13 tired pups this afternoon

It was another fantastic day at the job site.  We headed out this morning bright and early with Victoria, one of the other in country Habitat Employees that helps run the office and projects as well translate.  When we arrived, Nester - the owner of the house I am working on was ready for the cement mixing and pouring to start.  Nester was so excited that we were already to this point on his house.  I know I said this before, but it is incredible how much the other people in the neighborhood are helping out.  I have been on several builds, but this one stands out for it's sense of community and how much we are bonding with the families. 

Here Cory and I are ready to start the day, Doug is apparently ready to give directions.

 The other two houses, right across the street, were busy with more digging and making the rebar for the foundations.  It was amazing to see the house foundation that started as a grassy area turn into a well defined layout of trenches.  If you ever need intense digging done, I know just the team to do it!

Never get between a man and his pic axe!  Well, at least when Michael is the one swinging!  He shall now be known as "king of the Swing"

Linda and Cory work on the ties for the rebar

Amanda learns the art of making cement.

Mark attempts the pic axe but was no match with Michael.

Nester levels the cement

Amanda and Rachel are masters at digging dirt, rocks and sand

I helped carry the pales of dirt and rocks to Nester for the cement - first 2 buckets not heavy, after about 50 it started to weigh me down - so to speak.

Did I mention one of the tasks was to dig the whole for the septic tank?  Glad I was busy with the cement!!!

Nester celebrates being done with pouring the concrete!  That man worked so hard, we just tried to keep up with his pace.

Either someone slipped something into the drinking water or everyone was exhausted after a hard day's work:

At the end of the day, we go through a recap and we share thoughts with the team and family.  I am humbled again by the gratitude of the families we are working with to build the houses. 

We got back to the hotel and surprised Cory with an impromptu celebration of Rosh Hashanah.  We had "happy hour" in our room with the team which was a great time......in a very small room :)

Cory and her "Manashevitz"  (Argentina version) to help ring in the new year

The gang at "happy hour"

Our two newlyweds on their honeymoon - Michael and Rachel

After happy hour we were off to visit the local brewery - Santa Fe beer.  It was another night filled with laughter and great conversation.

Below is Amanda, Cory (secret model) and Mark.  Rachel and Julia are in the background.

Rachel auditions to be the next "Santa Fe Beer Girl"

We wrapped up dinner and are now calling it a night.  With any luck, I will be able to lift my arms tomorrow beyond the height of my waist, but I make no promises.  Typing even hurts right now :)

Ciao for now!