Wow! Two surprise
parties in one day……yesterday we were celebrating Latin American style! This means:
lots of people (so many new friends!), much laughter and hugs, loud
singing, pop (here it’s Inca Cola), a salty snack, and a lovely decorated cake.
The first party was at the police station, where we teach classes. In the middle of our last class of the day we
began to noctice lots of commotion in the hallway, which was quite distracting
for our students. Soon, parents and
children from earlier classes, along with the policeman who supervises us, came
into the classroom carrying cake, drinks, and snacks. Policeman Johnny Alata gave a speech about
how much he appreciates us being here, and that they didn’t want to miss a
chance to celebrate my special day. (We
still have no clue how they found out it was my birthday. Do the pólice just know everything?!) The singing began with “Happy Birthday” in
English, continued with the Spanish versión with the same tune, followed by
another verse, “many blessings to you” (in Spanish). Then, I was given an opportunity to make a
speech, and after I did so in Spanish (impromtu, aaackk), they requested that I
also speak in English. Finally, I was instructed to go around the
room to receive hugs and wishes from each person. A lovely celebration!
Later that evening, there seemed to be excitement around the
houses, along with whispering between my family members and others at the
house. We usually prepare supper for our
little family on our own, but were instructed not to do so this evening. Rosa served up a light, healthy supper for
everyone in the house, and while we ate together in the living room a local
friend of the family (who works with the other volunteers in our house) showed
up with two cakes. It was party time
again, for me and for another family friend!
This time, at the end of the singing, each of us birthday folks had our
faces pushed into our lovely cakes! But,
the icing tasted good J We enjoyed cake, hot chocolate and visiting
with all of these new friends. Unfortunately
the party came to an abrupt end when one of the young adult volunteers (who had
been sleeping through the party) needed to be taken to the hospital. All ended well at the hospital, and I won`t
be surprised if the party is continued this evening!
My family also surprised me with sweet gifts, of
course! Kent treated me to a good back
rub and both Luisa and Magdalena had secretly bought local treats for me when
we were at the store the evening before.
Luisa knows that I can always enjoy a chocolate and coconut combination;
and Magdalena gave me my own personal size of panetone (a moist bread/cake with
raisins). I`ll open those treats once
all of the cake is taken care of!!
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