This week has been a thrill, literally, as I have spent the past 7 days going by motorcycle all over Tarija and the countryside visiting families and looking for good land for our new neighborhood. I've learned a lot of useful things this week: avoid cow patties on a motorcycle when you're wearing sandals, always carry a rain poncho in Tarija, and three consecutive days eating roadside horse shishkabobs for lunch should be avoided at all costs.
But much more importantly, I've had an awesome, if heart-rending experience getting to interview the 50 families that I selected from more than 320 needy families here in Tarija. They have been wonderful welcoming me into their "homes" which, with no exceptions, have consisted of 1 single room in which 3-4 beds are crowded, with a kerosene stove nearby for cooking, to house between 4-6 people. CLICK HERE for more pictures from the family selection and recent days in Tarija.
When we contacted the 50 families, they poured into the Habitat offices. It was standing room only and we had to set up 2 separate evenings to talk to them about the project and establish interview times. When I described the project and your generous support, the groups broke into applause, and some people cried. It is an honor to represent you here.
Tomorrow I will finish my round of interviews and make the selection of the fortunate 15 families. It is a process both sad and exhausting, but also thrilling at the same time, to think of changing the lives of these families, their children, and their well-being, thanks to the donations and support from people all over the world.
Buying land quickly in a developing country is an oxymoron. I had a beautiful plot of 5000 square meters all ready to rock and roll to find out that some of the paper work was rejected. So back to the drawing board on Wednesday. I'll keep you posted, and in the meantime will avoid all horsemeat and cow patties.
Saludos from your Motorcycle Kid,
Naomi
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