Let's get to work!

Finally - WE WORKED! It seemed like forever since we landed on Saturday, so waking up and putting on work clothes was very exciting for us today. But unfortunately, Monday's don't move very quickly. Even though we visited Mr. Leo's yesterday and saw what we were going to do, there was a lot of prep work yet to complete. We needed to load up the van with the necessary tools, and then head to the store to get the materials for the job. And then we need to get acclimated to the site - where will we put the water, the tool area, etc. After we establish that, it's time to break into jobs. Today's jobs were beginning the porch/deck, playing with the kids, and clearing debris and an overgrown area of bushes, trees, and weeds that will be used for the creation of garden beds. We're not talking about a few dandelions and some crabgrass. We're talking about Bahamas strength brush that's about 6 feet high. This was a job that was kind of thrown on us this morning, but it was a good one because there was always something to be done. When you think about the tools necessary for clearing this area, what comes to mind? Weedwhackers, pruning sheers, maybe a lawn mower? Not in the Bahamas. We use machetes. And boy was it fun! Talk about the ultimate stress reliever! And the good thing is, the area is so large we'll be working on this for a few more days. The other job is the construction of a porch and deck for Uncle Leo's house. Our team of teenage contractors devised a plan, created a shopping list, and got to work. By the end of the day, the 12 x 8 foot deck was complete and ready for the roof part of the porch to begin. We wrapped up a little early today due to the fact that we got further than we thought and didn't have the materials to continue the job. It felt so good to get dirty and sweaty! And we had a lot of fun as well. God has put us in a position this week, creating lasting bonds through these experiences. New friendships are forming, old ones are being renewed, and there is a clear fellowship among the team.