Friday, June 14, 2013
Day Six: Files and The Cave
Our last night. :( We've got only one blogger tonight. Most of our other kids were busy packing. Here it is from Logan:
Logan
Today was one of the best days of my existence! I started the day getting up at six in the morning which would be four back in the states, and went body surfing with the sunrise and best waves! We walked back home and got hit on by the locals which was a total blast! After getting back we had the breakfast we all love, which is the fresh fruit and pancake like things with honey, which Cassy had the brilliant idea of basically making a crepe out of it which made it SO much better. We headed out to help out some people that help out with the clinic to organize some medical records. There, our well oiled machine had a few nuts and bolts loose and we got seriously mad at each other but got it all figured out. I became Loges and came when I was called. I moved the records to where they were supposed to go by the words “punch-punch”, “done-done”, or I helped maddi with punching the holes in the folders to be assembled. The only problem about today was the lecture we all got before helping these people out.
We had already had a long bus ride there and most of the group had gotten up early and they just drone on about what they do, which don’t get me wrong they do good for the DR but we don’t need to know every detail! We were all falling asleep, even Otto was! We went and at lunch after which was my favorite, fried chicken and rice! Surprise, surprise, (If you know me ;)). We headed back and got ready for the CAVE! This is what most of us have been waiting for all week! We walked about 15 minutes up through, what in my mind, is what the rain forest would look, sound, and smell like. It was so gorgeous! We had to go through a hole in the tree to climb down a ladder to get inside the cave. The candles were lite and waiting. Chicho got in and lite them for us. We couldn’t dive but we did everything else. It was ice cold and felt amazing! The rocks were sharp, the water crystal clear, and super deep! We got out a little earlier then we all wanted to but we needed to go shopping which it was so fun to barter! Although I think I am not that skilled. We ate at Mercedes again and had an interesting soup with rice. We got done and got ready for the untalent show! It was so amazing and it has been one of the best and memorable experiences that have ever happened to me! Thank you to all that have followed us on this journey. We are just about to get ready to pack up everything and have one last experience tomorrow.
I love you Mom and Dad! I hope you have gone on a few dates while I have been gone ;) I’m excited to see you soon Derrick and hope lil’ Nephi had been treating you well ;) I love you and miss you all and will be seeing you all soon! Don’t worry, I have so many pictures and stories I’m bringing home with me to share!
Logan
Today was one of the best days of my existence! I started the day getting up at six in the morning which would be four back in the states, and went body surfing with the sunrise and best waves! We walked back home and got hit on by the locals which was a total blast! After getting back we had the breakfast we all love, which is the fresh fruit and pancake like things with honey, which Cassy had the brilliant idea of basically making a crepe out of it which made it SO much better. We headed out to help out some people that help out with the clinic to organize some medical records. There, our well oiled machine had a few nuts and bolts loose and we got seriously mad at each other but got it all figured out. I became Loges and came when I was called. I moved the records to where they were supposed to go by the words “punch-punch”, “done-done”, or I helped maddi with punching the holes in the folders to be assembled. The only problem about today was the lecture we all got before helping these people out.
We had already had a long bus ride there and most of the group had gotten up early and they just drone on about what they do, which don’t get me wrong they do good for the DR but we don’t need to know every detail! We were all falling asleep, even Otto was! We went and at lunch after which was my favorite, fried chicken and rice! Surprise, surprise, (If you know me ;)). We headed back and got ready for the CAVE! This is what most of us have been waiting for all week! We walked about 15 minutes up through, what in my mind, is what the rain forest would look, sound, and smell like. It was so gorgeous! We had to go through a hole in the tree to climb down a ladder to get inside the cave. The candles were lite and waiting. Chicho got in and lite them for us. We couldn’t dive but we did everything else. It was ice cold and felt amazing! The rocks were sharp, the water crystal clear, and super deep! We got out a little earlier then we all wanted to but we needed to go shopping which it was so fun to barter! Although I think I am not that skilled. We ate at Mercedes again and had an interesting soup with rice. We got done and got ready for the untalent show! It was so amazing and it has been one of the best and memorable experiences that have ever happened to me! Thank you to all that have followed us on this journey. We are just about to get ready to pack up everything and have one last experience tomorrow.
I love you Mom and Dad! I hope you have gone on a few dates while I have been gone ;) I’m excited to see you soon Derrick and hope lil’ Nephi had been treating you well ;) I love you and miss you all and will be seeing you all soon! Don’t worry, I have so many pictures and stories I’m bringing home with me to share!
Day Five: More Painting and a Bonfire
Day Five was pretty awesome. We worked. We ate. We Swam.
McKenna Concoby
Today was so great!! We went to a school to paint (which got a little crazy because we had a paint fight) haha and there were little kids there that we played with. This one little girl, who was the smallest child there, her brother said she was 3 but she looked 2, was attached to me from the moment I picked her up. Every time she would go to someone else for a photo she would look around for me and then put her arms out. I never learned her name but she was the cutest thing ever. It was really hard to leave her because she was just so dang cute. There was this other little girl that was so shy she wouldn’t come over with all of the children when we were handing out candy, so I went over to her and asked her what her name was, to be honest I can’t remember what it was but then she gained trust and she also just hung around me the whole time we were at the school. One time (oh my gosh I thought I was going to start crying) she gave me a hug and said te amor. It was the most heartbreaking thing when I had to leave her because she looked so sad when I was leaving but I gave her a big hug and told her I loved her to. Those kids were definitely the highlight of this trip. I will never ever forget those kids. They have so little yet they are so incredibly happy. It’s so weird, people wear anything and no one judges them I’ve never once thought about how someone looked and thought I was better than them. This is the most humbling experience I have ever experienced. Day by day nothing has really changed other than a different school and different kids but at the end of the day I was changed for the better. I don’t ever want to leave and I can officially and honestly say that I am addicted to humanitarian work.
McKenzie Coughlan
Today was a hard, long day of work… a lot of painting!! We also had the opportunity to teach or lesson’s to a group of older adults. The painting projects have by far been my favorite work, it is amazing what a simple coat of paint can do, brightening a room and making it feel clean and new; yesterday I was able to be a part of a group who painted a mural on the wall in the small public library at the DREAM school in Caraballo. The mural was of a treasure chest with a quote by Walt Disney, it was magical, and it brought magic into the room. As a group we have been teaching the adults about emergency medicine, and the way the group interacts while we are teaching them is incredible, the simple lessons we are able to teach them mean so much to them, and they give us there full attention. My outstanding moment so far, is today I gave a little boy who was sitting around, very shy, a jump rope. The smile and joy of the simplicity of that jump rope brought to that boy, made me smile from ear to ear! I have never been able to feel so much happiness from a small act, and I can say I look forward to being able to do it again.
Kenadee Ferre
What a day! I have loved every minute of being here in the Dominican Republic. I have to say that this experience has been nothing like what I expected. I knew it would be a fun trip but I didn’t realize how different the experience would be. After spending time here in Dominican Republic, I realized how blessed I am. I am so thankful I had the opportunity to come and serve the people of Dominican Republic. This trip has made me fall in love with humanitarian work. We had the opportunity to paint different schools and turn them into something brighter and happier. Even though the little kids were dirty, living in poverty, and probably hungry, they were always smiling. The kids helped me realize how great life can be if you let it. The little kids would latch on to you and never want to let go. This entire trip has been so rewarding! Even though I am constantly covered in sweat, eating rice every meal, and away from my own home, I wouldn’t trade this experience. It is great to see the difference you can make in the lives of other people. Small and simple acts really do make a big difference. This has been a great experience and I have loved getting to know people who are a part of the DREAM organization, the people of Dominican Republic, and our humanitarian group. Together we have accomplished so much and I’ve loved being a part of this! I’ve learned a lot about myself and about the people around me during this trip. I have had a great experience in the Dominican Republic, hopefully I’ll be back!
Kezlyn the one and only Larsen
Well first off, cupcake. Don’t ask. Next I’d like to say Helloooo America! I miss my little Utah bubble, but let’s just say if I could stay, I would in a heartbeat. This has been a life changing experience and has taught me so much… and yes I know everyone says that, but if you have been on a humanitarian trip before you would understand. It’s amazing how much you take for granted. For example, running water. You don’t realize how nice running flushable toilets are until you have to flush your own toilet with a bucket. The houses here are, well more beat up shacks then houses. I knew this country was poor, but it is nothing how I imagined. There are people in extreme poverty that live on less than 1 US dollar per family per day. This drives them to do the most crazy, sad things. The animals here are affected too. We see lots of animals walking down the street that are just fur and bones. You can see their ribs. Enough sad talk… The beaches are amazing! So pretty and warm. The fruit is so fresh and cheap! It’s heavenly. The landscape is beautiful too. It is so green and treelike! The people are very friendly and I’m finally putting my Spanish skills to work. It’s nice to understand at least some things, but at the same time there is a lot of slang and they speak really fast. You could relate it to talking to a cowboy… well maybe not so much. It is very hot and humid. We are constantly dripping in sweat while we work, but we are all so determined it doesn’t phase us one bit. Today, we went to a public school to do some service. We painted five classrooms. The rooms were hot and every bit of breeze was refreshing and necessary. The teaching groups split off and taught their own lessons. My group (women’s health) painted a classroom while everyone else was teaching. It was great to see how everyone works together as a team and helps out. We knocked it right out. But sadly didn’t have extra time to play on the playground. This group isn’t a group any longer.
We are a family, we have become one. We watch out for each other and laugh and make the best out of all of our situations. We can tackle any project Dream throws at us! After painting the rooms, all of us met back together and played with the children. They are so cute and all cling to you. It’s amazing how the communication border doesn’t stop anything. We, gringos, all get creative and use motions and objects to communicate. Words are powerful, but actions and emotions are even more. The kids were shy at first, but before you know it, they are all over you. After, we went to lunch at fresh fresh. Otto, our DREAM leader, told us that it was a mixture of Mexican and Dominican food. It was all organic. They gave us weird smoothie healthy drinks which scared us at first, but ended up being one of the best things we’ve had down here. We all got a burrito, but didn’t pick so there was a lot of shuffling and exchanging. After that we went to the hotel and then on a boat tour. We had a bonfire on the beach and hamburgers for dinner! Weird purple/pink hamburger meat but still good. Today was a great day! Love you mom. Give Kinley a big kiss for me and tell the boys I miss them! See you soon. Goodnight Utah!
McKenna Concoby
Today was so great!! We went to a school to paint (which got a little crazy because we had a paint fight) haha and there were little kids there that we played with. This one little girl, who was the smallest child there, her brother said she was 3 but she looked 2, was attached to me from the moment I picked her up. Every time she would go to someone else for a photo she would look around for me and then put her arms out. I never learned her name but she was the cutest thing ever. It was really hard to leave her because she was just so dang cute. There was this other little girl that was so shy she wouldn’t come over with all of the children when we were handing out candy, so I went over to her and asked her what her name was, to be honest I can’t remember what it was but then she gained trust and she also just hung around me the whole time we were at the school. One time (oh my gosh I thought I was going to start crying) she gave me a hug and said te amor. It was the most heartbreaking thing when I had to leave her because she looked so sad when I was leaving but I gave her a big hug and told her I loved her to. Those kids were definitely the highlight of this trip. I will never ever forget those kids. They have so little yet they are so incredibly happy. It’s so weird, people wear anything and no one judges them I’ve never once thought about how someone looked and thought I was better than them. This is the most humbling experience I have ever experienced. Day by day nothing has really changed other than a different school and different kids but at the end of the day I was changed for the better. I don’t ever want to leave and I can officially and honestly say that I am addicted to humanitarian work.
McKenzie Coughlan
Today was a hard, long day of work… a lot of painting!! We also had the opportunity to teach or lesson’s to a group of older adults. The painting projects have by far been my favorite work, it is amazing what a simple coat of paint can do, brightening a room and making it feel clean and new; yesterday I was able to be a part of a group who painted a mural on the wall in the small public library at the DREAM school in Caraballo. The mural was of a treasure chest with a quote by Walt Disney, it was magical, and it brought magic into the room. As a group we have been teaching the adults about emergency medicine, and the way the group interacts while we are teaching them is incredible, the simple lessons we are able to teach them mean so much to them, and they give us there full attention. My outstanding moment so far, is today I gave a little boy who was sitting around, very shy, a jump rope. The smile and joy of the simplicity of that jump rope brought to that boy, made me smile from ear to ear! I have never been able to feel so much happiness from a small act, and I can say I look forward to being able to do it again.
Kenadee Ferre
What a day! I have loved every minute of being here in the Dominican Republic. I have to say that this experience has been nothing like what I expected. I knew it would be a fun trip but I didn’t realize how different the experience would be. After spending time here in Dominican Republic, I realized how blessed I am. I am so thankful I had the opportunity to come and serve the people of Dominican Republic. This trip has made me fall in love with humanitarian work. We had the opportunity to paint different schools and turn them into something brighter and happier. Even though the little kids were dirty, living in poverty, and probably hungry, they were always smiling. The kids helped me realize how great life can be if you let it. The little kids would latch on to you and never want to let go. This entire trip has been so rewarding! Even though I am constantly covered in sweat, eating rice every meal, and away from my own home, I wouldn’t trade this experience. It is great to see the difference you can make in the lives of other people. Small and simple acts really do make a big difference. This has been a great experience and I have loved getting to know people who are a part of the DREAM organization, the people of Dominican Republic, and our humanitarian group. Together we have accomplished so much and I’ve loved being a part of this! I’ve learned a lot about myself and about the people around me during this trip. I have had a great experience in the Dominican Republic, hopefully I’ll be back!
Kezlyn the one and only Larsen
Well first off, cupcake. Don’t ask. Next I’d like to say Helloooo America! I miss my little Utah bubble, but let’s just say if I could stay, I would in a heartbeat. This has been a life changing experience and has taught me so much… and yes I know everyone says that, but if you have been on a humanitarian trip before you would understand. It’s amazing how much you take for granted. For example, running water. You don’t realize how nice running flushable toilets are until you have to flush your own toilet with a bucket. The houses here are, well more beat up shacks then houses. I knew this country was poor, but it is nothing how I imagined. There are people in extreme poverty that live on less than 1 US dollar per family per day. This drives them to do the most crazy, sad things. The animals here are affected too. We see lots of animals walking down the street that are just fur and bones. You can see their ribs. Enough sad talk… The beaches are amazing! So pretty and warm. The fruit is so fresh and cheap! It’s heavenly. The landscape is beautiful too. It is so green and treelike! The people are very friendly and I’m finally putting my Spanish skills to work. It’s nice to understand at least some things, but at the same time there is a lot of slang and they speak really fast. You could relate it to talking to a cowboy… well maybe not so much. It is very hot and humid. We are constantly dripping in sweat while we work, but we are all so determined it doesn’t phase us one bit. Today, we went to a public school to do some service. We painted five classrooms. The rooms were hot and every bit of breeze was refreshing and necessary. The teaching groups split off and taught their own lessons. My group (women’s health) painted a classroom while everyone else was teaching. It was great to see how everyone works together as a team and helps out. We knocked it right out. But sadly didn’t have extra time to play on the playground. This group isn’t a group any longer.
We are a family, we have become one. We watch out for each other and laugh and make the best out of all of our situations. We can tackle any project Dream throws at us! After painting the rooms, all of us met back together and played with the children. They are so cute and all cling to you. It’s amazing how the communication border doesn’t stop anything. We, gringos, all get creative and use motions and objects to communicate. Words are powerful, but actions and emotions are even more. The kids were shy at first, but before you know it, they are all over you. After, we went to lunch at fresh fresh. Otto, our DREAM leader, told us that it was a mixture of Mexican and Dominican food. It was all organic. They gave us weird smoothie healthy drinks which scared us at first, but ended up being one of the best things we’ve had down here. We all got a burrito, but didn’t pick so there was a lot of shuffling and exchanging. After that we went to the hotel and then on a boat tour. We had a bonfire on the beach and hamburgers for dinner! Weird purple/pink hamburger meat but still good. Today was a great day! Love you mom. Give Kinley a big kiss for me and tell the boys I miss them! See you soon. Goodnight Utah!
Thursday, June 13, 2013
Day Four: El Bate and the Beach
Your kids like to spend a long time thinking about what they write. For that reason, I went to bed last night while people were still blogging and am just getting to posting their comments. Yesterday was our hottest day so far. I don't think I stopped sweating the entire day. We were able to end the day on the beach in the ocean...but again, I'm sure the kids will tell you all about it.
Nicole Carter
Hola to the people reading this!! Today for me was absolutely the best day this week! Me and a couple others woke up early for a run on the beach this morning… we were supposed to be jogging, but ended up jumping into the gorgeous ocean, it was just too much of a temptation, this place is incredible! We all ate delicious Dominican crepes for breakfast (so much better than American pancakes), then headed off on an adventurous bus ride to Carabillo (an extremely poor school). Even though the people are super poor there, they are some of the most loving people I’ve met! There’s poverty, and extreme poverty… Poverty is two dollars a day per family, but extreme poverty is less than a dollar a day. These people we were with are living in extreme poverty. It was so humbling to be with them! You can’t help but wonder how they survive each day and yet how are they still so positive and happy!? They divided us into groups, some went to paint, the others played games and sports with the children. I got the opportunity to play with the children. We did basketball and soccer.
We were able to make SO many friends with the children. They would just latch onto us and I loved it. Even though we only just met, it felt like I had known them for years because they were so comfortable and happy to be around us! There were little niños jumping and doing flips in the river! They LOVE taking pictures with us and we love it too! They liked taking ‘fotos locos’ which means ‘crazy pictures’. Mom… Dad… I can’t wait to show you guys these beautiful children!! It’s official… When I’m married, I am totally adopting from here!!
These people are so talented. They make so much with what little they have. We went to some of their stores today and were able to buy some Dominican jewelery! No worries fam… I made sure to get you a little something! After the amazing time we had at the school, we went to the beautiful beach and at Italian food…. On the beach!!! Anyways, I love you all… make sure you keep these wonderful people in your prayers, they need it. This has been such a humbling experience, and I’m SO thankful I could be here!!!
Brittney Cook
This week so far has been unbelievable! I have loved every second of it. This is my second year in the Dominican Republic and it just gets better and better every day! I am so grateful for the chances I have had to come here. I have learned so much. This is a very humbling experience. It is something you will never fully understand unless you have the opportunity to experience it for yourself. Humanitarian work is something I want to continue doing for the rest of my life. It makes me so grateful for all the small things we take for granted every day. It has taught me life lessons that I couldn’t have ever learned any other way. It has taught me to be grateful and appreciative for our lives and all of the luxuries we have. It amazes me every day at the joy and happiness these people have even though they have so little! They are so friendly, happy, and generous. One day I can only hope to be as kind and thoughtful as them and dance as good as them too. (: Today I was reunited with my best friend from last year. Her name is Princessa. I was pleasantly surprised when she said she remembered me! She was attached to my hip all day long and we had so much fun singing, dancing, running, and playing in the rain. I am so grateful for this trip and everything it as taught me! It has been so much fun making new friends that will last a lifetime. I wish I could move here.. except I am not gonna lie, the food is not my favorite thing in the whole world.. but I could get used to it I think… Adios!
Jana Shumway
First of all I would like to start off by saying I love the Dominican Republic. What a beautiful place full of amazing people. Being here this week and seeing the different culture has definitely been a great experience. It has made me really think of how blessed I am. My favorite thing about this place is that it doesn’t matter how much money or material goods they have its pure happiness that puts a smile on their faces. The children here are amazing and I wish I could take all of them back home with me. We have done a lot of different things this week but my favorite of all has been the time we get to spend playing with the kids and teaching them. I am so grateful for this wonderful experience and I wish I could spend more time here little by little making a difference in these peoples life. Hopefully I will be back soon! Hasta luego!!!!!
Sydney Cook
I can’t believe Wednesday is already over.. Where is the trip going? The last few days have been such an incredible experience. This is my second year coming with the group to the Dominican and I couldn’t be more happy and excited to be here. Today, we had to opportunity to go to the Caraballo. Last year, the Caraballo day was a definite favorite for me, so I was looking forward to this day more than anything! It was such an amazing day. Words can’t even begin to express my feelings about today. Being in the Caraballo, see firsthand extreme poverty, being with the poorest of the poor; it’s such a humbling experience. It is such an eye opener. Seeing the way the people live and their lifestyles really makes you appreciate EVERYTHING you have. It really makes you realize how truly blessed you are. The children there are absolutely adorable. Last year, a little girl, Denia, and I really clicked. Today when we were there, the minute we got off the bus, the first little girl I saw was her. Words cannot express how happy I was to see her. A common phrase you hear here is “Humanitarian work is so contagious.” I have truly come to be a believer of this. I am officially an addict..! haha When you are serving, you learn so much about others, as well as yourself. It brings a happiness you honestly can’t get any other way. I love the people of the Dominican Republic and I am so grateful I have had the opportunity to come here and be a part of this great humanitarian work, working with the DREAM Project. I can’t wait for the adventures and service the next two days will bring!
Nicole Carter
Hola to the people reading this!! Today for me was absolutely the best day this week! Me and a couple others woke up early for a run on the beach this morning… we were supposed to be jogging, but ended up jumping into the gorgeous ocean, it was just too much of a temptation, this place is incredible! We all ate delicious Dominican crepes for breakfast (so much better than American pancakes), then headed off on an adventurous bus ride to Carabillo (an extremely poor school). Even though the people are super poor there, they are some of the most loving people I’ve met! There’s poverty, and extreme poverty… Poverty is two dollars a day per family, but extreme poverty is less than a dollar a day. These people we were with are living in extreme poverty. It was so humbling to be with them! You can’t help but wonder how they survive each day and yet how are they still so positive and happy!? They divided us into groups, some went to paint, the others played games and sports with the children. I got the opportunity to play with the children. We did basketball and soccer.
We were able to make SO many friends with the children. They would just latch onto us and I loved it. Even though we only just met, it felt like I had known them for years because they were so comfortable and happy to be around us! There were little niños jumping and doing flips in the river! They LOVE taking pictures with us and we love it too! They liked taking ‘fotos locos’ which means ‘crazy pictures’. Mom… Dad… I can’t wait to show you guys these beautiful children!! It’s official… When I’m married, I am totally adopting from here!!
These people are so talented. They make so much with what little they have. We went to some of their stores today and were able to buy some Dominican jewelery! No worries fam… I made sure to get you a little something! After the amazing time we had at the school, we went to the beautiful beach and at Italian food…. On the beach!!! Anyways, I love you all… make sure you keep these wonderful people in your prayers, they need it. This has been such a humbling experience, and I’m SO thankful I could be here!!!
Brittney Cook
This week so far has been unbelievable! I have loved every second of it. This is my second year in the Dominican Republic and it just gets better and better every day! I am so grateful for the chances I have had to come here. I have learned so much. This is a very humbling experience. It is something you will never fully understand unless you have the opportunity to experience it for yourself. Humanitarian work is something I want to continue doing for the rest of my life. It makes me so grateful for all the small things we take for granted every day. It has taught me life lessons that I couldn’t have ever learned any other way. It has taught me to be grateful and appreciative for our lives and all of the luxuries we have. It amazes me every day at the joy and happiness these people have even though they have so little! They are so friendly, happy, and generous. One day I can only hope to be as kind and thoughtful as them and dance as good as them too. (: Today I was reunited with my best friend from last year. Her name is Princessa. I was pleasantly surprised when she said she remembered me! She was attached to my hip all day long and we had so much fun singing, dancing, running, and playing in the rain. I am so grateful for this trip and everything it as taught me! It has been so much fun making new friends that will last a lifetime. I wish I could move here.. except I am not gonna lie, the food is not my favorite thing in the whole world.. but I could get used to it I think… Adios!
Jana Shumway
First of all I would like to start off by saying I love the Dominican Republic. What a beautiful place full of amazing people. Being here this week and seeing the different culture has definitely been a great experience. It has made me really think of how blessed I am. My favorite thing about this place is that it doesn’t matter how much money or material goods they have its pure happiness that puts a smile on their faces. The children here are amazing and I wish I could take all of them back home with me. We have done a lot of different things this week but my favorite of all has been the time we get to spend playing with the kids and teaching them. I am so grateful for this wonderful experience and I wish I could spend more time here little by little making a difference in these peoples life. Hopefully I will be back soon! Hasta luego!!!!!
Sydney Cook
I can’t believe Wednesday is already over.. Where is the trip going? The last few days have been such an incredible experience. This is my second year coming with the group to the Dominican and I couldn’t be more happy and excited to be here. Today, we had to opportunity to go to the Caraballo. Last year, the Caraballo day was a definite favorite for me, so I was looking forward to this day more than anything! It was such an amazing day. Words can’t even begin to express my feelings about today. Being in the Caraballo, see firsthand extreme poverty, being with the poorest of the poor; it’s such a humbling experience. It is such an eye opener. Seeing the way the people live and their lifestyles really makes you appreciate EVERYTHING you have. It really makes you realize how truly blessed you are. The children there are absolutely adorable. Last year, a little girl, Denia, and I really clicked. Today when we were there, the minute we got off the bus, the first little girl I saw was her. Words cannot express how happy I was to see her. A common phrase you hear here is “Humanitarian work is so contagious.” I have truly come to be a believer of this. I am officially an addict..! haha When you are serving, you learn so much about others, as well as yourself. It brings a happiness you honestly can’t get any other way. I love the people of the Dominican Republic and I am so grateful I have had the opportunity to come here and be a part of this great humanitarian work, working with the DREAM Project. I can’t wait for the adventures and service the next two days will bring!
Tuesday, June 11, 2013
Day Three: Painting and Dinner on the Beach
We are at the end of Day Three. We painted, we played with orphans and we ended the night with a buffet on the beach. It was amazing and it feels now like our trip has finally started. But don't take my word for it. Here is the naked truth from your kids:
Sabrina Black
Hola everyone! This trip so far has been amazing! These past few days have been some of the best that I have been through. Today was an extreme adventure. As we were going down to the orphanage, the bus’s front right wheel popped. We were almost there and on a curve in the road. We were just sitting there waiting for the wheel to be changed and saw a preschool that Dream didn’t know was there. When we got to the orphanage the kids were just so sweet.
All day the food was amazing!!! When I first arrived in the Dominican Republic, I thought that I would never eat any of the food and may even starve! But I guess that was my imagination. After we ate dinner we went to the beach and swam in the ocean. The water was so warm and salty!! We all jumped the waves and would swim around. The rain and lightning stopped us after a while though so that sucked.
I love my whole family and hope you all are enjoying Utah weather as we deal with more intense heat and rain that reminds us of Iquitos (I hope I spelled that correctly). See you all after the week is over. Take you later and coconut!!!!
Alex Arguello & Amber Beckstrand
We would like to say something special… Y’all are amazing! We have really appreciated your posts! We are also really enjoying our stay here in the DR! The Dominican’s are really (and I mean REALLY) friendly! They would try to get close and ask us questions and touch our hair (except for Alex’s). The children are incredible. It’s life changing to be here interacting with the locals. To see how they live with what they have makes us appreciate what we have back at home. The locals have a spirit for having fun, especially dancing! They sure know how to move! I (Alex) really learned how to dance like a Dominican. However I (Amber) already had those moves down…. ;) I (Alex) realized that back in USA, I believed I was pretty tan, Now that I’m here… I look white! All the locals look at me strange. I (Alex) miss everyone in my family! When I look at the little Dominicans and see them playing around I think of my 2 little brothers because one is very energetic and the other one is very funny and has an accent. I (Amber) would like to make a shout out to my family! Miss everyone! I got to paint at least 10 little girls nails today. Thanks to everyone who donated supplies, they are very thankful! The beach is breath taking and the water is the perfect temperature. The last thing I want to do is leave this place. Thanks again! :D PS- We both ate fish eyes last night! Yum!
Avery LeMmon…To anyone that cares,
Mom and Dad this is for you actually…you have to care, it’s your job. There are some pretty eye-opening things down here. I’ve realized that most of Dad’s stories are true…which is sad. There are some things that Dad told me to try down here in the Dominican Republic that I am glad that I tried and MULTIPLE things that will probably kill me by the time I get home, oh well…YOLO. I don’t exactly miss you guys that much…no offense. I do miss you but this kind of work makes me happier than anything I have ever done. I can’t wait to do this kind of work every single day in my future. Hopefully you guys miss me, if not…it’s whatever. I can’t wait to see you guys when I leave for my mission. Actually…I bet you guys will just be like, “Don’t hurt yourself” or, “See you in two years.” I have a lot of pictures that I can show you but for some reason I can’t seem to send them (Dad you will just have to wait, don’t try to walk me through it;) ). I will see you in four days. Stay fresh. Stay golden.
Rachael Lutze
Hola! To everyone back home! First of all we miss you, but not too much because we are having an amazing time ;)! The Dominican Republic is an amazing place. The wildest animals I have encountered so far are runaway donkeys, mosquitos and bugs, ……..lots of bugs. So far, I hold the record for bugs killed. Last night, Monday, my room had three giant cockroaches in it! The first was on Brittany’s bed. Sid was the heroic warrior and attacked it with a towel. Its head popped off and it was dead. Then there was another two on the ceiling. I had the final killing blow on both. Then tonight I was going up the stairs when I step down an hear a giant crunch. Later I learned that it was a giant beetle bigger than a quarter! Yuck! ;) So I am the bug slayer!!! Any ways, the people here are amazing. They have a great love for everyone, are always happy and are so open. It everyone could be this loving, happy and open all the time, so many problems in this world would be solved. You feel like you are automatically friends with anyone you meet or talk to here. I thought I was coming to help these people, but I feel as if they are helping me more than I am helping them. I have learned so many lessons of unconditioned love and true happiness. I hope to apply them in my own life once I leave. The best part of today was when we first got on the buses to go to Paulina’s house. On the way down there, the bus I was on got a flat tire of course ;), just my luck. So we got off the bus, and saw a group of kids standing and waving wildly at us. We waved back at these adorable kids and decided to go play with them while the tire was being switched. The kids were so sweet, and sadly we soon had to leave. Once we finally arrived at Paulina’s the Dream leader John told us that he had never seen that school before, and that he was going to send someone to that little school from Dream so they could receive the proper supplies for those kids. My eyes teared up knowing that these sweet kids would get the help they need. It was so amazing to me how much good can come from a coincidence such as a flat tire. We turned lemons into lemonade today! If we can learn to do that with every situation, what great lives we can live.
Sabrina Black
Hola everyone! This trip so far has been amazing! These past few days have been some of the best that I have been through. Today was an extreme adventure. As we were going down to the orphanage, the bus’s front right wheel popped. We were almost there and on a curve in the road. We were just sitting there waiting for the wheel to be changed and saw a preschool that Dream didn’t know was there. When we got to the orphanage the kids were just so sweet.
All day the food was amazing!!! When I first arrived in the Dominican Republic, I thought that I would never eat any of the food and may even starve! But I guess that was my imagination. After we ate dinner we went to the beach and swam in the ocean. The water was so warm and salty!! We all jumped the waves and would swim around. The rain and lightning stopped us after a while though so that sucked.
I love my whole family and hope you all are enjoying Utah weather as we deal with more intense heat and rain that reminds us of Iquitos (I hope I spelled that correctly). See you all after the week is over. Take you later and coconut!!!!
Alex Arguello & Amber Beckstrand
We would like to say something special… Y’all are amazing! We have really appreciated your posts! We are also really enjoying our stay here in the DR! The Dominican’s are really (and I mean REALLY) friendly! They would try to get close and ask us questions and touch our hair (except for Alex’s). The children are incredible. It’s life changing to be here interacting with the locals. To see how they live with what they have makes us appreciate what we have back at home. The locals have a spirit for having fun, especially dancing! They sure know how to move! I (Alex) really learned how to dance like a Dominican. However I (Amber) already had those moves down…. ;) I (Alex) realized that back in USA, I believed I was pretty tan, Now that I’m here… I look white! All the locals look at me strange. I (Alex) miss everyone in my family! When I look at the little Dominicans and see them playing around I think of my 2 little brothers because one is very energetic and the other one is very funny and has an accent. I (Amber) would like to make a shout out to my family! Miss everyone! I got to paint at least 10 little girls nails today. Thanks to everyone who donated supplies, they are very thankful! The beach is breath taking and the water is the perfect temperature. The last thing I want to do is leave this place. Thanks again! :D PS- We both ate fish eyes last night! Yum!
Avery LeMmon…To anyone that cares,
Mom and Dad this is for you actually…you have to care, it’s your job. There are some pretty eye-opening things down here. I’ve realized that most of Dad’s stories are true…which is sad. There are some things that Dad told me to try down here in the Dominican Republic that I am glad that I tried and MULTIPLE things that will probably kill me by the time I get home, oh well…YOLO. I don’t exactly miss you guys that much…no offense. I do miss you but this kind of work makes me happier than anything I have ever done. I can’t wait to do this kind of work every single day in my future. Hopefully you guys miss me, if not…it’s whatever. I can’t wait to see you guys when I leave for my mission. Actually…I bet you guys will just be like, “Don’t hurt yourself” or, “See you in two years.” I have a lot of pictures that I can show you but for some reason I can’t seem to send them (Dad you will just have to wait, don’t try to walk me through it;) ). I will see you in four days. Stay fresh. Stay golden.
Rachael Lutze
Hola! To everyone back home! First of all we miss you, but not too much because we are having an amazing time ;)! The Dominican Republic is an amazing place. The wildest animals I have encountered so far are runaway donkeys, mosquitos and bugs, ……..lots of bugs. So far, I hold the record for bugs killed. Last night, Monday, my room had three giant cockroaches in it! The first was on Brittany’s bed. Sid was the heroic warrior and attacked it with a towel. Its head popped off and it was dead. Then there was another two on the ceiling. I had the final killing blow on both. Then tonight I was going up the stairs when I step down an hear a giant crunch. Later I learned that it was a giant beetle bigger than a quarter! Yuck! ;) So I am the bug slayer!!! Any ways, the people here are amazing. They have a great love for everyone, are always happy and are so open. It everyone could be this loving, happy and open all the time, so many problems in this world would be solved. You feel like you are automatically friends with anyone you meet or talk to here. I thought I was coming to help these people, but I feel as if they are helping me more than I am helping them. I have learned so many lessons of unconditioned love and true happiness. I hope to apply them in my own life once I leave. The best part of today was when we first got on the buses to go to Paulina’s house. On the way down there, the bus I was on got a flat tire of course ;), just my luck. So we got off the bus, and saw a group of kids standing and waving wildly at us. We waved back at these adorable kids and decided to go play with them while the tire was being switched. The kids were so sweet, and sadly we soon had to leave. Once we finally arrived at Paulina’s the Dream leader John told us that he had never seen that school before, and that he was going to send someone to that little school from Dream so they could receive the proper supplies for those kids. My eyes teared up knowing that these sweet kids would get the help they need. It was so amazing to me how much good can come from a coincidence such as a flat tire. We turned lemons into lemonade today! If we can learn to do that with every situation, what great lives we can live.
Some Photos...Finally
Our internet has been super shotty these first few days. As a result, I have not been able to upload any photos to the blog. Facebook has been uploading a little better than blogspot, and today I was able to upload a bunch. Check them out HERE or here:
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/edit/a.714432515249322.1073741825.134051733287406/#!/media/set/?set=a.714432515249322.1073741825.134051733287406&type=3
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/edit/a.714432515249322.1073741825.134051733287406/#!/media/set/?set=a.714432515249322.1073741825.134051733287406&type=3
Monday, June 10, 2013
Day Two: Inventory and RAIN!
We survived the deluge today. It rained for a solid hour...and the kind of rain that only a tropical country can understand. The pool almost overflowed. Before the rain started, we were able to unload and inventory all of our supplies. I could tell you all about our day, but it's late and I'm sure you would rather hear it from your kids. So, without further ado, let the guest bloggers begin:
Makenzie Briggs
This morning was great! We woke up to a wonderful sunny morning. We had a great breakfast that consisted of a pancake like a crape, and wonderful fresh fruit. Later we walked to the Dream education building and took a tour of the building. We got the chance to meet very beautiful young children and fun teenagers about our age. After the tour, we had a scavenger hunt that allowed us the opportunity to interact with some of the Dominicans. Everywhere we walked we got whistled and stared at! It was an eye opening experience! When we walked back to the hotel it started to rain! The rain felt amazing since the climate is so hot and humid. We walked back to the school and played with some cute children while their mothers were being taught about women’s health. The rain was on and off, but it was so exciting to be in such amazing scenery. Later in the evening we had dinner at a small, open restaurant on the side of the road. We drank coconut milk straight from the coconut, and ate the traditional Dominican dinner: chicken, rice, beans, and fish. The food is really good!! Next we watched a group of Dominicans dance and it eventually ended in all of us dancing with the neighbor Dominican boys. We learned how to dance the Bichata and it was divertido to dance with the Dominicans!!! The Dominican Republic is a very beautiful place and I feel grateful to get the chance to help and enjoy the people here.
P.S: I love you family!!! :)
Cassandra Simpson
Holy Freak. That is pretty much the only way to explain this trip so far. It is so amazing here. Most of the leaders say “By the end, you won’t want to leave,” And I am proud to say I disagree. It is only day two here and I don’t want to leave. There really is no way to explain this experience because you really have to be here and have this opportunity to understand it. The best part of this trip is everything. It is so cliché I know but it is so true. The people are so friendly and welcoming and it is so fun to say Hola! to them all. The kids we get to meet are the most adorable things in the world. It is so cool to see them with bubbles, oh my gosh they go literally crazy and laugh so much. The food, oh my amazingness! There has not been one thing I have not loved, Well okay maybe the sandwich we got when we first got off the plane wasn’t my favorite but everything else is just wow! The dancing is sooooo fun! We went dancing tonight and that was the coolest thing. I’ll tell you what the natives can really dance!! This trip is seriously eye-opening and inspiring. I look forward to doing many more humanitarian trips in the future. Thanks to all my friends and family who supported me on this trip. I love you all!
Hope Pemberton
I honestly don’t even know how to describe everything! I LOVE IT HERE! I feel completely content to stay here for a Loooong time! I love the hot weather (no, Mom, I haven’t been sunburned yet )! The humidity is awesome, I love it so much more than hot air that isn’t humid. Our hotel is the best I’ve ever stayed in and I am amazed at all the people I am here with. The group I’ve come with and all the locals are some of the best and most influential I’ve ever met. One of my favorite things is getting out of my comfort zone and just talking to people (and dancing!) I met the cutest girl today named Soline (?) and she painted my nails hot pink. I spoke to her in Spanish, but she was observing everyone else and not playing. She wouldn’t get her nails painted and she said no to going to the park with me, but she consented to painting my nails. And then Soline and I played catch/pass/kick with Cassie, Chase and Alyssa. It was fun to get her involved. The food is fantastic, I think I could eat it for the rest of my life. Miss you mom and dad and I can’t wait to see you! Don’t worry mom, I’m fine, I make sure to eat food before I take my malaria pill and I wear sunscreen and I make sure I don’t go anywhere alone and… I love you so much! Thanks for reading mom and the Hendry’s! I REALLY LOVE you guys! And I love the DOMINICAN REPUBLIC! Justin says hi to everyone and Dad, Avery said to tell you hi! AAHHH! Thank you so much for the help in getting here, you have no idea how amazing it is to help the people and experience another part of the world!
Alyssa Peatross Hola U.S.A!! This trip so far has been so exciting and eye opening!! The people are so friendly and kind, I never want to leave, and probably won’t. ;) the weather is humid and it’s been raining so im sticky and wet and hot all at the same time and I love it. The food rocks and they cook it outside in tiny tiny rooms, im very impressed!! Today was very exciting, we started out with a scavenger hunt and got to see around the town, we also got to play with the kids who are sooo cute!! We played with soccer balls and painted the girls nails. For dinner we went to this restaurant and they served us rice, pasta, salad, fish, and chicken. Dominican music is waay cooler than ours! We had a dance party at the restaurant and their all super good dancers!! One of the little kids that was dancing looked like Justin bieber and I plan to take him home with me. ;) Anyway, thanks soo much mom and dad for letting me come here!! Devin you are going to love it here, ill tell you all about it when I get home!! I love you guys!!
Makenzie Briggs
This morning was great! We woke up to a wonderful sunny morning. We had a great breakfast that consisted of a pancake like a crape, and wonderful fresh fruit. Later we walked to the Dream education building and took a tour of the building. We got the chance to meet very beautiful young children and fun teenagers about our age. After the tour, we had a scavenger hunt that allowed us the opportunity to interact with some of the Dominicans. Everywhere we walked we got whistled and stared at! It was an eye opening experience! When we walked back to the hotel it started to rain! The rain felt amazing since the climate is so hot and humid. We walked back to the school and played with some cute children while their mothers were being taught about women’s health. The rain was on and off, but it was so exciting to be in such amazing scenery. Later in the evening we had dinner at a small, open restaurant on the side of the road. We drank coconut milk straight from the coconut, and ate the traditional Dominican dinner: chicken, rice, beans, and fish. The food is really good!! Next we watched a group of Dominicans dance and it eventually ended in all of us dancing with the neighbor Dominican boys. We learned how to dance the Bichata and it was divertido to dance with the Dominicans!!! The Dominican Republic is a very beautiful place and I feel grateful to get the chance to help and enjoy the people here.
P.S: I love you family!!! :)
Cassandra Simpson
Holy Freak. That is pretty much the only way to explain this trip so far. It is so amazing here. Most of the leaders say “By the end, you won’t want to leave,” And I am proud to say I disagree. It is only day two here and I don’t want to leave. There really is no way to explain this experience because you really have to be here and have this opportunity to understand it. The best part of this trip is everything. It is so cliché I know but it is so true. The people are so friendly and welcoming and it is so fun to say Hola! to them all. The kids we get to meet are the most adorable things in the world. It is so cool to see them with bubbles, oh my gosh they go literally crazy and laugh so much. The food, oh my amazingness! There has not been one thing I have not loved, Well okay maybe the sandwich we got when we first got off the plane wasn’t my favorite but everything else is just wow! The dancing is sooooo fun! We went dancing tonight and that was the coolest thing. I’ll tell you what the natives can really dance!! This trip is seriously eye-opening and inspiring. I look forward to doing many more humanitarian trips in the future. Thanks to all my friends and family who supported me on this trip. I love you all!
Hope Pemberton
I honestly don’t even know how to describe everything! I LOVE IT HERE! I feel completely content to stay here for a Loooong time! I love the hot weather (no, Mom, I haven’t been sunburned yet )! The humidity is awesome, I love it so much more than hot air that isn’t humid. Our hotel is the best I’ve ever stayed in and I am amazed at all the people I am here with. The group I’ve come with and all the locals are some of the best and most influential I’ve ever met. One of my favorite things is getting out of my comfort zone and just talking to people (and dancing!) I met the cutest girl today named Soline (?) and she painted my nails hot pink. I spoke to her in Spanish, but she was observing everyone else and not playing. She wouldn’t get her nails painted and she said no to going to the park with me, but she consented to painting my nails. And then Soline and I played catch/pass/kick with Cassie, Chase and Alyssa. It was fun to get her involved. The food is fantastic, I think I could eat it for the rest of my life. Miss you mom and dad and I can’t wait to see you! Don’t worry mom, I’m fine, I make sure to eat food before I take my malaria pill and I wear sunscreen and I make sure I don’t go anywhere alone and… I love you so much! Thanks for reading mom and the Hendry’s! I REALLY LOVE you guys! And I love the DOMINICAN REPUBLIC! Justin says hi to everyone and Dad, Avery said to tell you hi! AAHHH! Thank you so much for the help in getting here, you have no idea how amazing it is to help the people and experience another part of the world!
Alyssa Peatross Hola U.S.A!! This trip so far has been so exciting and eye opening!! The people are so friendly and kind, I never want to leave, and probably won’t. ;) the weather is humid and it’s been raining so im sticky and wet and hot all at the same time and I love it. The food rocks and they cook it outside in tiny tiny rooms, im very impressed!! Today was very exciting, we started out with a scavenger hunt and got to see around the town, we also got to play with the kids who are sooo cute!! We played with soccer balls and painted the girls nails. For dinner we went to this restaurant and they served us rice, pasta, salad, fish, and chicken. Dominican music is waay cooler than ours! We had a dance party at the restaurant and their all super good dancers!! One of the little kids that was dancing looked like Justin bieber and I plan to take him home with me. ;) Anyway, thanks soo much mom and dad for letting me come here!! Devin you are going to love it here, ill tell you all about it when I get home!! I love you guys!!
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