Day 6: Training & Kids Day

This morning we were met by 3 groups of families. One group at 8am, one at 9am, and the last at 10am. They were trained on how to use and clean the stove as well as how to assembly and clean the water filtration systems. After the trainings concluded, we ate lunch and prepared for our games with the children. School had let out for the winter 2 days earlier, so we were able to start Kids Day earlier than planned.

We took frisbees, soccer balls, candy, face paint, and a bunch of other stuff. More than 600 kids showed up. The face painting and soccer game went well. The candy was chaotic but rewarding. And of course, the evening was over way too soon.

Clapping games: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O3VFydjGabw

Later that night, we had guests for dinner: Nicho, our contractor; Juana, the pastor's wife; Santos and his mother; Juan, Manuela, and little Cesar; Eliseo and his wife and son; big Miguel; Lorenzo; little Miguel; and others. We were able to share thoughts with one another, with Raul's help of course. And once again, there were hugs all around.

After dinner, I had a great conversation with Alan and Ron, about nothing specific, yet it has stayed with me. The HPU students are truly fortunate to have found brothers and sisters in our friends at Oak Ridge UMC. Just over 4 years ago, things could have gone very differently. And I wonder where that love would have gone if not to Max, Bill, Spencer, Emory, Bob, Max, Alan & Sharon, Ron & Ron, Kelly & Ralph, Chuck & Hal, Lewis, Dan, the people of coastal Mississippi, the people of Pabeya, and others.