DAY 1 Guatemala 2026

DAY 1 

I left on a snowy Friday evening, Jan 29. Two layovers and an overnight in an airport hotel later, I arrived in Guatemala City. I was a teeny bit concerned that my checked bag full of donations including vitamins and OTC meds-and my OR scrubs and shoes-might not make it through customs, but I think the custom's official just wanted me to go away! She took my declaration page, never looked at it, and pointed to the exit sign. I wanted to use my new language and thank her but my version of “Gracias” might sound more like “Grassy ass” sooo… I nodded, took my win and my bag and looked for some fair-skinned folk speaking English outside.

   

     help?

                                                                                                                            

I found them without issue just outside-PHEW... I did not know anyone -Guatemalans, techs, or HIM team volunteers... but very quickly strangers became friends. Once all collected (we arrived on different flights from diverse locations--west coast US, Canada, Louisiana, Wisconsin, Chicago, Indiana, NC, PA, NY, Alaska, and more, and even India!) we piled into several "coasters"-single deck minibuses-and away we went through Guatemala City, the beginning of our unforgettable week with Hearts in Motion. 

Lifelong friendships began during the four-ish hour ride to Teculután, Zacapa... my seat companion, Brooklyn, was a lovely college student and we chatted most of that ride. Her Uncle, Don, who has served with HIM many times, was the spark that ignited her fervor to serve. She took a week off from this semester, and was facing several-I think 3exams upon her return home. I will always have a soft spot for her... 

                    

     



We made a potty/drink stop after a couple hours at a gas station.
Even before we begin our work, mi corazón está triste por la gente... 
my heart is sad for the people.
...a man peddling a toy truck to feed his family...



We arrived in Hotel Atlántico just before dinner. It is a beautiful facility constructed in large part by HIM volunteers. Our cafeteria staff spoke only Spanish (love) and the food was fantastic!




                                                                                   my favorite every night


I found my room and roommate...   Mona 💜   and settled (as much as possible for this crazy day of arrival). This was the evening of blogging frustration I mentioned in an earlier entry - fell asleep with glasses on and Ipad and headlamp keeping my company under the covers...
... the ending of the first day. 
Little did I know how deeply and repeatedly my heart would be impacted throughout the next eight days. 






 



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