Guatemala Day 7

We all met for breakfast on our last day. Most of us got those fabulous fruit-filled crepes.

The girls went off to shop before we had to go. It was a little fun, and a little stressful. I was thankful Karen was comfortable with her Spanish and could take charge of the bartering.

It really stunk having to say goodbye. A part of my heart stayed in Pana.

Our driver was really nice, and JC took charge as we made our way back to Guatemala City. We stopped at a little side tent. They served authentic Guatemalan bbq. It was delicious and the people were very nice.

At first I was wary that our driver was armed. Then we passed a motorcycle with two guys riding. The passenger was holding a shotgun. After that, I was super thankful we had an armed and prepared driver. Guatemala City had some impressive architecture. We also walked by the presidential palace.

 We stopped at the aquarium restaurant and walked by the hotel JC and Travis got to stay at. Swanky place!

We were able to get through customs without any incident and within a half hour. Good thing, cause our connecting flight was leaving in a half hour. The jungle hike prepared us for our airport run!

I am looking forward to our next trip to Pana to see the parents, and I guess more of the country. We saw a lot, but there is so much more to be seen.

Guatemala Day 6

Today was the day of our epic jungle hike. Our guides were Travis, Doggo, and Bailey the dog.

With the humidity, and the elevation change, we felt like we were conquering a mountain! Then we saw the grandma carrying wood on her back traveling at a steady pace, and the teenager coming home from school. We conquered nothing... some of those people take those trails every day....

The views were so beautiful! We could see the three volcanoes well. Some of the forest had been cut away for onions to grow.

When we got to the top, we stopped to get some more liquids. There were these dogs that were skin and bones. It was sad to see, and it was hard not to take them to where they would be better fed and cared for.

At the top, we also got a view of Solala. 

Yes, that is Sean putting his humidified-sweaty face on mine. Ewe.

Here's our trusty guide Bailey. She was the perfect hiking dog, and has a sparkling personality:

We all met up for dinner. While we were waiting for some food, a parade went by - one of the music schools was performing what they'd practiced.

After dinner, the group from the parade was still gathered. They were even setting large fireworks off in the street. As a bonus, a hand-held firework went AWOL and zoomed over to Sean, and shot up his pant leg. We were all startled, and Sean said, "I love Guatemala!"

Guatemala Day 5

This day was the Sabbath, and the building the branch met in was just down the street. It was fun singing the hymns (I think Sean and I did pretty well) and I know Relief Society's lesson was on families. Everyone was very nice and welcoming, and everyone loved Emree.

After church, Sean and I got to spend the afternoon with our parents, which was really nice. That night we had a family dinner. Can you tell that Emree found a new cuddle buddy?

Since I didn't take a lot of pictures Sunday, I will take this time to talk more about Panajachel. Here's some of the vegetation:

Here's some of the ways that are used to deter people from trespassing. Yes, that is cut glass:

Here is the fabulous hotel we stayed at - Casa Colonial: