We're here!

Mary, Joel, Nela and I came down a few days early for a little "turismo" action.  Arriving in Guatemala City on Sunday, we headed to Antigua to spend a little time in this historic city.  On Monday we headed up Pacaya Volcano, one of four active volcanoes in Guatemala.  Although a strenuous trek up, it was a really interesting experience to be able to roast marshmallows over the heat from the lava---God's campfire.  You will never get to do that in the US!  Monday afternoon we moved on to Panajachel on beautiful Lake Atitlan.  Shortly after arriving we were in the infinity hot tub overlooking the lake in a downpouring rain.  Another interesting experience.  Tuesday was a day for relaxation with time spent around the pool followed by a little shopping in town.  We were able to find a restaurant overlooking the lake to have dinner and watch the sunset over the dormant volcanoes that surround the lake.  This morning we headed back to Guatemala City to meet up with Jack Baker, Dwight Miller and Denny Noh.  Denny is from Gloria Dei Lutheran in Houston and is serving as our leader for this trip.  Everyone was on time with the only hitch being that Jack & Dwight got hit up with a $100 charge to bring a wheelchair down that the medical team requested.  If there are any generous souls out there willing to donate toward this cost it would be greatly appreciated.  After a lunch at Pollo Comparo in the City, we headed on to our home for the coming days in Zacapa.  All settled into our hotel, we are about to have dinner; so end of blog until later!