Guatemala Campaign: Day 7...Leaving Coban and Return to Guatemala City.

Day 7.  Friday, March 18th, 2011.  Well today we packed our bags and checked out of our hotel in Coban. We took a little longer than expected because Jared got charged for dirtying up a hand towel after cleaning his shoes after yesterday's adventure.  It was amusing yet surprising. One thing we discovered here is that you have to pay for just about everything.  They charge you here for everything from syrup to creamer for coffee.  But this is a poor country so they probably need the money.

After we checked out, we went and had breakfast at brother Darvin's house with him and his family.  When I saw those two bundles of joy, Alyson and Camila, that's when it hit me we were leaving Coban for a good while.  All four of us fell in love with Alyson and Camila.  There is nothing like the joy and innocence of a child.  It is no wonder the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these. Darvin's wife, Lily cooked chorizo and eggs with refried beans and plantains (fried bananas) this morning.  She has filled our belly with so many good things this week.  She is a very caring and hospitable woman.  She (and her cooking) will be missed.  Daniel, Darvin's boy was at school so we did not see him.  I pray he becomes a great man of God. Then there is Alejandrina aka Ale.  She, a 13 year old girl really exemplifies what it means to put others before yourself.  She would wait to do her vast amount of homework until the late hours of the night and/or the wee hours of the morning in order to serve the needs of others, her family and the church in Coban.  This brings me back to Darvin.  Darvin will also hold a special place in my heart.  This man has taught me so much this week.  He has taught me that all we need to rely on when studying with someone is God and His Word.  I discovered outlines are handy but not necessary to study with someone.  He also gave me an excellent sermon on the need to work and not be lazy in the Lord's church.  I will miss Darvin and the whole Alvarez family so much.  We are all sad to leave Coban and pray for another opportunity to return and that the Lord's Church continue to grow there.

Upon arrival in Guatemala City, we arrived at the Holiday Inn and got checked in.  We relaxed for a little while and then went and had dinner with some of the students and the preacher at the local extension school. There I met the preacher's daughter.  Her name is Dulce (pictured with me above).  Her name means Candy or Sweet.  She is 13 years old and as sweet as her name. She took the time out to initiate what turned into an hour of conversation with me.  She is spending some time with other family this weekend so I probably won't see her again until I return to Guatemala sometime in the future.  Tomorrow we are going sight seeing with Hi Jones, Byron's partner here in Guatemala as Byron has to teach tomorrow at the Saturday program.  Tomorrow night we are having dinner at the home of one of the members of the :LV (Linda Vista) congregation here in Guatemala City.  Ill let you guys know how that and other activities go in tomorrow's blog.

As I write this, I realize how much I love Coban, the experiences I have had and the people.  We still have one more job to do in Guatemala City on Sunday, preach and teach at the Linda Vista congregation.  It's too bad we can't spend more time with the LV congregation so I pray we can make a difference in the time we have there.  I'll keep everyone posted on our activities during these next couple of days as we approach the close of our time in the beautiful country of Guatemala.  It has been a great campaign with great people.  LOVE Y'ALL! GOD BLESS! THANKS FOR READING!