Yesterday was my last day at CIMA and it was quite sad really. The boys were putting on a small concert for some visiting diplomats who were donating some money for them to buy a new musical instrument. The band were again amazing and lots of the boys got up to dance which was really fun. They finished the concert by getting all the boys to stand up and sing the CIMA anthem (which I've taken a photo of). It was quite moving to hear them singing so loudly and passionately how CIMA is their home and so forth. It was very sad at the same time however as you realise that these boys really don't have much in the world but at least they have friendship and a safe place at CIMA.

At the end of the day, I was pretty sad to leave. The kids were so great and really tried hard to talk to me and make me feel at home there. The staff are now preparing for Christmas, possibly one of the more difficult time for the boys and CIMA (although Anna tells me that its January/February that is hardest).

Anyway, I decided there and then that I will strive to help CIMA if I can and hopefully go back one day. I think I will buy a few Peruvian instruments here and sell them when I get back home and I'll send the proceeds to CIMA. So if you'd like one of the instruments pictured above, let me know!!!!