Over the last six years in the physical therapy program, we have celebrated anniversaries, graduations, and even held parent meetings.  From time to time we’ve had other smaller gatherings, but this year we decided it was time to take our workers and just do something fun, away from our ministry.

So this morning, despite the threat of rain and dreary weather in Chichicastenango, we loaded the van for a day trip to Panajachel. Amazingly, as we got closer to the lake, the weather cleared.  We couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful day.

After being dropped off by the lake, we took advantage of the great weather to get a group picture with the lake and volcano in the background.  Then we let one of our girls bargain for the best price for a boat ride.  Most of our girls don’t know how to swim and some have never been on a boat, but they all agreed to go.  Our thirty minute ride, which turned into almost an hour ,was amazing.  We enjoyed some great views along with much laughter.  There was some screaming, mostly of joy, as our driver increased the speed and did a few turns on the ride home.  I wish you could have seen the girls faces and shared in the smiles and laughter!

After arriving safely back on shore, we strolled around the shops.  Some people purchased items we can’t find in Chichicastenango, while the rest of us just enjoyed the experience and the company.  We had an early lunch at Chinitos, a Chines restaurant.  Some of our workers tried some new foods and really seemed to enjoy it.  We finished the day with an ice cream cone before returning home.

In the Bible, the people took time to celebrate and rest; that is exactly what we did today.  It was a great day to rest, enjoy His creation, and spend time with one another.  Before leaving one of the workers told me, “we were really looking forward to this trip, thank you.”  We hope to do something like this again next year.

For more pics of todays fun visit:  www.facebook.com/jhoines.  If you’d like to help with next year’s trip let me know.