Reports Along the Way - Day 4

We are getting ready to head off to see a weaving presentation, tour some local murals, and watch a Mayan ball game.

The weather is beautiful here. We are awoken by the sounds of local birds and local dogs barking good morning to us each day.

Today was incredible. San Juan De Laguna was beaming in culture and heritage. San Juan is one of the poorest yet communities yet the most bountiful with culture and pride.

We saw murals that not only showed us the history of San Juan and Guatemala but also the importance of honoring your ancestors and continuing the Mayan tradition.

Our guide, Angelica, from ODIM was just such a loving and kind person. She greeted us all with a hug as if we have known each other for years.

The traditional ball game was incredible to watch. The ball itself looked like clay and rubber and weighed about 8 pounds, and the players bounced the ball against their hips and stomachs.

Half of the group visited a local artist gallery while the other half climbed to the top of the mountain, the face of Guatemala. It was quite a trek but the view from the top was amazing. Throughout the trek, mini shops were built into the mountainside. Apparently that began once Covid started because people were flocking to Guatemala, so that helped with the economy.

Tonight we go out to dinner and then play a board game and do a taste testing of various Guatemalan potato chips. The boys will rate them!

Tomorrow we begin our work with ODIM.