Hey everyone! It’s Isabella. Thank you for all the prayers, love, and support! Today was our last full day in country #1, and it was filled with tons of fun.
The day started bright and early with breakfast at the hotel. Usually, there are eggs, toast, coffee, and some kind of protein and fruit. When we first got here, there were actually black beans served with breakfast too—which happened to be my favorite!
At home, I don’t like unsweetened coffee, but for some reason, the coffee here is amazing with or without milk and sugar. I’m definitely bringing some coffee beans home.
We headed out on the bus around 9 a.m. and drove two hours to the side of a volcano. From there, we rode horses up to a lookout point where we shared pizza that was cooked on the rocks of the volcano! It was like flatbread—and so, so amazing. There was also a gift shop with tons of cool jewelry made from lava. Apparently, in 2010 there was an eruption, and they decided to make jewelry from it.
On our way back, we stopped at an overlook above the city. There’s a giant cross in front of the lookout point. It’s so beautiful. I think it’s really interesting that most of the surrounding communities are strongly influenced by Catholicism. I love that the people here are already aware of God and already respect the Bible as the Word of God.
We spent the afternoon exploring the city and markets and picking up souvenirs. The exchange rate of USD to the local currency is 1:7, so there’s a little math involved everywhere we go—but it also makes it easier to get good quality items. I ended up getting coffee beans, chocolate, and some jewelry.
We ended the night with some team bonding at the Starbucks, which has a huge garden inside. This city actually reminds me a little of Carmel, California (near Monterey) because of all the little alleyways and courtyards.
Tomorrow, we leave bright and early at 3:00 a.m. for our flight to country #2, where we’ll continue distributing water filters and sharing the Gospel. I can’t wait to share all the amazing things God has done—and I’m so excited to see what more He will orchestrate!
Many blessings,
Isabella
Bella,
What an amazing journey you’ve had so far! I am excited everyone enjoyed the volcano and all of the touristy things you got to do on your last day there. I’m sure you’ve worked hard serving others and it’s great that you got a chance to do something fun together. I can’t wait to hear more about the next leg of your journey….
Love, Mama
Jett,
What an amazing journey you’ have been a part of. The volcano ride on horseback sounds so fun and that you had an opportunity to visit some of the tourist areas even a Starbucks your last day in Guatamala. Nice to hear you have been able to enjoy the community.
My heart is so full hearing about how you are serving others and sharing the love of Christ.
This trip will create memories & bonds with
your new friends forever.
We miss you
Love you
Mimi
Grace,
Wow ! I never thought I would see you on a horse with a smile on your face. It has been fun reading about your time in Guatemala and looking at the pictures. I’ll keep praying for God’s protection and direction as your minister to His people.
Love you,
Grandma