Day 9 | Lori Dittman

First I would like to give a shout out to “common sense.” I enjoyed hearing from you, and I love you. You and your crew be safe and have a great time. I am looking forward to swapping stories face to face. Today was a thrilling day that started with the “Ride” to the church. Years of riding on the farm with Will and a certain outing with Grandpa Kenton helped prepare me a little for the ride. Just imagine the road to the airport washed out and miles of switch back roads. “Don’t look down!” “Don’t look down,” was uttered several times. The mountains are breathtaking and there are so many things to see that it impossible to see them all. We saw houses alternating from shanty like buildings to grand homes. One that is being built has five stories. Other sights included many farm animals: goats (much to Hannah’s excitement), horses, cattle, chicken, turkeys, sheep, and chickens. We got about 20 yards from the top and spun out in the soft dirt, but we made it there and back! Thank you to our driver, Willie, and most importantly God for the safety. Our jobs at the church included breaking up concrete, sifting sand, and tying rebar. Basically we were prepping the old floor for a new concrete floor. Hannah and Allie got things started with swinging of sledge hammers, but when Mickey and Lloyd took over the project really progressed. We formed a bucket brigade line to move materials and even the young children that were there jumped in to help even though some had to weigh not more than the sand that was being passed. We all had opportunities to play with the kids and they were a delight! I am sure you will learn stories. I have learned a few more Creole phrases. The day was great! Tomorrow I will be working at the house. Thank you again for your prayers. Love to my family, friends, and church family!