Monday, November 17, 2008

Beautiful Children of Cascalheira

The past two Sundays we took four children each time to the mercado. We picked them up from Cascalheira at 8 AM. They were truly in their Sunday's best. Clean, combed and dressed and so very happy. Eating was first. Bellies full we continued on. They were excellently behaved, gentle with each other and with the goods. Look at these pictures, they are like any other child. You would never know they were from poverty and no opportunities.
How sweet is this? Stephanie cleaning Daniela's face.


A vendor with her son posing with us. She kept blessing us for taking these children to the mercado.


Flip flops for each one!


Daniel, Stephanie, Daniela and Francisco. Back home with their goods. We got the best hugs from them and they truly meant it.


First time on a trampoline for Regina and Tamiris.


After the trampoline they were ready to eat.


Odeilson and Felepe. Great boys with their new caps.


Another great Sunday for another great four kids!

Wednesday, November 5, 2008

What a welcome!

We went to Cascalheira without bringing anything with us. Just to visit and assess what has developed, what is needed to be done, etc. Of course there's no way to let them know we are coming, we just showed up. We always just show up. We had the most warm, friendly and affectionate welcome. The children gave the sweetest hugs, the adults with beautiful smiles and hugs. We have grown to love these incredible people. Look at the smiles. They are in our hearts. They live so simply. Barely anything is in their little shacks. For all of you who have helped and donated, our gratitude is very big. For those who are touched and want to reach out, please do so. As always, any amount is gratefully accepted. I would like to start a literacy/book club. Perhaps starting with a few children, around 8 and have them meet 2 hours 2-3 times a week with a teacher and they would read a book. If anyone has any ideas on how to get this started please email me at jtanyu@aol.com