We had lunch together Monday. I saw him again today. He asked where I was yesterday. He had been at the church looking for me. I told him I was out getting my residency card replaced since it was stolen last week. He had missed me! He even asked others where I was. So sweet.
I told Don Juan that I have fallen in love. Don Juan said we are having a barbecue for Valentines Day and I should invite him to the barbecue. I said I´m not sure his mother will give her permission. Marco Tulio is only 6 years old.
Don Juan was disappointed. He told me that he had been so happy for me when he thought I had a real boyfriend.
On Monday a little boy came strolling up the sidewalk all by himself. I had never seen him before. His mother was waiting at the corner. I waved to her and went to introduce myself to him. I asked if it was his first day and he said yes. I said welcome and asked his name. Normally with little kids I have to ask their names three times before I get it right. But he told me very clearly, Marco Tulio.
He has the hugest, most beautiful eyes and hair exactly like my little brother used to have at Marco Tulio's age, parted on the side with beautiful curls. Since he was alone, I sat and ate with him. Monday was pancakes. I cut them into pieces for him. Then he told me he really prefers smaller bites and pointed out which pieces he would like cut smaller. Today we had empanadas. He ate all by himself. But he doesn´t like vegetables. I can change that, right?
My heart was so happy when he asked where I was yesterday. Although I had encouraged him to come back every day, I hadn´t thought about the fact that I wouldn´t be there Tuesday.
Today he brought his older brother who is 8. I told them they are very lucky because they have a mom who cares for them very well. She walks with them after school and brings them to the church, then waits in front while they eat. I told them not all Moms take such good care of their kids. They told me that they had another brother, but he was ¨robbed¨. Somebody stole their brother! He is 13 years old, they said. Now I understand a little better why Mom walks with them to the church and waits within eye sight. Their Mom is also deaf. She is clearly well educated and is raising the boys well. Marco Tulio washes his dishes meticulously, even the bottoms. Clearly he has done it before.
On Monday Marco Tulio asked if we have any school uniforms to give away. I told him no, we don´t have any school supplies at all. But we are hoping to get some and praying that God will provide. He immediately relayed that to his Mom, so she must have told him to ask. I told him if he keeps coming back we may receive something that could fit him. He has been back every day since. Tomorrow I will take a picture of my sweetheart. He is the cutest thing ever.
Of course Misael and Samuel and Jose and David and the rest of the kids all hold a big place in my heart. But Marco Tulio stole a huge chunk this week.
Today as I was driving home from the gym traffic was more backed up than usual. Eventually I saw a crowd of people standing in the street. They seemed agitated. I wondered if it was safe to go near them. But traffic in my lane seemed to be moving with no problem. As I got closer I saw one policeman directing traffic. Another behind police tape. Then I saw two forms on the road covered in brown plastic bags. I couldn´t tell at all what happened. It was really sad.
Tonight I had dinner with a family from the church. It was yummy - roasted chicken, veggies, and rice. Then we drank tea and had dark chocolate covered almonds with coconut. Delish!
There are currently 39 people signed up for the next swimming class and 48 signed up for the cycling. Almost 90 people! Plus the 15 boys on the futbol team. Our sport program is growing in leaps and bounds. I am trying to figure out how we will fit 40 people in the pool. Exciting!!!
