Days 1, 2 & 3

We have only been here a few days, but it feels like so much has happened...

For starters, on day 1 Ash was loaded onto a stretcher and taken by ambulance to three different hospitals before finally returning home. But don't worry, it was just a twisted ankle with some internal bruising. The people here were just being extremely helpful and wanted to make sure Ash was taken care of. The paramedic who came with the ambulance was a friend and insisted on coming to pick her up despite Ash's constant argument that it wasn't a big deal and that she was fine. The entire ordeal including drive time, x-rays, 3 hospitals, and doctor visits only lasted about 3 hours and cost $30. I couldn't help snapping a few pics...  :)

Ash getting taken out to the ambulance on a stretcher

Thumbs Up! 

 I was put to work right away and on day 1 put in more of an honest days labor than I have in a long time. The morning started out with shoveling gravel, mixing concrete, and pouring a slab for the floor of a home, while I spent the afternoon using a pick and shovel to dig through hard dirt for a foundation of a new home. On day two I learned how to lay block and we were able to get the four corners of the first house all set and ready for the team to come. I am very sore but it is a good feeling and the other guys are a pleasure to work with. They have an amazing work ethic and I know I will learn a ton from them. Today there is a lull in the work and we have a day to relax before the first team comes tomorrow.

I have again been taken aback by the living situations of the majority of the people in this area. The only real way to understand is to come and see for yourself. It is an amazing feeling to be building a home that you know will completely change a family's life. All the sweat and aching muscles are definitely worth it. With all the poverty surrounding us, I feel like were are living like kings at the Welcome Home base. The accommodations are very nice and they stand out even more given the surrounding area. Here is a quick tour of our new summer home :)