July at the Clara Luna casa was a
month of transition, initiation and completion for a few long time volunteers. As
Jennie, Frannie, Sandra, Kristin and Hilly moved out and onward to their next
projects, destinations, or back home, the new volunteers began to settle in. As the routine of lesson planning, early morning
classes, meetings, club de ninos and intercambio began to take its hold the new
Puerto Lopez inhabitants learned how to support and inspire each other
throughout the busy weeks. Trey
developed a strong and lovable presence in his Solango class room, Eddie
continued passionately and creatively leading his students, Barbara lit many light
bulbs in both her students and her fellow volunteer’s minds, and I, Rosie found
my stride as I navigated the challenging, but rewarding path of becoming an English
teacher. With July also came Yoga, a thrice weekly morning class attended by
volunteers, tourists and locals alike. As the yoga teacher I thoroughly enjoyed
sharing that time with all of the students (including the cat, Shikiri), and using
a passion of mine to help raise money for the Clara Luna project. Club de Niño’s
saw a boost in attendees with the change of location allowing easier access for
many neighboring kids. Reading, art projects, and games kept the kids learning
and entertained with one of the bigger projects being the creation of
informative signs to be placed along the (under construction) path to the house
from the beach. Mid-month the lovely Catherine joined the Clara Luna team (bringing
some sunny days with her!), and first time traveler Abby arrived, contributing
her time, resources and ideas to the foundation. As we said goodbye to Barbara
and Trey we were lucky to have Sarah lend her hands and experience in Club de Niño’s,
intercambio, and at the Solango school. Spanish student Laura joined the house winning
us all over with her fresh baked cookies, just in time to celebrate the last
week of July with a successful and delicious empanada party. As July came to an
end both longtime volunteer Eddie, and I said our goodbyes to our students, friends,
and Puerto Lopez both feeling grateful for the experience and excited for the
continuing and new volunteers to contribute and enjoy their time at Clara Luna.
