the Week of March 09 – 14

Over the course of the week we had been working with the girls to break down their emotional barriers and open up to us. Some didn’t have as much luck as others did but it was still a very good learning experience. We connected with the girls and their babies, showing them that their is hope. Surprisingly – and thankfully – we had a male come with us which I think showed the girls that their are some good guys as well as showing them that women aren’t the only ones that care. I believe his presence was frightening at first but the girls, and their kids, warmed up to him really well. I think him simple being there and interacting with the girls and the kids was good also because girls and babies need a male figure in their lives. I think he gave the girls a sense of normalcy, too. He didnt tease them or treat them differently due to their past and present situations. Him being there highlighted my experience (with the girls) as well.

Besides him, the girls were wonderful. My girls opened up easily and participated which was great; their participation encouraged the others to do the same. The girls also taught me stuff like how to be strong through hard times and how to laugh things off. I may have said a lot of things were my favorite part of the trip but the girls were honestly probably the best thing about my experience.