Today was our last full day with our current team, as Joel, Thomas, Doug, and Jordan head home tomorrow. Luckily, it was a good day to end on. We started the morning with a a concrete pour for the three walls, which all went smoothly and quickly. By lunchtime, the pours were done, our tool shed was organized, and our remaining material was taken stock of.
We also had the opportunity to share a couple bottles of Coca-Cola with our local help. Benjamin, Efrain, and Sabador, the three men who have been helping us build the bridge, always pause during the day for a Coke break. Without fail, they break out a two-liter bottle at some point during the day and share some with us. Today we had the opportunity to share with them and with the concrete crew. It was a small moment, but it meant a lot to our team to give them a small token of our appreciation for their help.
With the pour done, the rest of the afternoon was spent exploring Oaxaca and what it has to offer. We went to see an Alibrijes shop, which are traditional wooden animal carvings local to Oaxaca, saw Oaxacan black pottery, and handmade textiles. It was a great time of relaxation, as well as time with Jose and Raquel, a couple who serves at Trigo y Miel.
As we close out this week, we look back on where we started and see that no only is our bridge being built, but so are our relationships with the community here. We're looking forward to week two!
Here are some ways to pray for us:
Joel, Thomas, Doug, and Jordan head home tomorrow, so please pray for safety in their travels
Pray for our time at church tomorrow, and our presence there will help us connect with the community more
Pray for the changing of leadership on our team, as week one's advisors pass the torch to week two's
Here are some areas of thanksgiving:
Our bridge is looking great and is well on schedule
We had some time to rest today and prepare for the week ahead
We're thankful for Joel, Thomas, Doug, and Jordan and the work they put into this project