Guatemala 2024 Day Eight
Written by: Cody
This morning began a little earlier than most but for good reason, we had a three hour bus ride to Panajachel to see the famous lake, peruse the shops, and go out for lunch with all the kids! The bus ride took a bit longer than expected with an impromptu visit to the closest Mcdonalds (which was nicer than most in Ontario), we all filled up on coffee then hit the road again. Everyone was in high spirits during the ride. We played games such as duck duck goose (in Spanish: pato, pato, ganso), telephone (in both languages, yikes for us), and eye spy (in English, thank goodness). Before we knew it we were pulling up to as far as the bus could take us and we proceeded on foot.
The town is situated right on lake Atitlan, surrounded by three volcanoes which were shrouded in mist. We were immediately surrounded by colourful displays of fabric goods, painted carvings, jewelry, and vast amounts of touristy goods and attractions. It was clear we were in a tourist destination, but we were all enjoying every minute of it. The weather was hot but Barb and Gerry surprised us with a boat ride along the coast on a multi level steel boat. The breeze on the water was much cooler and quite refreshing. The views of the town and surrounding landscapes were incredible. It reminded me of the many lakes we have back home, minus the volcanoes! It was the highlight of their day.
We made our way to get some food at a pretty fancy restaurant which was a part of a hotel. We ordered our food and then played soccer with the kids in the large enclosed park area while we waited. It is many of the kid’s favourite game and it showed in some of their footwork and ball handling! Our food finally arrived and not a crumb was left on anyone’s plate, the food was incredibly delicious. We left with full stomachs, ready to do some shopping at all the stores we passed along the way. I won’t give away exactly what was purchased to not spoil the surprise of some lucky recipients back home, but they consist of colourful and handcrafted items!
Dense fog started to set in as we made our way to the bus. It was a quiet and uneventful ride back as most of us got as comfortable as possible to nap after a full meal and a hot day in the sun. The views we had seen on the way there were hidden in the fog on the way back, which made napping feel less wasteful of the missed sightseeing opportunities. We could not prepare ourselves for the Guatemalan goodbyes we would have to make shortly after getting back, which tend to be long and emotional. Hugs were given, tears were shed, cake was eaten, and a song was sung. All but three of the students (who will be staying with us here tonight), with whom we had all made deep connections with regardless of our language barrier, made their way out of the front door; uncertain if we will meet again in the future. However, we know that we have the hope of all meeting in eternity one day.
The night ended where it all began a week before. On the rooftop eating food, praying and laughing together.
