Hello from Swaziland, Africa

Hello everyone:

I wanted to give you an update of the progress and life here in Swaziland, Africa. The second construction team left on Monday, June 2. We were able to refurbish a concrete structure that will be the Pastor's home. It is on the same property as the new church structure that was started by the first team. We were able to enclose one wall with concrete block - putting in a doorway and a window opening. The team put in ceiling joists and rafters and all the room dividers. We were able to get most of the plumbing ran for the kitchen and bathroom. I have some finish work to do, along with helping to manage the contract labor force that will be brought in to finish varies aspects of the project. Before the team left they we able to meet the first family that will be moving into the orphanage portion of the pastor's home. The family is a mother with 4 children. They are looking forward the possibility of moving into their new home soon. I am shifting to a site-manager and I have several meetings on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. I have been out in the community delivering food items and offering prayer to some of the local residents. In the states we call them see through houses one's that the house is so big that the people can not afford furniture. Here the walls are so thin that the breezes blow through the clothe hanging from the walls. The stones that make up the walls have gaps in them that you can put a fist through the wall without touching anything. When I woke up on Tuesday morning, 6-10-08 we had to scrap frost from the window of the car bringing me into my first meeting. We have had frost several mornings and this is the beginning of their Winter. They will have 2 more months of bitter cold. It appears that few people have adequate housing and clothing. I have helped distribute boxes of food that are labeled "US Aid, food provided by the American people". The food prices are similar to the states, so most people eat rice and bread. Fruits and Vegetables are a luxury if they can not grow it themselves. It has been an extreme learning experience for me.

I wish that everyone is well and that you continue to keep me in your thoughts and prayers.
Paul Conover