Weekend in Suchitoto
Posted on 26 April 2010
Wow, what a great weekend. We took a long ride to a ferry and crossed the river to the beautiful Suchitoto. We were pleased to see the beautiful grounds that we would be calling home for the next 2 days. The team took some time to wander the streets and pick up some gifts for their family and friends at home.
The Indigo design is very common here and we were able to go into an establishment and create our own masterpieces. We learned the art of making t-shirts and scarves with the staining. It is such a labourious process. You get plain, white fabric and then tighten it with string. Any part that is tightened, so oxygen does not get to it, remains white and the rest gets stained blue. We had to dip it into the barrel gently,,,, like washing a baby… and remove it gently… like cleaning a baby. We repeated the process numerous times and then unveiled our masterpieces to the group. This was followed by a series of “ooohhhs and aaahhs.”
The team enjoyed a great dinner, overlooking the mountains and we all just simply enjoyed one another’s company as we watched the sun set. It is really easy to feel like family very quickly with such wonderful people surrounding you.
The following morning (Sunday) we were spoiled. We woke up to a pancake breakfast (with Aunt Jemima syrup!) It was such a great treat for the team. We have been getting spoiled here in Suchitoto, especially because ALL the toilets have seats AND the mattresses are more than 2 inches thick!! Everyone slept very soundly and were well rested. Then, we were honoured to have the kids from the harp program perform for us.
Let me tell you, it was one of STIMMA’s proudest moments. 10 little kids with our blue STIMMA shirts came in, carrying harps that were larger than they were. They all sat in a semi circle with their leader, Wendy, and local teacher, Orlando, leading the way. The kids picked up their harps and the room was filled with the most beautiful tune. This was the first performance for the kids and they had no fear. They played with such confidence and pride. They played many tunes for us. Daniella also picked up her guitar for us and beautifully sang Halo by Beyonce. Chills were felt by everyone in the old Church. Words can just not describe the 1 hour we were treated to. A local talent, a beautiful opera singer, then accompanied the group and sang three songs for us. The kids finished off with one of their favourite songs Twinkle Twinkle Little Star. The group received a standing ovation and everyone was smiling from ear to ear!!
I have to say, as a STIMMA Board Director, I have never been so proud!! The little kids were just absolutely amazing. Some of the kids travel by bus for about an hour to participate in the weekly classes. The kids shared harps and encouraged one another. They were such professionals. The venue was amazing, as well, as the sound just echoed through the building. It was just stunning. I am still smiling!!! I am hoping to upload the video once I get home so everyone can see what we were privileged enough to see first hand. Wendy and Orlando have done an absolutely amazing job!!!
So we are soon going to be leaving Suchitoto. We will be stopping off in Chalatenango for lunch and heading back home to Arcatao. We have just had a wonderful relaxing weekend and we are all ready to get back to work on Monday!!
3 responses to Weekend in Suchitoto
Hello Everyone,
And a special shout out to our colleague Jasmine! It’s great to hear of the great work you’re doing out there.
We’re following your blog and look forward to hearing about your experience when you return.
Take Care,
Jacqueline
I just read all of the posts about El Salvador and it sounds like everyone is having so much fun. I am the daughter of Ellen Pace, one of the triage nurses on the trip. All I have heard is that it is unbelievably hot and that it’s been a lot of fun. It was great to hear all the stories!
Have a great last week!
(Hi mom!)
Alison Pace
Great site. A lot of useful information here. I’m sending it to some friends!