2023 Team

2023 Team
The 2023 Team

Saturday, March 12, 2016

Eyes are opened to poverty



It is now quiet here. I'm doing my usual late night spell on the computer, and pretty much everyone else is down for the night.

Since I had a lot of information on this morning's blog, I'm keeping tonight's simple. Everyone worked extremely hard. The houses are almost finished being built. Roofs and painting will start on Monday. Gift bags were prepared. We will start delivering them on Monday. 

Tonight's junta was very emotional for many. It will probably be even more so on Thursday night, when everyone realizes their mission is drawing to a close. I think everyone is finally hearing the stories that surround us with examples of how these people are living in extreme poverty. For example, this afternoon we gave some new clothes to Victor, Daisy, and Wendy who along with their baby brother, are getting one of our homes. They have never had their own home. We are not sure any of them have ever had a bath until today. Marta and the girls pitched in to help bathe them and wash their hair. The girls helped dry them and combed their hair. It was an emotional moment for all involved

Tomorrow we shop. Starting with 9 a.m. Mass in Santa Lucia, we will then lunch at Marta's brother's oasis. I know the missioners will love the place. It's just 20 minutes to Valley of the Angels from there. The students have been divided into shopping groups, so they will always be with an adult. Tomorrow's most difficult decision will be what they want for their own souvenir and what to get for their families. We may finish the bunk beds tomorrow evening if possible.

The missioners have all experienced amazing things. I'm sure you will hear plenty when they return, even though you've been reading the blog. Read on for notes from the missioners.
Notes home:
 Mac to the world.  To all Kuemper people…Carroll locals…your donations, well-wishes are well received here.  The need goes beyond…way beyond what we perceive in the United States.  Today one of the little girls at one of our building sites was feeling poorly, and in my broken Spanish I asked her what was wrong…she is hungry was the Mom’s reply.  The military escorts brought in bags of water which I shared with the family at the same site.  I was overwhelmed with emotion.  Water is gold here, make that LIFE!  They are gracious people. Please continue to pray for and support the Hondurans.  Deb and boys…this area makes our Kentucky trip look like a 5 star resort.  This in many cases is a day to day life or death situation.  Very few people that we have met are negative towards us, but they are here.  I have seen them.  BUT most are very kind and even affectionate towards us.  I love you all.  I officially dislike dogs and especially roosters.  I will explain later.  Love to all.  Feel privileged because in many ways WE are.

Carolyn - Hello to my family. I'm glad my daughters-in-law are able to type messages to me! I am looking forward to seeing all the kids when I get home. However, could we hold off a little bit on Saturday morning so I could get a few hours of sleep? Perhaps, one of you could have supper Saturday night so we can visit. You can bring the kids over for a little bit in the late morning.

Roman- Things are going well. Time is going pretty fast here. Hondurans don’t pay attention to time so that makes it go pretty smoothly. Mom, the food is great and you probably wouldn’t think that I would say that. To the park ball kids, enjoy the last few days while I’m not there ‘cause I’ll be back for my court. By the way Christian Social Principles class, the timing worked out perfectly on the whole pizza joke that you guys said. You can also say that the little Honduras kids are pretty enjoyable to just talk to and also just watch them enjoy the life they live.
Also Mom please give my phone to Tom when he comes to pick me up in Omaha. Thanks

Megan McCarty- Mom, Dad, Lucas, Cole and Mariah... I am having a blast here, and I can’t wait to tell you guys all about it when I see you on Friday! Surprisingly I have actually eaten most of the food. I miss and love you all so much and am excited to see you when we get back. P.S: There haven’t been any spiders, but  there is a mouse in our room L I hope everything is going good!

Josie Galles- Hola family. Momma K, thank you for all the updates! The most amazing was finding out my snap chat streak was still alive. This is music to my ears, lemme tell ya. Keaton, Calla, and Emma I miss you all too! Emma, stahp crying puh-lease. I’ll be home in 6 days J If word could get to Lissa and Barry about their new baby boy, that would be awesome! Honduras has been great. It’s such an amazing experience. My eyes have been opened enormously; words cannot describe how it is down here. My new buddy down here is Wendy. She is four years old and has already been through enough to last her a lifetime. I wish I could do more to help, but I know that we are doing something, and that helps. Love you all fam bam!
p.s. 60 sec cold showers aren’t too bad J
 
Megan and Tom Kellen- Hey everybody! The Honduran kids here are always happy to help, even with the building. James and Meredith, I thought of you today when I was pounding in nails. James, you would be proud of me! Hello to everyone back in Iowa, the weather here is definitely a change! Love you all!

Joe Schuch- Hey yall, 60 seconds in a “cold” shower is really easy. I use 30 most of the time and it’s not cold; it’s refreshing. BTW to all who read this, the messages you write to your loved ones through the blog makes it a lot of fun at the end of the night to see what everyone back home is doing. Love you all especially mi Madre.

Paris Schroeder: Hey everyone! I miss you all a lot! Today, I was walking up to my house site that I was supposed to work at and I was walking downstairs and rolled my ankles. Yep, a little clumsy. I sat inside and basically just iced my leg (not with ice either). It was with a big chunk of meat. I am having fun here though! I love you all! And good thing Leah got a new bike so I finally can have mine back. I’ll think about maybe running the power washer when I get home (I said maybe).

Cindy, Brady & Keaton: Hey, everyone!  First of all, thank you to our family and friends for writing to us on the blog – we love hearing from you all!  I (Cindy) asked Brady and Keaton what I should write and their comments were, “This is awesome”, “We LOVE it here”, “We don’t want to go home”………so, I hope that tells you how things in Honduras are going for us.  I can NOT adequately put into words what we are experiencing.  Jodi, no need to worry. Keaton is doing great.  Lexi, you may need to worry as Keaton has lots of little girls wanting to take pictures with him J.  Thanks to all of you for taking the time to read the blog and most importantly, thank you for keeping us in your daily prayers.  Love you all!

Deb & DJ: Hello family & friends! We are having an awesome time building houses. We have only worked together one day- which is probably a good thing. DJ’s stitches are healing well, and I will probably take them out on Tuesday. I am using muscles I never knew I had and will probably never use again. We both are making friends. Mine is Jose and he is my little helper. Today when he ran to meet me he ended up tackling me. Don’t worry- we are both fine. Missing all of you (especially Emerson) and can’t wait to see you! PS. I have been up on a ladder several times!!

33 comments:

  1. I'm sure glad everything is going great down there. Paris be a little more careful. We will be praying for all of u. Brooklyn's is asking when pari is coming home she misses u. Had the play tonight it was awesome I taped the parts that your brothers were in . true actors they are. Other than that not much going on here traditional breakfast for the family in the morning. Can't wait to see you paris next week and hear if all the stories you have to tell. Miss u and love u. Mom

    ReplyDelete
  2. I'm sure glad everything is going great down there. Paris be a little more careful. We will be praying for all of u. Brooklyn's is asking when pari is coming home she misses u. Had the play tonight it was awesome I taped the parts that your brothers were in . true actors they are. Other than that not much going on here traditional breakfast for the family in the morning. Can't wait to see you paris next week and hear if all the stories you have to tell. Miss u and love u. Mom

    ReplyDelete
  3. Roman, Megan said there was a mouse down there. It reminded me to tell you about ours. Elijah caught it. He bought the cheap mouse traps. Why did you but the "mega" top of the line mouse trap because it didn't even work. Lol. Why are you worried about your phone ? I was hoping that your time in Honduras would change your addiction to your phone and social media. I think I am going to cancel the cell phones and just get a house phone. it should be a smooth transition for you since you will have had 10 days without your cell when you return. ☎️📞. Continue to make the most of your time in Honduras , don't waste opportunities and moments because you won't ever get this exact experience again. Purchase some vanilla for Jen Kurth, grandma and Lauri if you Can; Jen was looking for someone to get her some so I assume that they sell it in Honduras. Love you and take care.

    ReplyDelete
  4. Phil and Dylan, Bryce thinks you two request to do the singing ALL the time. I told him probably only half. I got the kitchen ceiling painted, except the high corner over the stairs. I'm saving that for you, Phil. It's rainy and dreary here, I'm getting ready to head to Mass. I will say a prayer for all of you! Hope you enjoy your shopping day! Love you. xo

    ReplyDelete
  5. Mean and Mike. This is Dad/your bro. Sounds like you are experiencing things that many of us cannot comprehend! Makes the things that I, maybe all of us, complain about seem small. Many adoration prayers for you both. Megan,think of the mouse as a pet. God's Blessings to you all! Mission in our everyday lives is what Gehlen is all about. You are just getting the opportunity to live it out in a very impactful way!!!

    ReplyDelete
  6. Mac & Meg - we love your both and are so proud of you! I know how Mac NEEDS a fan for noise to be able to sleep so I am sure the lack of a fan and the abundance of barking dogs and roosters is a true joy for him! Offer it up Babe! So Megan - I can guess that you are sleeping on the top bunk of one of the beds you made - maybe the mouse is eating the spiders for you! I am so glad you are all having an amazing time. This trip will sure change your perspective on life - we have so much to be thankful for and we have so much more we can and should be doing for those less fortunate. Reading the blog and seeing the pictures makes me feel guilty for enjoying the luxuries in life like a shower, toilets that flush, and clean water (and a fan to help me sleep Mike)! God Bless you all!

    ReplyDelete
  7. A little silver haired gentleman named Mac called his neighbor Janet and says, "Please come over here and help me. I have a killer jigsaw puzzle, and I can't figure out how to get started."

    Janet asked, "What is it supposed to be when it's finished?"

    Mac said, "According to the picture on the box, it's a rooster."

    Janet decides to go over and help Mac with the puzzle.

    He lets her in and shows her where he has the puzzle spread all over the table.

    Janet studies the pieces for a moment, then looks at the box, then turns to Mac and says,

    "First of all, no matter what we do, we're not going to be able to assemble these pieces into anything resembling a rooster."

    Janet takes Mac’s hand and says, "Secondly, I want you to relax. Let's have a nice cup of tea, and then," she said with a deep sigh ............






    "Let's put all the Corn Flakes back in the box."

    ReplyDelete
  8. Sounds like you are getting quite the experience! We sure are missing you here at home. We laugh that even Socks misses you. He sniffs around your room every morning instead of going in to wake Katelyn. Then he either plops in your doorway or on your bed like he is waiting for you. We are keeping you all in our prayers every day. It was a typical weekend here. I did some house work. Your Dad went fishing after working a little and you'd be happy to know your car is washed and the oil is changed for you. (Katelyn is getting tired of your car hogging in the garage.) After church Katelyn had friends over. It misted a little and the temp dropped quite a bit. Dad thought it was perfect to go pick up some night crawlers for next time out fishing. We lost an hour of sleep last night as the time changed. I am thinking they probably don't have daylight savings time in Honduras but you'll have to let us know. Glad to here you are eating well. Aside from a lot of veggies and fish I knew you'd eat. I heard one of my new favorite songs yesterday. You know; the one I told you I like cause it is a parents words to there children. (Yes, the one you rolled your eyes at when I told you I liked it because of that. LOL!) Well it made me think of all of you taking time out of your busy lives of work, school, activites, preparing for college, etc.. and helping by doing good things for the people in Honduras. The line was Tim McGraw's: "I know you have mountains to climb.....but always stay humble and kind." You truly are doing wonderful things and should be very proud of yourselves. We love you Chandler! Your sister is counting down the days. Enjoy your day! We look forward to hearing more.

    ReplyDelete
  9. Ryan says he misses you but he likes having his spot back at the dinner table and he likes his new room. We have been at Colin'basketball games all weekend. They won 2 games yesterday and have 2 more today. Hope you enjoyed your day of shopping... Love from all of us!!

    ReplyDelete
  10. Hi Bruce and all! I bet you're surprised I'm sending you a note since you are without one of your kiddos on this trip...surprise! Yes, we do love and miss you too...but are so proud you are doing what you truly love doing, helping others! It sounds like the team is doing an amazing job and getting things done with which I had no doubt. I look up to each and every one of you missionners for giving so selflessly of the time and talents God has given you! You are all truly special people and we thank you for doing God's work. This is a testament of your faith and know this experience will continue to live on in each one of you! Hope you had a wonderful day today and we will continue to keep you all in our prayers the remainder of your trip. Love and hugs! Pam

    ReplyDelete
  11. Hi Megan this is Cole.I miss you so much!I can't wait to play Super Mario Bros with you.Tell uncle Mike hi for me.I bet he has a lot of friends already.��Can't wait to see you!Bye,love you.

    ReplyDelete
  12. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  13. Hey Josie! I will tell Ali to let Barry and Lissa know you said congrats!
    It rained a little last night. It really smells like spring.
    We are anxiously awaiting your stories. Tell Roman you got Jenn's vanilla so he does not have to!
    Have fun shopping today! Make sure you get things that will remind you of this trip. And yes, you are making a difference. Hopefully you can get a few pics with your new friend, Wendy. That would be awesome!
    Take care! Drink lots of water! Oh, Paris, this momma says be careful too! Julie said the hot tub is ready for your return.
    Prayers and hugs!
    Love, mom aka momma K

    ReplyDelete
  14. Hi Cindy and Brady it is a warm and damp in Remsen. Blaine and the 8th grade are in championship of the tournament and Blaine hit some clutch free throws like his brother! I think Sadie is missing both of you. Have fun shopping and hope the rest of the week goes well. You are in our prayers love you.

    ReplyDelete
  15. Had a great time in Lincoln with celebrating Adri's birthday. We met a cowboy from Sidney, Nebraska. Saw the movie Risen. Now I'm heading back to reality. I'm loading hogs on Tuesday. I hope to clean up the house after that. I need to go grocery shopping; I'm out of a few things. Keep up the good work and don't get injured. We can't afford for you to get hurt. Love, Tom (dictated to Adrienne)

    ReplyDelete
  16. Today woke up to fog and some light rain. I went to Sioux City to meet your Aunt Vicky. She was passing through. We met at the McDonald's by the Interstate and ate egg McMuffins. Loved your little message to me. I love you mi hijo!! Tonight we plan to meet Harry for a beer. I am sure he will be asking all about you. Dad is cleaning in the garage today. I need to work on some stamping projects. We saw Drew last night at church. He said that David Puhl is jealous about ALL THE WORK that you are accomplishing. It does sound like you are moving and shaking!! Our prayers continue for you all. Love, Madre

    ReplyDelete
  17. Mom, I (Drew) did write yesterday, don't give Ali too much credit. Jay and I have been holding the forts down while the girls play all day. The kids are ready for grandma to come back.

    ReplyDelete
  18. Hi Megan and Mike. We just left Onawa. Lucas had a basketball tournament there. They got 1st place. We are headed to St Luke's to see Granddad and Grandma. Mike, ask Megan if you can have a pair of her ear plugs so you don't have to listen to the roosters. Glad to hear that you all are making such good progress with you work. I hope everyone enjoyed your day off and shopping today. Megan, did you remember to buy me some vanilla? I hope so. Enjoy every minute of the next 5 days. It will go fast. Love and miss you. Mom/Judi

    ReplyDelete
  19. Hope everyone is enjoying your day away from all the work you have been doing. So many people keep asking us how you all are doing and we are excited to show the pictures you have shared us. Keaton, we sure miss not having you around home. Glad to read you are enjoying your time in Honduras. Can't wait to hear all your stories!

    ReplyDelete
  20. Hi Patrick...It’s Sunday afternoon and I just came back from visiting with Ruth for almost 3 hours. :) She is doing well and had lot’s of questions about Honduras. I brought her some pictures that have been posted, thinking she would enjoy them. She really liked looking at them. I am hoping that everyone had a relaxing Sunday. The work you are doing is amazing and you are all making a difference in someones life. Keep up the great work! Prayers for good health and safety for all..We miss you tons! And are counting the days until you are home…

    ReplyDelete
  21. Only four more days, so soak it up and continue creating that shining city on a hill (Matt 5:4). The world hurts a little tonight, as there has been an Al-Qaeda attack on a similar area, the Ivory Coast, in Africa. Understand your role in making the world just a bit brighter and better over the next few days. With every bit of good you do, you fight back the bad. With every friend you make, you bridge the ignorance and mistrust. Have a super four more days, and Scott, I have found an amazing new sushi and Thai place for when I get back. God bless you all.

    ReplyDelete
  22. Patrick - I forgot one more update for you...Selection Sunday! Iowa State got number 4 seed in Denver and they play Iona on Thursday. Between your sister and I, we will keep you informed. The boys are missing you...

    ReplyDelete
  23. Pat, Dave & Janet-- Enjoying all the fun comments you've been getting from your "friends at Spencer Ag". They've definitely got Lear written all over them! Hope you all had a great day today after your amazing work this week. :)
    Pat & Jason--I was really excited to get to share your adventures with Grandma & Grandpa Zenk. They came out today and I got to share all of the entries on the blog so far. They couldn't get over all the amazing work you are accomplishing. They had no idea the poverty you are seeing. Your Dad said you should be commended for the time and energy that all of you are putting in over there. Grandma Miller was also happy to hear about you and wants you to know she's been praying for you! :)
    Adrienne and I had movie night Friday night and watched "Parent Trap". It's still good after all the times we've seen it. Jack spent Saturday & Sunday with us. We watched the "Avengers" this afternoon. So Jason, we think we need to have a Marvel movie marathon before the new Captain America movie comes out in May. You in?
    Tyler gets to run in his first track meet of the season tomorrow. He is pumped and I can't wait to watch him!
    Enjoy the rest of your week! Miss you like crazy--looking forward to hearing all about your amazing trip!
    Hugs,
    Jean, Tyler & Adrienne

    ReplyDelete
  24. Hey Joe and Jill, Now that I know you can build things, I am going to expect something built down at Washta. Take care.
    Love you.
    Carol

    ReplyDelete
  25. Good evening all - glad to hear that all is going well (which it normally does, due to the great folks that we have in charge of this program) If DJ and Bruce get out of line any more just let me know and I will fly down and care of them :) (that also includes Doug of course - and you too Pat!). God bless you all for the great sacrifice you are giving to these people! I wish I could be there by your side! Keep up the wonderful job you are doing, and I look forward to seeing you in Omaha this Friday! (PS: there is a chance this is JD and not Mary even though it is her account today)

    ReplyDelete
  26. Hi, Miss Meghan! I love reading the blog and yet my heart hurts at the same time! I know I have no idea what you are seeing. We pray for each of you and the Hondurans. We can hardly wait to get to hear first hand of your experiences. We went to church this morning in dense fog. I took Kennedy and Lauren shopping. We missed you! It sounds like you got a day of rest and relaxation today. I am sure you all enjoyed that as well. With Daylight Savings time kicking in last night and losing an hour of sleep, I need a nap - like going to bed a couple hours early tonight:-) Take care! We love you! Prayers, hugs and a big kiss!

    ReplyDelete
  27. Oh by the way --- I missed my nights in Honduras .... and Lucas was home this weekend ... so we bought 25 roosters and 47 dogs and locked ourselves in a room with them for the weekend just to give us the old feelings back.

    ReplyDelete
  28. Hi, Meghan again! Your mom just called and asked me to please tell you she and the rest of your family have been trying to send a message to you on the blog but it is not working�� She said she could easily lose her religion so instead wants me to tell you they missed you at the family supper tonight, they love you, they miss you, they will continue to read the blog and comments BUT they will not be posting! They send hugs and kissesXOXO

    ReplyDelete
  29. House is sure quiet around here without you Carly. I said an extra prayer at church hoping everyone is safe and enjoying the experience. The girls say hi and miss you too. Your mini twin now hibernate to the basement. I think you might be sharing the twin bed in your room! Love you and so proud of you. Take care everyone.

    ReplyDelete
  30. Hi Cindy and Brady
    Love being able to keep up on all you are accomplishing. We continue to pray for all of you to be the hands and feet of Christ to do the work he has set forth for you. It looks like you have brought many blessings to all of the people there. I am sure you have gained a whole new insight of another life and many blessings. We continue to pray for you all in these last days as you are probably tired and realizing that you mission will be coming to a close. Know you have blessed many people. I am so proud of you for being a part of something so wonderful. Love and prayers to all from Nebraska. The Klug's

    ReplyDelete
  31. Hi Cindy, Brady,and Keaton- These are Harps favorite students Jena, Camryn, Maddie, Bradi and AJ. Hope you all are having a great time. We're looking at all of your pictures and we are all so jelly. Cindy, I think Harp is really missing you. :) Can't wait for you to come back and hear about your time. Well, I better get back to class. See you soon.

    ReplyDelete
  32. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  33. Hi Joe Schuch! Love you buddy!
    Dad

    ReplyDelete