Today, we woke up in Guatemala city.

I find myself repeating this statement over and over in my head, and frequently out loud as I struggle to deal with the wonder and shock I feel because of this reality.  We are in Guatemala…

This morning… we woke up…  in Guatemala.forgive me for seeming dramatic about this, but please also recognize how exciting this is for all of us, and how thankful, shocked, and disoriented we must feel as we try to ‘get used’ to that simple fact.

Today is our day of relaxation as the other members of our team are busy traveling to join us.  Kate Marshall, our resident American, was the first to join the boys of Atlantic as we flew out of the Detroit airport yesterday morning.  Late last night, Kevin Owen, our most famous friend from Ontario, joined the party here in Guatemala.  Most of us are staying with the Doirons and the others (Drew and Brady) are literally right next door at their neighbours house. Tonight the neighbours (Eddie, Michelle, and kids Michelle, Allie, and Eddie Jr.) had us over for a feast of ribs and chicken (we’re too spoiled).

So far the culture shock has been minimal as our host families have been completely fluent in English.  They’ve taught me some key phrases like, ‘No Comprendez’ and ‘Buenos Nochez’, but other than that I’m likely to spend most of my conversations politely smiling and nodding very agreeably. 

Already… I feel Blessed.

I mean, we all know in our heads that we are incredibly blessed, but right now… I feel it.  Last night we visited a local church to meet and get to know the worship team members from that congregation.  They invited us in with joy and warm cheek-kissing (finally some culture shock for me) and they then proceeded to thoroughly Welcome us to Guatemala.  Through our gifted translator and friend (Michelle Jr.)  we were able to spend some time conversing and getting to know our new Guatemalan Friends/Family. I’ll gladly admit, I even felt my eyes getting misty when our new friends gathered around us to pray for us and remind us of this heartwarming truth:  That we are brothers and sisters,  That we are united in Christ, and that though we are far from what we would call home, this is very much a family gathering that we were attending.  We have brothers and sisters in Guatemala.  What an exciting and soul-stirring thought. 

We excited await the arrive of the rest of our team tomorrow.  Robyn Renae, Amy DeMings, and Karla Fawcett will be flying steadily towards us throughout the day tomorrow.  Please pray for their travels as well as for all of our times here together. Also, don’t be surprised if we feature them on this blog in the near future.  We’d love for you to know them, and hear their stories of adventures in Guatemala.

This morning… we woke up in Guatemala.

love,

-Brady