Carlos and his family and our family
We were able to contact the same taxi driver that we used last time and arrange for him to pick us up through the hotel. It was really great seeing a friendly face waiting for us and it was so nice to reconnect with him. We invited him and his family to spend the day with us Sunday and it was really wonderful getting to meet his wife, Belkis, and his daughters, Yessi (Jessi) and Rachel. When Carlos picked us up Monday, we arrived a little early at the bus stop and he invited us to spend some time with his family at his house. It was very humbling having them invite us and so wonderful being able to learn more about them. We pray our relationship can continue with this special family.
A little glimpse of paradise
At times, it feels like a distraction to have to leave, and in all reality, it is. However, Belkis encouraged me by reminding me that in the life of full time ministry, family time is often sacrificed. We know this to be true in our own lives, although we do our best to guard our family. She reminded me of the blessing God has given us to be able to leave every few months and have uninterrupted family time. It realy helped me to put into perspective the blessings God has given us and thank him for all He has done for us.
My handsome husband relaxing (a rare sight to see)
Matthew and his Momma
What a wonderful gift God gave us to be able to share this time with Matt's mom. She treated us to several meals at the restaurant, something we usually don't have the budget for. The food was excellent and relieved me from cooking every meal, which was nice. We really enjoyed our time with Mimi.
Tatiana and our girls
One of the things we love the most about this specific hotel is the family atmosphere the owners and employees have created. All of the employees and their families live at the hotel and eat their meals together and also receive health insurance. There is a school for all the children. We have really enjoyed getting to know the staff and this time they welcomed us like family. It was really cool to hear "Welcome Back!" with huge smiles from all as we arrived! This is Tatiana, one of the girls' friends from last time. She lives there with her husband and they are expecting their first child.
I love this shot...Mommy and Audrey laughing at who knows what...but just having a great time
Mommy and Iz enjoying the waves
Audrey and Dayana playing
The girls met a little friend the first day there named Dayana. She was super sweet and we enjoyed her company the rest of our time there. She really enjoyed herself, too, as there are not many other girls her age to play with. We were blessed by her company throughout our stay.
a baby sea turtle
Dayana's dad and mom work at the hotel and her dad is actually the general manager. He invited us to watch the release of baby sea turtles our last day there. It was absolutely amazing and a once in a lifetime event to participate in. Each of our kids were able to liberate at least one of the babies and we watched until they all made it to the sea. It was such a cool experience!
Dayana, Audrey, Ethan and Isabelle with the baby turtles. Twenty-three babies had been born that day and were released that afternoon.
Brooke and the kids with Mimi at sunset
Ethan exploring the rocks
Ethan really loves this part of the beach. There are a million little nooks and crannys and he spends so much time walking and digging and watching and looking at all the different creatures that live in the rocks, primarily the crabs.
Audrey on the beach. I just love this shot. She absolutely loves the sand, the waves and building and digging.
1 comment:
That looks so fun. Good for you guys. Miss you all. Give Matt a big kiss for me.
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