Assembling the baskets. Here it is tradition to give baskets full of food to others at Christmastime. Some of the food is essentials like rice, oil and Incaparina (a healthy protein drink mix) but we also included treats like sugar, marshmallows, Christmas cookies and pop. Things that some families can't afford, but would definitely enjoy during this holiday season.
We also bought special gifts for each child. Geovani and Omar love soccer, so they each got a new, nice soccer ball. Joshua got a big Winnie the Pooh stuffie that I found at a great price.
Omar was thrilled with his new ball! It was on a string, and he hung it from his hand and just kept kicking at it the whole time we were there. We had to badger him into opening one of his other gifts. After inspecting his box of 64 crayons (he loves to colour!) he went right back to the soccer ball. So fun to watch!
I was unable to get pictures at the two other houses. We went to Joshua's house first. They have big glass windows into the front room of their house. We knocked and could see Joshua sitting alone, tied to a chair, looking at the t.v. He didn't seem to recognize us but it has been a while since we were there. We went in and visited with his mom for a bit. I was sad. He was dirty, and seemed un-animated. As we left, he began to scream and strain against his mom to go with us. So I felt glad that he remembered us, but sad to leave him alone.
At Geovani's house his sister was surprised to see us. Sadly Geovani wasn't there. He had travelled to the Capital with his mom to visit family. When I mentioned to his sister that we would be starting up the club again in January she seemed very happy. She said, "Every day, right?" I admit, I laughed a little, as it has only been a 2 day a week club. I asked if she thought Geovani would enjoy coming more often and she said he would. She seems to understand how happy he is there, and how he is progressing.
At Omar's house, his mom was sure to tell me that Omar would often ask about club and ask when he could go back! Then I met his Grandma, and she told me the exact same thing!
I was happy to see such positive reactions from the family. I experienced such negative reactions at the beginning from other families who didn't want their children to attend. These families are all happy when their children can get out and learn new things, and gain a bit of independence.
I look forward to starting up again in January, and I think we will increase the number of days. It will be nice to have them all back here playing soccer and drawing and snacking and laughing and building blocks and dancing to music and enjoying their time with us.
