Paso a Paso!

Earlier this month I learned a phrase that is quite common among the Dominican folk; frequently I heard the words, "poco a poco" coming out of their mouths.  This means literally, "little by little"; I immediately adopted the phrase to my own growing Spanish vocabulary only to be corrected by another missionary friend that the more correct way of saying this would be "paso a paso"or "step by step", however both phrases are technically correct, (of course my Spanish teacher may have another opinion!)  So now I use both, depending on the mood.  The point is this; little by little, step by step, we are moving ever closer to the realization of the fulfillment of a dream!  Only now, I can say it in Spanish too! (Tambien!)

Today we watched the work crew working on what seemed the most tedious job I have ever seen on any job site; see the video!
http://vimeo.com/38519364

 These guys are putting a smooth coat of concrete on the entire structure beginning with the outside.  Later they will move to the inside and do the same.  It adds up to tons, (I guess) of what we would call stucco, they call "panietta" all over the outside and inside of the walls.  Before it is completely dry, the workers smooth coat the panietta with water and sponge, leaving the surface remarkably smooth!

This gives great definition to the phrase "poco a poco" which is used by the Dominicans for just about every job; after-all, it takes so long do do this work!  Take note in the video as you see the co-worker bring more mud to the applicator, two pails at a time...all day long...wow!
I'm tired just watching them!
All jesting aside, Laura and I are pleased with the progress the crew is making with the Guest House.  By the end of the month the crews will be finished with the panietta as well as all of the plumbing inside.  Then the crews will move outside again and begin work on the water cistern and the septic tank which need to be dug into the ground and then built.
The first floor of the house will be almost complete by this time; with only windows and doors to add, floor tiling and paint!
I would like to encourage our readers and supporters at this time to consider a donation to these remaining projects, you can join our support team as they raise funds for the pending Mission Trip on April 19, 2012.  Gary and Shannon, Amos and Sarah will be traveling here to help us with some final details for the Guest House...Painting!   Yeaahhhh! (bring your old clothes guys)
There is still room for more people to join this team as I believe there are still flights available for that date!    Please join us as we are encouraged by their pending arrival, it has been many months since we enjoyed close fellowship from our home church!
On March 18, 2012 at ROL Church in Lethbridge after the morning service, anyone who wishes to support this Mission Trip can come to the luncheon at the church.

Thank you in advance for everyone's support!  Of course all of your donations are tax deductible!
Mike and Laura