Buenas tardes amigos!

Last Tuesday I arrived in El Alto, Bolivia after a long day and night of travel. It is incredible being back! I live a little bit below the rim of El Alto with the lovely Quispe family. Two members of my host family, Adriana and Israel, also work at Sutisana. They’ve been helping me navigate which minibuses to take to get to work, home and the city center. It has been super helpful to be somewhat familiar with the city; otherwise I think I would be completely lost.

I love the office space at Word Made Flesh. It is colorful and inviting. They have recently added a new floor and renovated—check out this link for a fun video!  https://vimeo.com/359063287

The last few days I’ve been working on the 5th floor… I was consistently winded after climbing up all those stairs at 13,300ft. That’s 4053 meters for those mathematicians out there. Luckily it’s not just me; everyone says that it is exhausting.

On Monday I’ll start with my regular weekly schedule. Mostly I’ll be supporting the small freedom business Sutisana. I’ll spend a few half-days each week getting to know the other programs: Advocacy, Women’s and Children’s. On Thursdays I’ll take the cable car into La Paz for some 1:1 Spanish tutoring. I’m oddly excited to have homework again, while I’m much more confident in speaking than I used to be, there is still much to improve on!

Thank you all for your love and support in getting here. Everyone in my community made me feel cherished, strong, and equipped to take on this next adventure in my life. More updates to come!

Paz y bien, Madison

Mgoering11@gmail.com