An important aspect of Chris’ sabbatical leave was the international experience afforded to his family. Miriam enjoyed seeing her family for several social events as well as visiting Guatemala’s cultural sites and activities. Click on image to enlarge.

Chris Jones on Sabbatical Leave

Family

Miriam and the girls take Guatemala by storm!
After living for 16 years away from her family and home country, Miriam took full advantage to introduce our children to their relatives while Chris was working at the university. Sarah, Gracie and Mariel attended a Guatemalan school, received Spanish tutoring and studied their school workbooks keep up with their grades at home. Our home in Panajachel provided us with many local activities, including swimming and kayaking on Lake Atitlan, boat trips across the lake, and restaurants and live music.

The girls’ only time to really get homesick was when school started in August and the realization that they would not see their friends clearly presented itself. It didn’t last long as Miriam kept the girls busy with their studies, family visits, and occasional trips to Mayan ruins, the arboretum, the beach and the All Saint’s Day kite flying event. Gracie even got to celebrate her birthday in the grand Guatemalan style, complete with firecrackers at daybreak and a piñata party!

An important aspect of Chris’ sabbatical leave was the international experience afforded to his family. Miriam enjoyed seeing her family for several social events as well as visiting Guatemala’s cultural sites and activities. Click on image to enlarge.