Journey to the Summit This journal records progress to my first goal, a long time desire to learn, converse & dream in Spanish and a 2nd goal continue training in Guatemala for my future summit of Mt. Rainier, Washington.

22 March: The bus makes it to Xela, the second largest city in Guatemala high in the mountains at 7500 ft.  As the bus unloads a young taxi driver is waiting at the door of the bus asking me if I need a taxi. I do and for cincuenta quetzales (~$6) he takes me to the school and drops me off. I ring the bell and fellow gringa Natalie, who works at the school (and lodges with my family, greets me. She is kind enough to take my picture as the entrance. She calls the family and the two daughters, Miriam (26) and Wendy (24) walk down on a beautiful Sunday afternoon to walk me home. (A photo of them is in the gallery.) They show me my room. I soon meet mis padres, Daniel and Trinis of the Sosa family. Tomorrow is my first day of school and my adventure really begins.