Today was our second to last day working.  The VBS crew spent the morning in Majaguita (now known as Los Calabazos) while the construction crew worked in Majaguita, Boma, Jarabacoa, and the Mackey’s new home.  It’s tough for all of us as we try to wrap up everything and say goodbye for another two years.  Today was also my second day of staying back at camp.  I’ve been dealing with some sort of stomach flu bug, and after making the ride up to Majaguita for VBS decided I wasn’t quite up to a day at work. Ricardo, one of our guagua drivers, took the time to drive slowly and carefully (making sure there were barely any bumps) back down the mountain to camp. 

This trip is my third trip with Calvary, but my first time ever being sick during our time here.  Life is definitely different being the only one at camp.  Rather than sounds of 46 Americans, the only sounds around are from the neighbor’s dog, the constant crows of the roosters, mopeds and cars driving by, and the simple sounds of nature.  It’s rather soothing as I rest and wait for the team to get back.  It’s exciting to hear the stories of the day when the team returns.  Today has been a very successful day. 

Both VBS sites continue to grow.  It’s amazing to see the tiny buildings we use be filled with excited children.  With the slow start in Majaguita on Monday, we weren’t expecting very many to attend.  Our expectations have been exceeded as over 45 children attended today.  La Joya, a very small pueblo consisting of 25-30 homes, has had a great turn out.  It’s fun to see not only the children but the adults get involved.  There are around 45 attending. 

The construction team at Majaguita finished up digging a septic tank for a baño and also successfully installed lights in the church.  About 10 tons of dirt were dug (enough to fill a little more than a dump truck) from a 6 foot by 6 foot by 5 foot hole.  After finishing these two projects the team headed out to Boma to finish taking down supports and cleaning up. 

The construction team at the main church in Jarabacoa is continuing work on the kitchen in the basement.  Counter tops were poured yesterday and a sink is waiting approval to be installed by the end of the day.  This team has been working long days, usually not returning to camp until sometime after six.

Thanks be to God, a small construction team is working at the Mackey’s new home. The contract was just signed this morning.  They’re working on painting and will also help in the moving process.  Originally Rick and Becky weren’t planning on painting the a major portion the  house, but when they went to the house when it was empty they realized the previous renters painted around their furniture rather than spending time and energy on moving it all away from the walls.

Please continue to pray for strength for our team as we get ready to return home.  It will certainly be a bitter-sweet time for us tomorrow as we say goodbye. 

~Amber Henry