El Salvador, Thursday, March 6th
Fri, 7 Mar 2008 00:21:41 -0500
Dear Family,
My computer can be a GREAT help, but the last two days I know it can be a real headache as well. I am still in the process of trying to find out why I can't get on the Web. It is strange (and I finally figured it out late this afternoon) that I can get my e-mail, chat on MSN Instant Messenger, but I can't open a web page on the internet. It's been frustrating and has put me behind in my blogs. That's why you are getting one for the past two days. (I sure hope this works.)
Yesterday, we got 4 workers in for the advance party team. They were Ronnie Travis, Wendy Graham, Buck Buchanan, and Steve Kirby. We also got some of our medicines that we have purchased.
Part of yesterday we also scouted out some places where our team can have its final team meeting. We visited a restaurant and had a good meal. I'm not sure that this place will suffice for our needs. Anyhow we will keep looking.
Today was a full day. Bill Staggs got to work with a couple of guys to start labeling the medicine. We also got more of our medicine in as well.
I went with the cooking team to begin to purchase the supplies needed for the campaign. We loaded up at Price Smart, a local "Sam's Club" here in Central America. We hauled that to Tonacatepique (Tonaca for short) and stored them in our rented house. I got my first look at the house we rented. It is very ample for our needs.
While we were in Tonaca we paid a visit to the clinic site. They are working on getting things ready for us to arrive this weekend. Fliers have been passed out to every house. We found one under the door of our rented house.
We also paid a visit to the Mayor of Tonaca. He is a very up-beat guy. He was glad to see us. He is getting the final things together for us and our visit. He has been MOST helpful.
Afterwards, we went for lunch (3:00 pm!!) We have learned that Wal-Mart is literally here in El Salvador. Wal-Mart owns Despensa de Don Juan, a chain of grocery stores as well as Hiper Paiz. The employees wear name badges on lanyards that have Wal-Mart on them. Also, I spotted various boxes that were labeled "Wal-Mart - El Salvador".
We ended up our evening by scouting out another place for our team to meet. Its not easy finding a restaurant with a room the size we need to seat 60+ people. When we do find one, we need to have a place most of the team will like. I can assure you that we have had MUCH discussion on this issue. Well, we at least have a good supper tonight.
That's about it for tonight. If you are getting this blog for the first time, and want to see the other ones, please check at www.panamajack.org
Keep us in your prayers.
God bless.