Familia

On Wednesday we went to La Union for the community party. Here we do a pig roast and handed out donation bags. This day wasn't just like any other community party. I spent the day alongside a very special friend and family. I spent the day with my dominican friend, Rou, and Chloe, who was holding Rou's sister Stephanie.


I held Rou's hand and listened to her never-ending laugh as we had our tickle fights throughout the day. She was different than most girls I had met in the sense that she had a family that she was close with. She was easy to relate to and understand. Once we got our food and donations you knew exactly where she was headed- to see her mother. She always wanted to make sure her mom had food and was doing okay. Once she received her donation bag she would go show her mom everything that she got in it. She was extraordinary and precious as she appreciated the good things in life- friends and family.

Chloe:


When I first saw Stephanie she was shyly walking and holding hands with her sister. As her sister grabbed Bianca's hand, she grabbed mine. She didnt talk much or make eye contact with me, but she was constantly looking around, seeming to be interested in everything. After awhile I picked her up and she held on very tightly which I was suprised by because she had seemed to shy. Soon enough she began to becom more comfortable with me and started to dance and bounce around in my arms, which is a lot more of a work out than you might think it is. I loved watching her slowly begin to trust me, and watching her smile grow bigger and bigger. When she got her donation bag, she went through all the things inside appriciating everything she'd gotten instead of complaining if she didnt like what she got. Watching Stephanie interact with her family made me happy because there was no anger or fighting, only love.

Chloe and I both agree that this day will stay in our hearts forever. We can't seem to forget the family dynamics present that day between Rou, Stephanie, and their mother. Each member of the family showed dignity and respect towards one another- something you don't see often in the Dominican Republic. It was amazing to see each family member given the love and care that every family should receive.

We are hoping to go back there within the next two weeks to spend more time with the whole family... we'll keep you updated!!

Love & Miss you all,
Bianca and Chloe!