Today was day 4 of our immersion here in Tijuana, we spent most of our day spending time playing with the kids, at Hodeni and Casa Eunida. Before we could volunteer with the children, we had an amazing breakfast prepared for us which consisted of Mexican scrambled eggs, yogurt, fruit, and much more. After our breakfast we took a trip to the local convenience store in the neighborhood. Where many of us had the opportunity to film and buy snacks! The snacks consisted of many different kinds of food that you may not be able to get in the United States. Different brands and flavors that many of us have never heard of before. My personal favorite were the strawberry wafers that Sam shared with us. It was very yummy!

 

We spent the first half of our day at Hodeni, where we played many card games such as BS, Palace, and spoons. Bella, Emerson, Audrey, Connor, myself, Tate, Sam, Sean, Charlotte, and Sadie all gathered at one of the tables in the dinning hall to play a couple rounds of palace. Audrey managed to win 3 out of the 4 times in a row. We had bean burritos for lunch and we all learned how to make and roll them ourselves! Many people went for seconds. 

 

After lunch, we took a trip to Casa Eunida to give donations and gifts to the shelter for children and young adults who struggle with HIV. We got a tour of the facility and its many spaces, rooms, and common areas. I spent time playing uno and other card games with kids, Audrey spent time with kids building with blocks, coloring, and playing cards. Lucas spent time playing uno with different groups of kids. Addie, Whitney, Tanner, and Elli met two young girls and became friends with them! Francesco, Emerson, Sadie, Tate, Bella, and one of the kids at the shelter  played multiple rounds of uno together. Sean taught a young boy how to catch and throw a football. We also  spent lots of time with the cute dog they had! 

 

Later at Hodeni we had a pizza party and game night with the kids. 

The night consisted of uno games, soccer, fun, and pizza! Many star players like Jose, Lucas, Tanner, Addie, Whitney, Sean, and Connor played for hours on their soccer court. The games are very intense and fun for all involved. On the sidelines, uno games, deep talks, and laughs can be heard all around. From religious conversations, to Audrey winning uno games, there was fun to be had all around tonight.

pictures to follow when WiFi is working better!