Natalie's thoughts...

My thoughts on Trinidad 101 haha
First, way before we even got there, when Miss Julie informed us that we were now going there(Trinidad) instead of Mexico, I have to admit I was a little bummed but the thought of going to a place I had never heard of before, that was a new, different kind of excitement that to soak in...
Basically I had no idea what to expect and think, or know what pre consceived idea I "should" have. Now, thinking about the trip, everywhere we went, what we did, what in my memory will be called "a fun time" was nothing near to my non "preconceived ideas" of anything.
For me it all started in the airport in Atlanta, and being on the planes. It seemed like everyone we talked to: working and "fellow travelers" haha were so nice and joined in our happiness, especially the mission group from Colorado; that i knew that this trip was going to be GOOD!!
Sister Julie was the sweetest lady ever for not knowing any of us, and was so gracious with us, I instantly loved her. Her husband Zahir was always making us laugh and made us feel confortable and at home. Their family was as I saw an amazing support to what Julie and Zahir are doing and didn't seem bothered by us girls being loud and crazy! We even got their son Leo and Kevin (his cousin Julie's nephew) and Dinish our other driver to hang with us, but Leo most of all, he hung with us, sung, talked and goofed around with us, totally fitting in :)
With everything we did and everywhere we danced, ran, jumped, swam, and walked it was like nothing I've felt before, and by far the coolest feeling. I could feel God. Just protecting our steps. It was simple and light, things I would have tripped on at home; example: running like a mad man round some church holding Miss Julies hand in the dark. My footing was sure and secure, the whole thing was incredible.. or dancing with barely any warm up other then plie's or stretching.
Day to day though we worked at the orphanages, went sight seeing -pitch lake, the mud volcano, different towns and a hindu temple (that was weird)- shopped, and went to the beach. That was all a blast, though what I loved was hanging, "liming" with everyone in the afternoons and getting to know each other better in times of random talks, eating and napping together, I know that sounds kinda lame but whatever haha :)
In the evenings we danced! I don't think I've ever imagined the floors we would dance on to be the way they were! And if I knew what they would be like ahead of time, I don't think I would have thought I could dance on them! But I did, we did! I think it stretched me and made me be more flexible in situations and and a stronger dancer!
Also, all the "Mommies" we had on the trip were amazing, each taking care of us in different areas and ways. Jonathan and the guys, from Act One and Oakleaf were a lot of fun and it was really nice to have them all there, for comedic relief, support and protection.
But I think out of everything I did and of all the goings on my favorite part about the trip was the bonding with the girls, those times we laughed like crazy people, our shower parties(dont worry-they had bathing suits on!), singing our lungs out, and those time we cried in each others arms. There's nothing like realizing your friends just turned into your best friends! Sharing a group love for dancing and for doing it because we all have a major love for GOD is how we met but its now a cool perk!! So in that if you need strengthening, support, good godly girlie insight, or just a hug you know there are 10+ girls waiting and willing!

natalie castro.