Dedication day

When we were here last time for the summer we participated in many builds but because we came and went from the sites we did not get a chance to bond really tightly with each family. We had the bonding experience when we met our family the first time we came to Mexico and this time we were part of a building group so we are fortunate to have bonded. What a wonderful experience. Mom Catalina, Dad Vallerio and 6 daughters ranging in age from 3 to 13. In 5 short days we felt very close to them and them to us.
This morning started with shopping for groceries, chicken feed and stoves for the families. We waited for the furniture to arrive and then like Santa Claus under the Christmas tree we hid in the house and prepared the home for the family. Beds, quilts made from church friends, prayer shawls made with love from the church, gifts for each girl and a kitchen table and chairs and at least 100.00 worth of grocery staples. How beautiful. As well the Scouts had prepared a wonderful photo of our group in a frame to leave behind with the family as a reminder of our new found friendship. We of course had our cameras but the family had no photos....just the reminder every day of this new home. We went as an entire group to each family where the group that did the build did the dedication with the family and the remainder of us watched. Our family was third and it was incredibly humbling to be a part of this. The group of us got to speak about what this meant to us and to wish the family health and happiness in the future. Then the family spoke and they spoke with tears in their eyes and love in their hearts as they tried to describe what this gift of a home meant to them. Then the 12 year old daughter spoke which is highly unusual. The kids are quiet and in the background but she spoke boldly about what this meant to her family and with tears streaming down her face she said gracious, gracious, gracious. We then went to the 4th house which was the house Tyler built for and it was also a beautiful dedication. The family all week had been so shy with the group but today they could not stop talking and saying what this meant to them and how thankful they were. They could not believe people from Canada would come and build a home for poor people (grandpa's words). Our group made it clear that we did not view them as poor people but that we were here to assist good people in getting a hand up in the world and that we valued them as equals. What a beautiful message. We had a potluck lunch with all 4 families contribting the food and the food was awesome and so much of it. Such generosity from the families.
After some very tearful goodbyes we took a ride to the beach and relaxed there by walking on the beach and breathing in some good ocean air. Oh ya,,,,my favorite memory of today is when each family was presented with the receipts of the money paid to land titles. The look of disbelief was so touching and they appreciated the gesture so much. We arrived home for a debrief, some amazing floutas.....I think all we did today was eat!! Overall a beautiful but emotional day.