If you ask just about anyone who knows me, they will tell you that I am not a kid person. I don't know what to say to youths, babies scare me, and I don't have enough energy to entertain masses of children. However, this is the first time I am admitting publicly that I think I'm starting to really like them. Here, it's impossible to separate myself from children, babies and youth. I have had to face my fear head on...and I'm doing a pretty good job I think! Here's is a collection of some of my favorite neighborhood children!
My niece, Carismel, on her 2nd birthday!
Carismel and Melvin Daniel coloring in a book from America! It's rare that they get to do fun creative activities like this so I was happy to provide the crayons and pages!
My other niece Elianny showing off for the camera. She helped me so much during my first few weeks here, taking me around town and introducing me to anyone and everyone!
Elenne and Satchel, two girls who keep me going! Always positive attitudes!
Melvin Daniel, my nephew, inventing his own game of baseball with a stick from a nearby tree and a bottle for a ball. (Nevermind that the bases are in the middle of the street, we're working on safety!)
There are some kids that make me feel like my job is worth it, these are four of them!
I love ALL of the children in Cecilia's preschool class, and I've learned that when they get a little too loud and rambunctious, I just take them outside and make them dance!
Andrea Nicole is always smiling, dressing up, and giving hugs and kisses. What's not to love?
This is the regular neighborhood crowd celebrating Luis' 5th birthday!
Haydee is a sassy 2 year old who makes me laugh more than anyone else here. She's always saying, "Bea, mi amor, tranquila, no te preocupes" or "Bea, my love, don't stress out, chill out!"Sometimes it takes the perspective of a child to remind you that the hard parts of life aren't really that big of a deal!
The child I want to adopt and bring back to America with me. Jisaury's being raised by her grandma and aunt and is the kindest little gem. She needs some serious TLC as she's often called "stupid" by her family members.
My regular youth group members, only 10 years until they can actually participate!
My nephew from the campo, Adrian. It actually looks like I'm enjoying being with this baby...the times they are a changin'
Ceylis, the most motivated youth I have in my group, with her cousin!
Sassy Haydee dressing up for Carnival!
Jisaury, the one I'm taking back with me, eating breakfast in my home. After this cup of hot coco, she traveled on the back of my bike while we did errands around town. When people who ask who's kid she is, I would say mi'ja, my daughter!
The neighborhood troublemaker, Luis, dressing up for Independence Day celebrations back in February!
I even take selfies with kids, what!?
My youth group from the town of Copey....each and every one of them I have learned to love!
Here's to children, babies and youth!!! They are continually teaching me life's valuable lessons...patience, kindness, breathing deeply, having fun, not taking myself too seriously, humility and always having candy in my backpack!
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