July 19, 2022

We have made it through another day and are feeling so much more comfortable as teachers with our students. The morning brought us a greeting with rain. The mountains can bring rain any time, any day. We made it to the school at the exact time the first session started because of traffic delays. Our first classes went well, and the students were ready for us. The sessions went well as the older students brought their family trees they had prepared with the Teacher Callie. They put a lot of time into these family trees with pictures and sentences, describing their family members. Like yesterday, the children continue to encourage and help each other throughout the activities. In between sessions, we saw the students practicing their dance routines for the festival on Friday. The women of the church made “semitas”, Honduran sweet bread, and we all were able to try some at the end of the day. What a treat!

We returned to the construction site at the church where we continued to chisel our way at the cement foundation. It is a good workout! Our grip strength and forearms are already feeling the workout! Prepare to see some muscles when you see us. The pastors continue to be gracious hosts and join in on the fun with us. Last night when being interviewed for the Bridging Cultures podcast, Pastor Celeste called us “angels on Earth.” The people of Honduras continue to show us that God is at the center, God is the reason we are here, and He continues to bless us every day.

And our journey has come to an end! We give thanks for our fearless and compassionate leaders on this journey, Jon and Susan. We will cherish all of the friends and memories we’ve made. El Señor nos ha bendecido. I have opened a door for you no one can close. Revelations 3:8

Bathroom done, ceilings done, and bedroom framework in place for the church family to finish. We said goodbye to our new friends that helped us with the construction. At lunch, Pastor David thanked us with a prayer and we were presented departing gift bags. Then we rushed back to camp to shower before a farewell dinner and church service at one of the Samuel Culpepper family’s homes. Pastor Eric joined us at the service which was held on the lanai. It was full of church members and a band. An incredible farewell!

Every morning we are greeted by Joey, our friend in charge of the camp where we eat and sleep. He’s pictured in the top left. We said goodbye today to our new friends from Philly. They are an interfaith group that worked on other homes in Puerto Rico. Construction continues on Jeanett's home. We had a God moment when we were able to buy more of the matching tile required to complete the bathroom. It was originally bought thirteen months prior. Due to complications with a new door, it was our dustiest day yet. Face masks for all two and four legged beings required!

We accomplished a lot! More ceiling work, stripped the bathroom tile, walls are up and ready to be painted, and we did some light electrical work. Our new friend, Chispita, Jeanett’s dog, approves. We took a break for lunch and were served a beautiful meal by the ladies at Samuel Culpepper church. Fue un día maravilloso!