DAY 13

HAPPY FAMILY DAY

They’re  off!!  The youth got onto their flight this morning at 10:25 and headed back to Canada.  There were a few who were very willing to continue to stay on for a while longer, having thoroughly enjoyed their stay.

Yesterday (DAY 12) we spent in central Lima.  We had hoped to attend mass in the Cathedral, but the timing was not to be, so we took a bus tour to the top of San Crystobal, one of the highest points in Lima.  Snaking our way up the narrow road, I was amused to see a ‘no passing’ sign! As if that was even possible!! From atop the hill we could see across all of Lima, despite the heavy pollution haze.  It was amazing to see just how sprawling the city is, nestled in a huge basin with the Rimac River snaking its way through the metropolis to the ocean.  There is a giant cross atop the hill with a shrine.  The cross lights up at night and can be seen for miles.

After arriving back at the Plaza de Armas, we made our way to the Parliament Buildings where we were scheduled for a tour.  Sr. Gloria’s brother, Ulyses who is policeman in Chincha, arranged for us to have this tour.  After going through security,  we saw a number of magnificent halls used for entertaining with large mirrors and huge crystal chandeliers imported from Czekoslovakia.  One room held display cases full of interesting and unique gifts that the current president had accumulated.   The changing of the guard occurs every day at noon and one Sunday a month a horse show is put on (similar to our RCMP Ride).  We had a good view from one of the balconies as the band members sat atop their own horses and played for the crowd in the square and then for the horses’ routines.  The president appeared at the main door and a roar went up from the crowd.  He started to move across the courtyard towards the crowd, catching his body guards ‘off guard’ as they raced after him.  Everything was video taped as he went around greeting the people.

We then took a number of taxis to the ritzy area of Town, Mira Flores, and had lunch in a very nice restaurant.  Our Chincha friends were with us and we all exchanged our gratefulness for the enrichment of our lives from having met them and this experience.  It was hard to put into words just what our friends have come to mean to us and we have asked the youth to provide us with a paragraph or two about how these two weeks have affected them now and  their future.

The Indian Market was just a block or two away and we strolled around the many stalls laden with goods.  Everyone seemed happy with their final purchases.  Then it was back to the apartment for our final evening in Peru to rest up and finalize our packing.  Michael still had a bit of energy left and bought ingredients for an Asian noodle dish, which he prepared for all of us to try.  Then it was off to bed.

The bus arrived at 7:15 to take us to the airport and as Sr. Pauline helped everyone get checked in, I made my way to the arrivals to look for our pilgrims coming in on the Air Canada flight.  It took a while (over an hour) for them to come through customs as they had to wait for the very last bag off the plane!!  We still had time (after stuffing Pedro’s truck to the ceiling with their bags) to make it upstairs to the food court to meet the youth and then send them off on their way! Yvonne

Changing of the guard - Band on horseback.

Group photo in parliament #1

Group photo in parliament #2

Group photo in parliament #3

Group photo in parliament #4

Just a brief note from back home.  The group arrived in the Ottawa airport Monday evening shortly after 9:00 p.m.  They were met in stages by and individuals and families arriving to pick up various members of the group.  There were families from various parts of the diocese - Mount St. Patrick's, Killaloe, Petawawa, and Deep River - there to pick up the young people and two  chaperones that returned with the group.  There were lots of smiles and hugs to greet the families coming into the airport and lots of chatter and banter amongst the youth as parting goodbyes were exchanged.  My vehicle's passengers consisting of 2 youth and 2 chaperones arrived back in Deep River about 12:30.  There was lots of conversation about the trip back and its adventures, and about the trip in general. But by the end, things started to peter out and the passengers either started dozing off or resting quietly.  It's good to have them home.  Bill

One Last Group Photo At The Ottawa Airport

DAY 11

We have now arrived in Lima and after a night of DANCING and a full day of City touring, we are wiped out. Yvonne said she will write a few words if I add some pictures.  Pauline

We arrived at the Sisters’ apartment here in Lima around 7pm and got settled in quickly.  Sr. Maria and Pedro drove the trucks up from Chincha with 12 mattresses in the back (6 in each truck!) for the kids to sleep on (we all came up in a hired bus). The luggage came up in the trucks and in the bus.  The apartment is huge – there are four bedrooms for the adults and the  boys have 2 mattresses each and are on the floor in the living room.  The girls have double mattresses too or a bed in a hall, just off the apartment, which is still part of the apartment complex!  This hall is used by the parish for their needs, whenever necessary.  Pedro is back home as he lives just across the road from here and his sisters look after the apartment (cleaning, etc.) when necessary.  This is a really old part of Lima and not one of the ‘ritzy’ areas.  We are situated above a soup kitchen, but as it is the weekend, it is not functioning.  But we are very safe and there are many doors and gates that are locked.

Once we got settled, we readied ourselves for the evening – going to a show of cultural dances – Brisas del Titicaca.  It did not start until 10pm and we got there just in time.  The professional dancing was fantastic and in between each  round everyone was invited on the dance floor to let loose and enjoy themselves.  The first time up it was a struggle to get the kids on the floor, we managed that, but at the first opportunity, they ran for their chairs.  The second time they groaned when they saw us coming, but they all got up and enjoyed themselves.  The third time, we were taking a break and what do they do but come and get us up to dance!!  EVERYONE was dancing up a storm and thoroughly enjoyed themselves.  Needless to say, we got home very late and everyone slept soundly.

This morning found us sleeping in a little, but after a quick and simple breakfast, we headed in 4 taxis to the centre of Lima for a tour of Rose of Lima Church, Santo Domingo Church and St. Francis Church.  We had lunch in the centre and managed to do a bit of shopping.  Just before leaving the square, a few got to ride on a horse & buggy.  We then headed off to the Fountain Park and enjoyed the light (laser) show amidst the fountains and then a few managed to get wet in the interactive fountains.  Another great day.  At present it is 10:50 and the pizza people just arrived (they left around 9:15 to get it as there was no way it would be delivered here!!).  We managed to get in few games of 99 while waiting.  Not sure how many are ready for sleep, but the music and noise in general from the surrounding community does NOT appear to be stopping any time soon, so will sign off (again). (hopefully a bit more tomorrow)  Buenas Noches………… Yvonne

Arriving in Lima.

Posing with dancer.

Leaving the dances.

Add caption

Sabrynna after a night of dancing.

Sydney the brightest of the crowd.

In St. Rose of Lima Church

In the Main Plaza

Dead from the heat.

At the water fountain park.

DAY 10

Just some last words before we go to Lima:

Jordan missed getting his last journal into Thursday night’s (DAY 10's) report.

As the sights, sounds and delicious smells from the Muchaypiña family’s party washed over me, I could not help but feel empty. Despite the wonderfully happy atmosphere, I could not seem to enjoy myself as much as anyone else. In this case it went beyond my deep rooted dislike for parties in the first place, no, tonight it was different. As I sat trying to drown out the beeping. honking and booming of the dance music with good food and friendly faces, my mind continuously wandered back to the Cespedes Carbajal family I had spent the previous two days with. I knew that just a few blocks away from our music and good food, they sat in their living room, as family, probably watching television while the mother prepares a simple dinner. The sight before my eyes was both happy and sad at the same time, for there would be no party for them on this night. Tonight would be like any other night for a poor Chincha family, and even though they had naught but their meager dinner and some shared laughs, that reality seems more fulfilling. I would rather be there, laughing while desperately trying to communicate through our Spanish-English dictionary, and sharing in their tea and bread. Yet when I open my eyes, I’m back at the party, with the music dancing and laughter falling on my blind eyes and deaf ears.  Jordan

I spent the last two day with the Muchaypiña Fuentes family enjoying their company and the comfortable atmosphere. Although we had a hard time understanding each other we got by with one or two words in either language and many hand gestures. The family was so kind inviting me into their home and their family and I truly feel like they will always be my Peruvian family. All 6 of the children feel like my brothers and sisters and I didn’t want to leave. Most of our time was spent playing games or teaching each other English and Spanish (They’re better at English than I am at Spanish) and I wish we could have had longer together.   Marissa

Last evening was our last night in Chincha and we attended at one of the family’s home to have a ‘party’.  It was a wonderful time enjoyed by all and the music blared out into the street, sending the neighbourhood children to the open doors to view the festivities.  Most everyone had a little dance around the floor to a variety of music and we came away saddened by the fact that our visit was drawing to an end.

All too soon it is Friday, our final day in Chincha.  This morning we finished up a few errands.  Some of us went to the market to purchase school uniforms for children we had previously visited.  Some had to buy supplies for other families visited; clock and pots for cooking.  The rest of us piled into Pedro’s truck and headed out to Ricardo’s house (one of the men who is helping to build the project houses) to see the construction of the top floor of his house, where we enjoyed the view of the city with the mountains in the background.  Then we made our final visit to the families who were the recipients of the first house built by the youth.  We also dropped off bags of baby clothes to the 3 women who were expecting.  These families are very grateful for the help we have given them.  The women here make straw hats (which take 2 days to make) for some income and were very happy to give the youth a few in gratitude of the time they had spent building their new house.
It’s time now to get ready for lunch – we are taking the women out that have been working in the kitchen for us during our stay.  Then we will go to an associate’s house, Elizabeth, for ‘picarones’ – those wonderful Peruvian ‘donuts’ and then it’s on to Lima, where we will stay for the weekend and do some touring.  This evening we will go to the cultural dances and Saturday and Sunday will be spent touring Lima, the main square, Cathedral, Parliament Buildings and a bus tour of the city (and of course, some souvenir shopping!!).

The youth will leave on Monday morning, taking the plane that the pilgrims will be arriving on.  We will see one group off and pick the other group up and then spend the week with the pilgrims in Lima, touring and visiting the diocesan projects we are supporting in Lima.  We will meet with Bishop Tomasi and visit some parish communities.  Then we will come back to Chincha for the weekend and after that the pilgrims will experience the wonder of Cuzco and Macchu Pichu.
We will not be able to communicate any more after today as we will not have access to internet, but we will be back in a week to report on the pilgrims’ progress!!  Ciao for now.  Yvonne

We were not able to send the above blog out earlier on day 10, so we are actually posting it on day 11 as we now have a wi-fi stick.

DAY 9

Happy St. Valentine’s Day

Today started out nice and quiet with only the five adults in the house, but before I could get to my breakfast some of the youth were returning from their family experience. Each accompanied by all the members of the household where they were staying. There was a lot of excitement and emotions as they said good-bye to their families. The walls were buzzing with Spanish and English flowing freely as if all wanted to speak at the same time. In the midst of all this chatter scholarship children were arriving to be attended to, eventually we got Pedro to take the youth to the Ocean until lunch, there they can share their experiences with one another. Pauline

After the quiet start to the day, things only got busier and louder (and yes, it is just another HOT day in Chincha).  I was off with driver Pedro and translator Charo to visit two families who were looking for help for scholarships. Jordan had returned early from his family and came with  us.  The first visit, the single mother was managing to take care of her 21 yr. old son, who has been diagnosed with a tumor in his throat, her 19 yr. old daughter, who helps her sell fried foods on the street close by the convent here, and her 13 yr. old son who is starting high school and wants to be a doctor!  I am amazed at how some families do so well (in comparison to others) with just so little!! We need to deliver a single bed here for the son as his is not ‘sleepable’.

At the next visit we met the two boys that would need a scholarship.  They are both on dialysis and awaiting a kidney transplant.  The father and mother have a little store and the father left his work and has committed himself to looking after his sons and gives them their treatment at home!!  They are getting help to pay for the medical supplies via Padre Santiago and his contacts in Spain.

One thing that amazes me on these visits is that you never really know what the living conditions are as you approach the house.  The house may look quite respectable as you approach, but as you enter, you may find a mess with flies everywhere.  Others look very ‘unspecial’ but as you enter the house and move through it, it extends room after room and then comes out in a nice airy courtyard – far away from the busy street.  It’s a surprise every time!!

Today is Valentine’s Day and the table is set for lunch, awaiting everyone to come back from the beach.  There are treat bags at each place setting and decorations everywhere, with a special tablecloth.  This evening we have been promised some entertainment by the families and it should be a wonderful way to end our last full day here (all too soon!).  Yvonne

On the evening of February 12, all of the youth got to go to different families to sleep there for two nights. What an experience!  Though I have to admit, when I was packing for the overnight stays I was a bit scared.  I increasingly became insecure about my stomach hurting, what gifts to give to different family members, how I cannot speak Spanish, and if the family would accept me.  I got so worked up, I had to postpone from going to my family for 2 hours.  However when I finally walked in the door of the Garcia’s I was welcomed with smiles and open arms.  The Garcia family had a whole presentation waiting for me where the two uncles preformed funny skits involving puppets and music. I even had the opportunity to play my ukulele for their family.  When I got to give my gifts to them, they were all very thankful and happy and especially loved the printed copy of the drawing of Mary and baby Jesus I did for them.  The grandma even kissed it!  Later, I got to play the Spanish equivalent of ‘Sorry’ with some family members and got to see their competitive side.  Over the last 2-3 days I’ve learned that we’re sometimes scared of new experiences, not because of anything significant that we cannot handle, but because of our own personal anxieties, bad experiences, and false expectations.  And it doesn’t help if you’re a little sick either.  Angela

Staying at the family I was assigned to was quite an experience for me. I was welcomed with delighted faces and many hugs as I entered their home. One of the family members, Daniel, was the same age as me and was able to communicate and understand a bit of English. And so we really got to know each other very well as we toured around the city. I was even able to go to the school where he studies and meet all the teachers there. But meeting the other family members was a joy especially when I gave each of them presents like it was Christmas. I was overjoyed to see the smiles in each of their faces. However, the experience did astonish me on how the lifestyle is so different between a Canadian one and a Peruvian one. It made me think on how we as Canadians have so many things and probably never use most of it, while here in Peru you would use everything that you would get your hands on. Never again I will spend money on things I probably don’t need. Again the experience has changed me a lot.  Michael

Staying with my host family the past 2 days was incredible. I was a little worried about having to stay with people I didn’t know whatsoever. On top of that the language barrier worried me because I can’t speak Spanish fluently yet. Luckily they spoke slowly and they even tried speaking English which was a big help. The family I stayed with was so happy, they welcomed me with open arms and that was instantly a relief. The first night I had a translator with me so communicating wasn’t too hard. The next morning I was on my own. I learned a few new words by listening to them speak and they were such a big help. In order for me to understand what was going on they spoke slowly and used a LOT of hand gestures; it was much appreciated. All the families requested to spend the entire day with each of the youth they were assigned. I thought it was so awesome that they wanted to spend so much time with us. Angela, Sydney, Marissa, Michael and I all went with a few members of our family to Ica. We took a bus to get there and we visited a winery. We got to see the different processes that the Peruvians use to make wine. The main one explained was a wine called Pisco. The process was long and seemed like it would be hard work. At the end of the tour we got to try 5 samples of the different wines. The last one we tried was 43% alcohol and was so nasty. I got over the taste and drank a bunch of water. The rest of the day was so much fun too. We got home and we learned more Spanish words, it was so much fun. It was an amazing experience to spend time with the family, they treated me like a family member and it was amazing. So glad I came on this trip.  Sabrynna

Today, I met with the single mom and child again at the convent regarding some concerns to assist plus discussion with Jim and Ali Keogh.  Sr. Pauline helped translate the concerns.  I also went with Celinda, my scholarship child to see her high school of 2000 girls.  We met her English teacher, and had a tour with her Vice-Principal throughout the school.  The Peru government had rebuilt it after the earthquake.  We went shopping later.  This afternoon we are delivering beds, wheelchairs, stove, propane, clothes, etc that were needed for the families we visited earlier. Grace

I spent the last two nights with the Choques Cespedes family. There are six in the family and I had an awesome time, I wish I could have stayed longer. It was a little challenging because I do not know Spanish and they do not know any English, but we still managed to communicate and I am glad I smile lots because they at least knew I was happy staying with them. Yesterday we went somewhere called Ica, with a few different families and Marissa, Sabrynna, Angela and Michael. We got to ride on a boat and taste some wine they make here in Peru. Today we handed out beds, buckets and a table to families who needed them. It is nice to receive so many smiles from all the people we are helping. I am very happy that I decided to be part of this trip even though it was more or less a last minute decision. I never thought that something like a toothbrush would make somebody so happy, but here it really does.  Sydney  

Tuesdayat 5 pm we headed out to our Peruvian families home. We stayed there till 11 am today. I had a really good time. Most of the family knew a little English so it was easy to communicate, and when they didn’t understand or know how to say what they wanted in English they used Google translate. On Wednesday we played some games ( it was confusing at first but we got it after a bit), then went out to visit the house of someone who has become a saint. They also brought us to see her tomb and the church. We went back to their house and watched movies. They set the language to English and had Spanish sub titles so that we could understand them. We also went to the Ash Wednesday mass with the family at 7 pm then went on a little tour and to the store to buy some food. Their two cousins also came on Thursday and were spending the week with them. The youngest was 3 and was full of energy and really funny. One time he was singing and dancing to gangnan style and laughing, it was so cute and funny. The family also had pet hamsters that were really tiny. The family was really nice and welcoming, at first I was really nervous about going and spending the two nights and one day with them but they were really nice to us and made us a lot more comfortable. They also bought us a gift which was really kind of them to do.  Kristin & Kayla

This is the last you will hear from the youth now unless before we leave for Lima tomorrow someone decides to jot a note. In Lima we will no have the use of internet to send any messages. Pauline

DAY 8

The morning has been a busy one even though we have no youth with us today. They are off having a live-in experience with a Peruvian Family.

The associates have arrived to attend to the scholarship children and Sister Maria is busy with all that pertains to construction. There are a number of new brick homes projected plus an even greater number of bamboo homes. Sister Gloria is running from one SET to the other seeing that they have the paint they need and supplies for repairing the buildings. Once they are repaired we will put the materials they have asked for into the classroom. The teacher we took shopping last night was one of the first to have finished the clean-up and painting.

For those of you who have followed our journey these last two years will remember young CHAMPI, he and his parents came from the mountains three years ago and still the parents speak very little Spanish, the mountain people speak Quechua,  Joel Champi Quispe who is now twelve years old continues to work in the market to support the household. He and his mother came for a visit this morning and I presented him with gifts from Canadian friends. He was so proud to try on the two sweaters sent by Nancy & Robert Coyne and the lovely watch sent to him by Peter and Murielle Gervais. They are in great need of a washroom so Yvonne Sklepowicz has agreed to use the funds she raised to build that bathroom.

Today I am trying to see that all the supplies that the youth need to take to the families they visited yesterday are purchased and ready for distribution tomorrow afternoon as I would like the youth to go back to the family they visited and take the requested supplies. The beds and mattresses should arrive today as well as table and chairs. We have to go to market for stoves, pots, gas tanks, wash tubs, large water containers and many other items. Pauline

It’s another HOT day in Chincha! The church bells and the noise of the traffic continue to wake me up early, but today we don’t have to hurry. The youth are with their Peruvian families and will spend the day with them sightseeing.  Everyone seemed to survive the night and we did not get any calls to come and get them!

I visited my sponsored child, Fatima, today.  She is going to be 16 and is in her last year of high school.  The house I built them 3 years ago is still in good condition and they have a little store at the front of the house to supplement their income.  I will be looking for another child to sponsor next year, as there are many in need of help and a good education.

This year I raised funds to help with a water project in a community. At the present time it is stalled because of legalities (paper work and ownership of land) and the fact that the mayor of the municipality was in jail for a while so the papers could not go through the system!!  Hopefully, things will be in order for the people in a few months.  I have decided to help a family with the building of a bathroom that they need now. ‘Champi’ and his mother came today to the house so that he could receive his scholarship money and so I met them for the first time, but do remember hearing his story from people who met him a few years ago.  The family came down from the mountains and squatted in this alley way called the ‘Calle Jon’ – 12 families were housed here with no running water except for a main tap at the entrance to the ‘alley’.  After getting all their paper work in order, we helped them get pipes into their homes so that they could enjoy the comfort of turning on their own tap and have running water in their own homes.  Unfortunately, most of them do not have bathroom facilities.  Champi’s father drinks most of his income (collects recyclables – mostly plastic bottles) anway and Champi works in the market helping anyone who needs things carted ‘from here to there’ – he has a big cart (wheelbarrow style) that he can put things on and just push along!  He was doing this at 9 years old!!  The people working down here at the time fell in love with Champi and jumped right in to help the family out.  Champi slept outside (amidst all the recyclables) and did not even have a room or proper bed.  We built him his own separate room and provided him with a bed and other necessities.  He was so proud of his room that at first he wouldn’t even let his parents in!  Someone then volunteered to pay their hydro and water bills, someone is sponsoring him for an education, someone else is helping out with gifts, etc., so now it’s time for a decent bathroom!!  I look forward to seeing what this young boy will end up accomplishing when he grows up!

We are spending the rest of the day preparing the necessary articles we want to get back to all the families we visited and hopefully deliver them tomorrow when the youth return.  Friday (when we leave for Lima) is already in sight and time waits for no one!!   Yvonne

I got to visit Lily and Gerry Mungham’s scholarship child today.  Lily works as a nurse with me at the Deep River Hospital back home.  Her child was thrilled with the package of gifts and the photo album of Lily’s family with the lovely write-ups in Spanish!  She loved the Barbie doll, and the clothes outfit will fit nicely with some room to grow. She showed us her “Diplomas of Honor” in various subjects.  I took some pictures.  She said a “muchos gracias”!  We tried to connect with the scholarship child of my sister, Sharon Faye, without success, but fortunately she came this afternoon with her mother to the convent to bring her report card.  She tried on and loved the outfits sent!  They fit very well, also with some room to grow.  Photos were taken with them plus holding her report card.

Last evening I got to visit my scholarship teen and her family which was so very great! She is musical too – is learning guitar (plays classical), and sang some songs with her sister.  She understands English well (takes it in High School).  She will be graduating this year.  Today, I also met with the single mom and child whom our family sent support to through Jim and Ali Keogh in Chincha Baja.  They are doing great social work among the people there.  My interpreter, Jimmy, drove us in his motor-taxi to see her school, her rented home and the land that Jim Keogh is helping get a title for the future home for herself, son and her mother.  I was impressed to see that she had chickens and chicks to raise and sell for an income, plus keeps a motorcycle that someone pays her weekly rent to store.  Her home has improved a lot from 2 yrs ago when her kitchen was bricks on the ground, no table or chairs, and a small bamboo shelter.  Now she has plywood.  This afternoon was spent helping sort items to take to a senior’s home in Lima, plus regular household duties of bathroom and floors.  My stomach system was unsettled yesterday and today but manageable. It was good to have some down time to catch up with laundry.

Happy Ash Wednesday and the start of Lent to you all!  We enjoyed experiencing this service in Spanish. The ashes-cross on my forehead looked a whole lot bolder than the brown Peruvians.  Grace

DAY 7

A week has come and gone!!  Time passes quickly when you are having fun!!  And that is exactly what this group is doing – in everything they do.

This morning I saw a few still nursing their burns and EVERYONE wore a hat and slathered on the sunscreen (including our translators) as just standing in the sun was painful!!  The two trucks were packed with the food that was readied last night and everyone clambered aboard for the ride out to 12 families – 6 for each truck load.  I am looking forward to hearing everyone’s impression and experience of these visits as they will be entering these homes and seeing how the poorer of the poor live here.  Yvonne

Today as the youth visited the sick and elderly, I stayed home to attend to the scholarship families who are in the process of getting themselves ready for the new school year. It is very interesting to watch the young ones grow from year to year. Many were mere babies of four years old when they started into the program and are now ready to finish their last year of high school. It sure makes me feel old.  With the help of our associates Elizabeth, Lucilla, young Elizabeth and Alicia all the children will be attended to. Meanwhile our associates Columbina and Juana are in the kitchen each day keeping us all well-nourished.  Pauline

Last night we made food baskets as a group and divided them into 12 portions including, rice, oatmeal, tuna, sugar and spices. This morning we went out into two groups and brought the food to families. I find it easy to forget about people who have very little because in Canada we have everything we could ever want, even something as simple as water. As we were giving the food out I noticed a water truck filling buckets. At home we have water and in abundance, we do not have to wait. Most of the families we visited need more beds, in some families there are three or four children to a double bed. Some need tables and chairs and clothes. The Barahona Carpio family, one of the families we gave food to, need repairs to their home. Their roof is not very good and if it rains the roof will leak. In this family there is only the mother who lives with her son and daughter. She has no one else to help her. She works by washing clothes for other people, but it is not permanent work. She works so she will have enough money to help her family. One other family we visited made me emotional because this womans husband had just passed away and she started crying well she was telling us about what happened.  Her husband had died from a heart attack in December. Today opened my eyes to reality and showed me how selfish I am. It also showed me the importance of sharing. Just by giving out a little food put huge smiles on the faces of these families. Even with having very little, these are some of the most loving, caring and happy people I have ever met.  Sydney

Today we delivered food baskets to families. We were divided into two groups of four; Sydney, Michael and Angela were in mine. We visited 6 families and also asked them questions about them and their family, along with what their needs were. One family we visited was Magallnes Camasc. There was 3 children and 5 adults living in house. Something that they needed was beds for the children. The father in this family had died a month ago. The wife was still very upset, as she started to get tears in her eyes when she was talking about it.  It was really nice to visit these families and to see how happy and thankful they were for everything. Kristin

Today we divided into two groups, each group went to 6 house to deliver the food baskets which we had put together the night before. While at these families homes we asked them a few questions about their family and their needs. One of the families the group visited was the Laurente Huasasquiche family. Some of the needs were kids clothes, improvement on the house, and other building material. The families were all thankful that we went to see them and give them food..  Kayla

For our experience today, we were given the task of delivering food baskets to families as well as asking questions about things they might need. However, this task was very emotional for everyone including myself. For me it was hard to see and hear what the conditions the families were living in (housing, work, food, and lifestyle). I felt sadden by the struggles they face just to continue living a decent life. Back in Canada we have everything (t.v., beds for ourselves, tables, chairs, education, space…) the list goes on but here in Chincha it’s a completely different story. I can’t imagine myself living in these types of conditions well on the other hand these families continue to make with the best that they have. In one of the families our group went to, the mother worked by selling a kind of ice cream. Her husband died two years ago, and so when the mother works the oldest son (11 years) helps to cook. Some of the things they need include uniforms and education.  Michael

As we delivered our gift of food to the Pachas-De La Cruz family one couldn’t help but notice the gratitude of the family, but also their despair. Although there house was in good shape by comparison, the family had very little else to speak of. Their children are not enrolled in school because it cannot be afforded, and both children and mother have a great need for the basic necessities like clothing. The father of the family is barely at home as he works in another city, so the mother spends all day caring for the children hoping that her husband can bring home money with which to survive. It should then come to no surprise that when we fulfilled such a basic need for food, even if only for short while, that tears came into her eyes. For her it was an answer to a prayer, it was as if we proved to her that all one need is to ask, and she shall receive.  Jordan

The third house my group went to was the house of Rosales Armas.  Here we delivered food baskets and got to visit them for a short time.  The family has recently arrived from the jungle and the husband now works in a farm to support his wife and 5 children.  When we entered the home, I noticed that one wall was covered with colouring book pages, which that made me smile as it reminds me of the cluttered walls in my bedroom.  Outside the door were small buckets and pails for storing water because a water tank truck was nearby to distribute to paying customers.  Where the Rosales Armas family lives, there is no running water and no well.  The family has to buy the (expensive) water every three days from the water tank and they need better buckets to store water in.  On the drive back to the mission house, I reminisced about some of the houses we had seen in Peru and <forest houses> I use to make and play in as a kid or survival shelters I have made during camping trips.  It occurred to me that the building process and materials were similar: card board, big thick sticks and wood, a tarp for the roof, other things.  Also, the set-up of houses are alike.  Like as a kid I would set up my one room fort thinking, “Here is my bed (a pile of leaves).  This corner is my kitchen (rocks in a circle filled with sticks) and this is my bathroom (a hole in the ground).”  Except this is how some people actually live and it’s shocking.  All the forts and survival shelters I’ve made were used as temporary structures, but some the houses in Peru built in this fashion are used as permanent homes.  I wish I knew how to end this on a happier note but this is the sad reality of the poverty of Chincha Alta.  Angela

Today we split into two groups to distribute food baskets to families in need. This was a very difficult morning because it’s hard to see these families struggling with so little when we at home have so much that we take for granted. One couple in particular really stood out this morning. The man is 80 years old, has had diabetes for 6 years and has had both his legs amputated. This man is using a wheelchair that is so rusted that it can’t move anymore and he has no way of checking his sugar levels for his diabetes. His wife is a little old lady trying to care for her husband with only one working leg. Her foot is so swollen that she can’t even walk on it. Their children (all adults now) live near them and help as much as they can but without the proper equipment or money, there is little they can do. After giving them the buckets of food we asked if there was anything else we could do for them, clothes, medicine etc. On Thursday we are going back to deliver a new wheelchair for the man, a cane and new shoes for the women and clothes for both of them. It was so heartbreaking that this little bit of kindness was so overwhelming for the lady that she was crying for joy when we offered to bring them what they need. This morning I was so happy we could make a difference in these people’s lives.  Marissa

Today my eyes were definitely opened. We delivered the food baskets we prepared last night to the first 12 families. It was so sad to see the living conditions in which people find themselves. One family in particular touched me the deepest. The family’s name is De La Cruz Mendoza. There were two women being taken care of by 3 other family members, one being in her 80s. The one woman was badly injured during the last earthquake. She didn’t say how it happened but we were able to find out that she had become paralyzed from the waist down because of her injury. At one point she had a working wheelchair so she could be pushed around the house but that is crushed and she is forced to lie in bed all day. It was so sad to see her lie in her bed unable to move. The sight of her lying there made me realize how lucky I am to be able to walk and go places. I will no longer pass up any opportunity to go somewhere. The second woman suffers from arthritis. The family is unable to get medication for her and she is constantly in pain. The sisters in the family help take care of the two women all day and I find it so great that they never leave the two women’s sides. Today has definitely been a day I will never forget and I will most definitely not take anything in life for granted after seeing the living conditions of some of the people of Peru.  Sabrynna

Today our group, Kayla, Jordan, Marissa, Sabrynna and I plus Sr Gloria and 2 Translators brought food buckets and packages of non-perishable food to homes.  We loaded up a truck, but also needed to take a car.  While driving some back roads, one was under construction and a man-hole was left uncovered.  Our car blew a tire going over it and fortunately did not get stuck in it.  He had to do some fancy maneuvering on the flat tire to back up avoiding it.  While they went to fix the tire, we walked to our first home.  The mother of 5 children had just gone to the market to buy some grapes for us.  She washed them and offered me the first plateful.  I felt shocked and humbled. Part of me wanted to accept and eat them for her generosity to give us something, having so little herself. My eyes met Marissa’s shocked ones and knowing that, for health sake, we were asked not to accept anything that used their regular water, I had to refuse, motioning that my stomach was not well.  The others refused too.  The translator, on the way out, accepted to take some in a bag home to share with her family.  She was going to wash them with boiled water at home. I wished I had thought of that myself.  Our last home visited was an elderly single mother with her mentally handicapped daughter.  I later discovered that the mother was about 55yrs old, which shocked me because I’m about the same age (not telling J), but I thought she was around 70 yrs as her face was so weathered and grey (although I must admit, she was pretty spry in her movements!)  Her daughter was 25.  I was dismayed to see that her stove was some bricks on the ground in a U shape, for an open fire.  She had few pots.  (Other places we visited had  gas 2-burner camp-like stoves).  Her kitchen area (except for the open brick stove) was covered by a broken bamboo mesh – no plastic covering as other homes may have.  Her bedroom was better constructed wood with clay corrugated ceiling roof (a pre-fab room funded with the help of the Srs of St Joseph Mission after the earthquake of Aug 2007).  She had it divided into 2 bedrooms.  She and her daughter slept in one double bed, and she gave the other room to her brother to use.  He works nearby and all the money he earns goes with him to Lima (2 hrs away to support his wife and 6 children) –so she said she was helping out her brother.  To earn her own money, she worked on a farm, would do laundry for neighbors and would clean houses.  I felt foolish at the end when I asked re: food.  She got tears in her eyes and said other people help her by giving her food.  Back in the car, I was tearful, worried that I may have hurt or offended her with my foolish question.  Maria, our interpreter, said it was not a foolish question.  I’m glad we brought the non-perishable food baskets that many of your donations at home in Canada have covered.  They will also cover her other needs like a stove with gas tank, pots, replacing the kitchen roof, clothes, shoes, a bed for her daughter, and new mattress for herself.  (The mattresses look like a regular mattress but are filled with straw, and last for a good 4-5 yrs).  I was impressed by her strong faith.  She says she prays all night and asks for our prayers for food and health.  When I got home my sandals and feet were very dusty.  I appreciated a cool shower after the sticky heat (something these people don’t have.  Many home shelters also share a small bathroom.  However, I was impressed at how clean they and their clothes look.  Although, I shouldn’t wonder as I grew up on a farm with outhouses, no running water, and had to carry in the tub for baths too).  Today also made me appreciate Jesus (also living in a dusty desert country) washing his disciples feet.  Grace

While everyone was visiting families this morning I stayed at home and hoped I would not have to run to the bathroom at a quick pace too much.  I was rewarded and felt much better by lunch time.  In the afternoon I went to finish up the murals at the second SET school we  had painted a couple of days ago.  It always feels good to finish a job and I was happy with the result and with Marlena’s help (the teacher at the school).  In the evening a few of us went shopping for Maria, another teacher at one of the SET schools, and then it was off for supper at a Chinese restaurant.  When we got home we were very aware of the quiet in the house as the youth are ‘sleeping over’ with our Peruvian friends until Thursday morning.  They are sure to have a good time, despite the language barrier!!  Buenas Noches     Yvonne

I thought tonight would be a shorter write-up with the youth heading out to their families but it appears to be the longest. The pictures are self explanitory and since it now after 2am my body is ready for bed. You will notice the youth were very happen to drive in the cab of the truck to day as they sport their fresh sunburns from yesterday. We put the translators in the back of the truck. Everyone seemed to very touched by the families they served today.  Pauline

Family visit

Youth travel in truck as they are burnt

Visiting a family

Shopping for SET school supplies

Second group to take food

Painting by Yvonne on SET school wall

Other family

DAY 6

Someone had asked us where we all got the yellow shirts you saw us wearing on our work mission.  They were donated to us – the extra shirts from “the Cancer Society Relay for Life” - to wear as our work shirts plus extras to leave for the people of Peru.  The youth loved them as we didn’t have to worry about getting varnish or paint on our own tops.  Thank-you so much!!!! Grace

I’M BACK! After being sick for three days in bed it’s good to be finally back. I am not too sure what the problem was with me but I kept on throwing up and was light-headed. Thanks to Grace I would have never survived the sickness. But being sick wasn’t all too bad. In a way it has given me time to reflect on my life and a means of renewing it. I spent all that time in my bed and praying the rosary for our mission as well as the families in Peru. The experience has brought me much closer to God and strengthened our bond. God bless! Michael

Monday is a day off for Srs. Gloria and Maria and they were happy to accompany us on a bus ride down the coast to Pisco and Paracas. Pedro, our faithful truck driver throughout the trip, and Millie, Sr. Pauline’s godchild, also accompanied us.  On the way we saw a banana plantation, fields of cotton growing, olive trees, asparagus (check out our supermarket and see where it comes from!) and other vegetation as this region is blessed with water flowing down from the mountains and irrigation is possible.  It’s really amazing to see all this growing in the dessert!!  The group set off on a boat trip to see the ‘Candelabra’ (google it) and the sea lions and other wildlife on the Ballestas Islands (deemed the little Glapagos of Peru).  Lunch followed beachside of fresh fish – the best!!  While eating, we were entertained by a group playing typical Peruvian music and by Kevin, a 9-yeard boy with a voice as grand as Pavarotti himself.  We could not believe that the voice we were hearing was coming from this boy!! Souvenir stalls lined the walkway along the beach and many colourful articles were available for sale.  Then it was time for a swim in the Pacific Ocean.  The water was quite murky, but very refreshing.  Then we relaxed for a while on deck chairs under umbrellas.  We came home with a few lobsters (namely our youth) and they are now bathing themselves in Manzanilla tea and slathering on the aloe vera lotion!! This evening, we spent some time organizing food packages for tomorrow’s visits to needy families.  Another great day. Yvonne

On the way down to Pisco, Sydney and I got to talk to our new Peruvian friend Mille, whom also accompanied us to Paradise yesterday.  Mille is very interested in speaking English and her patience with learning another language impresses me a lot.  The three of us talked most of the way to Pisco about the pronunciation of words which led to a discussion on homophones and rhyming words.  We continued to explain the difference between bear and bare, toes and toast, flower and flour, among other words.   Later I figured out that Millie and I have other commonalities. We’re both eighteen, like dancing and music, and are interested in Korean & Japanese culture.  Also, both of us enjoy reading manga, grooving to K – Pop, and prefer NOT to listen to the Jonas Brothers.  What’s really awesome is that tomorrow I get to spend a day and a-half with Millie’s family!  I’m really excited and I hope I have as much courage (and memory) as Millie does for learning a new language.  Angela

Today was such an exciting day! So many things happened I don’t even know where to begin. The best part of the day was definitely our boat ride. We went to visit many different tourist attractions in Peru. My favourite was the sea lions and penguins found on what was deemed the little Galapagos of Peru. There were so many sea lions on the island, it was incredible. We saw different parts of the island where the sea lions like to stay and sun themselves. The funny part was that it was mating season so we got to see what the Peruvians call “The Maternity Island.” On this part of the island there were so many pregnant sea lions. Alongside of them were also sea lion mothers with their new 4 week old pups. They were the most adorable things ever. We continued our boat ride around the island and got to see a lot of males on the rocks calling out in order to attract females. We also saw a few fighting over a female that had climbed up onto their section of land. I guess it’s the same in every species. While we were circling the cliffs we saw some crabs, barnacles and clams. Seeing these creatures made me realize that I definitely want to study marine biology. Mom I think I should let you know that I am never coming back, I will be living on the boat for the rest of my life J  After the boat ride we ate lunch, it was the best fish ever! After lunch we shopped around a bit and then went swimming. Swimming was fun and I had a blast, the water was cold and salty but the swim was totally worth it. When we arrived at home on the other hand, that was not so fun. After 7 layers of sunscreen, I still managed to get a bad sunburn. Everyone except for Michael have sunburns and have been dabbing chamomile tea on their arms, shoulders and faces for the entire night. I am off to bed in hopes of getting at least a few hours of sleep despite the painful sunburn on my arms and face. Buenos noches. Sabrynna

The pictures I have attached show the Candelabra  and the sea-lions. There is also one of the group lined up to get on the boat and another of them in the boat.

I had my picture taken with young Kevin who has an amazing voice and he uses it to earn enough to buy his school supplies and to take extra courses in computer which he enjoys very much. A number of us bought a DVD of Kevin singing but we have not tried it out.

Upon returning home, all showered and nursed their burns. I then put them to work getting the food baskets ready for distribution tomorrow morning. I have a picture of the finished product, hopefully tomorrow we will have pictures of the families receiving them. Pauline

DAY 5

Today was an amazing day! Our whole group went to the children’s mass this morning. We sat down in our benches and were greeted by many people, two of whom were little boys who had sung to us on Friday night. We listened to all the readings and gospels in Spanish. Lucky for us the children of the choir had printed off English versions of the readings. We also had photocopies of the songs we were going to be singing during mass so it would be easier to follow along. Towards the end of mass the priest had told the entire church that a group from Canada had come to visit Chincha. Every single person in the church had turned to look at us, it was a bit awkward but we all just smiled. The priest finished saying what he needed and the group went up in front of the church to give out balloons and Canadian pins to the scholarship children. There were so many students that were getting help from people in Canada it was amazing. Giving out the balloons was so much fun because it was amazing to see all the little girls´ and boys´ faces light up. Some of the children even said Thank you as opposed to gracias and it was so cool to see them put in effort to make themselves understood. I couldn’t help but respond in Spanish. Seeing the children so happy to have us there with them was truly the highlight of my day, I will never forget their adorable faces.  Sabrynna

The Children’s mass was a lovely start to the day – lots of children singing with actions across the front of the church, accompanied by guitars, drum and tambourine.  Angela and I met our sponsored teen.  I thought I recognized her from the photo, so asked her name to be sure.  She was excited to see us.  We will be connecting again at a later date, as well as with my sister, Sharon´s, child and Lily & Gerry Mungham´s child. I met the Desrocher’s sponsored children earlier.  Yesterday, Chris Cole, Angela and I visited Jim and Ali Keogh.  We connected with our sponsored single mom who has done well to upgrade her schooling and is now taking computer training.  She’s probably much better than moi. J     The heat and humidity have been something to get used to, even at night.  The light breeze is welcome. The Sisters and Yvonne have treated us to pools to cool off.  Later today we went swimming and a water slide at “The Paradise”, and enjoyed a meal by the pool under grass covered huts.  The few people with earlier stomach ailments are on the mend  - working in the sun and humidity can sneak up on you in the eagerness to serve.  We´ve given Gatorade lots of business!   I feel very blessed and privileged to be among this beautiful group of youth who remind me of Christ – peaceful and quiet even when their strength is at a low at times.  Grace

Today we had a relaxed day. We went to Mass and got to meet all the scholarship children and teens. We handed out balloons and pins. The Mass was so lively and there was lots of fun up-beat music. Later we went swimming at a public pool, which was a lot of fun. We had lots of time to talk and get to know one another better. Each day I like being here more I cannot believe it is already Sunday. I also got to see the family that we took shopping yesterday for gifts at Mass and most of the children were wearing their outfits, they looked so cute.  Sydney

On the streets of Ottawa one can see a great number of people headed to work and going about their business. People going this way and that, yet the streets lack life. I’m not quite sure why this is, but I think it stems from peoples inability to see, or ignorance of, the world as it moves around them. It seems that many people are so detached from the world they live in that would fail to notice even the littlest of things, like a soft spring rain, like an English rain. As far as the feeling of vibrance goes, cities like Ottawa pale in comparison to a place like Chincha. Here the streets are teeming with life, people are so much more involved in the world around them, and by comparison the atmosphere here is much lighter and happier, despite all the depravities that come with being a very poor town. Compared to Chincha, cities like Ottawa seem dead.  Jordan

Today we went to mass. After mass was over we met all the scholarship students. The rest of the day was a relaxing day at a pool.  Kayla

Today we went to mass, then after that we met the scholarship children and handed out balloons and Canadian pins. After that we all went to a public pool which was a lot of fun. I also learnt some dances that they dance here with the others this morning.  Kristin

This morning even though we had free time until mass at 11 30, most of us were still up early and had a lot of time in the morning. Before mass started the children all got up to sing a few songs and it was great to see that even the people sitting in pews were singing along or clapping and doing actions. From what I saw of this mass, their church is a lot more upbeat than the ones back home. Later in the afternoon the group went to ´´Paradise´´ which is a public pool complete with a waterslide. On the way home we stopped for more picarones, which we tried for the first time yesterday. Today was a relaxing break from the work we’ve been doing but I’m excited to get back to that and take some more kids shopping.  Marissa

Long before mass started today, a girl named Mille came to the mission house to teach some of us a traditional Peruvian dance.  Apparently it’s a flirting dance (awkward but fun).  Lots of posture, back arching, hip swaying, and smiling.  I think my post-Peruvian resolution is to have proper posture.  Angela

Wonderful day today, as attested to above, finished off by some relaxing reflexology by Sr. Gloria’s sister, Maria.  She gave our feet a much needed workout as the heat and humidity is playing a toll on them.  We should be rejuvenated for a few days and have a good night.  Yvonne

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The Parish of Our Lady of Fatima here in Chincha is supported to a great extent by the Parish of Mount St. Patrick in the Diocese of Pembroke so it was nice to have Kistin and Kayla Mulville from Mount St Patrick with us on this first youth mission. The huge resurrection cross at the front of the church  was donated by the People of Mount St. Patrick at the time of the renovations and ever since then Our Lady of Fatima Parish has been the recipients of the Peruvian Mission Collection done yearly in Mount St. Patrick.

I have attached two pictures of  the scholarship children (7&8 year olds and one of the 9 & 10 year olds)

Also attached are two pictures of the youth learning to do a typical Peruvian dance.

I want to attach a picture the family that was visited yesterday, they are sporting hats that were generously donated by Marks Work Wear house. My sister-in-law Heather Coulterman works at the store in Renfrew asked if hats would be appreciated in Peru, well I must say we have given out a number of them and still have many to distribute. The first group went to the families living out in the bamboo homes we are repairing and this family living on the farm we visited sure were sure happy to have them as well. They are out in that hot sun longer hours than many.

Tomorrow is a day at the ocean in Pisco and a visit with the sea lions. Good night!   Pauline

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Group in front of the altar at The Parish of Our Lady of Fatima in Chincha Alta. Note the resurrection cross behind the altar was donated by Mount St. Patrick's Parish.

Scholarship children - 7 and 8 year olds.

Scholarship children - 9 and 10 year olds.

Learning to do a Peruvian dance.

Milagros teaching the dance to Kistin.

Hats from Mark's Work Warehouse.

Enjoying the public pool.

Relaxing in the pool.