Just a quick update on our first few days at the hacienda. As I explained before, we had a burden for the living conditions as the DIF sorted through logistics with the directors. Ira made a list of the necessary maintenance needs so Pan de Vida bought the supplies and the work has started.
I guess what we weren't prepared for was the work God would be doing in our hearts. We never realized how much we missed the boys. They come to Pan de Vida for school and church but just their presence was a blessing we are more aware of.
Immediately Ira started working on the pump for the cistern and all the bathrooms. The main water source is over a football field away and the boys would go to the source to turn the water on to fill the cistern and have to remember to go back and turn it off. Now it is automatic with a shut off valve and float. So no more flooding or not having any water when anyone forgets!
We are also cheering that a vision Ira had to minister to the boys through apprenticeship is having some seeds planted. A hand full of the older boys are spending their spare time to learn the trade of plumbing and carpentry throughout the maintenance. They have worked on 7 toilets and 5 sinks so far and they are all working. Now there are 4 showers to install....but the drain is the big question with no answer. The boys are just excited to get the showers and say they will sweep the water to the doorways and drains. However, we do know there is a way to make it work but it will take more time which Ira is committed to do.
As for me, I immediately scrubbed and prepared a bathroom for us 2 women. With all boys, we definitely needed a space of our own. It has also been fun to get back into some of the kitchen duties as well. Today I spent all my time doing laundry. It is very stimulating when the sun is so hot. The boys have chores and laundry is one of them but while they are in school, so much time is lost to get them washed and dried so this is something I feel I can do that is a help to others.
It is such a blessing to see the kids come home, get changed out of their uniforms and start homework. Afterwards, we all pitch in on chores and then have supper together. Last night a few of us hung out and talked under the stars. These are the times that make us feel like family and makes my heart burst with joy!
I guess what we weren't prepared for was the work God would be doing in our hearts. We never realized how much we missed the boys. They come to Pan de Vida for school and church but just their presence was a blessing we are more aware of.
Immediately Ira started working on the pump for the cistern and all the bathrooms. The main water source is over a football field away and the boys would go to the source to turn the water on to fill the cistern and have to remember to go back and turn it off. Now it is automatic with a shut off valve and float. So no more flooding or not having any water when anyone forgets!
We are also cheering that a vision Ira had to minister to the boys through apprenticeship is having some seeds planted. A hand full of the older boys are spending their spare time to learn the trade of plumbing and carpentry throughout the maintenance. They have worked on 7 toilets and 5 sinks so far and they are all working. Now there are 4 showers to install....but the drain is the big question with no answer. The boys are just excited to get the showers and say they will sweep the water to the doorways and drains. However, we do know there is a way to make it work but it will take more time which Ira is committed to do.
As for me, I immediately scrubbed and prepared a bathroom for us 2 women. With all boys, we definitely needed a space of our own. It has also been fun to get back into some of the kitchen duties as well. Today I spent all my time doing laundry. It is very stimulating when the sun is so hot. The boys have chores and laundry is one of them but while they are in school, so much time is lost to get them washed and dried so this is something I feel I can do that is a help to others.
It is such a blessing to see the kids come home, get changed out of their uniforms and start homework. Afterwards, we all pitch in on chores and then have supper together. Last night a few of us hung out and talked under the stars. These are the times that make us feel like family and makes my heart burst with joy!
studying hard~Guillermo says his dream is to learn to build houses for families who have no home
homework time
Augustine cutting hair courtesy of Island Gospel Tabernacle for the sheers
the boys waiting for their turn
Tia Geno administering 1st aid
Sabino in apprenticeship!
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