We hit the ground running... after arriving in the Ben Tre Province, we set out to work on the medical clinic that the Houston Y built. With such a large group (25 of us) we were able to take on two projects - painting the medical clinic and the school. The clinic is in a very rural area - our bus was unable to cross a small bridge so we had to ride standing up in the back of 2 pickup trucks. The locals were amused.
It amazed me to learn that the clinic was built for only $2,900! Seems like a worthy investment to me. While we were painting, a mother brought in her sick child. I wonder if they would have had any other options for medical care.
The next day we began work at the new schoo, painting and tiling floors of two new Kindergarten classrooms. The people of the community have been so hospitable, feeding us incredible meals in their homes and making us all feel welcomed and appreciated. We're pretty exhausted by the end of each work day but it feels great to see how much we can accomplish in one day.
Yesterday the kids performed two songs for us - they were so cute. Very shy at first, at least until Doug started making balloon animals for them. I can't wait to see what they have planned for the closing ceremony tomorrow. I caught a glimpse of them practicing a dance.
I'm having trouble posting pictures, and internet access is spotty, but will keep trying!
It amazed me to learn that the clinic was built for only $2,900! Seems like a worthy investment to me. While we were painting, a mother brought in her sick child. I wonder if they would have had any other options for medical care.
The next day we began work at the new schoo, painting and tiling floors of two new Kindergarten classrooms. The people of the community have been so hospitable, feeding us incredible meals in their homes and making us all feel welcomed and appreciated. We're pretty exhausted by the end of each work day but it feels great to see how much we can accomplish in one day.
Yesterday the kids performed two songs for us - they were so cute. Very shy at first, at least until Doug started making balloon animals for them. I can't wait to see what they have planned for the closing ceremony tomorrow. I caught a glimpse of them practicing a dance.
I'm having trouble posting pictures, and internet access is spotty, but will keep trying!
Thanks for this recent post. Sounds like great projects and fun! We are thinking of you all.
ReplyDeleteIf Gina or others send photo by cell, I can post on the Facebook site. We did that for two photos she sent earlier in the week.
Be safe. Hugs to all.
Great work everyone! Doug, and balloon animals?? -just when I thought I figured him out. The Y misses everyone. Tell Christina she needs to do the repeat after me "Tarzan" song.
ReplyDeleteRob is here with me... He wanted me to tell Doug, "its already in the mail". He said he misses you and have a safe trip back. The building is still standing, but it's questionable. :) Rob Taylor
ReplyDelete