Wednesday, June 25, 2008

Tuesday - Back to Work

We started the day at 630 a.m. a group went down to the school to play with the kids. Even though they didn’t have school, about 20 children showed up and played basketball, jump rope and kick ball. We left about 750 a.m and said good bye to Santa Rivera the Panama hat maker. We got back to La Cueva about 8 a.m. had our devotions “Its Not About Me”. Had a wonderful breakfast of fruit, rolls, scrambled eggs. At 900 a.m., a few of those who had volunteered went to the high school to help build an addition. They started out by digging out 22 holes two feet deep. Next they witnessed an amazing process of putting bamboo poles about 15 feet high in the post holes. All this was done by manual labor, no blue prints, no regulations—just Ecuadorian ingenuity. They got done with the exterior structure by 430 p.m. It was hard work but now there is more room for students at the high school.

The other group of us went back up to the orphanage and worked on sanding and varnishing slats for bed, cleaning the bathroom tiles and floors from paint and grout. Tim was working on assembling bunk beds, putting up shelves etc. It was hard work especially after that grueling hike we had yesterday. But the building is looking much better. Juanita served us a wonderful lunch. It was a delicious chicken rice dish that I want the recipe for. Our work day usually stops around 300 p.m. or so. This allows us to play games or do an activity with the children. We always look forward to that part of the day.

When we got back to La Cueva, we had a really big treat waiting for us---clean clothes to sort thru. I never thought I would enjoy clean clothes so much. My jeans and underwear were standing up by themselves. …I think others were doing likewises. So to those at home, enjoy that washing machine!!!

God bless you all!

John and Patricia

See you tomorrow on the blog.

8 comments:

Anonymous said...

Hi Jennifer, I talked to Nancy and I think we can come pick you up at the airport. She is either on call or has to work 3 - ll. I forget. But we can pick you up if you need a ride. We celebrated Mary's birthday today. We missed you and Dad. The weather here is wet and rainy. It sounds like you got a lot of work done. I'm sure the children and babies will appreciate all the hard work the team has done. Let us know about the ride. Take care and Stay healthy and safe. Love Mom Dad Rich and Lizzie

Jeanie said...

Hi Mom! Hi John!

sounds like you guys are having some fun mixed in with all your work. I am impressed about going through the bat cave Mom, Neat could never do that! I guess you all have been getting quite a work out with all the hiking and vehicles breaking down. Good thing you both do so much dancing, that has had to help! Glad you got some clean clothes too. And yes, we appreciate our machines every day! If it makes you feel any better it is 90 degrees out today and will be in the 90's the next few days, with lots of humidity! Hopefully the temps out there are better. Much love to you both. I hope everyone is keeping up with the two of you : )
Miss you bunches and bunches!!

Jeanie.....your favorite :)

Denise C said...

Hey Paw-- You should have said your good-byes to everyone by now. I am sure your heart is heavy and you are feeling emotional as you most likely have grown attached to everyone there. Now that you are on your way home to civilization and processed food you will need to re-adjust. I know it will be a tough adjustment for you, but the perks are a pest free living envoirment. Or maybe you have grown attached to your new friends. JK!! We are so looking forward to you getting home and hearing all about your trip. Enjoy your day sightseeing tomorrow. We love you !!! your fam. xoxoxoxo

Anonymous said...

La vida es como un espejo, y lo que tu ve allí jose, tu debes ver primero dentro de ti mijo. te veo muy pronto! MIl besos y abrasos!

Celia said...

Happy Thursday! You should be in Quito by now according to your itinerary. I can't believe how fast the time went. I know you'll be glad to get home, but also very sad to leave the little guys.

Mom booked Frankenmuth for the weekend of July 18, 19, 20. I don't know how it can possibly top Lake Lots O Fun, but we'll give it a whirl anyway.

You guys probably won't be posting tomorrow or even checking your blog, so I will give you hugs today for tomorrow.

Please be safe on your way home. Call me the minute you land! I love you both so very much.

XOXOXOXOXO

Amy W said...

Hi Mom(Pat) Hi John,
Do you read our comments? I miss you so much... Seems because primarily you are so far away. Selfish i know. but I think you are having them most awesome experience, even if you have to wear your underwear a little bit extra. Did you try turning them inside out? Ha Ha Ha.. I know you will be leaving soon, if you havent left already. I pray for your safe return home for you and the whole team.
Godspeed
Love Always Amy

Amy

Anonymous said...

Hi MOM and John!
Miss you both big! Sounds like you will have lots of stories and pictures to share, cant wait. I know you will miss everyone and you all have shared some wonderfully warm memories together, making you quite a team! Hope your trip back is uneventful. Cant wait to see you both.
Big hugs all around,
Anita - your true favorite first born daughter! :)
much love.

Anonymous said...

Dear Team,
As I sit in my office, stressed about the work day, I'm brought to tears reading the updates and remembering last years trip, the beautiful children at the orphanage, etc. Has anyone seen a boa constrictor yet? LOL You are all in my prayers!! John Spence