Poco a Poco

We´ve been in Ecuador for a little over 2 weeks now!  Our time here so far has been filled with orientation, visiting worksites and neighbors, and struggling to learn as much Spanish as I can.  It´s frustrating to not always be able to communicate with people in our community.  However, all the neighbors we´ve visited have been incredibly welcoming and supportive.  They´ve all reminded me that ¨Poco a Poco¨ (¨little by little¨), I'll learn the language, be able to communicate and find my way around.  What a great reminder of patience and determination!

I also found out my worksite assignment this past week!  In the mornings, I will be working at Padre Damien House in downtown Guayaquil.  Padre Damien is a hospital and house of dignity for individuals dealing with Hansen´s Disease (formerly known as leprosy).  I will potentially have the opportunity to assist with wound care for the patients and follow the doctor around for his daily check-ups with patients.  Perhaps most importantly, I will have the chance to spend time and build relationships with the patients.  I´m really excited about working at Damien!  More to come on this as I start work!  In the afternoons, I will be helping out (along with two other housemates) at an after-school program in the neighborhood.  The first part will involve academic activities and homework help.  Then it's time for ¨recreo¨(recess!).  Soccer is huge here in Ecuador, so I'm hoping to develop some skills!

That's it for now.  I hope everyone is doing well.  You are all in my thoughts and prayers!  Thanks for all your support!