We’ve been very busy at Yo’on Ixim with multiple projects happening at the school and the women’s coop. The students had a pottery workshop today that was taught by an artist who volunteered her time. Thanks to funds raised by my family and friends, we were able to buy the clay and other supplies for … Continue reading Wednesday, September 19 “New Projects Everywhere” (Rocío) →

This week, I've been filling in here and there for volunteers who normally provide literacy workshops. On Monday, while working 1-on-1 with a student, one of the school teachers asked if I could teach the women instead because their instructor didn't show up. Of course, I agreed even though I had no clue what to … Continue reading Thursday, September 13 “Shout-out to amazing teachers” (Rocío) →

I'm reflecting on the past week working with Yo'on Ixim, and I have to say, I feel an immense amount of respect and admiration for the women who are part of the cooperative. On Thursday, I had the joy of accompanying them to a culinary workshop at a university where they learned to make cheesecake. … Continue reading Saturday, September 08 “More Than Cheesecake” (Rocío) →

I came to Puebla to volunteer with a non-profit organization, Yo'on Ixim, because I'd like to work to advance the rights of girls and women worldwide, and I wanted to learn first-hand what that could look like. I am passionate about education, and I strongly believe that providing girls and women with tools and resources … Continue reading Monday, September 03 “What and Who is Yo’on Ixim?” (Rocío) →

For the past week, I've been helping the women of Yo'on Ixim prepare for a textile fair this weekend. This is the first textile fair in Puebla, and the idea is to promote and support the work of local designers and artisans. We counted, labeled, photographed and packed all the women's merchandise. We took a … Continue reading Saturday, September 01 “The Textile Fair with Yo’on Ixim” (Rocío) →

My parents came to visit today. I am grateful for them. I could spend pages writing about why I am so grateful, but for now, I want to enjoy my time with them. I’ll write about them again soon. 🙂

With mostly dry weather recently, it’s not too muddy, but it’s the muddiest state nonetheless. Today was 20 miles of dodging mud and hopping rocks. There were even some cool boulders parts of the trail. On the people front, I ran into a couple at a shelter here who I met back in Maine. I … Continue reading Friday, August 31 “Vermont is Muddy!” (Kreg) →

I'm spending the day sightseeing and exploring Puebla. My biggest success today was getting to el Zocalo, the city's central plaza, by public transportation. I took Ruta 3 and transferred to Ruta 35. It sounds easy, but I wish I could explain how fast you have to get on and off the bus. And there … Continue reading Wednesday, August 29 “Touristing” (Rocío) →