Summer 2011
During our ten week tour our family gave over 20 free performances in Central America at hospitals (4), schools (7), orphanages (2), churches (3), old folks homes (2), and public squares (8). In addition to providing entertaining encouragement, we were paid to perfom our bluegrass/jazz folk songs at three restraunts. With a banjo, mandoline, flute, lap top, recording gear, and so much juggling equipment, there was hardly any room for clothes in our backpacks. Travel was challanging but we gained far more than we gave. Although being fluent in Spanish helped to bridge cultures, non-verbal communication is also powerful. Nothing can compare with the precious smile of a child in a cancer ward, or the thankful boney handshake with one who has lived over 100 years in this world.
