Laney in Bolivia

This is the story of how “Boots”, one of the girls in my house, and I did homework together.  Most of the kids we have at Familia Feliz have a hard time learning. Whether it’s due to a learning disability, trauma, or the simple fact that no one has told them they are smarter and more capable than they believe. Last night we had trouble with one of our girls doing her homework, she simply refused to. We asked her why, and if she needed help we were there to help her. We tried to motivate her and push her by saying that she could participate in the activities we plan in the afternoons if she simply just did her homework. She sat out of all the house fun due to her stubbornness. When if finally got to dinner time, I took her outside away from all the girls and talked to her. I told her that she has three Teachers that love and care for her and want her to succeed, we don’t want her repeating the grade again, but we can’t help her if she’s not saying she needs help. It’s really hard for th

Very belated update on my time here at Familia Feliz!  I’ve heard it said that the first couple of months being away are the hardest, I agree. I have also found I have been able to adjust to my life. One of the biggest things I’ve learned is to really just go with the flow and take things as they come. Here, things change so fast, and continuously. I was so worried about how I would be able to change and deal with it. However, I decided that I would just simply give it to God and let go. I’m particularly proud of this growth because before becoming a student missionary I did not handle or cope well with change.  Something I’ve also experienced understanding the statement that every parent tells their kids at some point: “I’m not mad, just disappointed.” It’s really hard to be mad at these kids when the behaviors they express are a cry for help. Whether it’s dealing with the dysregulated kids in my classroom or in the Flores (little girls), I have to realize that it is because of the pe

“Bichos!” Bugs  They call cicadas “Chicharras” found a ton in the classroom! I’ve seen my girls hold moths like this and their was one in our room so I caught it! Rescued a doggo for this sweet old lady in town who owns a souvenir shop in town  How we carry the littles to the tiendita across the street!  Just the girls being girls!  Professional photographers  “If the mountains bow in reverence so will I” There is a hike in town that looks over all of Rurre, this is me at the top!  Little pink riding hood on rainy days!  The moms and their babies  Homework!  Out like a light after throwing a tantrum  Just crossing Rurre streets  We get scared when Azumi recharges  School was canceled due to rain but I made them do school anyway like they normally would!  Just the girls loving on each other!  Laundry dayyy  Cindy Lou Who or Nirza? Can’t tell the difference  Future architects  The girls braided my hair!  Carrera con Nirza! She clearly won!  Our tres pequeñas   What I looked like on my bi