hang out of windows and watch the world speed by!
Today we visited an amazing school for indiginous where we walked in a garden planted with native plants, and enjoyed native dances prepared by the children. There were costumes, and a pot of fire and circle dances. In the end, we were all on our feet, invited into the circle, held by the small hands of the children. A real highlight.
We spent the afternoon painting windows at the second Center. So Katy hasn't gotten to paint a mural, but she did get very dirty and loved it. On the bus ride home we were treated to rap music and dancing by two young people who performed in the asile of the bus. Their music came from what looked like a home made ihome.
Being here continues to be a blessing. Today, the adults were reflecting on how lucky we are to have this opportunity.
Katy and I took a break and went to Mass with the people who came to the church. We were delighted that they handed out a worship aide that had the responses in Spanish, so that we could participate. The sisters were very welcoming. The children who sat around us smiled at us and had the most beautiful faces and dark eyes.
Katy did a great job helping to shovel lots of dirt into wheelbarrows. The adults took turns moving the wheelbarrows up and over the hill. I haven't had a "runner's high" in decaades. Because of the altitude, it felt like we were floating in the air!
For lunch we had the most delicious balony sandwiches that we have ever tasted! We returned to the Center by bus, which we all enjoyed very much. Now I understand why dogs like to hang out of windows and watch the world speed by!
Today we visited an amazing school for indiginous where we walked in a garden planted with native plants, and enjoyed native dances prepared by the children. There were costumes, and a pot of fire and circle dances. In the end, we were all on our feet, invited into the circle, held by the small hands of the children. A real highlight.
We spent the afternoon painting windows at the second Center. So Katy hasn't gotten to paint a mural, but she did get very dirty and loved it. On the bus ride home we were treated to rap music and dancing by two young people who performed in the asile of the bus. Their music came from what looked like a home made ihome.
Being here continues to be a blessing. Today, the adults were reflecting on how lucky we are to have this opportunity.
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Minga & the Mall
We took a 45 minute bus ride into the hills - into a neighborhood called Pusili. The Church there is run by Salesians. The nuns have a school directly behind the Church building. The Church is called Iglesia Nuestra Senora del Ascension. The sisters are from Italy and very grateful that we were there to help.
Under Felipe's guidance, our group had two tasks. One: move a large pile of dirt from the land below the church, to a space in front of the church. This involved loading the dirt into a wheelbarrow, then pushing it up a steep hill and dumping it in the appropriate spot. They then used the dirt to make concrete for a wall that they were building. Felipe and some of his men had already dug the trench for the fence columns, they were fabricating the rebar to act as support. Fr. John, Laurie, Vivian, Katy, Steve and Sue worked on that project. Two: On the other side of the Church building, Chris, Victorina, Alex, Maria, Lauren and I had the task of moving some rocks from the side of the building to a "gran montana" of piedras, a grand mountain of rocks. I had a little trouble intrepeting Felipe's instructions, at first, so unfortunately, we had to re-do some of what we did. In the end, we got it down and make quite a difference.
At 10 am the parish celebrated Mass. It was packed! All the neighborhood folks got together to attend. Several people from the barrio saw us working and came to help out. At one point Felipe came and asked how many were in our group. Later a lady (who was a neighbor, I think) came with bologna sandwiches (they call them sanduches here) and soda for us! A couple, Jesus and Ines were some of the folks that came out to help. I have never seen such a skinny man be so strong! We picked up a boulder that must have weighed 80 pounds and hefted it over his head and threw it at least 30 feet into the "gran montana". Ines struck up a conversation with me as soon as she arrived on the scene. They have 6 children, 4 jovenes (teenagers) and 2 ninos. (Later I met one nino, named Jason). Her husband builds houses for a living, she is a street vendor, selling soda and aqua frescas. They had a dog that was milling about the site as well, Max. He looked hungry and was very friendly. Jesus fed Max his whole sandwich, I have never seen a dog jump so high!
Chris and Alex were trying to break up the rocks (which were move like clumps of rocks cemented together, I think I was a former retaining wall) with a sledge hammer whose head kept falling off. Jesus noticed this, took it with him, came back a few minutes later with the handle whittled down, ready to piece it back together for us. He continued to break up the majority of the clumps so that we could move them to the "gran montana".
One the bus, I sat next to a lady named Olga who immediately started up a conversation with me. She was so sweet!
Once we returned to the Center, we showered and rested a bit. Then we walked to the Condado Mall to have dinner. The CMT is closed on Sunday's for family day so the only safe place to get food is the Mall. It's about 5 blocks away from the Center. It is very Americanized, complete with food court, Payless Shoe Source, McDonalds, Tomy Roma's and Lee Jeans store. Prices were more expensive then in the states. We noticed that most of the people there looked relatively affluent, but still I wondered how they were able to afford the goods being sold.
When we got back to the Center, we celebrated Mass at 6pm in the library. A new group from Wisconsin arrived last night, so there were here and greeted us. They joined us for Mass. For the homily, I asked everyone to share highlights, inspirations from their day.
Tomorrow we are going to Luann's
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Saturday in Ecuador
Its Saturday afternoon, and I am logging into facebook and the internet for the first time since our departure. We've been so busy, I've hardly had time to miss my electronics, but I do miss Karl and Kelsey. Katy is having a great time here in Quito, which means that I am having a great time also. Yesterday after Mass, several of the kids came right up to her and started asking questions...what is your name, how old are you....Katy drew them a picture of a cat, a chicken and a pig. Its amazing how well kids can communicate.
When Karl and Kelsey came to Ecuador 5 years ago, Kelsey painted a mural in the center....we found it in what is now a reading room, and took a picture. I've never been here, and yet, I recognize so many things from seeing the pictures. It feels new, yet familiar at the same time.
This morning we went by bus to the Equator...the center of the world....the bus ride through the streets was one of my favorite experiences. We sped past buildings, streets, businesses...even with limited Spanish its amazing how many signs you can read. We discovered that they do give change on the bus ( unlike in Washington DC!). Our bus fare was only 34 cents each way. On the way home, vendors walked through the bus selling wallets, ice cream, and other delicacies. It was fun to just sit and take it all in.
Living here at the WBC is wonderful. There are volunteers from all over the US, so there is always something going on. Right now, the world cup is blaring in the lounge, Katy is making a collage and the McCreddins are getting ready to give their soccer clinic. Love to all, Vivian
When Karl and Kelsey came to Ecuador 5 years ago, Kelsey painted a mural in the center....we found it in what is now a reading room, and took a picture. I've never been here, and yet, I recognize so many things from seeing the pictures. It feels new, yet familiar at the same time.
This morning we went by bus to the Equator...the center of the world....the bus ride through the streets was one of my favorite experiences. We sped past buildings, streets, businesses...even with limited Spanish its amazing how many signs you can read. We discovered that they do give change on the bus ( unlike in Washington DC!). Our bus fare was only 34 cents each way. On the way home, vendors walked through the bus selling wallets, ice cream, and other delicacies. It was fun to just sit and take it all in.
Living here at the WBC is wonderful. There are volunteers from all over the US, so there is always something going on. Right now, the world cup is blaring in the lounge, Katy is making a collage and the McCreddins are getting ready to give their soccer clinic. Love to all, Vivian
further reflections from yesterday...
At last night's meeting, I asked the group to share some of the highlights of the day with the group. What were the experiences that will stay with them? What are some things that touched their hearts? These are their responses: at Mass - the faces of the children, the way they were dressed and even though some were obviously very poor materially, they were not poor in spirit, they all were smiling and happy. The children's participation in mass, they brought up the gifts, without prompting or instruction from the teachers, the choir - the girl playing the drum. The shoe shine boys at Mass - that that is there work, they had their kits, hands and clothes were stained with polish, and they offered their shoe shine kits in the offertory procession. The hospitality of the people. At Center #2 following our tour, the teenagers stayed to play on the playground with some of the children. Mass was being celebrated at 4pm, their was a little boy whose job it was to walk around ringing a bell and usher people into Mass. The teens said that he kept trying to get them to go to Mass! Someone commented on the peacefulness and saint-like qualities of Padre Juan and Madre Miguel when we had met them at orientation. The conversations that are occurring despite the language barrier that exists. The experiences that we are having are just incredible and can't be described in words. One has to visit this place, this country and meet these people to understand what we are experiencing.
Friday, June 25, 2010
Tour Day
Today was a busy day. Below the Center, there is a panaderia (bakery). Steve and I ventured down
this morning for coffee and pan (bread). We bought 2 coffees, 3 pans, and 1 soda for $4.80.Everything was very delicious. While we were enjoying our sweets, Madre Miguel and Padre Juan
walked in, they welcomed us with hugs. While we were introducing ourselves and getting
acquintained, Victorina, Lauren and Katerina walked in. They were also welcomed. Madre Miguel
let us know that we would be meeting a little bit earlier than our planned 9:30 and asked that
we meet them in the library. I did my best to round up the group (Alex and Chris overslept a
bit) then we gathered in the main room. Miguel wanted to take our photo which we did then moved
to the library for our Orientation.
At the orientation, we learned a little more about the Center and it's volunteers. There are
young people here doing a year of student teaching or just volunteering, plus groups of
teenagers from all over the U.S. that have come to visit and help out. We are just one of the many groups to experience the care and compassion that this Center offers to the people of Ecuador.
The weather today started out nice, sunny, a few clouds. Now at 5pm, it's a little cooler, a little muggy and cloudy.
After Orientation, we met Vincente (our driver from last night) who took us to the downtown Center.
It took about 30-40 minutes to travel through the city, which just seems to go on and on, to get there. That center is much smaller than this one and no volunteers live there. We begin that tour by attending Mass. It is the end of the school year and the last school mass of the year. Mass was celebrated by Padre Juan but the 6th grade children had parts, all the readings, offertory procession, there was even a wonderful choir complete with girl drummer. Mass took place in a "multi-purpose" type room, all the decorations were made by the children.
During Mass, at the sign of peace, the children all came up to us to give us the sign of peace. They were practically climbing over each other to touch us, give us hugs and hold our hands. It was so touching! Following Mass, we meet our tour guide, Miriam who showed us all around the Center #1. She spoke almost no English so I was translator for the group. It was difficult, but I am very proud of myself for being able to communicate well enough to understand what she was saying and being able to tell the group.
She has been at the Center for 22 years, first she was a student, her brothers were shoe shine boys, she was educated there and now directs the Center. The Center offers the classical education for students, mathematics, reading, etc, but also art, religion, health, music, library. They have a day care center for little ones, plus programs for adults as well.
When the tour was over, Vincente, our driver was there to meet us. We drove back to WBC #2 and had a little bit of free time. It was about lunch time so we went to the restuarant downstairs. This was my lunch: stewed chicken, rice, cream of spinach soup, a roll and a drink, all for $1.85.
At 2:30 we met Rodolfo and his wife Maria who gave us a tour of WBC #2 (where we are living). We started with the Beauty Shop and learned that young girls (12 and up) begin their training for 3 years, once completed, they can work in the Beauty Shop and earn a "titulo" a degree which they can use to secure employment throughout the city. Next was the restaurant, where we had eaten lunch, then the cafe, which we had frequented already too! The last place was the "gift store". They have toys "dedactilos" basically toys with moving parts that are made in the Center's carpentry workshop. They have furniture that is also made there, plus T-Shirts, CD's and other items made by the Center's participants. In the sewing workshop, the women were making men's Abercombrie & Fitch shirts! Rodolfo said that the WBC got a contract from them, they were supplied with the material and patterns. I asked about the working hours of the women - Ecuador has a 40 hour week, 8 hour day, legislated by the government. Someone else asked how much they get paid per shirt - Rodolfo said he wasn't sure, but that they got paid a set amount for the "contract", not a per shirt rate.
Our tour ended at 4pm and with an invitation to join the padres of the center vs. the volunteers in a pick up soccer game tomorrow at 3pm!
We had free time then until 7:30 pm when we would meet with the group to share about our experiences and pray together. (Dinner was at 8:40 pm). Everyone did different things, I relaxed in the living room, Chris and Alex played cards until they were inlisted to help in the kitchen preparing dinner. Katerina, Lauren and Victorina went shopping in the store down below.
8:40 was dinner - tuna, noodle and cheese cassarole, peas, and califlower. oh, and some amazing soup - sort of a tomato based spicy soup. Not sure what was in it, but it was delicious. Here, people put popcorn in their soup, that was actually very good too, provided some texture.
After dinner - bed! I slept like a log. Tomorrow - we are going to the Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World).
Day One - the Adventure Begins
Day one, the adventure begins
Even though I am exhausted (that is really an understatement), I am so excited about the trip and beginning our adventure, that, like clockwork, my eyes opened at 6:30 am local time and there was no thought of going back to sleep. I prompted opened my curtains to reveal the city and the sunrise. It’s a beautiful day, clear blue skies, a few puffy white clouds, and a little haze, but overall, wonderful. My room faces a busy street so throughout the night there were cars passing by. This morning there are buses (there are blue Metrobuses, and yellow buses) filled with people on their way to work or school, many taxis transporting folks, I even saw a pickup truck full, stop in front of the Center and what looked like a mom and her two children got out and walked into the Center’s grounds. Maybe we will meet them later?
Directly across the street from my room is a kennel/vet for dogs and cats: “Hospendaje Canino y Felino”. That explains the dogs barking throughout the night.
I also saw these two stray dogs wandering the streets this morning. There’s also an auto shop which hasn’t opened yet this morning. Right outside my window is a sign “Mini Mall CMT Centro del Muchacho Trabajor” that has signs for the stores that the Center runs...Muebles y Mas (furniture and more), Panaderia y Pasteleria (bakery), Mi Olla Quitena (my Quiteno cooking pot), the restaurant, Las Estilistas ( the beauty shop), and Taller de Confecciones (workshops, I think). I can’t wait to check out these stores more.
Even though I am exhausted (that is really an understatement), I am so excited about the trip and beginning our adventure, that, like clockwork, my eyes opened at 6:30 am local time and there was no thought of going back to sleep. I prompted opened my curtains to reveal the city and the sunrise. It’s a beautiful day, clear blue skies, a few puffy white clouds, and a little haze, but overall, wonderful. My room faces a busy street so throughout the night there were cars passing by. This morning there are buses (there are blue Metrobuses, and yellow buses) filled with people on their way to work or school, many taxis transporting folks, I even saw a pickup truck full, stop in front of the Center and what looked like a mom and her two children got out and walked into the Center’s grounds. Maybe we will meet them later?
I also saw these two stray dogs wandering the streets this morning. There’s also an auto shop which hasn’t opened yet this morning. Right outside my window is a sign “Mini Mall CMT Centro del Muchacho Trabajor” that has signs for the stores that the Center runs...Muebles y Mas (furniture and more), Panaderia y Pasteleria (bakery), Mi Olla Quitena (my Quiteno cooking pot), the restaurant, Las Estilistas ( the beauty shop), and Taller de Confecciones (workshops, I think). I can’t wait to check out these stores more.
Travel Day - Thursday, June 24th
Travel day – Thursday, June 24th
I arrived to the San Francisco International Airport at 5:50 am – early, which is totally typical me. Laurne and Katerina were the next to arrive, then Fr. John, Maria, Laurie and Victorina came together, then Karl, Vivian, Kelsey and Katy (Karl and Kelsey didn’t travel with us, but brought Vivian and Katy to the airport to say “vaya con dios” to them). The McCreddin family was the next to arrive, then Alex and Anne. Anne was originally going to go on the trip with us, but because of her mother’s recent fall and surgery, she had to sent Alex on his own.
We stood in line to check in which took quite some time, Victorina’s bag exceeded the weight limit so she had to redistribute some of her stuff, Lauren helped and graciously volunteered to help pack some of her stuff in her bag. I think we didn’t even arrive to our gate until about 7:30 – which was fine because our flight didn’t leave until 8:35. We had time to buy breakfast, coffee, snacks, magazines, use the restrooms, etc. before boarding. Our flight to Atlanta took off on time. Some of the group switched seats with others so that all the teenagers could set together, and those who wanted aisle seats could have them.
Flying over the U.S., I was struck by the beauty of the scenery (I had a window seat). It was an exceptionally clear day, very few clouds, and especially the Rockies Mountains, the quilt like patch work of the fields and neighborhood etched out of forest, wooded areas and desert.
We landed in Atlanta on-time as well to concourse A. We had to find our way Concourse T – took a train/tram thing and walked a little ways. When we arrived to our gate, we were all hungry and a little tired. Everyone split up to find food, bathrooms, etc. We thought we had about an hour before the plane would begin boarding, but they began boarding really early. Lauren and Victorina were missing, I called Victorina to find out where they were - they had ordered food and headed back to the gate right away. Alex, Katerina and Chris had also taken a walk, they made it back to the gate in plenty of time as well.
The plane from Atlanta to Quito was much smaller, less leg room, more people, and children, several crying toddlers sitting in the rows behind the row that Fr. John, Maria and I were sharing. We all felt so back for the poor mother, but these children didn’t not stop crying/screaming for the entire 4.5 hour flight!
Flying over Panama was amazing – it was nighttime so I could see the east side and west side of the isthmas, where the country began and ended. It was very beautiful.
Upon arrival in Quito, the first thing I noticed was the pattern that the lights made on the outskirts of the city. There were rows of lights in block-type patterns, not clumps of lights as when flying over other cities. I tried to photograph this, but since it was dark, the lights couldn’t be seen. To me it seemed very unusual. When we got closer to landing, I saw a Tony Roma’s!
Upon arrival at the airport, at 11 pm, local time (which is 1am San Francisco time – and I’ve been awake since 4am this morning!) offboarding the plane went smoothly, although as soon as we were walking to Immigration, I began feeling the effects of the altitude. We are about 9000 ft above sea level, breathing is more labored and I was feeling out of breath. I am ok now, but definatley have to take it easy until my body acclimates to this altitude.
Going through immigration was a breeze, Customs was fine too – they just scanned all our bags. This wonderful man, a Porter, about 4ft tall, came over to me and asked me if I needed help with my luggage. I gratefully accepted the help and Steve thought I should tip him, which we did. Greta and Taylor (two volunteers from the Center) met us at the airport. Taylor is from Wisconsin and has been here since last August, Greta is from Hamburg, Germany. Vincenzo drove us to the WBC along with his wife, Laura. There were several men outside by the bus who helped load our luggage into the bus. Greta mentioned that they do this for groups and expect to be tipped. We all gave them a little money – a dollar or two. We all got loaded in and drove about 10 minutes to the Center, El Centro del Muchacho Trabajor. Driving through the city, everything was closed down for the night, metal doors were pulled shut, people were home in bed. To me, the neighborhood looked very much like the garment district in Downtown Los Angeles. We saw a Domino’s Pizza, KFC, and something that looked vaguely like an In-n-Out Burger, although it was called something different. We arrived to the Center, unloaded and got a brief orientation (with a more substantial orientation to follow tomorrow morning at 9:30 am). We got all our luggage out of the bus, into the Center. Took a brief tour of the kitchen and communal dining area. All the volunteers are free to fix their own breakfast in the morning, there’s fresh fruit, cereal and milk available. Then we were shown to our room. Here’s mine...
There is actually another twin bed behind where I was standing, and a restroom. More tomorrow.
I arrived to the San Francisco International Airport at 5:50 am – early, which is totally typical me. Laurne and Katerina were the next to arrive, then Fr. John, Maria, Laurie and Victorina came together, then Karl, Vivian, Kelsey and Katy (Karl and Kelsey didn’t travel with us, but brought Vivian and Katy to the airport to say “vaya con dios” to them). The McCreddin family was the next to arrive, then Alex and Anne. Anne was originally going to go on the trip with us, but because of her mother’s recent fall and surgery, she had to sent Alex on his own.
Flying over the U.S., I was struck by the beauty of the scenery (I had a window seat). It was an exceptionally clear day, very few clouds, and especially the Rockies Mountains, the quilt like patch work of the fields and neighborhood etched out of forest, wooded areas and desert.
Flying over Panama was amazing – it was nighttime so I could see the east side and west side of the isthmas, where the country began and ended. It was very beautiful.
Upon arrival in Quito, the first thing I noticed was the pattern that the lights made on the outskirts of the city. There were rows of lights in block-type patterns, not clumps of lights as when flying over other cities. I tried to photograph this, but since it was dark, the lights couldn’t be seen. To me it seemed very unusual. When we got closer to landing, I saw a Tony Roma’s!
Going through immigration was a breeze, Customs was fine too – they just scanned all our bags. This wonderful man, a Porter, about 4ft tall, came over to me and asked me if I needed help with my luggage. I gratefully accepted the help and Steve thought I should tip him, which we did. Greta and Taylor (two volunteers from the Center) met us at the airport. Taylor is from Wisconsin and has been here since last August, Greta is from Hamburg, Germany. Vincenzo drove us to the WBC along with his wife, Laura. There were several men outside by the bus who helped load our luggage into the bus. Greta mentioned that they do this for groups and expect to be tipped. We all gave them a little money – a dollar or two. We all got loaded in and drove about 10 minutes to the Center, El Centro del Muchacho Trabajor. Driving through the city, everything was closed down for the night, metal doors were pulled shut, people were home in bed. To me, the neighborhood looked very much like the garment district in Downtown Los Angeles. We saw a Domino’s Pizza, KFC, and something that looked vaguely like an In-n-Out Burger, although it was called something different. We arrived to the Center, unloaded and got a brief orientation (with a more substantial orientation to follow tomorrow morning at 9:30 am). We got all our luggage out of the bus, into the Center. Took a brief tour of the kitchen and communal dining area. All the volunteers are free to fix their own breakfast in the morning, there’s fresh fruit, cereal and milk available. Then we were shown to our room. Here’s mine...
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