Thursday, October 23, 2008
October 19, 2008 Texas Property
After our exploring adventure we drove the 2 hours, or so, back to El Progreso and had lunch. Then we headed out to see the property where the Texas group is building their orphanage. It's a nice piece of property right on the main road between El Progreso and Tela (the beach). Bill was explaining to us about the problems they have with snakes on the property. They are now paying their hired Honduran workers 250 limpira (about $14) for each snake they bring in. He showed us their collection of dead snakes in jars - probably 5 or 6 - of the different types of snakes they've caught. One was a coral snake that was probably 5 feet long. They also have two live boas in a cage along with a poisonous lizard. Cindy wanted to see the lizard but one of the boas has a real attitude problem. Every time Cindy approached the cage the boa would hiss at her. She didn't get a very close look at he lizard.
October 19, 2008 Search for Jiquaque Tribe
Today, along with two men helping the Texas team, we went to look for the Jiquaque tribal people in the mountains behind El Progreso. (Pronounced to the best of our understanding "He ka kay"). Apparently their community was devastated by an earthquake several years ago and they are still trying to recover. We wanted to investigate to see if it was a place we could help. The instructions from our lawyer, Hector (who also serves many times as a good information source) was to drive to the town of Morazón and then ask for directions. He also mentioned we needed a good map. Hum??? Don't have that. But, we headed off anyway. Drove to El Progreso, turned right at the Burger King (yep, we have em here), and headed for Santa Rita. The instructions were at Santa Rita to look for a sign to El Negrito or Morazón.
Didn't see any such sign. So, after passing through Santa Rita we turned around and went back to the gas station to ask for directions. Fortunately the conversation wasn't too complicated. We asked, in Spanish, "Where is Morazón?" The gentleman pointed to the road beside the gas station and off we went. About an hour later we found ourselves in Morazón and stopped at another gas station to ask for directions to the Jiquaque people. It was apparent the man had no idea who we were talking about. Not looking too good. We then asked for directions to Montaña de Flor. He seemed to have some idea of where that was and told us to continue straight and then turn left. We asked where to turn left but didn't seem to be communicating so we took off and turned at the first left. It did appear to be taking us toward the town.
We saw a tuk-tuk (moto-taxi) driver parked on the side of the road and asked him for directions. Ah. He acted like he knew what we were talking about and gave us pretty specific directions. We followed the directions and managed to get the truck stuck in the mud - eventually we were able to work it free. And the road we found ourselves on ended short of mountains.
So, we drove around and tried several different roads all with the same dead end results. Ok, new plan. We will go back through the town and ask for more directions. We asked several people and nobody seemed to know what we were talking about. Finally we passed a church and asked one of the gentleman outside. He appeared to know what we were talking about and gave us directions. Only problem was the directions were somewhat long and we only understood about 25%. But, they were better than what we had.
Off we went again. After a few more turns onto dead end streets and several turn arounds we decided to follow the gravel road out of town. Hey, this might be getting us somewhere. It took a 90 degree turn to the left and headed toward the mountain. We followed the road up the mountain for probably 30 minutes thinking the next turn will be it. Nada! Then we decided we would follow the road to the crest of the mountain and hopefully be able to see the community we were looking for.
We did see a few houses scattered over the mountain but nothing definite. We were getting ready to turn around and head back down the mountain when we passed three guys and a bulldozer. They were changing the blade on the bulldozer. So, we stopped and asked them if they new where the people lived. One of the gentleman told us go straight just a little further and then left. Oh great. The ole' straight and then left directions. So we went straight and there was a left but it didn't look passable for a vehicle.
We parked the truck and started out on foot. First following the road and then we took a detour onto a small dirt path. We met some guys walking on the path and asked them for directions. They pointed over there and said it was about a 10 minute walk. (Remember, time is very relative in this culture). We were also frequently hearing "cat-calls" (for no better term) in front of us and behind us while we were walking. Cindy had on sandals that made it difficult to walk on the sloped paths. So we decided to turn back and head for the truck because the 10 minute walk could turn out to be 30 minutes or more and we had left the truck back at the road with nobody to watch it.
On our walk back we met some more guys on the foot path and talked with them as we walked back to the truck. We didn't find the people we were looking for but it was fun exploring.
Didn't see any such sign. So, after passing through Santa Rita we turned around and went back to the gas station to ask for directions. Fortunately the conversation wasn't too complicated. We asked, in Spanish, "Where is Morazón?" The gentleman pointed to the road beside the gas station and off we went. About an hour later we found ourselves in Morazón and stopped at another gas station to ask for directions to the Jiquaque people. It was apparent the man had no idea who we were talking about. Not looking too good. We then asked for directions to Montaña de Flor. He seemed to have some idea of where that was and told us to continue straight and then turn left. We asked where to turn left but didn't seem to be communicating so we took off and turned at the first left. It did appear to be taking us toward the town.
We saw a tuk-tuk (moto-taxi) driver parked on the side of the road and asked him for directions. Ah. He acted like he knew what we were talking about and gave us pretty specific directions. We followed the directions and managed to get the truck stuck in the mud - eventually we were able to work it free. And the road we found ourselves on ended short of mountains.
So, we drove around and tried several different roads all with the same dead end results. Ok, new plan. We will go back through the town and ask for more directions. We asked several people and nobody seemed to know what we were talking about. Finally we passed a church and asked one of the gentleman outside. He appeared to know what we were talking about and gave us directions. Only problem was the directions were somewhat long and we only understood about 25%. But, they were better than what we had.
Off we went again. After a few more turns onto dead end streets and several turn arounds we decided to follow the gravel road out of town. Hey, this might be getting us somewhere. It took a 90 degree turn to the left and headed toward the mountain. We followed the road up the mountain for probably 30 minutes thinking the next turn will be it. Nada! Then we decided we would follow the road to the crest of the mountain and hopefully be able to see the community we were looking for.
We did see a few houses scattered over the mountain but nothing definite. We were getting ready to turn around and head back down the mountain when we passed three guys and a bulldozer. They were changing the blade on the bulldozer. So, we stopped and asked them if they new where the people lived. One of the gentleman told us go straight just a little further and then left. Oh great. The ole' straight and then left directions. So we went straight and there was a left but it didn't look passable for a vehicle.
We parked the truck and started out on foot. First following the road and then we took a detour onto a small dirt path. We met some guys walking on the path and asked them for directions. They pointed over there and said it was about a 10 minute walk. (Remember, time is very relative in this culture). We were also frequently hearing "cat-calls" (for no better term) in front of us and behind us while we were walking. Cindy had on sandals that made it difficult to walk on the sloped paths. So we decided to turn back and head for the truck because the 10 minute walk could turn out to be 30 minutes or more and we had left the truck back at the road with nobody to watch it.
On our walk back we met some more guys on the foot path and talked with them as we walked back to the truck. We didn't find the people we were looking for but it was fun exploring.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
October 18, 2008
Ok, we now know we are back in Honduras. We've been stopped by the police twice at road blocks and have seen two men urinating on the side of the road. We don't mean over in the bushes beside the road. We mean on the shoulder of the road. Fortunately they were not facing the road while taking care of business - as can be the case quite often.
October 17, 2008 Return to Honduras
We left the house at 4:45 this morning with Cindy's sister taking us to the airport. Our flight was delayed about 40 minutes on takeoff which meant our connection in Atlanta was tight. We got off the plane in Atlanta. Had to go from terminal D to terminal E. Ah, great, it's right next door. Followed the signs to the trains. Hoped on the train (probably should have paid a little better attention to which train we got on). And away we go. Except we are going from D to C to B to A to Baggage to Transportation. We realized we probably jumped on the wrong train but no problem because the next stop should be E as the train goes around and we are still ok on time.
Nope, for anyone interested, the trains don't travel in a circle in Atlanta they travel in straight line - amazing, just like the diagram posted on the train - imagine that. So here we go back from Transportation to Baggage to A to B to C to D and finally to E. Only now we have about 7 minutes before our plane is to leave. Of course, our gate is at the opposite end of the terminal from the train exit. Of course! With some running and some walking very fast we are within sight of our gate when Cindy hears final call for our flight. She is in front and takes off running while the persona at the gate is yelling at her "What's your name." We get to the gate, they let us on, we find our seats, and the plane leaves on-time (more or less)
We arrive in San Pedro Sula, go through immigration and get a 90 day visa instead of a 30 day (yeah!! because it means less money we have to pay the government to stay in the country), and go through customs. We go outside the airport, feel the heat, and say "Ah, home."
We spent the afternoon with our teammates Sid and Vickie Smith running errands, catching up on the goings on at Faith Home, and laughing about each event. It was nice to be here with friend.
When we got to Faith Home they were fixing the Grand Canyon in front of our house that has been caused by drainage issues. Thanks so much. This evening we had dinner with a team from Texas that is staying at Faith Home while they build their orphanage about 45 minutes from Faith Home. It's good to be back.
Nope, for anyone interested, the trains don't travel in a circle in Atlanta they travel in straight line - amazing, just like the diagram posted on the train - imagine that. So here we go back from Transportation to Baggage to A to B to C to D and finally to E. Only now we have about 7 minutes before our plane is to leave. Of course, our gate is at the opposite end of the terminal from the train exit. Of course! With some running and some walking very fast we are within sight of our gate when Cindy hears final call for our flight. She is in front and takes off running while the persona at the gate is yelling at her "What's your name." We get to the gate, they let us on, we find our seats, and the plane leaves on-time (more or less)
We arrive in San Pedro Sula, go through immigration and get a 90 day visa instead of a 30 day (yeah!! because it means less money we have to pay the government to stay in the country), and go through customs. We go outside the airport, feel the heat, and say "Ah, home."
We spent the afternoon with our teammates Sid and Vickie Smith running errands, catching up on the goings on at Faith Home, and laughing about each event. It was nice to be here with friend.
When we got to Faith Home they were fixing the Grand Canyon in front of our house that has been caused by drainage issues. Thanks so much. This evening we had dinner with a team from Texas that is staying at Faith Home while they build their orphanage about 45 minutes from Faith Home. It's good to be back.
October 9, 2008 Med/Den Team Meeting
Last night we had dinner with the three team leaders for next years medical/dental teams. It was nice to be able to have all of us sit down together and discuss the plan for next year. Having all of us on the same page will be a great benefit for next year's teams and for the team leaders.
October 9, 2008 Christmas Party
Our Sunday School class at Main Street General Baptist Church in Boonville, IN had asked us what we would like when we came to the States in October (our planned trip to the States). Last year our class had gotten together for a Christmas party in December and it was a nice, relaxing, very enjoyable evening. Cindy mentioned since we were going to be in Honduras for Christmas she would like a Christmas party in October. She was thinking meeting somewhere for supper and just having a nice meal together at some restaurant - like last year.
Oh no. Our class had other ideas. We arrived at the church tonight for the Christmas party and were greeted at the door and directed to enter through a specific door. When we entered the gym there were Christmas lights laid out on the floor to form a walking path all the way down the length of the basketball court leading to a room at the opposite end. When we to got the room our class and another class were all there, seated at tables decorated for Christmas. Their room had Christmas decorations hanging from the ceiling and a large decorated Christmas tree.
After taking seats at one of the tables our leader, Jack, had us close our eyes and he explained to us it was December 15th with snow on the ground and Christmas shopping complete. Now that our time travel was complete it was time to eat. Potluck - yeah! - with all the Christmas fixings. (turkey, ham, dressing, beans, m&c, broccoli casserole, potatoes, etc. including a variety of desserts). Had to go back for a second round.
After eating the classes presented us with some gifts (so humbling it brought tears to our eyes). Then it was time for people to share some Christmas memories. Some were funny and some serious. Next, we sang Christmas carols as a group.
What a night and what a great group of people. Thanks so much for making it such special night.
Oh no. Our class had other ideas. We arrived at the church tonight for the Christmas party and were greeted at the door and directed to enter through a specific door. When we entered the gym there were Christmas lights laid out on the floor to form a walking path all the way down the length of the basketball court leading to a room at the opposite end. When we to got the room our class and another class were all there, seated at tables decorated for Christmas. Their room had Christmas decorations hanging from the ceiling and a large decorated Christmas tree.
After taking seats at one of the tables our leader, Jack, had us close our eyes and he explained to us it was December 15th with snow on the ground and Christmas shopping complete. Now that our time travel was complete it was time to eat. Potluck - yeah! - with all the Christmas fixings. (turkey, ham, dressing, beans, m&c, broccoli casserole, potatoes, etc. including a variety of desserts). Had to go back for a second round.
After eating the classes presented us with some gifts (so humbling it brought tears to our eyes). Then it was time for people to share some Christmas memories. Some were funny and some serious. Next, we sang Christmas carols as a group.
What a night and what a great group of people. Thanks so much for making it such special night.
October 16, 2008
It has been nice spending some time in the States. The family has been taking it pretty hard with the passing of Cindy's mom. Cindy's mom was the glue for her family. Her home was the place where the family always gathered for holidays. The place were the entire family (grandchildren and all) would spend lots of time in the summer hanging out together or, as the grandkids have gotten older, crossing paths regularly to keep up with what's happening in each other's lives. Guess you would say she was the constant in the family and now that she's gone we all feel a little lost because she was the rock the family centered around.
It is hard for Cindy to leave her mom's house because the real possibility is it may be sold by the time we return to States. We know we're not the first ones to lose one so loved but it is still difficult. As those of you who have lost loved ones already know and are probably still experiencing.
We do appreciate a missions organization that would allow us to take the time needed to handle the details that had to be taken care of before Cindy returned. It has also been nice to spend time with family - especially our granddaughter and her weekly dance class (what a hoot), to see Whitney and her husband, to see Michael for a few days, to spend time with friends, and to be encouraged by people that love us.
It is hard for Cindy to leave her mom's house because the real possibility is it may be sold by the time we return to States. We know we're not the first ones to lose one so loved but it is still difficult. As those of you who have lost loved ones already know and are probably still experiencing.
We do appreciate a missions organization that would allow us to take the time needed to handle the details that had to be taken care of before Cindy returned. It has also been nice to spend time with family - especially our granddaughter and her weekly dance class (what a hoot), to see Whitney and her husband, to see Michael for a few days, to spend time with friends, and to be encouraged by people that love us.
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