Green is the Color of Hope

Today we headed out to the Les Bours school to paint the inside of the classroom. Just getting paint is a real adventure as you usually have to go to several places just to get the amount that you need. Mixing is another story. That was done with a big bucket and a stick. Yup, you heard right. Despite our efforts it was mixed consistently well. And it was oil based paint. Surprisingly, much of our spots were sweated off and we did not need gasoline to remove it. I, course, wore my latex gloves as not to spoil my "jewels." ;-) We painted the inside of 4 classrooms with roller and brushes to get in the crevices of the concrete. We did not have a ladder so standing on the tables in the rooms was the rule of thumb. Thank goodness that Marie Mell was part of our group as her height and arms saved the day. About 2:00 ish we ran out of paint. Hopefully, we will be able to finish up tomorrow with the other classrooms and office area. Prepping rooms was a chore as the teachers had glued on the student's work and the dust just clung to the walls. Most of that was done today, so it should go much faster.
The guys and a few of our ladies got the 3rd wall around the house. They are real troopers working in the hot sun with such dirty work. It requires a lot of patience as there is a Haitian way of doing things. Terry, our resident mason, has got to have the patience of Job after laying brick for a living at home. Each time they work they have an audience of little children. Building is an event for the community in Haiti. Many of these children are unable to attend our school and did not benefit from our VBS program. The guys gathered many of our give aways to give to them. The small pouch and marbles were a hit although I saw many wearing the pouch on their heads. So inventive. Grandpa Ron of our group drew foot measurements as it breaks his heart to see this children in only a T-shirt and no shoes. The kids would rub off the cement and dirt on the guys legs each day. Sure touches your heart.
We all headed back to the guest house by 2:30 tired and dirty. I am still waiting to take my shower, but love to do it right before bed as it makes sleeping so much easier. Just had dinner and it was so good. Shepard's Pie with a wonderful salad. Good, but I am craving a cheeseburger.
All for now. It looks like a beautiful evening to just sit on the porch read or chat on Facebook.
Hugs, Kim