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Submitted by Carla Cottrell

Again we were treated to Parkside outdoor breakfast under the tent. The temperature here has been quite pleasant, and the scenery is astounding! I have been remiss in not mentioning out driver for the week, Cordelio. He has navigated the rough terrain and the crazy motorists admirably…and he knows EVERYONE in Panajachel and in every other locale to which we have traveled. It is amazing! As we pass other vehicles he whistles or calls to his friends. Even Anne is flabbergasted at his contacts!

13450814_10205352632730411_8684871778139888479_nOn the way to Don Camilo’s farm, a bicyclist actually grabbed the ladder on the back of our minibus and hitched a ride up part of the mountain! We were alarmed, but Cordelio was totally cool, and he actually drove more carefully until dogs got in the way and the bicyclist had to let go.

I should also report on the road conditions here in general. They are, in a word, bad. There was a rock and mudslide on Sunday night that covered part of the municipal highway, and it wasn’t until today that the rocks were moved off of the driving lanes. We did something really clever, though. The men who drive tourist buses have 13432162_10205352625770237_6925272693071626089_nbanded together to pay for some potholes to be paved on the roads they travel the most. They do it as they have the money, and each of them pays in equally. Great cooperation and a brilliant solution. After all, their livelihoods depend upon their ability to keep their clients happy and their vehicles in decent shape. We could learn a thing or two in observing their problem-solving skills!

Each day we have had an hour drive to and from our service locations. We have used the time wisely, brainstorming solutions and new ideas to increase Air’s ability to raise funds to continue 13435408_10205352636010493_3426637754474128856_ntheir great work. Today we shared the plastic-bags-turned-into-blankets idea that HUM is currently promoting. When we return, we may be calling on some of you to help us make a few! Save your grocery bags!

Don Camilo and his family have had a relationship with AIR for 12 years. We got to see the first trees planted there and one of the first stoves built. Unbelievable! Also, his farm is beautiful, and he has planted most of the trees he will ever need…the beauty of his story is that he continues to plant…even on his neighbors’ lands, and he continues to maintains a tree nursery to share in his community! He says he does this because the air is fresher, the atmosphere is more peaceful, and he is responsible for the future of his grandchildren. Beautifully said, Don Camilo. And, when you see the photos of those beautiful chicks, you will certainly understand his heart.

It is Father’s Day here, and we wish each of you a great one! God bless you!

 

Carla