This is my blog for my sponsored child Monserrat from Chile.  I remember when I first saw her picture there was something about her shy and reserved expression that drew me to her and I am pleased to say that she is part of my CI family.  Monserrat is 9 years old and lives in Chile with her parents and older sister.  Her father is a daily worker and her mother is a homemaker and their family income is $96/month.  Their home consists of two bedrooms and a dining room with some of the basic household items such as a gas stove, beds and a toilet.  I sent Monserrat and her family an SNG, in their report they mostly requested items for the household, some groceries, and winter clothing for Monserrat.

Monserrat's talent is dancing and her favorite school subjects are math and grammar.  Her favorite pastime activity is reading (big smile on my face), which also means there will be more book shopping for me to do!  Clearly, that makes me excited but I'm even more excited about receiving Monserrat's first letter which I thought was sweet and gave me a little more insight into who she is and what her interests and hobbies are.  Here is what she wrote (translated from Spanish):

Dear Sponsor:
 
      I would like to thank you for being my sponsor; I am happy about it and would like to tell you something about me.  I live with my dad Eugenio, my mom Elia, and my sister Charlotte.  I attend school at 4th grade and get very good marks.  I like music and my best friend is Katerine.  Could you please send me a picture to know you?  I hope this letter finds you well and beside your beloved ones.  I send you a big kiss.

Sincerely yours,

  Monserrat

I think it's really cute that in her letter she calls me her madrina or godmother as it's translated, I guess it's similar to the meaning of sponsor. It's great to know that she is doing well in school.  Also, on the back of the letter she drew a scenic picture filled with flowers and trees.  She selected more of her favorite hobbies such as singing, drawing and practicing sports.  I have already sent her a package with some books in Spanish, a notebook, hair clips, and pens.  Now that I know she likes music and sports I will ask her in my response what kind of music and sports she likes and send her something that suits her interests.  I am delighted to get a glimpse of who Monserrat is and I look forward to getting to know more about this lovely girl!

Update 9/17/2010:

I received Monserrat's progress report in the mail. It seems that most of her information has remained unchanged except for her family's income which has risen a little to $140/a month.  I'm happy for this bit of positive news for Monserrat and her family and I hope conditions continue to improve for them.