Monte B - Peru

Hola parents and friends!



Since we spoke to you last, we have travelled 8 hours by bus from Huaraz to Lima. We arrived at 1:00 am and were all keen to get to bed, however were slightly amazed to be staying in an old mansion. We all agreed the next morning that this budget hotel was by far the most unique of its kind, with old statues and chandaliers lining the halls.

After what seems like years of fundraising, we have finally arrived at Catherine McAuley House in Lima. Yesterday we arrived at around 11:00am and were greeted by Sister Jackie and Joanne, as well as the women of the house. Group A arrived to help us sort clothes for today´s Chocolatada. At this point, we´d like to say a big thank you to all those who generously donated items. Group A left at dinner time but we continued sorting until it was time for us to tuck up in our sleeping bags for a huge slumber party.

Today we woke up bright and early in order to prepare the Chocolatada. For those who are unaware – Chocolatada is an annual Christmas celebration in which the little children are all given a sweet bun and hot chocolate. All Monte girls enjoyed spending time and practicing our Spanish skills with the kids. In typical Monte style, we were all keen to clear up the left over buns and drinks. Following the rush of kids, the Monte students sat down and spoke to a few of the local school kids, of our age, also helping out with the preparation of the Chocolatada. Our afternoon also consisted of some traditional Spanish dancing with the women of the house as well as practicing our tunes for the upcoming Chocolatada which will be held at the other women´s house.

We look forward to continuing the rest of the project which will involve painting a mural outside the local soup kitchen and more mingling with the local kids.
We hope that everyone´s safe and well in sunny Sydney.

All our love,
Group B