Day Three - Getting Stuck In !

Tuesday 25th November 2008


So, we are now into day 2 of the build.

We got more settled into the routine of things today as the shock of the first day was behind us and the community didn't stare at us quite so much. The warm wlcome we have recieved from all of the people is great. Everyone smiling and really excited to see us ... and some even running out of their houses to speak to us. We broke off into our groups once we dropped our bags in the usual place and headed towards our individual sites. Despite the families being aware of our arrival, some of them are still getting used to a few of the groups wanting to help. One team weren't able to get onto their site as the families thought they could do a quicker and better job. It soon became apparent that we are all here to help so the barriers came down and by lunch time they were up and running and getting along nicely.

I have to say that we are really quite lucky with our family. We are working with the father of the family and the grandmother (she's takes no nonsense from anyone which is quite funny considering she is only 4' tall!!). The foundations were almost dry so we started preparing the area for bricklaying. Even though none of us have experience in building houses the language barrier causes no problems as simple hand signals and smiles seem to get things done. We are all getting on as a team and there are some real laughs most of the day.

As I seem to be the main cameraman, I am spending a good portion of the time hopping from site to site. I actually quite like it as I can see first hand how much the teams are steaming ahead with the builds.

I think yesterday was one of the most emotional for the teams. What with jet lag, tiredness and the reality of working in an environment that is something quite extraordinary (I can't think of a stronger word but it blows your mind if you stand and look for too long!) we were a little snappy to say the least. So, a quieter vibe amongst us. I think there were a few thinking "what the hell am I doing here?!!!" The fact that construction was properly underway for most meant that all of this was quickly put to one side and the real job could start.

Mind you, I say that ...

Unfortunatley one team had been asigned to a plot that had undiscovered asbestos on it so had to be diverted to help elsewhere. The day ended on a high as we could all really see what we came out here for....houses startng to take shape.

On a lighter note ... the evening's entertainment consisted of a trip into the city centre.

Dirty, buzzing, busy!

Flipping great. I absolutely love it!!