(Jodi) It's a Wrap!

Last night the vision team visited the Common Hope headquarters and loaded up on supplies for the trip. We ventured into their warehouse, filled and weighed our bags for the journey. Each of our bags weighed between 40 and 50 lbs. and were filled with letters, electronic equipment, hats, scarves, stuffed animals and other personal items.

The first of many tears welled up in my eyes as I learned that one of my co-workers had donated some essential supplies that only a parent of a small child would appreciate. It blew me away needless to say. I will proudly be carrying those items in my bag and will always remember the generosity of my co-worker, Karl.

Following is the link to our Common Hope photo journal and we hope that you will follow us throughout the trip. http://www.commonhope.org/get-involved/join-a-vision-team/vision-team-diary/12bb2-photo-diary/

(Jodi) About Last Night

Last night our Vision Team got together to start brainstorming ideas for our team led activities in Guatemala. There were so many great ideas and creative ways to introduce the students to us and our lives in Minnesota. We wanted the activities to be fun, interesting and a new experience for student aged kids. We're focusing on 3 ideas: Letters from a Minnesota 3rd Grade Class, a Scavenger Hunt that involves beads and making really cool jewelry and finally a highly spirited wiffle ball game. We're really excited and hope these ideas will come to life as we have envisioned.

We were recently introduced again to the daily activities that we will be involved in. Each day will include 2, 4 hour sessions. We'll sign up for those activities when we get there but to give an idea: construction, warehouse work, a day in the life activities, our team led activities and much more. I personally can't wait to sign up for the day in the life because that involves shadowing a local person and doing what they do! It's a great way to totally immerse oneself in the culture and understand what life is like.

I have been thinking a lot about what it might be like to be a woman in Guatemala. Obviously I know what my role is in American society, and I'm betting the role my female counterpart plays in Guatemala won't be that much different. Women represent many things and play many roles in society but we are mostly gatherers (not hunters) and nurturers for the family unit. I can't wait to put my theory to the test and make a real-life connection with one of my Guatemalan sisters.