Christmas party at Wilma's

Today was Christmas party number one. We did a quick Spanish lesson in the morning, then drove over an hour to an area called Comas to see Wilma and her kids. Last time I was there was two years ago, and at that time her building was not finished yet, it still needed a roof. This time the school/daycare center was in full swing. It was great to see the place full of kids, from three years old to thirteen! Having the Center is so valuable for both the kids and the moms, knowing their kids are safe and cared for when they are working. Most of the mom's also volunteer their time to help run the place, by cooking or cleaning etc. There were about 70-80 kids there today, and we set up a bunch of little chairs, played a few Christmas cartoons, served hot chocolate and handed out a fruitcake-like sweetbread that is super popular here - paneton, and shared the true Christmas story with them too.

paneton

We brought big bags full och Christmas presents, but Pastor Wilma will hand them out on Sunday and they were so excited when they saw all the presents!

lots of hot chocolate

My favorite part of the day was seeing my little friend Amaru again, although he isn't so little anymore! He is fifteen and grew a few inches since I last saw him. About a year ago, my church raised money and I got to help build him and his family a house on a piece of property he had bought with his own earnings. It was great to see his mom and younger siblings too!!! I hope to get a chance to come back and visit their house and spend some more time with them.


Amaru (and goofy Pocho in the back)





My newest little friend - Geraldine