Stucco guys are working to finish the front of the first classroom, and we do our usual support job. Josh has become the go-to guy for transporting the 50kg (110lb) bags of cement, with no challengers surfacing amongst the Americans!
Work also continued on the ceiling supports and rooftop hold-downs. One thing that must be mentioned at this point is Mr Nirmal, our local slave driver. As he learned our names, we lived in fear of hearing him call us from across the school compound to get busy on whatever he thought we should be doing. He was unique among Nepalis for getting after us to keep pushing! Tom recognized him as premier Nepali team member with a Leatherman tool, and you should have seen Nirmal beam.
Kim and Nick organized games and hokey pokey fests. The students seemed to never get enough of this! In fact, a village woman and her family visited us in camp that night and hit the emotional high for the week. Saying nothing but holding Kim’s hands, she used a little sign language and very expressive eyes to convey their thanks and sadness for our leaving.
At the end of the school day, they had a farewell assembly in the compound. Speeches by them and us on the joy of working together and friendships made. Also deep appreciation for Namlo and our help with their school. Americans were awarded major tikas and flower garlands, easily eclipsing Aruna’s when we arrived. Also hats for men and shawls for women. Very touching.
Sarouj made a birthday cake for Aruna at dinner, with candles and balloons, which we pressed into service to cover Kim’s upcoming birthday as well.
