Tuesday: Great progress today and Baskets

Tuesday began with the sunrise and the construction team was on site at 6:30 a.m. We thought we were starting early, but the children were already dressed, had a prayer time, and some had even completed chores. This picture with a sharp looking, new uniform, and great smile brightens any morning. While we still felt pretty good about getting started so early, we're not sure we looked so sharp or had such endearing smiles. Construction progress went fairly well. Throughout the day, we had to get more materials - we wanted to make sure Mpeli stayed busy. The building is coming along nicely. Stephen, who is responsible for maintenance at DBLCH, told Kelly, Meagan, Lynn, and Bonnie that they did not have to report to work until 9 a.m. Something was strange about that after-breakfast start time for them, but they have already painted two rooms. Kelly continues to help train the staff in the Excel computer program. By the afternoon, honestly, it was getting hot. We forget that the Children's Home is a mile high in altitude and the sun is BRIGHT. Plenty of water and "sodas" are being consumed. In the early afternoon, the ladies went basket shopping at the local market. WOW! Baskets are now everywhere (and yes, they went back Wednesday to pick up a few baskets that were missed). At the basket market, there are thousands of handmade baskets by local weavers. Gifts were presented to the staff to express appreciation for the loving, faithful service with DBLCH and the children. They really appreciated being recognized for their service and for being a great team. This was followed by two teaching sessions: The younger children went with Lynn Owen who taught Noah's ark. They had a blast acting out the drama and making a few crafts. Lynn will be back by popular demand on Saturday for more activities. Bonnie followed up on her "biology lesson for developing young men and women" from two years ago. The older children ask some pretty specific and important questions. Bonnie also talked about a Biblical understanding of our bodies, emotions, etc. There are two pictures of the children's rooms and the kitchen for DBLCH. All cooking takes place outside with a wood burning stove and open fire. The children do a great job of keeping their rooms clean and straight. Another great day at DBLCH.