I'm certainly nowhere near legendary when it comes to ridiculous antics, but I certainly enjoy taking advantage of opportunities when they present themselves. This past week i was afforded just such an opportunity. My roommate and fellow volunteer, Evin, and myself had been having a beard growing contest for about three weeks - much to the protest of everyone living in this country. Let's just say that beards aren't "in" here in El Salvador. Anyway, we decided that this contest had gone on long enough and that we ought to have a little fun. We figured, "What better way to finish off two ugly beards than to transform them into a handlebar mustache and giant sideburns Ambrose Burnside style?" We made the grand transformation right before dinner one night and then, complete with aviator sunglasses, went and sat ourselves down on the girls' side of the cafeteria. There were many laughing (and confused) faces. Many pictures were taken and then these antiquated facial adornments were promptly shaved off. It's always fun to change things up once in a while.Last night, Fr. Ron, the priest in charge here, threw a nice 4th of July party at his house here. Evin and myself were charged with grilling the burgers. There were delicious cold beers and American potato salad. It was the first American food that I had seen in the last five weeks, and I was thrilled to see it (and eat it and drink it.) There is also a retired priest from Chicago visiting NPH this week. He works at the college seminary in Chicago as a spiritual director. It was great to sit down and trade stories within three generations of priests and seminarians. There is so much wisdom to be learned from those who have lived the life of the priesthood for so many years.
Tomorrow I'll be going with Samuel (one of the kids here) to Santa Ana to make bread with his foster family. From what I've heard, it should be quite an experience. Report to follow....
