Buenos noches!

My name is Lynn and for those who don't know me, I'm a graphic designer, currently at RISD and attending Highrock and have spent the past month here in Bolivia. And let me tell you...this place is awesome!

Filming has commenced with the children and staff at Kaya's orphanage and educational center. It's been an incredibly wonderful and overwhelming time here as the team has been behind cameras and as we try to get to know the 30+ children. So far, we've been able to get great footage of everyday life and the surrounding environments and some great interviews with the local staff and some of the older boys. Days and nights have been packed with activities and filming. Our short time here is flying! But what can I say? I absolutely love it here, the children are so warm, and film has been an inspiring new medium to work with.

This morning, Jane and I were up before the sun with my camcorder at the boy's orphanage house, waking them up and capturing their morning routine: teeth brushing, bed making, chores and an early game of Uno. I think the kids hate and love us for it ;) But we were able to share breakfast with 10 of them like a one crazy family and play rock, paper, scissors with them for a while. It was a highlight for me.

Tonight, Joy taught the boys how to make Chinese dumplings which we will feast on for dinner. Delicioso! Tomorrow, we head to the streets of El Alto to shoot street life and to interview current street children as well as Chi and Kristen Huang, the directors and founders of Kaya.

I am feeling so alive here, both being able to interact with the kids and to use my creative skills to really support and spread the word about the great work that Kaya is doing. The staff here are so inspiring and recklessly selfless, acting as teacher, parent, mentor, friend, social worker and psychologist to these kids. I am constantly amazed by them and feel so honored to interview them and share their story.

That is all for now. I'm tired, but in that wonderful way. Two more days left of this adventure and I return to the States. Thanks for all your support and prayers! They have sustained us thus far.

abrazos y besos,

Lynn