Thanksgiving (Acion de Gracias)

The other volunteers, Joel and I took the afternoon off and did our best to make a somewhat traditional Thanksgiving meal. We all had a dish or two or three to make and the cooks helped us out with pans, more butter, utensils and understanding how the stove works. We had turkey breast, sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes, homemade stuffing, mashed turnips, very salty gravy, scones, squash pudding, apple-too much butter-crisp, maracuya sauce (instead of cranberry) and green been casserole. We did all of this with only a small 'oven' (space for two small round pans and no temperature gauge... just a covered flame), a stove top and a few metal pans. We decorated the table, toasted each other with our water and listened to Christmas music being played from our computers.

It was actually a great time and a great Thanksgiving (especially for Joel, since his Cowboys won.) We spent time talking about our lives, sharing stories, laughing and reflecting on what it is to be truly thankful. We shared about our families, the Millers, and the children here in the orphanage. What an amazing blessing to spend this day of Thanksgiving here, in Peru, where all we are thankful for is heavy on our minds and hearts.

Joel and I are missing our families and friends, but we are so thankful that God has richly blessed us with so many beautiful relationships. And, we are grateful to be able to share our lives with the children and staff of Hogar de Esperanza. Thank you for reading our blog, praying for us and keeping up on our activities in Peru! We are grateful!