February 22, 2010
We began this morning with a work project on the roof to build the youth room. It´s not as complicated as it sounds, since we are using three brick walls that are already standing. The guys just had to chisel out some brick and mortar to make all the walls equal height. They will use the roof that we tore off a few days ago (they kept it in big sections). The roof will not be able to cover all of the new area, so I am not entirely sure what they will be using for the rest of the roof. It´s been a long, hard day - despite what should have been a relatively easy project - because they do not really have the correct tools to drill holes, among some other things. They took a break for lunch, but the men have all been up there all day. Clouds just appeared, so now there is some relief from the sun for Mark and John!
Us ladies gave up about an hour into the job because we found ourselves just standing around being useless. So, we have had a fun time speaking with the Peruvian women and children. Christina has been spending a lot of time playing Boggle with the kids today. They didn´t know that game, but are playing with both English and Spanish words. Earlier we all played Uno and had a great time. Joanna (10), Oscar and Elena´s daughter, is really funny and loves to get Christina and me to try to pronounce new Spanish words. She´s really hard on us, in a playful way. In return, we give her English words and enjoy hearing her try to pronounce things.
Tonight is our first night of English class. We don´t have too many people signed up at this point, but the Peruvians are telling us that many people will just show up tonight. We are pretty excited and hopeful that the classes will go well. I am so grateful that we have had several days to get accustomed to the people here and the language. I don´t feel nervous any more. The thought of teaching really scared me a few days ago, but I think we´re good now. Carey is right here and seconds that thought!
English class went OK... just OK tonight for everyone. I think Liz´s and my class was the worst! We had prepared minds and hearts to be open for last-minute adjustments, so that´s just what we did.
Liz walking on my back this morning and using Carey for a support system!
Christina playing Boggle with some of the kids and teenagers.
Los hombres working on the roof project today.