Mexico Service Program Blog

A Day in Queretaro by 2011 Volunteer Mary

2011-05-10T14:18:00.002-05:00

We got up early this morning for a quiet, do-it-yorself breakfast and walked to our bus pick-up point. It was still dark when we left the hotel; the morning air felt cool and refreshing. All was quiet on the street and the Jardín, which had been crowded with people the night before. There had been a band playing, people dancing and enjoying the music, children playing and families enjoying a walk and ice cream on a warm Sunday evening.

I had four classes today. The students were well prepared, attentive, and eager to learn and improve their English speaking skills. Between classes in the cafeteria area I had several enjoyable conversations with students, as did the other volunteers.

At 1:00 p.m. it was off to lunch at the nearby restaurant before the journey back to the Hotel Hidalgo. We arrived warm from the now hot (25° C) midafternoon sun and tired from our work. Many volunteers, myself included, took a bit of time for a siesta, Others bought more food and supplies to keep us all fed and energized.

At 6:15 we had a team meeting, read the journal and inspirational daily thought. Discussion centered on a farewell party hosted by the volunteers for the UTEQ faculty on Thursday. The planning committee has great ideas for food and musical entertainment. First rehearsal Tuesday. After that a pizza and beverage party was enjoyed by all, along with good conversation before ending another day in Querétaro.

Thought for the day:

Tell me and I will forget,
Show me and I may remember,
Involve me and I will understand.
~ Chinese proverb

Shared by Volunteer Mary D.

Happy Cinco de Mayo!

2011-05-05T15:13:00.000-05:00

Cinco de Mayo — or the fifth of May — commemorates the Mexican army's 1862 victory over France at the Battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War (1861-1867). A relatively minor holiday in Mexico, in the United States Cinco de Mayo has evolved into a celebration of Mexican culture and heritage, particularly in areas with large Mexican-American populations.

Cinco de Mayo traditions include parades, mariachi music performances and street festivals in cities and towns across Mexico and the United States.

~ Information courtesy of History.com

Happy Children's Day, April 30th!!

2011-04-28T13:43:00.003-05:00

This coming Saturday, April 30th is Children's Day in Mexico! It is also known as "El Día Del Niño". And in some schools they give the day free or let the kids wear shorts and a colored shirt.

We wish all our host partners, friends and children of Mexico a very happy Children's Day and we look forward to serving your communities again this June, July and October. If you might be interested in joining us this summer or fall, don't hesitate to contact us today!

Remaining 2011 Service Program Dates:
June 4 - June 18
June 18 - July 2
October 15 - October 29

Update on Safety in Mexico

2011-04-22T15:51:00.002-05:00

In recent months, certain areas of Mexico have been subject to increased levels of violence leading the U.S. to issue travel warnings for a few states in the nation of Mexico. Our website currently states that the states where our service programs are located are not included in the travel warning - which is still true. We hope this post will serve as a reminder to those considering a program in Mexico this year or in 2012, and we would also like to share some "common sense" tips shared by the Dept. of State today.

Below is a portion of the updated travel & safety information issued today, regarding Mexico:

Millions of U.S. citizens safely visit Mexico each year, including more than 150,000 who cross the border every day for study, tourism or business and at least one million U.S. citizens who live in Mexico. The Mexican government makes a considerable effort to protect U.S. citizens and other visitors to major tourist destinations. Resort areas and tourist destinations in Mexico generally do not see the levels of drug-related violence and crime reported in the border region and in areas along major trafficking routes. Nevertheless, crime and violence are serious problems and can occur anywhere. While most victims of violence are Mexican citizens associated with criminal activity, the security situation poses serious risks for U.S. citizens as well.

It is imperative that you understand the risks involved in travel to Mexico and how best to avoid dangerous situations. Common-sense precautions such as visiting only legitimate business and tourist areas during daylight hours, and avoiding areas where criminal activity might occur, can help ensure that travel to Mexico is safe and enjoyable.

Former Volunteer Posts AMAZING YouTube Videos!!

2011-03-14T10:45:00.000-06:00

We at Global Volunteers are privileged to work with so many wonderful volunteers, partners, and supporters each and every day.

Last week, one particular volunteer, Graham, truly knocked our socks off when he shared a 9-part video series he had created about Global Volunteers and posted on YouTube!! These videos feature the travels and experiences of numerous Global Volunteers (particularly one tight-knit group from New Jersey) and we welcome you to take a look at these exceptional videos by using the link below.

Thank you, Graham!! And for the rest of you... ENJOY!!

Global Volunteer Retrospective Video (End): http://www.youtube.com/user/endlessmug#p/u/53/1YT9erIK0k4

Pictures from Queretaro with Love!

2011-02-25T10:33:00.004-06:00

Many thanks to Volunteer Team Leader Pam Cromer for sharing these great photos with us!! We've had a large team of successful volunteers working with students in Queretaro this February!

If you might be interested in volunteering in Mexico later this year, the following are our 2011 Mexico Service Program Dates, and please note that you can volunteer for a one or two week period (we simply ask that you begin on the set start date):

June 4 - June 18 (Dolores Hidalgo)
June 18 - July 2 (Queretaro)
October 15 - October 29 (Dolores Hidalgo)

We look forward to hearing from you soon!!

Learn about... Queretaro!!!

2011-02-04T12:32:00.005-06:00

I thought you might enjoy these words from a team leader to Mexico! Queretaro is one of Global Volunteers' two host communities in Mexico. We currently have four volunteer teams scheduled for 2011, with two of the four headed for Queretaro. Please let us know if you would be interested in learning more about these wonderful teaching service opportunities!

QUERETARO, MEXICO: The glorious past – The dynamic present!

Written by: Francoise, Global Volunteer Team Leader

When I agreed to lead a team of volunteers to Queretaro, Mexico, I had already traveled extensively to more “exotic” sites south of our border, mostly in Central and South America, and I relied on memories of an earlier trip to Mexico - many years before…. This recent service program experience in Mexico gave me the opportunity to re-connect and fall in love with a country that is so close to us, yet so full of surprises and riches!

Queretaro: a fascinating city of contrasts whose quaint “heart” pulses with the memories of an illustrious past still lingering in the many gorgeous colonial buildings of its historic center. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (neighboring San Miguel de Allende is a Mexican national monument) and many defining moments of Mexico’s history come to life in Queretaro’s restored mansions, monuments, and public landmarks. One can discover them along the pedestrian walkways or around the several squares adorned with fountains, statues, and carpets of flowers. From our hotel, located right across the street from the City Museum, we were able to safely explore this compact historic center, visit many of the churches, several museums, markets, while mingling with friendly families as they enjoyed the beauty and liveliness of their public places. But Queretaro – which I found very few Americans have ever heard of! - is also a fast growing, dynamic, and sophisticated metropolis of 1.5 million habitants that boasts a new international airport and hundreds of U.S., Canadian, and European companies with modern facilities that stretch into the mountainous Heartland.

Since 1988, Global Volunteers has been teaching conversational English at UTEQ (Universidad Technologica de Queretaro), and our host there is well organized, appreciative of the volunteers’ contribution, and intent on facilitating better communications and understanding between our two cultures. English as a second language is an important subject at the University, and students who become bilingual speakers will find better jobs. Our students appreciated the opportunity, the only one they have during their time of study there, to practice the language with native speakers. Depending on their level we were able to engage in interesting conversations which turned out to be quite an eye-opener to us. Most of the recent polemic we have been exposed to at home about Mexican/US relations, has focused on poor Mexicans desperate to make it across our borders or hiding from the authorities, and how to deal with this problem. Yet, the students we interacted with (and we were told that the majority came from very poor families) were quite confident in the future of their own country and their own contribution to it. When asked where they would like to travel to, they spoke of exotic places such as Egypt… not Texas or Southern California… Most of them felt confident that they would find employment in this rapidly growing area.

In Queretaro, the contrast between the pride of the past and the pull of the future is everywhere present, yet the Mexicans we interacted with seemed to have found a comfortable balance. We definitively felt a strong sense of responsibility to the family and a commitment for the young to help their elders. Catholicism is a grounding religion for most, and the town’s beautiful churches are often filled with worshippers, yet there are many very progressive social initiatives that “push the envelope.” We saw plays and dance performances sponsored by the city or state that were quite “unorthodox” and experimental, and exhibits that would have been censored in a City Museum here. We were impressed by the sophistication of Queretaro’s cultural scene, the variety of venues that offered high quality events – many free of charge! Our team took great advantage of this. On a typical day, after the afternoon rest following our teaching schedule, when not eating at our hotel, we enjoyed delicious Mexican cuisine at a new restaurant, then attended a show or a concert at a nearby venue. We also could choose to watch a group of young people working on a spontaneous mural or make music, as part of a preventive state-sponsored program for “youth at risk” Or we could join local people in the main square (we especially loved the children in their pretty clothes) to enjoy Latin music, and watch elegant couples perform the traditional “Danzon.” Most of the time we were the only non-Mexicans in the crowd, but everyone was gracious and welcoming.

Hasta Luego!

Volunteer in Mexico & take in some Cultural Events!!

2011-01-13T16:31:00.003-06:00

If you've been thinking about volunteering in 2011, consider joining us during or near the time of a cultural celebration!! Check out the list below to find out when our friends in Mexico take time to throw a fiesta :)

**2011 Holidays**

Año Nuevo
New Year’s Day – First day of the year.
Saturday, 1 January 2011

Día de la Constitución
Constitution day – Celebrates the Promulgation of the 1857 and 1917 Constitutions. Observance: First Monday of February.
Monday, 7 February 2011

Natalicio de Benito Juárez
Benito Juárez’s birthday – Commemorates President Benito Juárez’s birthday on March 21, 1806. Observance: Third Monday of March
Monday, 21 March 2011

Día del Trabajo
Labor day – Commemorates the Mexican workers’ union movements.
Sunday, 1 May 2011

Cinco de Mayo
Fifth of May – Celebrates the victory of the Mexican Army, led by Gral. Ignacio Zaragoza against French forces in the city of Puebla, on May 5, 1862. Also widely celebrated in the United States. US “celebration” of this Mexican historical event is largely a result of promotions in the US by liquor, beer, and bars/taverns/clubs/restaurants since the 1980s. For many years Cinco de Mayo celebrations in the US promoted Cinco de Mayo as Mexican Independence Day which is actually September 16. Although Mexican citizens feel very proud of the meaning of Cinco de Mayo, it is not a national holiday in Mexico, but it is an official holiday in the State of Puebla where the mentioned battle took place.
Thursday, 5 May 2011

Día de Independencia
Independence Day – Commemorates the start of the Independence War by Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla in 1810.
Friday, 16 September 2011

Día de la Revolución
Revolution day – Commemorates the start of the Mexican Revolution by Francisco I. Madero in 1910. Observance: Third Monday of November.
Monday, 21 November 2011

Navidad
Christmas – Christmas celebration; secular and religious holiday.
Sunday, 25 December 2011

Vote Now & Vote Often for Global Volunteers!!

2010-11-17T14:44:00.000-06:00

From November 15 - November 21 the Star Tribune newspaper is holding a contest entitled 'Full Page Project' amongst MN non-profits and the winner will receive a free full page ad in the Sunday paper!

Please vote for us this week ~ you can vote once per hour!

Here is the link where you can register and then vote for Global Volunteers (please copy and paste the link):
http://startribune.upickem.net/engine/Registration.aspx?contestid=22815

We would also encourage you to pass this link along to your family and friends, and post it on your personal Facebbok page or blog. Let us know if you have any questions, and remember voting has begun!

Thank you for your support.

Summer 2010 ~ A Terrific Team of Two!!

2010-10-20T16:00:00.001-05:00

A Farewell to the Volunteers from our Mexico Host

2010-03-12T13:17:00.002-06:00

Farewell Global Volunteers!

This is mainly just a thank you speech from us, teachers to you Global volunteers.

We always appreciate what you do for our students, and believe me… they might not say it but they appreciate it too.

I specially would like to mention a couple of things that make me feel personally very happy and satisfied about your visit.

One of them is that our students, once they have had the opportunity to meet you and talk to you, have a feeling that what they have been learning through all these months or years is blooming and have the feeling of fulfillment now that they have seen communication for them is possible with an English speaking native.

Another is the great experience that you have shared with all of us teachers, which leaves a deep mark in our hearts because we learn a lot from you, and I hope I don’t just speak for myself; because you are teachers of life, because you have traveled all over and that sharing with everyone changes minds, perceptions, and attitudes on people towards our fellows.

I had the chance to have some of you working with my students and you are really amazing people. I specially want to thank your availability to spend time with the students even when you were having lunch, and I know some of you even brought your own snack so you could spend more time with them.

When you guys are in our facilities, the environment is different; people in some ways are better, more open, more accessible… I think there’s no science that can explain that. I call it love, love to what you do and to life itself. I think is will, will to be, will to live, will to be better and greater. I personally think that makes a great difference in the world.

These are supreme feelings and from the deep of my heart I thank you all for letting me be part of it and I hope, one day I will be able to do something like what you do, Then, the world would be better if we all could change that bit.

Juan Luis

The Good Life in Queretaro - La Buena Vida

2010-03-04T14:59:00.001-06:00

1. Plazas....large, small, pockets... families, dancing, fountains, music, balloons, and people watching

2 Shopping...treasures found behind doors in beautiful courtyards, kiosks on Liberdad, shops on Cinco de Mayo - and don't forget the opals

3. Restaurants...cafes...bakeries - Mexican, Italian, Continental - all individual and unique with terrific food

4. Weather - it's March....warm sunny days and very cool nights - great for sleeping after busy days

5. Ice cream!!!! in every flavor and on every block - mango moon, penon, tequilla chile. Tepoznieues - the best - recommended by the students.

6. and or Magnum lovers - "ice cream bars on steroids" are found everywhere!!!!

7. Driving ....and pedestrians, one way streets, a few lights and THE most courteous drivers I've ever seen....someone is sure to stop-no matter where you cross the street!

By Pat

How do I love Quertaro...let ME count the ways

2010-03-01T11:02:00.004-06:00

I have been asked why I like to lead Global Volunteer teams to Queretaro. It is a very easy question for me to answer. I would like to borrow from Elizabeth Barrett Browning in her "Sonnets from the Portuguese" where she writes "How do I love thee? Let me count the ways." I shall take the liberty of asking "How do I love Quertaro...let ME count the ways." SO...let me begin.....!!!! I love UTEQ....our hosts that make us feel welcome....and make it easy for me to provide our volunteers with the best experience possible in working with the teachers and the students. I love the campus we walk through with the interesting landscape and varieties of cactus. I love the students who eagerly wait to meet the new volunteers....to practice their English and make new friends. I love to see the informal "teaching/sharing/chatting" that goes on between a "gaggle" of students and volunteers as they sit at picnic tables near the cafeteria. I love hearing the laughter that goes on during these chats....the demonstrations of dancing by the students....and sometimes the volunteers....all done with fun and good humor.

I love the wonderful Hotel Hidalgo our team stays at in the historic area of Queretaro. I love the staff at the hotel that answers questions and takes such good care of us. I love the restaurants we enjoy our meals at....the amazing variety of Mexican foods. I love to walk one block from our hotel to the main jardin in town where there is constant activity. One has their choice of getting their shoes shined...buy a colorful balloon....arrange for a trolley tour of the historic quarter.....listen to music in the bandstand....take tango lessons....or just sit and watch the multi-generational families enjoying themselves. I love the museums that share art and the culture of Mexico. I love the sound of the many churches and cathedrals. I love the grace and kindness of the people in this wonderful community.

I love the grace and friendliness of the people in the community that we meet and talk with...who guide us when we are lost....or point out where the best place is to get ice cream or buy the special thing we are looking for. I love the sounds and the smells and grace of this community. SO simply said .... "I love Queretaro."

Written by Pam

Queretaro has been an amazing experience!

2010-02-28T15:22:00.001-06:00

The "twenty something" students have been very receptive to our American English teaching and pronunciation. Some of the students have trouble describing their families while the most advanced question me about our educational system, our immigration policies and our problems with illicit drugs and HIV. These young men and women our motivated with goals for managerial and industrial advancement. English will help them climb this ladder.

I've been on eighteen volunteer trips with Global Volunteers and this one has been a very special and heartwarming one. NOTE: I appreciate our active caring leader Pamela Cromer...who happens to be my roommate!
By Jeanne

Is the No. 13 lucky or what?!

2010-02-27T15:23:00.000-06:00

This is my thirteenth Global Volunteer trip and my hotel room is No. 13. Along the way GV has taken me from A to Z, from Accra to Zakepane. Here in Queretaro we see the eager, smiling faces of our students at UTEQ matching the sunny days and friendly people of this Mexican city. Queretaro, with its many monuments, churches and long history is finding its way into the contemporary world by preparing its young people to become conversant in English. Our mission is to help them. Lucky me!

By Corrine

Take the opportunity to come to Queretaro!

2010-02-26T15:24:00.001-06:00

It is a pleasure to a on the team in Queretaro, especially in February/March. Central./Colonial Mexico is a wonderful place to visit any time of the year, but is especially nice during late winter, when you can enjoy the beautiful flowers.

The hotel where Global Volunteers stay in Queretaro is centrally located in the historic district less than a block from the main public square. The square is the main gathering place for many activities, from dancing, listening to music, people watching, shopping, the list could go on and on.

The students here are very enthusiastic and eager to talk with us, and take every opportunity to do so. The students are involved in a variety of majors, and their teachers are very well repaired, thus making our time together more fulfilling.

I hope you take the opportunity to come to Queretaro to enjoy the students, teachers, culture, architecture and food!

by Brian

2010-02-25T14:48:00.002-06:00

A frequently overlooked aspect of hotel accommodations is the reception desk. The desk staff at Hotel Hidalgo is staffed with two competent young men....Hugo and Arther. They never fail to provide needed information, directions and suggestion. In a brief time period one evening...they provided directions to a local shop, opened water bottles and provided extra blankets. All of this was done in English. I have been on 11 teams and so I know the importance of helpful staff members...and these young men are exceptional.

Day 2

2010-02-24T14:40:00.001-06:00

We are volunteering at Universidad Technilogica De Queretaro in Queretaro, Mexico. Our team was officially welcomed by Carolina Ezeta, the Language Department Chair. She told us the students in the English department always excel....and are the envy of the 65 other technological universities she supervises. She says she is the envy of the other administrators. Carolina smiled and told us she has a secret and the secret is "Global Volunteers."

Pam on Why She Leads Global Volunteers' Teams

2010-02-22T14:35:00.000-06:00

I am so lucky to be a volunteer team leader for Global Volunteers. The most extraordinary people decide to participate in our programs. It is a privilege for me to work with them. My friends ask why I continue to lead teams...the answer is so simple. I have an absolute belief in the philosophy of Global Volunteers. The teams are committed to creating peace one person at a time. I am emailing from Queretaro, Mexico...leading a team of 17 men and women from around the United States. We all agree it is a win-win opportunity...the volunteers believe they "got the best deal" and the community feels they did too.

Queretaro, Mexico Team Feb '09

2009-02-21T09:44:00.000-06:00

Click to view the album

Sunday, February 8, 2009

The first full day in Querétaro for the group of twelve volunteers. Since most of us had come from colder weather, our introduction to this beautiful city was like settling into a warm bath. A dry bath.

An 8 a.m. breakfast at our Hotel Hidalgo was followed by an orientation session, which put us on the spot as we told each other our names in Spanish. In between brain freezes and momentary lapses, we did it.

Life stories were revealed and once again Global Volunteers has attracted an accomplished group.

The philosophy of Global Volunteers was elaborated upon to the servant-learners. Conversation, not teaching, and establishing a friendly relationship were stressed.

Carl Granger, our team leader, welcomed Carolina Ezeta at noon; she had come in on her day off, to thank us. She stressed that, because of Global Volunteers, students have progressed further in their comprehension of English at UTEQ. Carolina is Director of the Language Department at UTEQ.

Tomorrow, our first day at UTEQ. The adventure begins.

Monday, Feb. 9

Our first day at UTEQ

We are warmly welcomed by English faculty in their brand new headquarters. While sharing a delicious breakfast with us, faculty members emphasize the many benefits that Global Volunteers have brought to their program.

After breakfast there is an orientation to school facilities and overview of the various majors of study. An excellent presentation of specific activities in the Comercialización (marketing) department demonstrated the professionalism of the teachers and the exciting results of student work.

We are ready to begin! Very soon we are in classrooms conversing with students in their second language. Also very soon we must prove that we really can be flexible and patient as some of us experience unexpected changes in our schedules!

Tuesday, Feb. 11

Some observations after three days:

Our scheduled work assignments call for working in one-hour increments with various classes throughout our work day. The classes have all been attentive, motivated, respectful and have been a pleasure to meet. The main variable among them has been their English fluency.

We need to remember that the fruits of these one-hour lessons are not immediately apparent.

Friday, Feb. 13

We started the day with a very early breakfast in the dark.

We had two classes at UTEQ and then a two-hour break. I still can’t get over how nice and polite the students are. At times some of us have problems hearing in the classrooms because of the acoustics, the groups talking at once and the fact that a lot of our students are very shy.

The campus is a buzz today because the first-year Merchandising students are having a fair to sell the things that they had made for Valentine’s Day. The stands set up next to the cafeteria showed a lot of creativity and hard work.

While I was writing this entry, a group of boys came up and asked if I would practice English with them. I find the students’ motivation very encouraging for their future as well as ours.

Monday, Feb. 16

The second week begins with a light-pink sky and Arturo pulling up to the curb to carry us off to school. As the GV crew walks the campus we are greeted by the students we’ve met the past week.

Our nervousness has been replaced by the joy of working with the students. It was a shorter work day than usual for us – punctuated by the flash of Carl’s camera.

Thoughts of the day:

“Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry and narrow-mindedness.” – Mark Twain

Tuesday, Feb. 17

By sitting near the cafeteria between classes we have the chance to greet students and to feel like part of their lives.

During the 12 o’clock period, seven of us went to the Peugot Center where students made presentations on the various components of the center. We were joined by the rest of the volunteers near the end of the period.

On the evening we walked to the Villemot Creperie where we discussed the goals of the Global Volunteer Team during dinner.

Wednesday, Feb. 18

The early start, no sweat for us
We even manage to laugh on the bus
Another day, but never the same,
New faces, new challenges,
New ways to explain
The second week is better than the first
Each day it is easier for us to converse.
From, “teacher, como se dice?”
To “Where are you from?”
The minutes fly by
How can this not be fun?

Thursday, Feb. 19

After an hour of class, which most of us spent conversing outside in the morning light, teachers, students and “globals” convened for a good-bye celebration. We were treated to a gift in the form of song as the UTEQ Rondalla played and sang five traditional canciones with passion and pride. We offered a meager melodic gift ourselves, as Tom valiantly led us through the UTEQ version of “South of the Border.” As the embracing sun started on its way toward muy caliente, many were the hugs, smiles, dances and well-wishes. Many of us felt we should be giving, not receiving, the thanks for this experience.

Tomorrow, for the last times at UTEQ, we will tell of our favorite Mexican food, our grandchildren, our travels, our zodiac signs and our experiences with déjà vu. What is offered in these exchanges is very little, but what is received by all involved is so much more: the blessing of the abiding truth that borders, language and culture cannot change that we as people are all the same.

We may be looking forward to returning to our own pillows, our friends, our lives. Some part of each of us, though, remains in Querétaro, Mexico, and some part of each of those we’ve met here will travel with us.

Querétaro es mejor.
Viva la México.

2008 in review

2009-02-03T17:56:00.000-06:00

A year ago, I lead my first team of Global Volunteers. During this year, I have had the privilege of working with 7 teams of truly committed and generous volunteers. I have come to realize to what extent the quality of the volunteers is what makes these programs work, and without a doubt, the contribution has been outstanding:

In 2008, we have provided a total of 2,265 hours of English conversation to some 4,500 students at the the Universidad Tecnológica del Norte de Guanajuato, the Universidad Tecnológica de Querétaro and the Universidad Tecnológica de León.

But, the numbers only tell part of the story. Each one of these students has been given an opportunity to speak and feel a sense of friendship with their neighbors from the north.

From a development standpoint, there are now an additional 4,500 educated young people entering the workforce who are better prepared to support local industry, whose lingua franca is English. They will undoubtedly contribute to their local community's development - and Mexico's development - and do so with a positive view of their main economic partners.

I am truly thankful for the opportunity of being part of this valiant effort and for the opportunity to work with an amazing team at Global Volunteers and equally amazing teams of volunteers.

Carl Granger
Mexico Country Manager

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 9, 2008

2008-11-09T17:20:00.000-06:00

TEAM 11, DELORES HIDALGO, MEXICO

8:30 AM breakfast meeting at the hotel. Today is a free day, a break from our daily routine a day to do as we please.

WE received word that an important church official was to arrive in Delores, and that a parade and celebration would take place around the plaza in front of the church. We all opted to observe the event which was intriguing, brief (the wait was longer than the event.

Now the day was ours. Mist of us went our separate ways to enjoy the aroused city in our own manner. It seems that Sunday is the day for all activity to ride from the daily mechanics and burst into a conglomeration of sights; sounds; smells; and family activity. I relished my presence here.

At 7:00 PM Carl rejoined our group for the evening meal at trip to t eh Pollo Sabroso Restaurant, an impressive establishment that is out of the ordinary for the area, and only open on the weekends, proved to be totally delightful experience, and well worth the wait. We ended the night by listening to some music in the town square.

THOUGTH FOR THE DAY: Never underestimate the power of common courtesy.

Larry Hess

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2008,

2008-11-07T17:29:00.000-06:00

DELORES HIDALGO, MEXICO

Another early day began with a 6:45 breakfast meeting. The first meal of the day was the usual fare, but an addition to the morning routine this day was something called Amaranth, which is a mixture of mystery grain that looked like birdseed, and some sort of edible adhesive. The whole concoction was molded to resemble a skull in honor of the continuous “Day of the Dead” celebration. After Carl mangled the treat to cut it into slices, it still proved to be a tasty discovery.

While still at breakfast, Carl reviewed our itinerary for Saturday’s trip to Victoria, and explained that he was unable to join us. We all exchanged E-mail addresses and then it was time to be off to the University.

We did our usual trek in the brisk morning air, and progressed through a light work schedule at t eh school. Each Group had two classes in the morning beginning at 8:00 A.M. The classes pretty much mimicked the previous days and we were done teaching by 10:00 A.M. At this time we sadly said good-bye to Pam as she left for her trip home. I think she now regrets signing on for only one week. Adios Pamela!

The rest of us piled into Chuy’s car and drove to the Mendez Torres pottery factory. There we toured the factory with each step of the fabrication process explained to us by a guide who spoke only Spanish. Chuy translated until Ruby commandeered the task.

WE returned to the hotel after the tour and had our lunch with pleasant conversation. After we ate we were free to do our own thing. Thanks to Nan who allowed me to use her laptop computer, I was able to send an E-mail home. Then for me it was off to Delores Hidalgo to venture into an unfamiliar world. The others preceded me into that world. We met back at the hotel at 7:00P.M., for our evening meal. I have found our meals are not only quite delectable, but they always include a pleasant conversation among friends. When finished, we all engaged in making sandwiches for our trip to Victoria before we retired for the night.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:

My thought for the day come from a man that I most admire:

“It is better to give a dog the right-of-way rather than dispute the fact with him. For even if you kill the dog, it will not cure the bite”. Abraham Lincoln

November 5, 2008 Global Volunteers Journal – The day after the Presidential Election

2008-11-05T17:22:00.000-06:00

Thought for the day:

Hope is the thing with feathers
That perches in the soul
And brings the tune without words
And never stops at all
-- Emily Dickenson

This morning we were giddy. Not only because we rose at an unusually early hour to meet our 6:30 A.M. departure deadline, but also because most of us were celebrating the exhilarating Obama victory and his inspiring victory speech. We met at 6:00 A.M. for coffee and breakfast bars with Jamie and Chuy. Armed with snacks, we boarded our Mercedes bus for the trip to Leon and morning of classes at UTL. We were accompanied by selected students from UTNG English classes.

Our bus wound through beautiful mountain scenery and picturesque city of Guanajuato which impressed our Global group with its beauty.

Arriving at UTL, we were greeted by the English Department staff, offered fruit and cheese to sustain us, and then whisked off to our class assignments. Team I and II each met with four classes. We all agreed that we were very impressed with the Leon students and staff, and we enjoyed a variety of class formats during our brief stay. We particularly appreciated the preparation and thoughtful questions posed by the Leon students who interviewed us concerning the Presidential election and U.S policy.

Following our morning classes we were served a delicious lunch in the staff meeting room which had been prepared by one of the teachers. Our Global Group was presented with individual awards in recognition by the Dean of the English Department. After a few photo ops in front of Global Volunteers banner, we boarded the bus for our return to Delores.

We enjoyed a few hours of "down time" during which some volunteers were wowed by a charismatic Catholic mass at the church on the plaza. Dinner at El Carruaje was a treat – the enchiladas verdes were delicious. WE topped off the evening with a nightcap at the Suite Bar next door to Las Campanas. Imanuel served us well and Janet enjoyed his version of “La Bandera”, a drink served in three parts and representing the 3 colors of the Mexican flag- white, green, and red, represented by lime juice, tequila, and spicy tomato juice.

Finally, it’s to bed in anticipation of another very busy day in Delores.

Nov. 4th - Election Day

2008-11-04T17:25:00.000-06:00

From Janet Brown

After a breakfast which included Pan de Muerto the volunteers strode or taxied to the university. Group I met with Rosalia’s class where the students were prepared to ask many questions. Group II met with Marcia’s group where the students practiced listening and note taking.

Today’s classes ranged from level 1 students whose English was very limited to upper levels where for example, conversational sessions with Nathan’s class included practicing interviewing skills.

One adjustment to the schedule occurred with our Spanish instruction class which is postponed to another day. It gave the group time to put our feet up (figuratively) and share experiences. I was glad to hear Larry say that this is one of the best experiences of his life. I found it interesting to share the details of ice fishing in Northern Wisconsin – I don’t think that the students believed that people would sit on ice and catch fish through a hole.

After school, Karl led an expedition through the market where we saw all manner of things for sale from food to clothing to gadgets for children.

We had dinner at the Hotel El Caudillo where Larry continued his enjoyment of mole and some of the others had chicken smothered with a sauce made from corn fungus.

We adjourned to our hotel to check out election results on Fox, the only English language election returns available. We had to go to bed before all results were in as we have an early morning trip to Leon

Thought for the Day: “We have to face the fact that either all of us are going to die together or we are going to learn to live together, and if we are to live together, we have to talk.” Eleanor Roosevelt

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2008

2008-11-03T17:31:00.000-06:00

Our morning started at 8:30, our country coordinator Carl explained that we will meet with some of our teachers for breakfast. A fantastic breakfast was served at what only can be described as the courtyard of a beautiful impressive renovated home. From there we retired to a private meeting room in the back of the restaurant, loosing Dean in the process. Concern for his whereabouts a search was started. And he was found at the University. We were then divided into two teams. We entered the school seeing many of the young excited faces of the student body as we entered. After a meeting with the Dean of the school and his impressive introduction of each Global Volunteer Team 11, we all felt very welcome, and a lot more important than we thought..

We then went to classrooms, were introduced to the students, shared some of our personal historys, and were presented with a list of questions to ask the students. The early morning class was for beginner English speaking students, difficult but fun. The afternoon class was for intermediate students who had a beginning understanding of English, although not confident in their speaking skills there were lively conversations, and questions were exchanged on many topics. We were all asked about the Presidential elections by both teachers and students and we were surprised by their interest in the subject.

Team 1 assignment was to teach adults and advanced English speakers late in the day, Team 2 mission was to shop for our needed supplies, so we were off to Mercado Soriana, the large “Walmart” type store where Nan purchased a bright purple rolling backpack for just under $13.00 US dollars. My teammates agreed that yes, bright purple was my color.

We returned to the hotel with our supplies and met up with Team 1. Our new G.V. Larry loved his introduction to Mexico and the Global Volunteer goals, and the students and facility of the University. A remark uttered by Larry that this had been “one of the best days of his life” and the veteran Global Volunteers said in unison-"yes we know."

Dinner was once again a great success, and then it was time to retire to our rooms and groan at the early hour to once again forge ahead.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Yes, we can make a difference!

Nan Houston Lovejoy

GLOBAL VOLUNTEERS TEAM 11, DELORES HIDALGO, MEXICO

2008-11-02T17:31:00.000-06:00

Everybody arrived luggage and all – yesterday. All safe and looking forward to another Global Volunteer adventure. There are six of us plus Carl, our country manager.

The whole team officially met for the first time over breakfast. Introductions were made and background info exchanged. Following that we had our team orientation. Carl led by explaining his Global Volunteers role. After-wards Carl took the group on a walking, shop until you drop tour. We had a late lunch and waited for our ride. During our fast but safe trip, we passed through San Miguel De Allende, otherwise known as “Gringo Gulch” and arrived at out Delores Hidalgo hotel about fiveish.

Following time to unpack, Carl took the group on another walking tour followed by dinner. A busy day indeed!

Dean Houston

Arrival at Dolores Hidalgo

2008-11-02T14:15:00.000-06:00

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: If crime didn’t pay, who would bother to be a crook?

Everybody arrived luggage and all – yesterday. All safe and looking forward to another Global Volunteer adventure. There are six of us plus Carl, our country manager.

The whole team officially met for the first time over breakfast. Introductions were made and background info exchanged. Following that we had our team orientation. Carl led by explaining his G.V. role. After-wards Carl took the group on a walking, shop until you drop tour. We had a late lunch and waited for our ride. During our fast but safe trip, we passed through San Miguel De Allende, otherwise known as “Gringo Gulch” and arrived at out Dolores Hidalgo hotel about fiveish.

Following time to unpack, Carl took the group on another walking tour followed by dinner. A busy day indeed!

Dean Houston

Wednesday July 16

2008-07-16T16:56:00.000-05:00

Okay, so just exactly how are we going to cram all of those Talavera pots and platters into our suitcases for the trip home? Today seemed to be the beginning of the transition from Global Volunteer back to plain old tourist, and when Carl handed out the evaluation sheets at breakfast, we were jolted into the realization that this project is coming to an end and we are thinking of home.

But today isn’t the time for nostalgia or reminiscing—it is more a time of tying up loose ends. We took one final group picture for the poster that Jeanne and Ofra are putting together for the Posada las Campanas gallery of Global Volunteers. We settled small debts that were left from last week’s taxi rides and we huddled over the computer changing flight times and comparing departures. Some of use are still trying to make those phone cards work and others are finalizing bus schedules to Guadalahara and San Miguel de Allende.

We walked the mile to UTNG, familiar with those uneven sidewalk humps that were threats to our safety just a week ago. And now we can easily maneuver those congested intersections like the locals, and we can easily find building D and the English offices when we reach campus.

For eight days the English faculty has welcomed us into their space, where we’ve hung out between classes getting to know Vero, Gaby, Lucio, Chuy, Bill and Rosalia…two weeks ago we didn’t even know they existed and today we feel the bond of sharing a common goal—teaching those kids to say “bizzy”, not “bussy” and “pr-ah-ahblem”, not “pro-o-blem. Today we worked on possessive pronouns, dialogues to use in a store if you have a “prah-ahblem”, weather vocabulary, and parts of speech. We volunteers went to our last Spanish class with Chuy but today no curious students hung around the door to get a glimpse of us struggling with a second language.

This afternoon many of us were running last-minute errands, buying the small stuff—bracelets for the grandkids, tiny iguanas for the neighbor, and a t-shirt for the friend who doesn’t quite rate a Talavera pot. Brenda gave her presentation dealing with accounting to a packed auditorium and Ellen and Jeanne shared their thoughts on the importance of learning a second language and how it has enriched their lives. Jeanne statement that "You can curse the dark or you can light a candle” seemed to resonate with everyone as the real purpose of our stay here.

We have learned many things during the last 12 days. We know to cross the street to avoid bird poop falling from the sky. We know that a motorcycle just might roll down the hotel hallway at midnight, and that the water might be hot or it might be cold, and that we might be able to make a cell phone connection—or not. But one thing we all know for sure is that the beautiful lady at the hotel desk—Gigi—will never understand a word that we say.

Tuesday, July 15, 2008

2008-07-15T11:40:00.000-05:00

"Life is a journey...not a destination. Enjoy the trip!"

Classes didn't begin until 11:20, so we were able to enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel. The servers have gotten to know our preferences, such as who likes huevos con jamón or sin jamón. Most of us made it up to the University, although two of our members were unfortunately too ill to volunteer today. We all wish them a speedy recovery.

Three classes were on our schedule, but attendance was sparse at the first class and the second class was canceled completely due to a conference given by a representative from Pemex. After a one hour break we continued with our third class.

Team III stayed on campus for Conversation Club but no students attended today. At 5:00 they helped Gaby with a Continuing Education class. Vickie particularly enjoyed working with 11 and 13 year old students who were at the intermediate level in their English. All of the team members worked with groups of two or three playing a game planned by the always organized Gaby.

Amelia bravely gave a talk on Human Resources to about 30 students who were attentive and appreciative. One of her students approached her afterward and said, "Excellent, Amelia!"

Our evening meal was a barbecue hosted by Pompeyo at his other hotel just a few blocks away. Everyone was in attendance at our outdoor tables cooled by a fresh breeze. We were served steak, sausage, guacamole, tortillas, vegetables, and quesadillas. Wine and tequila were offered by our generous host. We walked back to our hotel tired but happy.

Thursday, July 10

2008-07-10T19:18:00.000-05:00

We were all up bright and early for breakfast at 7 AM so Team I, Ofra, and Toni could leave at 7:30 for the trip to Victoria. Unfortunately, due to a communication error, they did not get underway until after 8:00.

The rest of us went to our classes at UTNG starting after 10:00. One of the topics of the classes was the weather---vocabulary and expressions.

Teams II and III had a Spanish class with Rosalie. We learned some common Spanish expressions such as " Buen Provecho " which Mexicans often use in place of "Buen Apetito". When Rosalie learned that some of us were planning to go to San Miguel on the weekend, she gave us her telephone number there and said to call her and she would be happy to show us her Mexican home.

After lunch, Jesse, Emily, Gail, and Karen took a taxi to visit the mausoleum of Rey Jose Alfredo Jiminez. The driver played his music for us on the return trip. Churches were also visited and others checked out pottery shops.

For the volunteers who went to Victoria, they were assigned groups of three to six students. They helped their groups in putting on a skit. They coached them in pronunciation of the dialog, memorizing, and acting out the situations. After the skits were presented, the students taught the volunteers a Spanish song and the volunteers taught the volunteers the students an American song, the most popular one being "The Hokey Pokey".

After lunch, local artisans visited the school and there was an opportunity to purchase items such as embroidered work, straw baskets, and bags. The volunteers were then taken on a tour of downtown Victoria.

The day ended with volunteers talking to people from the school, be the person working in the Registrar's office or the janitor.

In the evening we all gathered together again at the restaurant "Pollo Sobrusco" for the evening meal.

Submitted by Gail Feagins

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:

A woman of courage enters a room and everyone is put at ease. There is something appealing in the way she walks and in the way she holds herself.

Submitted by Brenda

July 9 08 GV Dolores Hidalgo

2008-07-09T21:29:00.000-05:00

Awakened by the kama kazi stealth mosquito prior to the 5.40 Church bell alarm. I think the Church Bells is the only prompt and predictable thing in Mexico.

Carl, Sue and I had our first experience at the Gold's Gym...prior to buying our 2 week pass we perused the Photos at the front of Gold"s of LA which has photos and autographs of all the famous members, and decided that I will look like Michelle Feiffer and Carl will look like Mel Gibson after the two weeks, it was guaranteed when we paid.

Had a good breakfast at Plaza one of our two (and basically only) eating emporia in DH --the waiters try not to groan when they see the mob of 16 descending upon them.

After breakfast we went to UTN for our 3 classes in a row. It was gratifying to start to see some familiar faces and to feel a sense of knowing them a bit from the last time we met, and I personally hope that we have the opportunity to work in small groups with the same students again when we go back to the same classes next week, since it helps to feel a connection with them. Although it was good to move from Ice Breakers (since you can only talk about your home town ,family and favorite Mexican foods so many times) to more structured tasks, the level differences seem to be challenging for some of us, since it seems like sometimes the materials we are asked to use are difficult for some of the students. One of the "interesting " lessons included a set of questions such as WHAT WOULD YOU DO IF YOUR COLLEAGUE SMELLS? and WHAT IF YOU ARE IN A FOREIGN COUNTRY AND YOU ARE EATING WITH A GROUP OF FRIENDS AND AFTER OFFERING TO PAY YOU REALIZE YOU DON'T HAVE YOUR WALLET? OR: WHAT WILL YOU WEAR ON A SPECIAL DATE . I knew there was a problem with comprehension when one of the boys in my group said he would wear a dress on the big date.

In discussion with others it seems the experiences are varied in terms of level of understanding of the students and positive outcomes in terms of impact of the small group conversation sessions.

Our team and a few others decided to forgo the cafeteria lunch and go back into town to eat, and ended up back at ..you guessed it , the Plaza. On our way back the Plaza Central was filled with soldiers and army trucks. Some of our members were sure we were about to observe an insurrection or at least a demonstration. When I asked "que paso" to a bystander, the answer was "Nada" so undeterred , I asked a soldier, who told us that the army school students were on a trip around Guanajuato to sight- see and learn about the military history.

Some of us went off to see the Tomb of Jose Jimenez, the famous Ranchero singer and composer whose tomb is a huge sombrero and rainbow colored serape with names of his songs engraved along it, also some pretty interesting mausoleums and grave sites in other parts of the cemetery. Others had their own adventures--Juani at the Church, observing the charms and prayers pinned on the saints, Jesse with the tourism booth woman in the center square; Ofra buying aluminum foil for wrapping sandwiches; Amelia and Ron doing some local shopping.

The day ended with a special dinner guest, Carl's wife Mitzi joining us at the other (not-Plaza) restaurant , Diana providing the session on tourist destinations worth seeing in DH (a very challenging task given the huge range of possibilities that she had to choose from) and a rousing sandwich making session of Turkey, PBJ and Tuna sandwiches on Bimbo bread for Team 1's trip to Victoria tomorrow, an adventure that we are all looking forward to.

Tuesday, July 8, 2008

2008-07-08T23:10:00.000-05:00

Our day began very early. At 6 AM, we met in our hotel lobby and boarded a nice coach bus, along with our hosts from Dolores Hidalgo, Chewy (Jose Jesus) and Jaime and 20 students from UTNG. We traveled for 2 hours to UT Leon, where we were greeted by many English teachers and staff who made us all feel welcome.

After a lovely breakfast reception, groups of 2 or 3 Global Volunteers along with several students from UTNG went to their assigned classrooms - 6 classes each lasting one half hour. It was a whirlwind! In between, we managed to have a delicious lunch prepared by several students in the Culinary Arts program at UT Leon.

I was paired with Ellen and we had a wonderful experience. In several classes, the students were at a beginning level and enjoyed our asking each of them about their families, favorite food and free-time activities. Apart from the popular activities such as playing soccer and listening to music, many students enjoyed sleeping, shopping and watching TV, not at all dissimilar from their peers in the U.S. We also found out that our students enjoyed a rousing round of hokey-pokey! The more advanced students had prepared questions, such as "What do you think of President Bush?" , "How do you feel about racism?", "How do you like Mexican culture?", "What do you do to help the environment?", "What are your hobbies?", "Why did you decide to be a Global Volunteer?". We had very good interactions.

After lunch, some of us met with teachers from different areas. My group met with engineering teachers. They wanted to practice their skills in English with us. One of them, Javier, a mechanical engineering professor, gave us a brief tour of his laboratory/classroom.

Altogether, the day was very well organized. By the time the bus came for us at 3:30 PM, we were pretty tired and were glad to return to our home away from home, the hotel Posada Las Campanas. Our day was capped by a delicious dinner at the restaurant El Carruaje. Thanks, Carl! Thanks, Volunteers, for a great day.

Contributed by Ofra Dose

Quote contributed by Jeanne Anderson

If you plan for a year, plant a seed. If you plan for ten years, plant a tree. If you plan for a hundred years, teach the people. When you sow a seed once, you will reap a single harvest. When you teach the people, you will reap a hundred harvests.

Kuan Chung

Monday, July 7th

2008-07-07T22:13:00.001-05:00

We were off and running today with a day of conversation at the university. We started with a wonderful breakfast where we met Jaime, Gabby and Marcia from the University. Emily ordered a vegetarian meal, but hers did not come, so she ate a regular meal anyway - then her vegetarian meal came and she ate that too. Don't know how she stays so slim eating like that. I was sitting next to her and I kept an eye on my food! We had a meeting after breakfast and they explained what our jobs would be at the University. We all introduced ourselves and told a little about our life.

After the meeting, we headed to the University. Most of the volunteers walked, but a few of us got a ride with the University staff. We were met by Veronica, Rosalita and Lucio. The president of the University gave the welcome speech. We all stood up and introduced ourselves the the students. Two students from the University also welcomed us, in English. They both did a great job. We all went our separate ways with our our team members. We spent time in the classroom with the students. The teachers gave us specific ideas to work on with the students or just told us to do general conversation. The students were very shy and quiet. The were all very nervous about speaking English.

After our classes, we all went the University cafeteria and had lunch. Group 1 stayed at the University to do more conversation. We were to meet Carl in the lobby for dinner at 6pm. However, it had started to rain and it was pouring. The streets were flooding and began to come up on the sidewalk. Of course, we had to take pictures. But the best part of the rain was Pompeo making boats out of paper and floating them down the street. We waited till the rain stopped before we ventured out for dinner. The streets were still flooded in places and we were all soaked by the time we reached the restaurant, but i don't think anyone minded. It was an adventure. We all ordered dinner and wouldn't you know, the lights went out. It seemed a perfect ending for a fun day. The lights went on and we enjoyed our dinner and good conversation. As we headed back to the hotel, it began to rain again. We all headed to our rooms to dry off and for a good nights sleep. Susan got her suitcase today and she was very happy about her new clothes. It has been a good day for the global volunteers.

Todays thought for the day was presented by Diana.

So, whatever you want to do, just do it.....Making a damn fool of yourself is absolutely essential.
by: Gloria Stinem

Sunday, July 6

2008-07-06T21:49:00.000-05:00

Well we're all here, and raring to go. Excited but also a little apprehensive, can we really be helpful to the students!! Oh I should say we're all here but my luggage isn't, hopefully soon. Saturday night there was lightening and some of the loudest thunder I've ever heard. So sleeping was very intermittent. Finally up at 7am and breakfast with the group at 8 am in the hotel. First thing at the dining room I ran into Ron and Amelia team members that I met on the Australia program. What a surprise and great to see them. Breakfast was a good buffet, then we were off, but not until we had a group picture at the front of the hotel with Carl trying to juggle four cameras. We met Chuy this morning. He's a teacher at the school.

There are fifteen team members and last night we met all but one. Emily flew into a different airport and was taken directly to Dolores Hidalgo. At 9 am we left for Dolores on the bus. It was a beautiful ride, but I think I missed quite a bit because I fell asleep. We are staying at the Hotel Posadas Los Companas, right near the center of town. Carl called to say he would be late because he had mechanical difficulties, so Chuy took us on a tour of the town. We know where the basics are, bank, money exchange, and internet cafe.

He also took us through the flea market. Very interesting. Lots of different sights, sounds and smells. We had lunch at the hotel, a very good chicken and veggies. After that we all went in different directions; some took a walk up to Universidad to see how far it is, others found an internet cafe, and still others did a little shopping. I went for a walk with Amelia and Ron and found a large shop of Talavera ceramics. Very tempting maybe we will go back.

Back to the room and a rest for awhile after checking on the Mexicana website for status of lost luggage. Nothing yet, and no answer at the phone number provided.

Dinner at 6 pm with Carl at the hotel. Very good carne asada, with guacomole, chips and margaritas. Carol had a wonderful Margarita shower three glasses and all. Team meeting during and after dinner. Introductions were made in Spanish, a new twist on the introduce the person next to you, and all of those preceding. Interviews of teammates, and introducing them to the team. Three teams were set up, and team goals were established.

Lots of questions were asked about how this teaching thing was going to work. How many students per volunteer, is it teaching or conversing. All of this will depend on the teacher, and we are reminded to be flexible. If the teacher has instructions, we follow them, if not, we wing it. Size will depend on the class. Each team is assigned to specific times frames, and no one team works more than a few hours a day. Some teams are working offsite and are gone the whole day. We also have an "entertainment" committee made of Diana and Ellen. Offra is in charge of seeing that lunches are made on days we are offsite.

This is going to be exciting and wonderful!!

Sue

Thought for the Day: "Volunteers are the only human beings on the face of the earth who reflect this nations compassion, unselfish caring, patient and just plain love for one another." Erma Bombeck

June 27, 2008

2008-06-27T11:49:00.000-05:00

Time for Celebration and Reflection!

Thursday evening was a time to celebrate our successes as Global Volunteers. Some team members enjoyed an evening at a local jazz club, while the rest were treated to a very elegant dinner with Carl and Esperanza at San Miguelitos. The decor was authentic and reflected the flavor of Mexico, but even more important, the evening gave us an opportunity to appreciate our diverse group and all we have accomplished in our mission.

But where has the time gone? Less than two weeks ago, 14 volunteers were streaming into Querétaro, full of questions and anticipation. Most of us had NO IDEA what our volunteer experience would be like! Uncertainty reigned. But now, we are experts at introducing ourselves, we know which photos to share, and most of all, we know how to make the UTEQ students feel at ease and encourage them as they work to master the English language. For days we worried about what lessons we´d be expected to follow, but now we "go with the flow."

We have learned that in some ways, the students resemble our own; they share interests in music, movies, food and sports. Yet two things stand out: their close bond with their families, and their sincere appreciation for their opportunity to obtain a quality education.

The students, with the encouragement of their teachers, are curious about us and abour our country. They want to know about our families, our favorite music, and even our marital status! But from them we learn about the history and culture of Mexico, and the places they are so proud of: Chiapas, Veracruz, and Guanajuato, among others.

But they are a thoughtful lot, too. At the end of one class, the teacher announced that there were two minutes left and to say our "good-byes." I asked the students if they had any questions for me. Immediately Antonio asked, "What do you think about the situation in your country?" Puzzled, I asked, "What situation?" "Oh, the war, immigration, oil and drugs." I laughed and said, "Antonio, all of that would take an hour!" Fortunately, I did get an opportunity to meet with him again, and we made time for an in-depth discussion, and from that, we both learned much.

As we prepare to return home, I´d like to end with a statement from an UTEQ student. He spoke aloud what countless others have thought. He shook my hand and told me, "Thank you so much for coming. I like this when we get authentic English speakers so we can learn from people who speak the language everyday."

And so, our mission in Querétaro has been accomplished!

Thought for the Day:

There, but for the grace of God, go I.

June 26, 2008

2008-06-26T11:43:00.000-05:00

Eunice presented us with a Song of the Day:

Out on the highways and byways of life
Many are weary and sad.
Carry the sunshine where darkness is rife
Making the sorrowing glad.
Give as was given to you in your need
Love as the master loved you
Be to the helpless a helper indeed
Unto your vision be true.

Make me a blessing, make me a blessing
Out of my life may Jesus shine
Make me a blessing, oh Savior, I pray
Make me a blessing to someone today.

June 25, 2008

2008-06-25T11:40:00.000-05:00

Our team has now completed seven days of volunteer work and we have 3 more working days ahead of us! Yahoo!

On Monday night Carl shared with us our first day's comments on what motivated us to come together in Querétaro in the middle of Mexico. We are a unique, diversified group of talented people with the shared vision to be of service to others, to experience personal growth and to have the opportunity to learn about others in a new culture. Each of us may use different words to summarize the vision; however, we all can agree that we are here to share of ourselves with the lovely students and teachers of UTEQ´s English Department.

For today´s journal entry, I thought it would be interesting to look at our volunteer work from a different perspective. I tried to quantify the work we will have completed by this Friday. This summary is a reference and is not official:

Completed/Activity Description:
522 hours- Working with students including evenings and Saturday
13 hours- Global Volunteers meetings (orientation, morning team meetings, etc.)
20 hours- Transportation (round trip hotel to UTEQ)
555 hours TOTAL

Another way to view the 555 hours is that it would take one person working 40 hours/week over 14 weeks to complete the work we have done in 10 days!

This total does not include the approximately 60 meals we will have shared by the time we complete our volunteer work in Querétaro. Nor does it include the time and effort done by Carl.

Each of us had a personal story we can share about how our heart has been touched by the experience in Querétaro. The moments have been as simple as a quiet thank you by a student or teacher at the end of the class, a smile in the eyes of a student that understood the English words when you spoke, and as large as being invited to a student´s home for a 25th wedding anniversary or to lunch at their home. We have also been touched by the kindness of our fellow team members as we work together to bring the best of ourselves to student interaction.

Thought of the Day:

How can I say good-bye when I am just learning how to say hello?

June 23, 2008

2008-06-23T13:12:00.000-05:00

The second week begins. We are now three less volunteers but just as motivated. At the 7 A. M. breakfast meeting, Carl hashes out the week´s schedule with opportunities to visit homes of students and evening classes.

We have a different driver this morning--maybe we wore out Arturo. In the van, the group (team) seems lively and energetic, for a Monday. The air is always cool and refreshing in the morning, the best part of the day.

My first period assignment was tutoring but no students came. Later I went to Bere and Eve´s classes. Students always listen keenly but sometimes it takes a while for them to open up. Generally about the time I am getting more students to speak, the session ends. I just hope this exposure will help them become more confident for the next time. My last two groups were more talkative. We had some great laughs together, humor being the best communicator. Example: Question: What book are you reading now? Answer: Playboy. I enjoy talking sports to some of the boys. One student played NCAA football in Miami, Florida last year.

For lunch Carl took the team to a local "fonda." This is a small mom and pop restaurant. The cook didn´t now we were coming but she adjusted quickly and accommodates with a smile. I thought the restaurant looked clean and cheery with flowers, curtains and a children´s area. Food was served quickly. I look forward to eating there again.

Jan and I were taken out to lunch by Gonzalo and Raul who teach in the IT program at UTEQ. We went to a local taco restaurant. I ate 4 spicy tacos which surprised Raul and Gonzalo. We enjoyed great adult conversation for over 2 hours, which ran the gamut from politics to Apple computers. It was the end to a perfect day.

2008-06-23T11:37:00.000-05:00

Highlights of the first week:

Our team members have traveled all over the world which makes for wonderful conversations.
Several team members have served Global Volunteers two or more times.
We range from age 16-76.
We live all over the USA from California to the Midwest to the East Coast.
Several are educators or retired from the field of education.
We all have a desire to serve others and Be Servant Learners.
We are all adventuresome and curious about world cultures.
Waking up before dawn and hearing the sounds of the Mexican workers sweeping the streets. The people of Queretaro are very proud of their city and keep it clean and well-landscaped.
The very cool, crisp mountain morning air which will get quite hot by 4 P. M.
The sun not rising until after 7 A. M.
Entering the dark hallways to go to breakfast at 6:00 for our two 7 A. M. classes.
The 30-minute bus ride with Arturo through the city to UTEQ.
On the way to UTEQ, seeing many international companies such as Peugot, Volkswagon, Gerber, Bombadier, Wal-Mart and Pilgrim´s Pride and many more, which makes learning English (the national language of the business world) so critical for the students at UTEQ.
Eating at many local restaurants, listening to music in the plazas, museums, churches, the Aquaducto, walking among the local people, shopping at Woolworth Mexicana, Farmacia Guadalahara and other wonderful markets.
Our Saturday side trip to San Miguel de Allende and an appreciation for their arts and crafts
Our Sunday side trip to Bernal, the Magnetic Mountain and to Tequisquiapan, an authentic Mexican village and the beautiful countryside
Montezuma´s Revenge, sore throats and respiratory infections-- we have shared medicines, visited the doctor at UTEQ and all hope to be recovering!
Three team members completed their one week of service and have departed to other cities. We will miss them.

But the most important highlights were our experiences with the students at UTEQ! We all agree that these young people are phenomenal. The students are respectful, polite, cooperative, motivated and so interested in learning English! Their dedication and motivation give us energy. Their smiles, bright eyes and attention to every word is gratifying beyond words.

The instructors have allowed us many opportunities with the students as well as actually teaching lessons, playing games and singing songs. Several of the team members are professional educators and we admit these students may be the most motivated we have ever taught!

Several team members turored night classes on Wed. and Friday. The night classes are smaller with more adult students. The conversations we had with the older students who are more knowledgeable about world events were very enlightening. We enjoyed hearing about politics, government, international events and world trade.
Two team members were invited to a student´s parents´anniversary party on Wed. night.
Two team members were invited home with 2 students on Friday. Grandma Gloria (Jackie´s abuela) prepared delicious sopes. Both of these events are great honors!!
A team member spent his Saturday working with the students at UTEQ.
UTEQ is a lovely campus at the edge of the city. Students are studying technical careers and hope to complete 2 year degrees so they may find employment in the many industries in their city.
Most students have said they prefer to live in Querétaro but have a desire to speak English to advance their careers.
Four members toured the Avionics building where the students are being trained for employment with Bombadier, a Canadian company. Half of the avionic technical students are female! How wonderful is this!
It is really neat to see students in the hallway, outside, and in the cafeteria and they recognize us and say hello!
Now we eagerly approach our second week working with the students.
A quote from the volunteer manual: "This is travel that feeds the soul. Everyone benefits and because of the servant-learner, the world is a better place."

Personally, I know I will be a better teacher when I return home because I have witnessed some wonderful teaching methods from Diego, Juan Luis, Deya, Moni and Fer. They fully engage all students in small group interactions, use games and employ the Socratic method. I will always remember Juan Luis asking his students: "Tell me more." "What else do you know about?" And I will always remember hearing the teachers say to us as we left the Language office and headed off to class, "Let´s go!"

Shakers and Movers

2008-06-19T13:09:00.000-05:00

Increasingly as the week progressed, I believe the group could be labeled the "shakers and movers." Some of us have moved multiple times within the hotel. We are moving about the campus and central Querétaro freely--not fearing being lost or feeling uncomfortable in unfamiliar surroundings. Our shaking? Last evening there was some booty shaking in the clubs as several of our members went dancing. Others of us have been shaking as we cough, as we wretch--okay, some of us had to deal with some travelers sickness. The campus infirmary has become our friend and the doctor our buddy.

As the week has progressed, we have been shaken and moved by the students who have touched our lives. We have shared our native language skills and we have bonded with the students. At meal time we share our wonderful anecdotes of our successes and our frustrations.

How quickly these days have passed as the first week draws to a close. Tomorrow some of us will move on, whether returning home or continuing travel. However, there will not be good-byes, only "Hasta la vista y vaya con Dios."

Thought for the Day:

We are not victims of our circumstances--we are the creators.

"Do not go where the path may lead; go instead where there is no path and leave a trail."

--Emerson

"Be the change you want to see in the world."
--Mahatma Gandhi

Angels and Demons

2008-06-18T13:06:00.000-05:00

We are an eclectic group! We are teachers and student, artist and actor, business women and retired persons, missionary and sinners, mother and child, mentor and protege! We bring a plethora of talents, skills and ideas to the table.

We can at times be demons. The early wake-up calls, the screwy schedules, the noise in the courtyard and pillows like cement bring out a bit of evil in us.

Our angel side reveals itself in the joy we share working with the students (also known as "kids.") We see it in our growing concern and caring fellowship for each other.

I think the angels in us are winning!

Thoughts for the Day:

"Happiness is not having what you want.
Happiness is wanting what you have."

"I shall tell you a great secret, my friend.
Do not wait for the last judgment.
It takes place every day."
--Albert Camus

June 17, 2008

2008-06-17T13:04:00.001-05:00

I have a philosophy which indicates when to go, how, why and where. I will say, "I am hot for _____." If I have the five essentials, Go!

"I" stands for interest. Fourteen people have shown interest today in ancient Mexico, shopping, drinking Margaritas and Tequila, resting, walking and dancing.

"M" stands for money. We all needed a bunch of it to get here and volunteer with Global Volunteers, some of which goes into the economy of the community and country and some to satisfy our wants and needs.

"H" is for health.
Physical- No one has succumbed to illness yet although we lost two volunteers before we even started.
Spiritual- We need to know why we are doing this.
Mental- I think we all still have that!
Social- We´ve gotten along fairly well so far.
Emotional- There´s nothing we have not been able to work through.

"O" is for opportunity. We have been taking advantage of our opportunity to teach English to University students in groups of 1-6 for four hours a day.

"T" is for time. We have spent our time building positive relationships with students and faculty, having an adventure through service and seeking peace through understanding.

This time "I´m hot" for Mexico. I M H O T. Having those five, I hope I and my colleagues will make a difference in Mexico through our travels.

Thoughts for the Day:

The first is from Helen Keller:
Many persons have a wrong idea of what constitutes true happiness. It is not attained through self-gratification but through fidelity to a worthy purpose.

The second is an old Chinese proverb:
If you want happiness for an hour, take a nap.
If you want happiness for a day, go fishing.
If you want happiness for a year, inherit a fortune.
If you want happiness for a lifetime, help somebody.

June 17, 2008

2008-06-17T13:04:00.000-05:00

June 16, 2008

2008-06-16T13:03:00.000-05:00

On our first day we were invited to a breakfast in our honor at the university. We met the teachers and for the first time a department/major head spoke to us about his major, Environmental Technology. This was new and we could tell he was a bit nervous but we appreciated the effort. We then interacted with the students for 3 hours and it was a great experience for everyone. After school we returned to the Hotel Hidalgo and continued our cultural exploration through the city. During dinner we made plans for the weekend and for volunteering for the Saturday classes.

Another first for the program: We have been invited to have dinner in the homes of some of the students and professors! Several volunteers are very interested and excited about this opportunity.

Team arrives in Querétaro

2008-06-15T12:59:00.000-05:00

As with any team that is new, there are stages that must be experienced: storming, forming, norming and performing. During the orientation session today our team was in the storming phase for sure. There was apparently different expectations for the university, Global Volunteers and the volunteers. Poor Carl was caught in the middle of making everyone satisfied--I´m sure he will prevail! In the end, we must remember we are here for the benefit of the students.

It´s an awesome experience we have to be invited into another country´s culture and I challenge us all to leave our own cultural experiences behind to fully engage in this gift. Through our team building exercises we have learned that we are a diverse, educated, spirited and opinionated group of people excited to mke a difference here.

2008-04-11T08:44:00.000-05:00

Our last day in Dolores. Up and packed and out to UTNG for a final, 8:00 a.m. class with Rosalie, helping her students practice their conversations for next week’s oral exam. This was a final reminder of how much fun it has been working with these young people.

Then a wonderful send-off ceremony, with speeches from the Assistant Dean of Academic Affairs and a couple of more advanced students, traditional songs, and a karaoke number in English. Our host at the pulqueria and his wife were also there, and it was wonderful to be able to thank them again for their hospitality. We were given certificates of appreciation and, in turn, thanked UTNG for letting us work with them and see what a wonderful future they are building for Mexico.

We then set off for Guanajuato. The mountain ride was as glorious as at our arrival, but now we recognized names and landmarks…our Mexico. We dropped our bags in our rooms and headed out for the city center. What an exciting city – bustling with energy on a Friday afternoon. We saw the Diego Rivera museum and the marvelous architecture and exhibits at the Alhondiga museum.

Also ran into Chuy on the street, on his way to class. Lunch outside in a shady square, a little shopping, and some people watching in the green Jardin Union. Our final dinner was at a window table overlooking all the activity in the square – mimes, costumed musicians, and hundreds of people out enjoying the evening. Back to our hotel for an early night since Evelyn and Mary have a 4:15 a.m. taxi to the airport. Joyce will enjoy a more leisurely departure on Saturday.

While we’re all looking forward to home, that Willy Nelson song comes to mind, “On the road again…just can’t wait to get on the road again…”

2008-04-10T07:57:00.000-05:00

Our last full day in Dolores. Joyce and Mary took a last walk around down town before breakfast, when the city is so cool an green.

After our morning meeting, we walked-up to the campus for the last time, since tomorrow we'll ride up with Carl. We had three classes , two with Chuy and one with Bill. Students are still hard-working and eager, but exam time is starting; and many of them are focussing on next week's finals.

Spent the break in the library and returned to the sac for conversation club only to find the room full of students taking exams. After waiting next door for some time we returned to the teachers' area where Marcia brought us one final student for conversation practice.

Back to the hotel with Carl where we'll have our final meeting and and head off to a party at Vero's. Tomorrow morning we have an 8am class with Rosalie, a good-bye ceremony, and then we're off to spend an afternoon and evening in Guanajuato prior to am Saturday flights back home.

So many final thoughts... but a short one: Truly it is in giving that we receive... and we all have all received so much from our volunteer experience in Dolores.

2008-04-09T09:09:00.000-05:00

The last week is rapidly coming to an end and we are getting more used to the program and the lovely town of Dolores.

We had a late start for classes, 10:20 am, so we could enjoy some time in town. Got a ride to campus with Carl and had a great variety of classes again. Some are small and quick to speak English. Other classes may be large and are having English classes for the first time. But all of the students are receptive and seem to enjoy our presence.

We spend an hour at 4:00 pm in Conversation Club to help those who want extra time to practice. Have met some industrious kids.

We enjoyed a fabulous meal at the Plaza Restaurant and took a brief stroll around the park. Actually saw one of our students dancing in the band shell. His specialty was “break dancing.”

THOUGHT: No matter how thin the pancake, there´s always another side.

George Vecsey, NY Times sports writer

2008-04-08T09:07:00.000-05:00

Today was the first of three late-start days. Our first class only began at 10:20. This afforded Joyce a chance to roam around Dolores taking photos to preserve and reinforce her memories, and we all had a nice breakfast at the Plaza Restaurant.

We worked with Marcia for the first time today. Marcia is an expatriate American with a more direct teaching style than we have observed. The kids came to class on time! In her classes we prepared the students for an oral exam on describing other people. ¨Jeans” is a word they all know!

The Conversation Club had more advanced students today and was quite interesting. We could see how they are starting to grapple with the age-old conflict of remaining at home (Dolores, San Felipe, etc.) or moving away from family to pursue economic opportunity. They were smart and funny.

Our host at the hotel drove us out to the country to visit the 2^nd oldest church in the Americas – a rare treat. This was followed by a barbecue in the hotel patio, hosted by Sr. Pompeio, which was an excellent conclusion to yet another fascinating day.

THOUGHT: An adventure is only an inconvenience right considered.

G.K. Chesterton

2008-04-07T09:05:00.000-05:00

Hi ho! It’s back to work we go. After reviewing our first week on Sunday evening, we’re all committed to week two, but the alarms did seem to go off awfully early this morning. (The switch to daylight savings time didn’t help – it was dark outside.)

After a meeting with Carl, he drove us (what luxury) to campus and then headed back to Querétero.

We had our first class with Nathan and worked in groups on the concepts he provided us. Back in the teachers´area, Joyce dutifully transcribed the log, and we all waited for our first class with Veronica. Unfortunately, she was sick today, but Jaime eventually found us and took us to her class for a 15-minute session, which we hope was of some help to the students.

Next was JJ´s class, where he challenged us to create and deliver a lesson. After five minutes of brainstorming, we decided to use world maps and have the students plan a vacation – pricing tickets, packing, etc. It went quite well.

This was doubly fortunate because, after a quick snack chez UTNG, we had a second group of Veronica’s students to manage on our own. Although they were at a slightly different level from JJ´s, the lesson plan worked.

After a break, we met in the resource room with the Conversation Club. At first, there was only one participant, Gerald, an amazing UTNG graduate who had just returned from working in the US due to his father’s sudden death. His intelligence, focus, and drive were inspiring. Towards the end of the session, a couple of beginning students joined us, and we hope they come back to practice.

Dinner at El Caudillo – our waiter wanted to practice his English so ordering was a bit of a hodge-podge, but still a pleasant evening.

Heavy traffic around El Jardín -- watched an ambulance try to weave its way through, then home to the hotel.

THOUGHT: Ignatius Loyola’s “What profits a man if he gain’s the whole world but suffers the loss of his soul?” seems to speak to the Mexicans we’ve met who worked in the US but returned home.

2008-04-06T11:58:00.000-05:00

Joyce and Evelyn: A day off to explore and enjoy. Joyce and Evelyn took the bus to San Miguel and had a wonderful adventure exploring the city with a personally guided walking tour. The guide spent two hours with them and impressed them with his love of San Miguel where he has always lived. They visited an art school where they viewed outstanding murals by Pedro Martinez. He was extremely knowledgeable about the history and architecture of San Miguel and taught them a lot.

But, of course, before they got serious about touring San Miguel they had to get their American coffee fix. Joyce had a cappuccino at Starbucks and Evelyn had her caffeine from Dunkin Donuts. Both shops are easy to spot right off the plaza.

The guide, Jesus, suggested a wonderful place for lunch and they were treated like royalty there. A gratis appetizer was offered and Evelyn enjoyed a healthy grilled vegetable salad while Joyce enjoyed delicious tacos.

They next found their way to the Ramirez Market and discovered the silver and other shops. Both made purchases of necklaces, earrings, and pendants and were very pleased with their decisions.

They just made the 4:00 pm bus back to Dolores – it was backing out of the parking place, but stopped for them. They enjoyed the milk stop run where workers were getting off and on.

Joyce and Evelyn shared their travels with Mary and met Carl at 7:00 to take him to the newly discovered restaurant, El Sabroso Pollo. He was impressed, but the crowd there was noisy and the echoes off the stone wall were loud. The upcoming week´s planning meeting was held back at the hotel and everyone looked forward to a good night’s sleep.

THOUGHT

If you know all the answers, you haven’t asked all the questions.

Mary: Mary stayed in Dolores to explore the city and search out places of interest for sightseeing during the upcoming week. Among places of note were 1) churches – Our Lady of Sorrrows (Dolores) with amazing wood carvings and the Third Order Temple, where mass was being said, accompanied by guitars and singers and where the church was packed. Statues were covered in tiny Milagros. In both churches, posted in the back were marriage banns, complete with pictures and family histories. 2) Museums – Hidalgo’s house contained rooms furnished as they were in Father Hidalgo’s time, copies of letters and revolutionary documents, and the tithe hall filled with wreaths, plaques, and a large statue of Hidalgo. Independence Museum, in the former prison, contained wall sized drawings, statues, and exhibits explaining the struggle for Mexican independence. 3) Government buildings – The first floor of the Mayor’s Office and the Visitors House were open and both had interesting courtyards.

Best of all was sitting in El Jardín, listening to church bells, watching teenagers parade by, and eavesdropping on the shoeshine man.

2008-04-05T10:58:00.000-06:00

This was a school day in Dolores for public and college students. Walked to the campus and got there before anyone else. Our first class was with Karina -- who is also Nathan’s wife -- with students who come only on Friday evening and Saturday. They are older and not yet too swift in their skills. At one time we merged with another class and kept going for over an hour with 6 or 7 in a group.

Then the weekend began and we all did our own thing. Mary had her hair done, Joyce shopped for us and Evelyn stayed put, reading and resting.

Mary discovered a beautiful, newly opened restaurant that we decided to try, and it was wonderful. We will go back there for sure.

THOUGHT

“Amidst the mud and muck of things, something always, always sings.”

Mrs. Wiggs of the Cabbage Patch

2008-04-04T10:57:00.000-06:00

Today was a day of much travel and disparate experiences. We had a leisurely start – an 8:30 breakfast to send Carl on his way home for the weekend, followed by an 11:00 rendez-vous with Chuy to visit a pulquería. Pulque, we learned from the patrón, is a lightly fermented and perhaps slightly alcoholic traditional beverage. We followed the patrón – we in Chuy’s car, he on his Italik motorbike – out to the fields where he collects agua miel (the liquid produced in the heart of the maguey cactus). Back at home, he strains the agua miel into a large olla (clay pot) where it ferments. The primary customers for the pulque are the workers in the surrounding fields.

We had time before our next obligation for ensalada de frutas and sopas in El Carruaje.

Capping a week of visits to satellite programs, we headed out to Ocampo at 4:00 with professor and program coordinator Jaime. The students there pack their studies into Friday evening and all day Saturday. Most work, many have families, and many must travel long distances into Ocampo from rural communities. They are VERY impressive! In Ocampo you may encounter “Los Locos,” a merry band of masked clowns who both startle and entertain!

A simple dinner of quesadillas, ranch steak, and rice and beans was just right. Jaime brought us home safely at ll:00 p.m.

THOUGHT

“The struggle of today is not altogether for today – it is for a vast future also.”

Abraham Lincoln

2008-04-03T10:55:00.000-06:00

New adventures – Joyce and Mary went out for breakfast breads and pastries and had an enjoyable walk around town in the cool morning air. Though, alas! They did find that overnight the sidewalk was torn up on the egret-free side of Guerrero.

We took Carl’s car (with Carl driving, of course) to campus to meet Jaime and Chuy for a visit to a talavera factory. Jaime took us to his uncle’s small factory where his uncle explained the steps in making thrown pieces and even made two small vases and a large bowl for us to see. Most of the work – beautiful in design – is sold to others who paint and finish the pieces. But he is working on some new clear glaze designs, improves his techniques through the local trade association, and has been to the US to discuss distribution. In sum, he is a sophisticated entrepreneur.

Jaime also took us to a factory and store where molded pottery is made and decorated. The owners have an amazing house with incredible tile work throughout.

We then dropped Chuy back at UTNG and headed off for San Miguel de Allende. Such traffic – we felt a bit like country mice sitting in miles of bumper to bumper traffic and streets without parking places. We had a quick, but delicious, lunch in a Sri Lankan restaurant and on leaving met the owner, who also teaches in the gastronomy department.

UTNG-San Miguel is only one year old, holds classes in a high school, and has programs in tourism and gastronomy. Like their fellow students at Victoria, these students had planned an afternoon of presentations for us. We heard speeches on Guanajuato and on dreams; we saw a mock interview and were asked to rate the candidates; participated in a blindfolded food tasting; and finished with costumed “Warriors of the Sun” dancers. Then the gastronomy students presented a sample of appetizers they had made. We spent the next hour munching and talking to individual students – many spoke quite good English and were quite confident in attempting to speak it. Although classes continue until 9:00 pm at UTNG/San Miguel, the English faculty left around 6:00 and so we headed home to Dolores.

Found a new restaurant just off the square: El Caudillo – great soups and shared a sizzling molcajete (lava stone mortar) filled with meat, cheese, nopales, onions and hot peppers.

THOUGHT

“ . . . two roads diverged in a yellow wood, and I

I took the one less travelled by

And that has made all the difference.”

Robert Frost “The Road Not Taken”

2008-04-02T10:54:00.000-06:00

What a day! We have had so many wonderful experiences that we can hardly remember all of them. We did our usual walk to the campus to meet Francisco from the Victoria campus who drove us there in 1.5 hours. We all fell in love with the small campus of four buildings and were amazed at the stunning cacti.

Our time was spent listening to teams of 4-5 students give an oral PowerPoint presentation in English on a subject of their choice. Our job was to grade them on their team effort. We heard all 112 students that are enrolled at the Victoria campus. We also enjoyed a song by a group of six women students. The students were lovely, but shy and needed help with pronunciation.

Our host, Francisco, took us deeper into the rugged countryside to see some of the arts and crafts of the area. We met some ladies who did basket weaving and also showed us some unusual 800 year old cacti. We really got to see some gorgeous, dry landscapes. Had a swift ride home with an experienced driver and after a brief rest, enjoyed a light supper at one of our favourites – Plaza Restaurant.

THOUGHT:

Some minds are like concrete -- all mixed up and permanently set.

2008-04-01T10:47:00.000-06:00

So many experiences and people are packed into one day that it feels like at least two days ago we had breakfast at the Plaza Restaurant. Sadly, our much-anticipated coffee from freshly ground beans managed to taste just like Nescafé.

We set off on our now-familiar uphill trek to UTNG for a 9:00 am class with JJ’s students. Using a panel format, we faced 15 or 20 young students and asked them questions that flew around the room and remained largely unanswered. They appear to be quite naïve about the workforce. Things improved after that.

A session with Nathan on useful Spanish expressions was outstanding. Once again, Gaby’s lesson plan was easy and fun to implement. We all feel that our competence in this game is improving.

Evelyn stayed on campus and caught up with email while Carl, Mary, and Joyce went to the mercado for supplies. A ride into town with Gaby was welcome, and then we walked back to campus. (This day we walked up twice and down once.)

Our final experience was an external class including a father and his 10 year old son! The motivation of the external students makes working with them a joy.

Then back to town for a really nice dinner. Now that we have our act together, we´re taking it on the road . . . to Victoria tomorrow!

THOUGHT:

We shall not cease from exploration

And the end of all our exploring

Will be to arrive where we started

And know the place for the first time.

T.S. Eliot “Four Quartets”

2008-03-31T10:44:00.000-06:00

First day on the job! At our morning meeting Evelyn arrived with matching shoes, unlike, she claimed, on earlier occasions. After an orientation with Carl, and a fond farewell to his family, we walked with Chuy to a restaurant on the plaza to breakfast with several other members of the English faculty. Breakfast was followed by a short, but impressive orientation/overview of UTNG and the department’s expectations of us. We were driven to the campus, had a very brief tour and then, to our surprise, were honoured guests at a welcome ceremony held in the auditorium, including a speech by the rector. After visiting the English faculty offices and meeting additional faculty (a large department with several native English speakers), we set off to our first class.

What an experience! Thrown in cold with Lucio’s group of beginners; discussing workplace values and career plans with JJ´s last year (TOEFL-tested) young adults, then more beginners with Nathan’s class. After a 3:00 lunch break (nutrition not a curriculum at UTNG, unfortunately), and some time in the cyber-library, we had a final class with Gaby´s external students -– ranging from doctors to elementary school students –- where we worked on a “Jeopardy”-like game.

We´re beginning to see how what we´re doing fits in with the faculty vision for the English curriculum. We´re tired but excited.

THOUGHTS:

A) St. Augustine: ¨”Love and do what you will.” B) Mother to child: “How do you know you’re dead? When you stop learning.”

2008-03-30T10:39:00.000-06:00

Our family of seven enjoyed a delicious breakfast buffet at the hotel and soon after we three volunteers left via the college van with Professor Jose de Jesus (Chuy) over the high mountains to our new home in Dolores Hidalgo. It was a very scenic ride over rugged hills. Our home for the next two weeks will be Posada Las Campanas with lovely rooms on the first floor and an adjoining patio where we had a very informative orientation meeting over a delicious luncheon.

When work was done we took a walk to the plaza (locally referred to as the garden –El Jardín) and enjoyed the famous Dolores ice cream. Toured the side streets where we bought the notebook in which we are recording our journal – now our blog. We kept on touring and drove 40 km to San Miguel de Allende to see that historic town and crowded plaza. Actually saw a bored young American couple sitting on a park bench using the computer! Had a soup and salad supper and soon headed for home. Has been a full day and we need our rest. Tomorrow we meet the kids in the classroom – can hardly wait!

THOUGHT: Experience is the name everyone gives to their mistakes.

2008-03-29T10:34:00.000-06:00

MEXICO – Here we come (all 3 of us) from the East Coast (New Jersey), the West Coast (San Francisco), and the Southwest (Austin, Texas). Mary from Texas arrived early. Joyce came later on the same day, the 29th, and Evelyn came at 8:00 pm after flying all day. We gathered at our hotel and met our leader, Carl’s, family and enjoyed a good meal together. It was a long day for most of us so a retreat to our rooms was very welcome.

Team 96 returns from Mexico

2008-02-18T22:06:00.000-06:00

Global Volunteers' team 96 to Mexico finished their 2 week stint on February 16th. The 10 member team supported the host organization's English program through small group conversation classes and individual tutoring sessions.

A total of 420 hours of volunteer time gave nearly 3,000 students an opportunity to listen and speak with true native speakers, and gain a better understanding of American and British cultures. Volunteers also came away with a better understanding of Mexican culture.

The team's journal is posted below. Please read about this great team's experiences as lived through their eyes.

Carl Granger
Mexico Country Manager

Journal Entry #12 – Thursday, February 15, 2008

2008-02-15T22:47:00.000-06:00

Morning comes early in the tropics – or maybe it just seems that way when you get up at 05:30. In spite of it all, we made it in time for our 07:00 class.

We got a break in the morning, though. The students were celebrating Valentine’s Day. They are not alone, the adult population here makes a lot more of Valentine’s than we do in the States. The students were wearing costumes – some quite ornate and the set up little ‘Tiendas’ selling impressive items like bolsas, stuffed hearts, and food. Which I passed up because of my Moc’s revenge. The celebration meant that we taught one fewer class that day – but we still remember the 05:30 start.

After dinner and a siesta, we went to Miguelito’s. A very nice restaurant in an old classical building.

We also invited Esperanza and Dahlia. A quartet of accordion, guitar, guitaron, and tom toms played traditional and current songs. Our end of the table helped them by singing. I was a very mellow feeling and I found it easy to say ‘yes’ to my playing the violin Friday 2/16.

We walked back to the Senorial close to midnight and went to sleep with the sounds of music in our heads.

Thought of the Day: Grant me the serenity to accept what I cannot change, the courage to change what I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.

Journal Entry #11 – Thursday, February 14, 2008

2008-02-14T21:46:00.000-06:00

Thought for the day:

The mind itself can make a heaven of hell or a hell of heaven. –Milton

Thoughts – There is nothing neither good nor bad, but thinking makes it so. –Shakespeare

The only thing needed for evil to flourish is for good people to do nothing.

Journal Entry #10 – Wednesday, February 13, 2008

2008-02-13T19:45:00.000-06:00

If you view courage as a destination, you then pursue life’s challenge with enthusiasm.
Quote by Bea

In the evening, sitting in the Plaza de la Corregidora sipping vino blanco was a pre-Valentines delight. Heart shaped balloons, huge decorated boxes filled with surprises, plus various other inflated shapes paraded by.

Tomorrow’s schedule at the university remains a mystery due to the festivities for Valentine’s Day by the students. Flexibility will remain our motto.

Journal Entry #9 – Tuesday, February 12, 2008

2008-02-12T22:44:00.000-06:00

The dawn patrol assembled at 06:30 hours – 2 absentees were recovered in time for morning briefing. The “Intrepids” of earlier have morphed into “hardened campaigners” with stoic acceptance of caffeine deprivation and non-traditional catering. The team have now fully developed their individual strategies to augment and complement their sometime sketchy assigned projects and doing it extremely well. Medals may be awarded!!

Many of us have been struck by the rapid growth of the QRO economy and how the benefits are being put back into the city. (i.e. buying overhead wiring, repairing infrastructure etc.) There is a district sense of optimism which leads students to see their future here other than the US. Indeed only 2 of the very many students I have met, expressed any interest in going to the US: one wanted to be a film star in Hollywood and the a poker player in Las Vegas. Allowing that their aspirations may be ‘slightly’ ambitious, it is encouraging that so many, many, other nice young people are confident in the continued development of their home city.

After another day of tiring but rewarding support the team returned to Base Camp for lunch.

The fully rested and refreshed team, led by our Commanding Officer Carl, marched to be more accurate strolled in a distinctly unmilitary fashion) to two blocks for dinner at the Fin de Siglo restaurant. Minnesota Bill’s personal language trainer, Mauritzio, was not on duty but Lorenzo looked after us well.

Nice evening – Parade dismissed 20:15 hours.

Journal Entry #8 – Monday, February 11, 2008

2008-02-11T22:43:00.000-06:00

First of all, I must admit it is going to be difficult to maintain the high level of creative and detailed journal entries written by previous Global Volunteers.

We began our day at 8:30 am with the traditional Hotel Senorial breakfast served by Jesus. We finished our breakfast, daily meeting, and waited for the UTEQ van to pick us up.

Right before boarding the UTEQ van, we experienced a small crisis. Bea’s hair stylist, Daniel, called Bea on her cell phone. From what I gathered, he was worried Bea did not schedule her traditional haircut appointment. Bea solved the small crisis and we boarded the van.

We arrived at UTEQ on time and our day began at 10 am. The next five classes went exceptionally well. The students seemed eager to learn English, were very interactive, and intelligent.

The teaching day ended at 3:00 pm and we ate our usual UTEQ cafeteria lunch. We discussed the day’s events and shared stories over lunch. I sat in the front seat with Marcos. I tried to speak my usual “pigeon” Spanish (this is the term Ernie calls it) with the driver.

We arrived at the hotel at 4:20 pm. Some of us ate dinner at the hotel and some did not. To quote Marilyn: “Where is the salsa dancing?”

Journal Entry #7 – Sunday, February 10, 2008

2008-02-10T19:40:00.000-06:00

Once again the intrepid were up with a smile on their face and a song in their Valentines’ hearts to enjoy another day in Queretaro. Bill and Bea opted out of our tour and so did Tom. He related a tale of true camaraderie and adventure regarding his Saturday adventure. Again the intrepid are off to explore and savor the culture, cuisine, and craft fashions by quaint artisans.

We fortunate to have not only the well known driver, Ramon, from UTQ, but also his lovely wife, Gaudaloupe. First stop Bernal. Bill, Ernie and Marilyn searched for a road leading to the monolith. Very impressive – but insufficient time to complete the climb and charming town. Brief stop at the winery. Time to move on. Arrived at Tequisquiapan. Excellent lunch at Los Brazos – specialists in Argentinean beef. Pictures of bulls staring down at us. Ice cream, crepes and then to shopping. The groans were from Minnesota Bill and Ernie. However, everyone enjoyed walking around the town – being among the ‘real people!’

Shop keepers were pleasant and friendly no matter how badly we “habla-ed Espanol.” Uneventful return to the Senorial with our treasures. The city square were filled with people – however a cloud burst shortly after entering our “home away from home” put a damper on outdoor activities. Two fabulous days in colonial Mexico!

Journal Entry #6 – Saturday, February 9, 2008

2008-02-09T20:33:00.000-06:00

Ah the weekend (fin de semana). At breakfast the ongoing confusion of who is paying for what appears resolved!

At 9:30, our intrepid band of travelers minus Tom who was off to spend the day with 3 caballeros. The intrepids finally boarded the trolley after crossing the street “mucho” times while Minnesota Bill had his shoes shined. We enjoyed the tour – made sweeter by the fact we were informed upon arrival @ appointed time and place that there was no English tour and actually there was no tour at all! Que Sorpresa! Tour was excellent. Historical sites, students with white mice, hitting rocks, photos all around.

Guide was new to the tour but knowledgeable and friendly to all. Post tour – some walked to aquaduct lookout point, some back to the hotel, and some to get bull fight tickets. After Ernie masterfully obtained “boletos”, all bull fight attendees met @ 3. Again the intrepid – minus Jane & Diane – but with the addition of Delia and Sylvain. All drove to Plaza de Toros. Another adventure! We all gamely climbed to the nosebleed section where we had an excellent view.

Ole was the word of the afternoon especially when the matador’s pantalones were torn and we saw more of him than expected! Afterward we headed to Hacinda Don Ramon – an excellent Mexican restaurant with salsa almost hot enough for Minnesota Bill. There we were happily joined by our two missing intrepid, Diane and Jane. Following a delicious meal and being serenaded with La Bamba, Celito Lindo, and other songs – the intrepids headed their way home in the first rain of their stay.

A nagging question remains: Where is the salsa dancing???

Journal Entry #5 – Wednesday, February 7, 2008

2008-02-07T15:32:00.000-06:00

After a short night, we all gallantly gathered at 6:30 am to board our fearless UTEQ van to journey to the school. We enjoyed seeing the city lights as we climbed out of the city.

Arriving at the school we stumbled to the teachers’ lounge, the Departivo de Idiomas where we awaited our teacher to take us to our first class. What terrific students to be in a 7:00 am class. We had several advanced classes today which were real nice. In one class we discussed the preferred way to drink tequila and I learned the word for shot glass “caballito.”

Fortunately, teachers come to the lounge to guide us to our classes. We break into small groups of 3-4 and each volunteer has from 2-6 or 7 students to converse with. All the teachers with whom I have worked had some specific plans on what we should do with the students; some asked us questions. I was amused that one student asked me my goal as a Global Volunteer. My response was to have fun by talking with them.

I have found my way from the building with the teacher’s lounge to the cafeteria by turning left at the three big dark rose colored bougainvillea. Then to get the pick up point we turn right at the single dark rose colored bougainvillea.

Our breakfast was at 9 am., 2 hours after our first class. The non-traditional breakfast has become traditional for some of us…yogurt with granola, cheesecake like pie, and coffee. This is very filling.

We returned to Hotel Senorial after our last class at 1:00 pm. We had five classes today. Great fun for me.

I got to sit in the front seat today and inflict my bad Spanish on our very gracious and patient driver.

After a lunch at the hotel of fruit, soup, calabaso turnover like dish, and beef in lemon sauce with a variety of desserts, we strolled down to the main market which offers a host of articles one can live without as a tourist. The fruit, meats, and fish were attractively displayed and refrigeration was provided when needed. Some friends bought Queretaro soccer shirts for grandchildren. Carlos kindly took those who did not want to walk to the market in his car. I bought some plums and cabbage. The stars of the market were beautiful birds.

After walking back to the hotel, we rejoined to go to dinner again at the Meson de la Corregidora on the plaza where we had enjoyed dinner on Sunday night. A young man serenaded us, but we were really wanting guitar music so we could talk more easily.

A very pleasant day!

Journal Entry #4 – Tuesday, February 6, 2008

2008-02-06T22:32:00.000-06:00

Our wake-up call happened about 6 a.m. about two hours earlier than we are used to in the States. I shower first because I am fast but today, that did not matter since Bill announced he did not feel good enough to go to our teaching tasks.

I came down to our daily meeting with Carlos in charge and our group exchanged pleasantries. We were picked up by van and traveled to our school where we met the assigned teacher and met with the students in the first of five classes for today. I had four consecutive classes with very talented and prepared teachers and truly enjoyed both the challenge and camaraderie of the contact. We met for a non-traditional breakfast (cheesecake and yogurt) and returned to run chores. Lunch remained even more non-traditional with ice cream sandwiches and potato chips. I truly have pleasure in meeting the students but I find the beginners very hard work.

We all returned by van to the hotel and took a needed nap almost immediately.

Tonight, no walking the city to find a good restaurant: Carlos was teaching and we all ate at the hotel restaurant where the food was adequate and the conversation amiable.

No long and fast walks this evening, just relaxing mostly without hurried conversation.

Journal Entry #3 – Monday, February 5, 2008

2008-02-05T21:30:00.000-06:00

Chirping, trilling birds – what a happy way to start the day!

After a short meeting for Janis’ thought of the day, Tom’s journal reading and last minute logistics, we’re off in the U-Tec van for our first day of teaching. A short ride through town, up the hill, and through new housing developments, we arrive at the beautifully landscaped university campus. Thirty friendly U-Tec foreign language teachers warmly greet us at a lovely breakfast of fresh fruit and chilaquiles – even too hot for some of our Mexican friends!

With excitement and some apprehension we went off with our respective teachers for 3 different 45 minute classes. Some teachers had specific assignments for us to work on, others wanted us to get acquainted and interact with the students using our own materials. We all found the students to be polite, attentive, and interested in what we have to share. They seemed to be having fun while making a good effort to practice English. What great young people for Mexico’s future.

During a light lunch and on the way home everyone was basically talking about their experiences with the students and sharing some reactions to the day’s events. All comments were positive and we felt the students responded well to all of our efforts.

The day ended with an evening walk down some new streets of Queretaro and a delicious dinner at a natural/organic restaurant – Las Neblinas (clouds), featuring stuffed nopal cactus leaves (penca de Nopal Rellena) and Jamaica or pepino iced tea.

Another very good day!

Journal Entry #2 – Monday, February 4, 2008

2008-02-04T20:29:00.000-06:00

Today is celebrated as a public holiday, Dia de la Constitucion, a day in advance of the actual signing date of Feb.5. The constitution was signed in Queretaro in 1917.

The group had breakfast at the hotel, after which the free-time committee met, followed by a continuance of the volunteer orientation session, led by Carl.

Three goals per volunteer were presented, and sorted out to four main headings: To teach students, to promote understanding, to find fulfillment, and to learn about the Mexican culture.

During the discussion, Bill F. asked what the students expected or wanted from Global Volunteers, and
Carl said he would try to find out the answer.

The volunteers were divided into three groups and asked to list the 15 most important characteristics of a good team. Following this discussion, Carl told us about food and health concerns, and money exchange info – practical matters most important.

We walked to the restaurant Las Monjas for lunch, a great success. The food was excellent and the restaurant itself, housed in a former convent, was equally as stellar worth a trip in itself.

A walk back to Guerrero, a stop for some at Casa de la Marquesa, an 18th century Baroque mansion now a five-star hotel, and on to money exchange, the Alameda with its exhibit of archival photos of Queretaro, and the stalls of the vendadores.

We met at and were introduced to Alex, son of our team leader Carl. After a walk to the Plaza de Armas, we decided to have dinner at El Meson de Churcho el Roto.

Our first day of teaching awaits.

Journal Entry #1 – Sunday, February 3, 2008

2008-02-03T21:23:00.000-06:00

Our first full day as a group at Hotel Senorial. After a breakfast during which we became acquainted with each other, and with several Mexican breakfast specialties, team leader Carl Granger began conducting our volunteer orientation sessions. He started by introducing himself in Spanish, asking our name, and having us ask each other’s names in as good Spanish as we could.

Following that, team members conducted life story mutual interviews and presented them. What a group! Highly accomplished, dedicated, and ready to begin the program at UTEK, just the kind of people Global Volunteers needs.

Carl then emphasized highlights of the service program manual, and the philosophy of service: the community requests Global Volunteers and directs them as to how they can be best used. We respond to their needs. Establishing personal relationships are vital.

At 12:15, Carolina Ezeta, Director of the Language Department at UTEK, spoke to the volunteers and thanked them profusely. UTEK is the leader of the 61 similar Mexican universities in the efficient instruction of English, and she feels this because of Global Volunteers.

After Carolina left, Carl spoke about Esperanza Rosas, the in-host coordinator at UTEK.

A lavish Sunday buffet lunch at the hotel followed.

After lunch, the options for our free time on Saturday and Sunday, February 9 and 10, were discussed by Carl. Ernie was named coordinator of arrangements for our activities, and Janice and Tom were named as his committee members.

Carl continued orientation with mention of the daily journal, the thought of the day, and a quick lesson in Survival Spanish.

He then led a walking tour to Jardin Zenea, the Plaza de la Corregidora and the Tourist Office, where Tom and Diane got separated by the group, to explore on their own. They watched musicians on stage at Plaza de Armas, and stumbled across the Governor’s Palace in which they took photos.

The perfect weather that we have had so far, blessed the large crowds gathered at the Jardin Zenea gazebo band concert, where we stopped in the evening on our way to dinner. Examples of Paso Doble dancing were enjoyed by the audience, and especially by the participating dancers. Then at Plaza de Corregidora a clown juggler and his infant son entertained.

We had dinner at Meson de la Corregidora nearby, which was also featuring the Superbowl on TV, as were several restaurants in the area. As the game proceeded, the face of our waiter fell during the final seconds of the game, since he had bet on the Patriots. He said that he had lost about 300 pesos, but nevertheless retained his good cheer, and thanked us for coming. Enchiladas Queretanos, Sopa Azteca, and other specialties were enjoyed.

2008-02-01T11:57:00.000-06:00

QUERETARO, MEXICO: The glorious past – the dynamic present!

By Francoise Yohalem
Volunteer Team Leader

When I agreed to lead a team of volunteers to Queretaro, Mexico, I had already traveled extensively to more “exotic” sites south of our border, mostly in Central and South America, and I relied on memories of an earlier trip to Mexico - many years before…. This recent service program experience in Mexico gave me the opportunity to re-connect and fall in love with a country that is so close to us, yet so full of surprises and riches!

Queretaro: a fascinating city of contrasts whose quaint “heart” pulses with the memories of an illustrious past still lingering in the many gorgeous colonial buildings of its historic center. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (neighboring San Miguel de Allende is a Mexican national monument) and many defining moments of Mexico’s history come to life in Queretaro’s restored mansions, monuments, and public landmarks. One can discover them along the pedestrian walkways or around the several squares adorned with fountains, statues, and carpets of flowers.

From our hotel, located right across the street from the City Museum, we were able to safely explore this compact historic center, visit many of the churches, several museums, markets, while mingling with friendly families as they enjoyed the beauty and liveliness of their public places. But Queretaro – which I found very few Americans have ever heard of - is also a fast growing, dynamic, and sophisticated metropolis of 1.5 million habitants. It boasts a new international airport and hundreds of U.S., Canadian, and European companies with modern facilities that stretch into the mountainous Heartland.

Since 1988, Global Volunteers has been teaching conversational English at UTEQ (Universidad Technologica de Queretaro), and our host there is well organized, appreciative of the volunteers’ contribution, and intent on facilitating better communications and understanding between our two cultures. English as a second language is an important subject at the University, and students who become bilingual speakers will find better jobs. Our students appreciated the opportunity, the only one they have during their time of study there, to practice the English language with native speakers.

Depending on the student's level, we were able to engage in many interesting conversations, that turned out to be quite an eye-opener to us. Most of the recent polemic we have been exposed to at home about Mexican/US relations, has focused on poor Mexicans desperate to make it across our borders or hiding from the authorities, and how to deal with this problem. Yet, the students we interacted with (and we were told that the majority came from very poor families), were quite confident in the future of their own country and their own contribution to it. When asked where they would like to travel to, they spoke of exotic places such as Egypt… not Texas or Southern California. Most of them felt confident that they would find employment in this rapidly growing area.

In Queretaro, the contrast between the pride of the past and the pull of the future is everywhere present, yet the Mexicans we interacted with seemed to have found a comfortable balance. We definitively felt a strong sense of responsibility to the family and a commitment for the young to help their elders. Catholicism is a grounding religion for most, and the town’s beautiful churches are often filled with worshippers, yet there are many very progressive social initiatives that “push the envelope.”

We saw plays and dance performances sponsored by the city or state that were quite “unorthodox” and experimental, and exhibits that would have been censored in a City Museum here. We were impressed by the sophistication of Queretaro’s cultural scene, the variety of venues that offered high quality events – many free of charge! Our team took great advantage of this.

On a typical day, after the afternoon rest following our teaching schedule, when not eating at our hotel, we enjoyed delicious Mexican cuisine at a new restaurant, then attended a show or a concert at a nearby venue. We also could choose to watch a group of young people working on a spontaneous mural or make music, as part of a preventive state-sponsored program for “youth at risk” Or we could join local people in the main square (we especially loved the children in their pretty clothes) to enjoy Latin music, and watch elegant couples perform the traditional “Danzon.” Most of the time we were the only non-Mexicans in the crowd, but everyone was gracious and welcoming.

This year, Global Volunteers will be sending its 100th team to Mexico. We would love to have you join us!

Hasta Luego!
Francoise Yohalem