Chixocol is a very small village nestled in a mountain valley in the state of Quiché, Guatemala.  Life in this state is very difficult and somewhat isolated from the outside world.  Most families live in one-room adobe houses with dirt floors and a small attached kitchen.  The extremely poor live in houses made of corn stalks.  In the past few years electricity and water has become available to most people in the area - however, indoor plumbing is very rare.  Most of the families are farmers or shepherds and live off the fruits of their labors.  Public education is available for those who can afford it and consider it of value.  Life in Quiché is always a challenge.

Hello, my name is Exmar Alexis Morente de la Cruz.  I was born on August 25, 2016.  I am a healthy child and I walk about 25 minutes to get to the program.  I have one brother.  My father’s name is Hugo and he works in a hardware store in Zacualpa six days a week.  My mother’s name is Ana and she takes care of our home and of some domestic animals.  We do not own a house.  We are living with my paternal grandparents.  The house has five rooms and a kitchen.  It is made of adobe with a tin roof and cement floor.  We have water and electricity.  I am in kindergarten, and when I am not in school, I enjoy playing ball and toy cars.  My favorite color is blue and my favorite animal is the cow.  The foods that I like best are bananas, watermelon and grilled beef.  My family attends Prince of Peace Church.

With much love and many blessings,

Exmar Alexis Morente de la Cruz

Translated by: Edwina Lyons/ AAC Missionary