A music update: I have about 15 recorder students, 2 clarinet students, and 3 flute students. There's also a boy who wants to learn trombone...go figure...so I'll have to learn to teach that. It's so amazing to see how excited the kids are for their lessons! I hear them running across the yard, up the steps, and by the time they get to the music room they're out of breath. I tease them that they need air to play their instruments. I love that they have something different and exciting to look forward to each week. And I like to think that with time, music will help the kids continue to heal and empower them. I just love them!
So I went to Lima from Monday-Thursday this week with my friend, Audrey. The 16-hour bus ride was surprisingly really nice, and we had beautiful weather. One great thing about the trip was I got to spend time in another Children's Home in Lima. The kids there were so great, and younger in general than at New Hope. I also spent some time at the beach, ate at Chili's and Starbucks, and did some shopping!
My birthday was wonderful. I love the way they celebrate birthdays here. They normally throw a party with tons of snacks and cake. The kids play games, sing songs, and share about one another. I was lucky enough to have a translator, and I was really encouraged to actually understand what the kids were sharing! It really help me feel like I'm making an impact here. Here's a picture with 2 of the girls, Luz Yenni and Gladys:
Then at cake time, I was told I got to take the 'first bite'. Little did I know that the first bite was a chance for my face to get shoved into a cake. I loved it!
Today I celebrated my birthday with the disciples at the Arequipa Church of Christ, and I got another delicious cake but with a fork this time. :) It's really encouraging having a strong spiritual family here, and I'm getting better and better at communicating with them!
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