Hard Times In the Neighborhood (literally)
Sorry it has been awhile since we last updated our blog.  It has been an interesting last week and a half to say the least.  There have been many ups and downs but God has been faithful through it all.  Last weekend we hiked up an active volcano... yes an active volcano with smoke pouring out the top.  Surprisingly it got colder as we climbed, but we were able to warm ourselves with the hot lava rocks.  We even got to roast marshmallows which were given to us by an innocent bystander.  In the words of Rachel, "this may be the coolest thing I´ve ever done!!"  Once we got back to CASA´s we went to a dinner hosted by friends of a group member.  We went in a 15 passenger van, but there were 23 of us... needless to say we followed the Guatemalan tradition of "there is always room".  We had a devotional about peace and unity and this was followed by delicious homemade food!  After dinner it surprised me that we could all fit back into the van because we probably ate about 20 pounds of food each.  Laura had to roll Rachel to the car, yes roll like a ball.  The next morning we went to one of the most famous mega churches here in Guatemala, Casa De Dios (House of God).  It was a bit overwhelming for me (Laura) and quite a different experience than the Mass the previous weekend.  We were most astounded by the sharp contrast of wealth that was obvious within the church.  It felt like we were in a completely different country.  The difference between that church and the impoverished communities we drove through (or live in) was drastic.  We were most shocked when we saw the pastor, Cash Luna, signing autographs during offering.  
Today we had our final exam for our first course of Spanish. It´s hard to believe we finished one course in 4 weeks, when it normally takes a semester. We were nervous for the oral exam section but hopefully we passed so we can all move onto Advanced Conversations.  Well thats all for now folks. Tomorrow we are heading to the great unknown of Tikal by means of a minuscule airplane.  We can´t wait to relax and soak up the sun!!


Love, 
Rachel and Laura
(Taylor was talking to Kurtis....) hahahah :)