Celebrating one year with friends

I'm not sure if you were aware but I celebrated my one year anniversary here in Bolivia while I was at the Jovenes Camp in Tarija. I still find it hard to believe that I've been here for a year already. It's been a time of both joys and excitement along with challenges.

I had invited the Guthries over for supper last night (Sunday) thinking it would be an evening of catching up on what had happened while I was away at camp and just having a good time with friends but when I opened my gate door, I was in for quite a surprise...

I've become good friends with 4 families in particular: the Guthries, the Whittles, the Hathaways, and the Collins. Between all of us, we represent Canada, the U.S., and Britian. Around a couple of months ago, the Hathaways also celebrated their one year anniversary in Bolivia and we held a surprise anniversary party for them...at their place :) Dan Collins' wife, Darryl, was back in the States for a couple of weeks so he was taking care of their 3 children. Initially the party was supposed to be at his place but the Hathaways wanted to have them over to help out with the children and since Dan couldn't think of any way out of it without giving away the surprise, everyone showed up with food and festive spirits at the Hathaways. And so began a fun tradition :)

Back to last night, when I opened up my gate door, there were not only the Guthries, but the Whittles, Hathaways and Collins as well...about 21 of us in total including the children! Once I got over my surprise, oh, we had a wonderful evening of fun, laughter, and remembering! Thankfully, they had also brought some food because I definitely didn't have enough to go around :)

I can't thank them enough for helping make this year passing one of joy, togetherness and a time of blessing. I'm excited about this upcoming year even though it will be a difficult one of learning and figuring things out. And a big reason for that is the feeling of family and support that I have found in the friendships here. Both family and friends here and in Canada are a big reason why I'm able to be here. It's a gift from God.

Here's to friendship and making it through the first year!!!

'til next time,

rebecca