First Two Days
DiDonna’s Blog
Words cannot describe the type of experience we are going through right now.
When the U.S. delegates arrived in Guatemala City on Saturday, we all
quickly opened up to each other, sharing our life stories and experiences
knowing we would have a great time on this trip. Upon our arrival in
Panajachel, small quaint towns surrounding the beautiful lake—we set out for
a day filled with new discoveries and laughter. I will never forget the tuk
tuk ride (a Guatemalan taxi on three wheels) as we zoomed through narrow
passageways through the slums. A bumpy ride heading down the 90 degree slant
with cobblestones, boy, were we holding on for our lives yet laughing the
whole time with our cameras going off every five seconds. The natural and
tranquil setting around the lake just made me ooze with warmth and
happiness. This is a place I will return to again someday soon!
The following day, we went to Guatemala City where we went to three
different schools. Communication Total, Kipling School, and Fundal—all
exposed us delegates to different types of education offered for the Deaf in
Guatemala. One with a sign-language program, one with an oral program and
the last with a Deafblind program—we were all deeply impressed by Fundal.
Their approach in working with the Deaf and Blind students was quite
impressive as we saw the teachers and principal interact with the students
on a personal level. For a moment, I felt like I was at home—not only that,
Fundal is found deep in the mountains surrounded by the beauty of nature. An
unforgettable experience, that’s for sure!
After the visits, we finally arrived at the moment we longed for! The moment
when we finally met the Guatemalan delegates, we immediately clicked as
smiles and gestures burst all over the place. We all knew we were in for a
very educational and fun week that we would cherish for the rest of our
lives. I could go on and on for hours about the experiences we had in only
two days, I can’t imagine what the rest of the week has in store for us!