Thursday, July 1

Today after going to school, I came "home" and make flashcards for clothing items in English and Spanish. One of the other visitors' godchild's sister was here visiting and she was a great help. Who knew that "tank top" was "top" in Espanol? There are so many words that are similar. Learning Spanish should be EASY then, right? : /

I am so motivated to use my Rosetta Stone (knock-off) program when I get home. I went so far as to promise Treisy (in English though) that I WOULD be back next year and that I would know much more Spanish. She smiled and nodded and leaned her head on my shoulder.

The more I get to know Tresiy, the more I think I am beginning to understand how unique she is. She doesn't get as silly as the other girls her age, nor does she want to hop on your lap or cuddle like most of the other girls. She does seem to like to dance or sing or seek out any kind of attention. She observes, gives "directions," points out her few best friends and wants to share everything with them, and works hard. She is extremely capable. Oh my!! Last week I was her carrying a huge and full land basket on her head and last night, when all the other girls were running around after dinner, I spotted Treisy using a rusty hand saw to cut up what looked like an old table or something. She is strong, steady, and rather serious. She focuses well at school and seems smart.

It is obvious that she is the oldest of three siblings (brothers, Harolson, Walter, and Franklin) and has only been here for two years-- after her mom died. I look forward to seeing her grow up and make a future for herself. I can't wait to be able to talk with her.

In addition to meeting Treisy, I have met some very special people here:

I have already mentioned the other visitors; Chistina, Marty, Stephanie and Carol. It's been so great having them around. . . More visitors came yesterday; friends of volunteers Trip and Jessie, a young married couple who are amazing. (They are actually related to one of the people that started the ranch along with Father Watson in the 1950s, I think.) They are in their mid-twenties and I told them I would be their mom while they're here.) : )

Glenda and Yeni work here in the office and we share coffee every morning as well as brief chats. Both are single moms and beautiful women inside and out. This morning, we took pictures together and exchanged email addresses. I can learn so much from these people. Glenda (and probably Yeni) told me that she gets up at 4:30 make lunches for her children before getting on the bus for work. The bumpy ride is between 45-60 minutes. She is bilingual, so we have had some heart-to-heart talks about some of her struggles and her need to be strong and faithful. She said she can't "keep her head down" or she'll never get ahead. . . She wants her ten year old son to have more opportunities.

I have already mentioned Armin, Roxanna and their two sons. I remain fascinated by this unique family where Dad, from Switzerland, met Mom from El Salvador, had two boys and now live here. They live on the rancho and are building a new house in the nearby village of La Venta (?). Armin is go-go-go. Roxanna teaches and directs religious education. (I enjoyed visiting her primary class and have photos, of course.) Being here is like one ongoing Kodak moment. Next visit, I will put my camera away more often. Maybe.

There's Wilfredo the engaging music teacher who could easily be famous with his musical talents and charisma. I heard that he may get to bring a musical group to the USA to promote NPH? Again, none of this is verified. But that would be so cool.

Angel (Anhel) is an angel. He is one of the orphans (15 0r 16 years) that can be trusted to be in the visitor's quarters without walking away with things. He comes by to do bed and bath laundry (for many homes, not just this one), exchange the water jugs, and empty the trash daily. We know he's coming because he can't live without his iPod. He sings along and makes us laugh. We adore him and slip him cool drinks or yogurt, which he never turns down. Angel will be a new pen pal.

And then there's Donna, Fr Reynaldo (sp?), and Stephan, the director. These people are dear and you know it right away.

I have been so fortunate to have landed here.