6. Another Family

I have another family...a familia feliz (happy family--also the name of the orphanage).

Chad and I arrived at the orphanage last Friday evening tired and dripping with sweat from the 100-degree sun. Yet, we were exhilarated to finally arrive in Rurre, our home for the next 255 days. I hoped to live in a somewhat pleasant environment. I was not prepared for my new home environment...that is a good thing.

My other family minus Mom and daughter

Love. That is the atmosphere of my new home. Twelve boys, ages 7-12, a middle-aged married couple, and their newly adopted one-year-old girl. Picture the world's greatest father (besides my own!), with the kindest-looking countenance, and biggest heart. His name is Juan. The house I was assigned to is known for containing the troublesome boys. I do not believe it. Nine months ago, before Juan and his wife arrived, the boys may have been troublesome and eratic. However, after Juan got a hold of their hearts, these boys resemble little angels...most of the time.

From the moment I arrived, I was drenched in appreciation and joy. I am a tio (uncle) to the boys, and a hermano (brother) to the "parents". In addition to Tio Eric, I am called Teacher by all the orphans. However, due to the extremely different living conditions I consider them my teachers. I have learned how to wash clothes by hand, hang a mosquito net (very important!), pick fruits off trees (in my opinion, more important!!), obtain "honey" from termite nests, prepare food, and get used to my sleeping companions...cockroaches.

The others volunteers are very amiable as well. We had the benefit of meeting with most of the volunteers for Sabbath worship during our first evening. They consist of a mixture of Spanish, English, and Portuguese speakers...roughly 15 volunteers for about 60 students. I sense a great chemistry between the staff.

One story I'd like to share would be the mouth-dropping, three-mile walk into the jungle in search for the main event, a rare swimming hole. However, I'll let the pictures do the story telling.

Freshwater crab found in a water tank

Miel "Honey"

We are surrounded by those blue and red Mckaws you see in pictures

Pineapple

More pics to come next time I'm in town. Next time I'll share a snippet of my work environment. I have a pretty cushy day-job. Not! ;)

I'll appreciate prayers and look forward to more blogging of my adventures. Especially, the adopted daughter of the house parents is very ill; she needs a blessing.

**Keep adventurizing!...I know I will!**