Houses Dedicated!

Well, our time here in Guatemala is coming to a close.  Both houses were dedicated today and the families are able to officially move into their new homes!  As Pastor Luis was unable to accompany us for the dedications, Bruce was kind enough to lead the ceremonies, with the help of Alex (one of the CALMS workers) to translate.  Prior to the dedications, the ladies and Bob were able to visit Hearts in Motion, a nutrition center that takes in malnourished children and nurses them back to health.  Many have additional health issues such as cleft palates or hand deformations.  It was just another reminder of the many challenges families face here in Guatemala.  The rest of the group stayed back to put the finishing touches on the second house and spend some time bonding with the family.  Our hearts are heavy as we prepare to head to Guatemala City in the morning. It has been a wonderful week of bonding with the families, building houses, building community, and, of course, spreading God's Word and his message of love to this community.  Both houses received a cross made of olive wood from Jerusalem to display in their homes, as well as a children's bible in English and Spanish so that God's Word can continue to flourish among these families.  We are sad to say goodbye, yet know that He will protect and watch over the community here.  With all that said, I will let the pictures below carry you through our journey today!

"The Few But Mighty!"
Pictured Standing from Left to Right: Bruce Collet, Gayle Shearer, Bob Halloway, Victor Roy
Pictured Sitting from Left to Right: Kristy Gerschefske, Diane Halloway, Ed Shearer

One of the greatest things we brought with us....a "futbol"!

Taken yesterday....."Is it ready yet?!"

Returning home from school

A "Tuc-Tuc" is the main form of transportation around town; utilized like a cab is in the US.

"Head Honchos" 
Bruce and Romero

Bruce with the CALMS workers, minus Nilss
From Left to Right: Hector, Alex, (Bruce), Romero

Victor giving his official "seal of approval" on the new outhouse!

These toys were a hit!  The kids built cars, houses, and much more! Such teamwork and sharing was shown among all the kids as they worked together to erect different structures and use their creativity and imagination.

The entrance to Hearts in Motion (Corazones en Movimiento)

One of the little ones.  He has been here several months and has seen much
improvement, though still small for his age.

Kristy coloring with the kiddos!  "What color is next?!"

IPhones enthrall kids of all cultures!

Gayle reads the story of Jesus to a Mom and her baby who come to Hearts in Motion weekly for help
with nutrition supplements.  The staff at HIM help Mom to learn appropriate foods to feed her baby to keep
him well nourished and thriving.

Playing "Peek-a-Boo" also transcends culture!

Back at the job site.....

Finished! This is what the inside of a house looks like when completed.

House #1

"Constructed for the family of Santos Gonzales"
A plaque is placed on the front of each of the houses to commemorate the construction and bless the home.

Ribbon Cutting! Momma and Pappa and 2 of their sons, Douglas (Left) and Byron (Right)

Family #1: Santos and her husband Utilio have 6 children and many grandchildren. 
Pictured here is 1 of their sons on the far right and the rest are grandchildren!  They were so happy and proud to be in their new home.  This family also received a new stove which Santos promptly began cooking on as soon as it was completed!

House #2: You can see the difference we are making by comparing the original "house", seen on the right,
compared to the new house we constructed on the left.  This family was very much in need!

The family of Norma and Rudolfo Aragon.  They have 5 children and many grandchildren as you can see above!

One of the children sporting some new clothes that were donated to the family.
She was so proud to show us her clothes!

This was the group of workers hired by CALMS to help us this week.....more like, we helped them!
They were extremely hard-working and fun guys.  Those that had previously been on trips here were happy to
see "Mucho Mancho" back again (pictured 2nd from the left in the back)!

Building homes is a family affair.  Carlos brought his two sons to apprentice with him on the houses this week!

And finally, a view of the neighborhood......

God Bless!