March 31, 2011 – Guatemala City – The day started off early, as it always does when I travel to Central America. At first it appeared we would be delayed on the first leg of the trip because one of the pilots had trouble getting there on time. However, we backed away from the gate at precisely 6:30 a.m., on schedule…and then sat on the tarmac for the next 40 minutes because of the check engine light; alright it was an indicator light on the instrument panel, but that’s how I imagine it. I was beginning to stress just a bit because I knew I only had an hour or so to make my connection in Houston.
Well, the Lord blessed us with a safe flight to Houston and I was able to meet up with Denton Landon and we made our trip to Guatemala City without incident. We were met at the airport by the students of ITL and, after meeting some other travelers who are also here for the graduation, we headed toward the Institute, where a sumptuous meal awaited us. (Sister Erminia is going to be very hard to replace as the cook). After lunch we were taken to our hotel (the Holiday Inn) and settled down to get some rest and make final preparations for the banquet tonight.
The President’s Banquet was simply outstanding. Many honors were handed out and the graduates all looked great in their caps and gowns. I want to say here that I am extremely proud of these men and women for all their hard work over the last two years. This is not an easy thing they have done. May God bless them all!
Donnie Bates