Heifer was my first trip with the AGS Program. Our experience at Heifer Ranch began with everyone unloading their bags, putting them under the bus and being divided into the two different global villages. That morning and afternoon we played team building games, while learning about Heifer International's purpose, cause, and history. Late afternoon we went to our global villages for lunch. The Heifer staff lined everyone up to make sandwiches, but only the first few people got fed. By the end of the line, most people got a small piece of lettuce, because even though there was enough for all, all did not have enough. The people at the front of the line took more than they needed. Before sundown, we were separated to into our countries. I was assigned Guatemala, where I shared a small concrete hut with three other girls and a chaperone. We were given a tray of just enough unprepared resources to make our dinner for the night. I started to work on getting a fire going, while the rest of my group went to collect water and try to trade food with the other group. Once finished, we had black beans, fresh tomatoes, and corn tortillas for dinner. The next morning, we work up bright and early and headed to the Slums for breakfast, where we had flavorless grits and half-boiled onions, and got straight to work. The day was very productive, with activities ranging from milking goats to picking up trash in the Heifer Garden. On the last night of our trip, we received paper "money" for a market where we bought food and supplies for our final dinner at Heifer where surprisingly even after being full, still have leftovers which we shared with the other groups. Throughout being at Heifer, I learned to never take what I have for granted and it overall encouraged me to be a more giving and grateful person. Thank you to everyone at AGS and Heifer International for allowing us to experience this wonderful opportunity.
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