Day Five-Amigos

What a day. 
What a full, incredible day. 
On Wednesdays, we spend the first half of the day working hard to finish as much as possible on our big projects. 
The second half of the day is typically spent on some sort of uniquely Belizean experience, together.
This has traditionally been a visit to the Mayan ruins, but it was switched up a bit this year and we instead went into the jungle. 
It’s a day of mixed emotions, as we all feel the pull to power through and finish the work/skip the outing.

Last night, however, Fr. Scott reminded us of the importance of truly seeing the people and getting to know the real Belize on this mission trip.
He pointed out that while the buildings are a priority of the trip, the people and the culture take precedence.
This is why we take a half day and venture out. 
It’s to get to know this part of the world and be able to leave with a better understanding of what life looks like here. 
Not to mention another chance to get to know each other better. 
Coming on mission together bonds us. 
We are friends. We are family…



First Half of the Day
Lu’s house gave us a few headaches today, but some great progress was made and we do hope to finish the siding and roofing tomorrow, if not more. 

Lu’s family lot from the corner of the street. 
We all love her “fast food” sign. 

Another rainbow to greet us this morning.
We see You, Lord! 

Closing up shop for the day, at Lu’s and we had to get a preview shot of the specially requested pink and yellow. 
We cannot wait to see the finished product!

The living quarter for the clinic is coming along so well! 
These ladies deserved this rest. 



Hello from the roof! 

A view from the truck, heading out for the day. 
Look at that beautiful window!



Second Half of the Day
Jungle mountains from the road.

Unique “Tower House” mansion in Belmopan, a town we passed through. 

Palms so large and tall some of us felt the desire to start singing, “Hosanna to the King!” 
It was agreed that we will no longer be able to settle for our little leaves on Palm Sunday after seeing these. 



First stop was at St. Herman’s Cave National Park.

A quick walk through the jungle…


Truly, these were like the palm tree version of the Redwoods! 







Beginning the descent to the cave…

Keep going…

Entrance to the cave. 



They’re not kidding when they say headlamps required.
It was so dark! 



A look back at the entrance, from the bottom of the stairs.

The amazing impressions in these stalactites were such an intricate reminder of God’s artistry. 
Not to mention, the sweet smell! 
It even reminded some of us of the scent of Chrism oil.

To think of how many years this has taken to form!

Absolutely stunning.

Deep inside the cave, river tubing is even offered!

Heading back was breathtaking. 

Next stop was just up the road to the Blue Hole natural pool. 
The blue is caused by the sunlight and the fact that the pool is about 100 feet deep. 

Some of us chose to go for a swim. 

Close-up of the back wall. 
Some of the guys started to climb, until the park attendant informed us of poisonous snakes in that area!

The cooler temperature reminded us of a Minnesota lake in June, but seemed to regulate our body temperatures with the heat/humidity. 



Buddies. Screw Crew. Roof Troop. 

So refreshing.

Citrus plantation, near the cave. 

Amigos Bar-dinner time!





We had the whole place to ourselves!

Kid’s Table!


~~~


We end tonight packing our bags in order to check out of our hotel in the morning. 
We’ll head to the Church for our last Mass together, share breakfast and get to work. 
The goal is to be as close to done as possible on both sites before we have to catch our sea taxi to Caye Caulker Island.


Thank you all for your prayers and for following along with our journey thus far. 

Keep those prayers coming!
Goodnight and God bless.

 

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