My Village

Hey All,

Llano Grande was the first village our team visited after arriving in Chiapas. We were all nervous I think, not knowing what to expect or exactly what to do but the people there made us so welcome and gave up their homes for us to sleep in. They gave us food even though we brought our own and taught us so much.

It wasn't so much the place that drew me, but the people there. One family in particular took me in and accepted me and all my language short comings. They treated me like their daughter and sister and friend. They don't have much in material possessions but they make up for it with an abundance of love and happiness. Some days, I miss those people so much it hurts. They became my family and I can't wait to return one day and see them again.

Llano Grande is in the mountains so the view is stunning


The house we stayed at was very nice by Mexican standards. There was a shower and toilet inside the house for the guy's house. The girls had to use an outhouse.


The kitchen we used to cook in was separate from the house and made from mud. It as definitely an adjustment learning to cook with no stove!


The bathroom us girls used. To the left is a cistern we used to flush the toilet. There was no running water so we used the bucket to flush. Plumbing in Mexico leaves much to be desired.


Some of the girls slept in hammocks while the rest shared double beds. It was an experience for sure!


I spent every possible moment with the people, learning Spanish and building relationships.


With two very dear ladies. The one on the left is the mom and the one on the right is Marvel, the daughter in law.


Olga, the other daughter in law asked to braid mine, Hannah's, and Amy C's hair.


The ladies tried to teach me and some of the others to make tortillas. Not hard, right? It was extremely difficult! I did not get the hang of it at all. Those ladies are champions for all their hard work!


Me and Meli, an extremely helpful and friendly eight year old who loved to teach me Spanish and other things.


My beautiful hermanita (little sister) Saili. She is so precious to me. This little girl will grow up without a daddy because he did not want the responsibility of taking care of her. He is missing out on a wonderful opportunity. She will grow up with men in her life. Her grandpa, uncles, and cousins. But it is not the same as having a daddy of her own.


David, Eden and Me with part of my wonderful family. I will never forget them and all they did for our team.