Ups and Downs

Title: Ups and Downs

August 6, 2010

That used to be my volcano...

Good day to all, it's been awhile but I'm dedicating a blog here on the latest happening with me, and this weekend getting up my blog post on the latest in the recovery efforts of the May 27 eruption.

Since the week of hell in May when little Tahoe died, I spent 3 days in the hospital, and my volcano erupted I have been having the ups and downs that accompany any volunteer's service. Being that we were not allowed in our town for security concerns because of the volcanic eruption and the Tropical Storm Agatha, re-integrating into work and figuring out my role was tough. I was getting pulled from several angles, to help with the tourism needs while also wanting to help with the recovery efforts. It was a rough month, but luckily when I needed a break there was the amazing array of World cup games to keep my interest.

Cows on top of a volcano? Believe it

The most frustrating part of everything was the overall disorganization of recovery efforts. You can cross off any chance at a career with the Red Cross.

Anyways, on an upbeat note - the month of July allowed me to get a much needed break from the work environment. I realized that since my parents had left, from April 20 - July 4 I hadn't taken a weekend for myself to do some traveling. So I took advantage of July with a new desire to appreciate this country and take advantage of the many amazing sights it has to offer. Here´s my recap of July activities:

The icon of Guatemala, Tikal's famous temple

The 4th of July party, the only time when all the volunteers get together, was an incredible time once again. Got to participate in the Departmental Basketball Tournament, which we did not fare well in. As the old Danville Little League saying goes, "2 and a 'cue"...or to make it easier: 2 games, 2 losses, and time for a bbq. I also got to display my Spanish Carlos Puyol antics (long hair, heading the ball at every chance, throwing my body recklessly) playing defense for the Volunteer soccer squad against Peace Corps staff.

To watch the World Cup final, we headed out to Xela, a big city, to watch the grand finale in a big atmosphere which was a great time. I also took advantage being on that side of the country to climb another volcano Santa Maria (my 3rd Volcano conquered). Here are some of the pictures of the trip:

On top of the summit, above the clouds - 3,772m (11,920ft.)

Hiking up with fellow volunteers and Guatemalans

Trying fresh raspberries on the trail

The following weekend I had my cousin Jordan (from Rhode Island) come out to visit. While it was a short visit, he and I were able to hit Guatemala's number 1 tourist spot - Tikal - the famous Mayan city up in the Peten jungle. We stayed at a chill hammock-swaying hostel on this lake and relaxed and enjoyed some time off. He also was able to see my town and wine and dine with the Pineda family and the famous Mama Carlotta. Here are some pictures:

First night in Antigua waiting for a bus

Planning our Tikal trip in the hostel over breakfast

On top of the tallest temple at Tikal at sunrise

Overlooking the forest canopy from a temple

Monkey
Overlooking the central plaza of the famous Mayan city

That's the latest. I think after the madness that was the month of May/June I've come to the realization that my time here is short and I need to start seeing the things in this country that I've had on my to-do list for so long. I can't believe it's August and I have about 8 months left. Time is going way too quickly.

That's all for now, enjoy your hot showers. Don Miguelito Yankee signing off...