Safe Arrival

We arrived safely in Guatemala about 9:30 last night (mountain time). Passing through customs went smoothly, although instead of a typical greeting with "holas" and smiles, we were greeted by individuals wearing masks who thought that perhaps we were bringing in swine flu. Yet, overall I was surprised with what ease we passed through our security checkpoint. When they asked us if we had medication in our luggage they only seemed concerned about vitamins... interesting.

Our driver Eric picked us up at the airport in a rather interesting van - the back flew open on our way to our destination for the evening. I think all of us were glad he was the one driving considering that there are no driving lanes here in Guatemala City. Another driver, Byron, drove all of our checked luggage - this was quite the sight to see as the weight of our bags literally bottomed out the van in the driveway of the retreat center we stayed at last night.

Showering this morning was another adventure. I (Elise) woke up this morning before the rest of the group and decided to shower with the soap that was in the bathroom. About halfway through my shower I realized that the "soap" wasn't lathering... turns out I was washing with antibacterial hand gel. Well, I figure the bugs won't get to me today.

Although we initially were exposed to a little of Guatemala last night, we could not experience the beauty of the landscape that surrounds us due to our late flight. At breakfast this morning, quite a few of the girls kept saying... "Wow, we're in Guatemala!!!" It's been quite the culture shock and we are already blown away by the beauty of the country and its people. Already this morning we've been busy taking pictures of the exotic flowers and the volcanoes in the distance... and this is just the beginning of our time here in Guatemala.

We will be leaving Guatemala City shortly to travel to Chiquimuilia for our first teaching session with some Guatemalan midwives. I am unsure of how much Internet access we will have in this area, but I will be sure to update all of you as soon as I can. Much love from Guatemala!