Guatemala - 9 months later

Aaron and I had the privilege to visit Guatemala June 30-July 6. We were able to visit the same area that we visited in October. During this trip Briggs was able to accompany us. Let me begin by saying that I was at first very resistant to going. April and Kory heard me complain and vent my fears about going to another country with a 5 year old more than once... but praise God that my husband wouldn't take "no" for an answer. I'm thankful for his discernment from the Lord, and his courage to tell me we were all going - even when I fought it so much! God is just so truly indescribable in His love for us, and in the grace and mercy He shows us. I'm forever grateful for this trip - for the experience of seeing my son interact with the kids of Pacux, Guatemala and for so much more!

This particular trip was a little easier for me than I expected, simply because I had been there before and knew what to expect. I knew how long the plane ride took, I knew how long we would have to wait in the mall for the money to be exchanged, I knew how long the bus would wind its way up the mountain before we finally got to the hotel in Rabinal - and I knew what to expect from the rooms we stayed in and the food we would eat. These simple things allowed me to truly "relax" a little, even though I was totally stressing about Briggs being in a foreign country. As you will be able to see by the pics, Briggs should have been the least of my worries! Everyone talks about how resilient kids are and how adaptable they are. This trip was evidence of that for me. My quiet, shy son sort of came out of his shell around many of the Guatemalan kids. He was still a little hesitant around the girls, but I think that's to be expected of a 5 year old boy!

Thanks to those of you who prayed for us while we were there. I can't begin to even put into words the love we have for each of you! We have also come to love Guatemala! God is at work there, even among the people who live in the middle of the dump. To summarize (from the words of one of my favorite songs): "Glory to God, glory to God, glory to God forever. Take my life and let it be all for You and for Your glory. Take my life and let it be Yours."

While we were walking around this village, I looked over & this guy was wearing a shirt that said, "aaron stinks." I HAD to have a picture!