La Aurora Zoo

Dylan, Emilio's nephew




Jeffrey, Emilio's nephew (cousins with Dylan)




Ashley, Emilio's niece (Jeffrey's sister)


Marta and Jonathan, Emilio's mom and half-brother



















After we returned from our week-long traveling adventure, Emilio wanted to do something with his mom and siblings. So, we went to the city zoo. I have to admit, before we set out, I wasn't sure it would be that much fun. But surprisingly, they had all kinds of animals! We went on a Friday - which apparently was field trip day, as there were what seemed like kids from EVERY school in the city and beyond there that day! It was our family plus Emilio's mom, sister Sandra, her two kids, his nephew, and his youngest brother Jonathan. We had a blast! After we made it around to see all of the animals, we ate some delicious Pollo Campero, and some refreshing ice cream. I think Nefty is liking it here in Guate - we eat ice cream almost every day! :)

As we piled in the car to head home, it began pouring down rain (actually, it began to rain before we made it to the car). Imagine, 10 of us, all piled into a 1990 Jeep Cherokee. Good times. Conveniently, the defrost/fan decided not to work that day, so the windows fogged up like crazy. We had to roll the windows down so air could pass through - and the water came raining in! Ever since we bought the Jeep, we have had one problem after another! Man, do we miss our minivan back in Oregon. There is NOTHING like a Toyota!

Since our zoo adventure, we have moved to Panajachel, where we'll be living for the next month or too. We just had to get out of the city. Initially, I had a job interview with another school here. It went well, and I was even invited to teach a lesson. However, after much prayer and deliberation, I have decided that if they were to offer me the position, I am pretty sure I will decline. Pana is a beautiful little town; but I think, if we do decide to stay here for a year, Xela would be a better fit for the whole family. We'll see...I haven't been offered the position yet! But I do have the 3rd grade position waiting for me in Xela. I am just waiting for the Lord to show me where He wants us. In the meantime, we are all learning patience...and enjoying the beauty that is Guatemala.