Tuesday Report

Content by Joanne

Everyone was "bright-eyed and bushy-tailed" for our first full work day - although some were suffering shower-deprivation from a hot water issue. Breakfast was very tasty, we were all given our box lunches, and we loaded into our two vans for transportation about 8:15.

Team Juan

Team Juan had a 15-20 minute drive through some great scenery to their build location - in the middle of a corn field. As the group was evaluating their surroundings, Tall Colin stated the obvious when he said 'Well, I guess we are really going to be starting from scratch'! The small patch in the field was cleared of corn and leveled, but that was it - a blank slate. The first order of business was to make some stakes out of wood and a machete (a new tool for some), and mark out the corners. After this a hose and water was used to create a natural level, and a plane was created. Fishing twine created a guide, and team went to work digging a trench for footings where the concrete would be poured. The only thing that eventually stopped the group was - no concrete - the delivery truck was not there yet.



At lunch the group ate some incredibly fresh and massive corn. After opening the husk, some lime and salt was sprinkled on - it was delicious! However, with no delivery truck in site, the group was out of work. No problem - they just loaded back into the van and went to visit Team Timoteo - arriving just in time to help shovel out the sand and aggregate from their delivery truck, and help out doing - you guessed it - digging more trenches!! Perfect timing.



Father and Son duo showing the locals how
Canadians shovel snow.... or gravel.





Team Timoteo

Team Timoteo arrived full of vim and vigor at their build site to find a cleared corn field, a valley where there had obviously been a mud slide, and no-one else. They checked out the location, including the mud flats where the family home used to stand, and the washed out road just below it. Within a few minutes Timoteo arrived with his bag of tools and the team got to work.





They cut down another row of corn, moved dirt from one side to the other, and started to work on the trees that were growing along the side of the plot of land. Some of the trees were rotten and easy to remove, but a number of them were still living and were not so interested in being uprooted. There was a very amusing time when Trent and Joanne worked one tree for 20-30 minutes, after which Megan stepped in and gave one quick twist, picked up the whole truck, and walked off with it. Very impressive! 



Female Power!



The team had just started marking out dig lines when the delivery truck arrived, so the architectural activities were suspended while the group unloaded bricks, sheets of tin for the roof, sand, gravel, and bags and bags of cement (and they were heavy!) During this activity, Team Juan had arrived, so there was a real group effort at digging the trenches - their previous experience with this task was greatly appreciated.





The background to the Team Timoteo was a constant group of friends - the children from the family next door. Long Colin was a natural with the kids, and they soon were our constant companions. There were races on the road, push-up contests, lots of shy smiles, hopscotch, and of course the great draw - cameras. One 10-year old boy was quite proud to be helping with wheelbarrow activities.



Future Ansell Adams Learning from a Master Photgrapher!



At 4:00 PM our vans arrived from the quick trip home, hot showers (for most), some free time to walk around town, and some electronic catch-up in the 10-foot circle around the router where we are able to get wireless internet access. Supper was beef stew, rice, soup, and salad, as well as a round of 'One good thing, one bad thing, and one thing learned', where everyone gets to talk about one good thing that happened to them that day, one bad thing, and one thing they learned. This is a great group activity and lead to lots of insight, chuckles, and reflections. Oh - and everyone finally got hot water thanks to some group sleuthing!







Megan and the First Build Day

Content by Megan

The water looks like soot. Its circles down the drain and I sigh. I'm having the hottest shower possible. My entire body aches and I would do anything for a back rub. Anything. I wash my hair and see black fall into the floor of the tub. I am covered in dirt, cement and dust.

The morning was a freezing cold start at 7am. The entire team sat huddled around cups of coffee, fresh  fruit and pancakes. The mood is calm. We are all preparing ourselves for the work ahead. Our Habitat build starts today. We are split into two groups and go to two different job sights.

The ride is only 15 minutes. We take a turn and I see pure destruction. Half the road is missing and a cliff is covered in mud. A land slide happened here and wiped out almost everything. Its hot when I step out of the van and my chest begins to burn. There is nothing left to this village. It is dirty and full of garbage. I look around and say aloud "Thank you God, for living in Canada." My heart aches again and we start the hike up the road to our building sight.

Don Timoteo is a father of six children and five grandchildren. He and his wife are the only two locals helping us on this build. He sees us, waves and tears begin to fill his eyes. I hug him and say good morning and he cries even harder. He expresses nothing but gratitude. He cries more and says thank you, thank God and buries his head into his hands. The tears fill my eyes and I remember why I'm here. We all clasp hands and say a prayer. Again I have tears fill my eyes.

The sun is beating down on us, the dirt is lingering in the air and I have sweat dripping off my nose. We are digging, lifting and sharing stories of our lives before this build.

There is a family of six beside us. The children play in the dirt. They're all sick. They have runny noses, missing teeth and everyone of these kids are coughing. Although they seem very happy. I walk down the road and they follow me like a pack of wolves. I bend down and open my arms. "Ola, Ninos!" They all smile and a little girl named Sonja runs into my arms and hugs me tight enough to take away my breath. We play hop scotch, tag and they show me their new kitten. Every where on the build I go, I have children laughing behind me.
They tickle me, giggle, and love my camera. I snap pictures of them and then teach them how to use it. They run and laugh and laugh more. Sonja's brother speaks a small amount of English. He says "Wanna see my house?" I smile and agree. We step on to the porch and I am filled with pity and sorrow. There are no words to describe what surrounds me. This is poverty in it's purest form. There is garbage everywhere. The house only has three rooms. There are no windows and no doors. The sink is also the tub. They have dirt floors and no clean water. The bedroom is and open room with two beds. One for the six children and one for their parents. I hold my chest and tears fill my eyes. Sonja takes my hand and shows me her bed and room. I smile and she giggles. She pulls on my hair band. I take my hair out from a pony tail and all the children surround me in this little room. "Bonita!!" and the touch my hair. No one here has even seen blonde hair before. Sonja's little sister braids my bangs and she then kisses me.

I am filled with humbleness and want nothing more than to take all these children home with me. I want to help them.

The day comes to a close and now I play on a laptop in a nice, clean hotel. I cannot believe what I have seen today. My heart is still sore.

Thanksgiving Day - after the volcano

Content by Joanne

Yes, that is a puff of smoke on the second volcano!

After our volcano experience, we drove on to our homebase Tecpan, making a quick stop for cash, pharmaceuticals (in a store complete with armed security), and ice-cream! On the way, we passed the auto-parts center of Guatemala - Chimaltenango City. Not necessarily a place that I would recommend for a longer stay, but interesting nonetheless. The scenery was rolling hills, trees (with the occasional palm-tree) and lots of chicken-busses belching smoke.

On arrival at Tecpan and our hotel at the Hotel Villa de Don Pancho, and we are quickly ushered in to the large eating area for our delayed lunch.

After lunch we met our families. I can not remember all their names right now - I am just getting the team names down.

The first family includes the father and his wife, along  with one grown daughter, a young daughter, and a young grandson. His house was washed away by hurricane Agatha in May, at which time he lost a son and daughter (the mother of the grandson we met) to the storm. During this catastrophic day, his son-in-law (the father of the grandson we met and husband of the daughter who perished), was severely injured and now on crutches and unable to return to work in the fields for 12-18  months. Imagine...

The second family was represented by the father. His family includes 6 children and 5 grandchildren, and they too lost their house in Agatha. He gave a bit of a speech in Spanish about how thankful he was. Our interpreter did not try to keep up, as the father was quite emotional and everyone understood the meaning. There were very few dry eyes in the room.

We then had some cake and soda, followed by a meet-and-greet with the families. The children were eventually drawn out by seeing their pictures on various cameras, and they even got to take a few shots.

It is going to be excellent....

Megan and the Mountain - Thanksgiving Day

Content by Megan I feel like I am drinking a piece of heaven. I inhale the rich mocha smell and let the warm liquid hit my lips. This is the best hot chocolate that I have ever tasted. Made fresh this morning from fresh cocoa beans picked yesterday. The rest of my team sits quietly in the cafe, discussing what our day is going to be like, while I bask in this cup of pure lust. Our team leader Tim, informs us that we will not be building until tomorrow morning. I am some what relieved due to my roommate not getting to sleep until 3 hours ago. "Today we will hike to volcano!" Everyone groans but me! I throw my fist into the air and say "yes!" My team looks at me puzzled and I just blush. We pile on to a small bus and drive 2 hours into the small village at the base of the volcano. I get out and smell dust and sulfer. "Chica, cavallo?!! Good price for you!" A young boy hands me a rope with a very thin horse at the end in the hopes that I will rent the horse for the ride. My heart aches for this poor animal. He is old, starving and lame. "No, gracias" I reply and pat the horse's forehead. He looks at me as if I am to save him and my heart burns again. The team buys water and snacks. I get a kick out of the fact the local village sells Cheetos. I take in my surroundings. There are too many chickens, roosters and dogs running around. They all look unhealthy. There is volcano dust on everything. The cars have it. The people have it. The horses have it. I squat down and call "Ola! Perro!!" and extend my hand to a small chestnut dog. She wags her tail and slinks over. She snuggles into my leg and closes her eyes in comfort. I think how can I fit this dog into my purse. The guide yells and we make our way up the base of the volcano. 7500 feet up. Straight up. My calves are burning, my brow is covered in sweat and I am now also covered in volcano dust.  I head to the front of the group and yell back encouraging words. We stop and I finally look up from the trail. My breath leaves my lungs and I get tears in my eyes. This view is nothing that I have ever seen before. I see lush green trees and more land than my eye can take in. I see a volcano actually smoking. I see a village with tin roofs. Brand new roofs from the recent eruption in the Spring. I also see the small chestnut dog following me up the hill. She sees me and wags her tail. I call her Perro again and she runs to my feet. "Ola, Perro" and I pet her forehead. She and I are not on this adventure together. As we approach the top, I see the land smoking and the heat escaping from the rocks. I cannot get over this heat. Perro is still tagging along and  it makes me smile. I stop constantly and take pictures of how beautiful this world is. I sigh and thank the heavens again for giving me this.  We stop at the top and a bag of marshmallows is open. We take a small stick and roast marshmallows on lava. I am amazed by this - but Perro just sleeps by the heat and I rub her belly. This is way a house build should begin.

Pacaya Here We Come

Content by Joanne

There is a change in itinerary today, as we are going to try and harness the new-team-energy and match it up with the current good weather and walk up the Pacaya volcano. We do get a shuttle part-way up, but after that it is a three-hour hike (up and back) - wish us luck!!

To get the best views, it is recommended that we leave early, so we have to be all packed, fed, and ready to board the bus at 7:00 AM - I guess you should wish us luck on that one as well!

Monday - Let the Games Begin!

Content by Joanne

We had our late-afternoon free yesterday. Some chose to rest after a way-too-early departure time yesterday, and the rest went meandering around lovely Antigua. The quest to find a cigar store was a success for all parties except the one that was interested, but we saw lots of sights - such as the marimba band in the Central park area complete with a local dancer.

Just before supper we met up with the remaining 3 members of our group that arrived earlier, now we are a fearless tribe of 12, plus our leader Tim, and our GV Guatemala representatives Colin and Colin (yes, that is correct, they both have the same name!). Tall Colin is from New Hampshire, and Long Colin (long hair) is from St Louis.

Pre-Dinner drinks were at the Sky Cafe where a roof-top patio offered amazing views of the nearby volcanoes, a new moon, and the stars. The local beer is Gallo - which apparently you can drink too much of...

Supper was at a local place where there were about 12 huge steaming pots of meats-in-sauce to pick from. We were not all exactly sure what they were, but we had a choice of 1 meat and 2 sides and everything was excellent. After a brief session of  'Dance with the Stars' with Trent and Megan (avidly watched by the restaurant staff) we had a leisurely stroll back to hotel for our early-morning (breakfast at 6:30 sharp) and called it a very successful day!

We Have Arrived!

Content by Joanne



Guatemala City, Smog, and Volcano



We are now all settled in at the Hotel Merced in Antigua. Everyone in the first wave made it safe and sound, with no missing luggage!! The rest will be joining us before supper. Now a few of the inrepid are venturing out for a stroll.

The weather is great, none of the rain (yet) that has been plaguing the country. Sunshine is the order of the day.

One interesting note on our drive from the airport to Antigua was a guy dressed in a fireman outfit selling cerveza and soda to the cars waiting in the lineup. Apparently the firemen also do ambulance type work, so the suggestion from our driver was  that they were just out drumming up business!!

So - all is well. The biggest problem I had so far was figuring out how to finf the át´sign on the spanish keyboard with sticky keys and rubbed-off letters. It is ALT GR plus Q if anyone is interested.

What Time Is It?

Content by Joanne

Guatemala is in the Central Time Zone, but does not participate in Daylight Savings. So...

• 6:00 AM in Guatemala is the same as
• 5:00 AM in British Columbia
• 8:00 AM in Ontario and Quebec
• 9:00 AM in the Maritimes
• 7:00 AM in Guatemala is the same as
• 6:00 AM in British Columbia
• 9:00 AM in Ontario and Quebec
• 10:00 AM the Maritimes
• Noon in Guatemala is the same as
• 11:00 AM in British Columbia 
• 2:00 PM in Ontario and Quebec
• 3:00 PM the Maritimes
• 6:00 PM in Guatemala is the same as
• 5:00 PM in British Columbia
• 8:00 PM in Ontario and Quebec
• 9:00 PM in the Maritimes
• 9:00 PM in Guatemala is the same as
• 8:00 PM in British Columbia
• 11:00 PM in Ontario and Quebec
• Midnight in the Maritimes 

R and R Oct 16 - Panajachel

Content taken from Allan's e-mail

On the afternoon of Saturday, October 16 we will be traveling to Panajachel and staying at Hotel Kakchiquel for one night.

Panajachel is a community of 14,000 at an altitude of 5238 feet. Located in the Guatemalan Highlands it provides breathtaking views of three volcanoes that accents what is said to be one of the most beautiful lakes in the world.

Panajachel is the doorway to Lake Atitlan ‘s indigenous villages Santiago Atitlan, Santa Catarina Palopo, San Pedro, San Marcos and Santa Cruz to name a few.

During the period of Spanish conquest the shores of this lake were the scene of great battles in which the Spanish defeated the Tzutujils. The Spanish set up a church and monastery in Panajachel soon afterward and used the town as a centre for converting the Indians to the Catholic faith. The original façade of the church still stands is a significant representation of the colonial architecture in Guatemala.

Panajachel or Pana as it is called by locals is a town full of interesting sights, sounds, and smells. The town has numerous hotels and is full of restaurants and interesting night spots. We will visit Panajachel’s busy market street (Calle Santander) a great place to pick up a souvenir or two.

Map of Panajachel

R and R Oct 18 - La Antigua

Content taken from Allan's E-mail


On October 18 we will travel to La Antigua and check in to Hotel La Merced for two nights.




Antigua in Guatemala is one of the oldest and prettiest colonial cities in Latin America, situated in a valley between three volcanoes. The setting is beautiful but hazardous, the town having experienced 16 earthquakes, frequent floods and a number of fires. It was the country's capital until 1776 when, after sustaining severe damage in a series of devastating earthquakes, the capital was moved to the present day Guatemala City, 30 miles (48km) away.





La Merced Church



In colonial times Antigua was considered to be one of the most splendid cities of the Spanish Empire and was the principal city in Central America. Today it remains an enchanting place with remnants of a prosperous past. It is a delight to wander down the quaint traffic-free cobbled streets, past single storey multi-coloured buildings and mansions, magnificent churches, monasteries and convents. Plazas, inner courtyards and fountains are pretty reminders of the Spanish legacy. The town has been protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a popular destination for visitors. Buildings of interest include the Iglesia de San Francisco, La Merced and the Las Capuchinas.

Antigua becomes extremely busy during the Easter celebrations of Semana Santa, when people from all over the region flock to see the colourful street processions. The rest of the time it has a relaxed and convivial atmosphere with a strong indigenous culture, prevalent in the Sunday market. It is also a popular place to learn Spanish at one of the many language schools, and most students are able to stay with a local family as part of the learning experience.

Map of La Antigua Guatemala

R and R Oct 19 - Pacaya Volcano

Content taken from Allans' e-mail

On the morning of October 19 we will hike the Pacaya Volcano .

Pacaya is a must do experience in Guatemala! After all how often do you get to climb an active volcano? No worries we do not have to be related to Sir Edmund Hillary or have extensive hiking or climbing experience because we can get halfway up the volcano by shuttle. Depending upon the volcanic activity we may see rivers of lava and or chunks of lava shooting out of the crater.

Getting to the top of the crater takes about 3 hours and is not very steep, although the crater itself is somewhat tricky because of lava rock. It will get colder as we reach the top so bring a fleece/sweater and windbreaker (water proof or resistant).  Just remember we will be climbing over lava rock so have a sturdy pair of shoes - not your 'best' pair since they will get cut up by the sharp lava - just a sturdy pair so you have good footing on the rocks.

Current Itinerary

Original content taken from HfH Website and updated based on changes - last updated 27 Sep
This information continues to be subject to change.  

Sunday, October 10
Arrive at Guatemala City La Aurora Airport. Shuttle departure time from the airport is 12:30 PM - look for Habitat signs, Travel to La Antigua and check-in to La Merced Hotel (1 night)

Monday, October 11
Travel to Affiliate - 8:00 AM, Possible visit to Iximche Ruins, Lunch, Welcome & Orientation with families, Check in to La Villa de Don Pancho in Tecpan (5 nights)

Tuesday, Oct.12
Build 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Wednesday, Oct.13
Build 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Thursday, Oct. 14
Build 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Friday, Oct. 15
Build 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Saturday, October 16
Build ½ day 8:00 - 11:00, Depart at 12:00 to Panajachel, Check-in to Hotel Kaqchikel (1 night)

Sunday, October 17
Morning in Panajachel, Visit Local Market, Travel back to Tecpan and check in to La Villa de Don Pancho (1 night)

Monday, October 18
Build ½ day and Goodbye Ceremony 8:00AM - 3:00 PM, Depart for Antigua 4:00 PM and check-in to La Merced Hotel (2 nights)

Tuesday, October 19
Hike Pacaya Volcano, Free day in Antigua

Wednesday, October 20
Shuttles to Airport (very early)

Build Day Schedule
Breakfast at 7:00 AM, leave for the work site at 8:00 AM, build until noon or 1:00 PM, lunch, build until 4:00 PM, back to hotel & clean up, pre-dinner refreshments, dinner at 7:00 PM.

Accommodation

Content extracted from HfH Website, team e-mails, and some googling

Team members should expect to share rooms in a simple but clean and safe hotel. Breakfast and dinner will be at our hotel. We will bring a box lunch from our hotel with us to our worksite.

Current accommodations are:

Tecpan, Chimaltenango (Build Site)
La Villa de Don Pancho
12 Ave. 2-57 Zona 3
Tecpan, Guatemala
Phone: (502) 7840-3202
Some Pictures: http://www.naturalezabierta.com/interna.php?id=173
Hotel E-Mail (maybe): hotellavilladedonpancho@hotmail.com
Notes: Lunch will be sandwiches (1PBJ, 1 meat), fruit and H20, supper will be at the hotel

Panajachel (on Lake Atitlan)
Hotel Kaqchikel
Avenida Santander y Calle los Tigres
3 avenida 4-78, Zona 2, Panajachel, Solola, Guatemala
Phone: Tel: (502) 7762-0634, (502) 7762-1312
Website: http://www.panajachel.com/hotelkakchiquel.htm
Hotel E-Mail: hotelkakchiquel@yahoo.com.ar

Antigua City
La Merced
7a Ave Norte #43 A, Antigua, Guatemala
Phone: (502) 7832-3197
Website: http://www.merced-landivar.com/
Hotel E-Mail: posadalamercedantigua@gmail.com

Team Leader Switch

Unfortunately Allan has had to step down as team leader for our build due to circumstances beyond his control. We are all very sorry to hear this, but a new leader has been found already for our group. Hopefully Allan will follow our progress by checking this blog...

Our new leader Tim has travelled extensively to Guatemala, and has led three GV trips. Apparently Tim also had a 'calling' to this trip - something about a shower - I'm sure we willl get details later...(or not).

Emergency Contact Information

Content taken from an e-mail from Allan dated 19 Aug and updated based on e-mail from Tim dated 24 Sep 

For the duration of your trip someone at Global Village will be available, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to assist you with emergencies. If we are not immediately available we will return your call as soon as possible. You may contact us anytime, day or night if you need assistance.

Please limit contact to these numbers for definite emergencies.

When calling from Guatemala to Canada, dial 001- and then the ten-digit number in Canada.
When calling from Canada to Guatemala, dial 011-502 and then the eight-digit number.
When calling within Guatemala, just dial the eight-digit number.

Global Village in Canada

Name: Suzanne Bullock, Senior GV Coordinator
Phone: 613-267-5537
E-Mail : sbullock@habitat.ca

Name: Phyllis Power, GV Coordinator
Phone: 519-885-4565 ext 267, or 1-800-667-5137 ext 267
E-Mail : ppower@habitat.ca

Name: Paulo de Souza, GV Coordinator
Phone: 519-885-4565 ext 251, or 1-800-667-5137 ext 251
E-Mail : pdesouza@habitat.ca

Emergency phone: 613-264-1250 (call collect if necessary): If you don’t reach someone, leave a detailed message and call the emergency cell phone.

Emergency Cell Phone: 613-264-7355 If we are not be able to answer immediately, please leave a message and we will return your call as soon as possible.

Habitat para la Humanidad Guatemala

Name: Shannon Baines, GV Coordinator
Phone: 502-2331-0456
Cell: 502-4740-6268

Name: Sarah Grabenstatter, Assistant Coordinator
Cell: 502-4740-6716

Name: Carla Wiggins, Logistical Coordinator
Cell: 502-4740-6236

Name: Lauren, Field Coordinator
Cell: 502-4740-6736

Emergency Cell: 502-4613-8282

Habitat Office in Guatemala City

Address: 2ª Avenida 9-60 zona 9 interior •1,Guatemala CA
Phone: 502-2362-6386
E-Mail: sbaines@habitatguate.org

Habitat Office in Chimaltenango

Address: 2 calle A 6-27 Zona 1, Chimaltenango
Name: Emy Garcia, Administrator
Phone: 502-7839-3483, 502-5169-9199
Cell: 502-5961-9521

Canadian Embassy in Guatemala

Address: 13 Calle 8-44 Zone 10, Edificio Edyma Plaza, 8th Floor.
Phone: 502-2363-4348, Fax: 502 2365-1216
E-mail: gtmla@international.gc.ca
Hours open to the public: Monday to Friday: 8:30 - 12:00
After-Hours Emergency: Call collect to Canada: (613) 996-8885 / (613) 944-1310 (TTY)

Medex Travelers Assistance Network

Policy # 6404-54-47 Medex code - CHB
Phone From Canada: 1-800-527-0218
Phone From Around the world: Baltimore, Maryland 1-410-453-6330 (call collect)
Hours: 24 hrs, 7 days a week

Delayed Flights

In the event that your flight is delayed or you are unable to find the Habitat representative at the airport please call our emergency line (502) 4613.8282. (if you are using a Canadian phone you must dial 011 before the country code). You should have the GV Coordinator’s cell phone numbers with you when flying to Guatemala in case for some reason you cannot find them at the airport.

Lost Luggage

If for some reason your luggage does not make it with you on the flight please tell your airline to courier it to your Affiliate hotel address in Tecpan as soon as it arrives. Get a phone number from the airline and please give them the GV coordinators phone number.

Hotels (see more details on accomodation post)

Tecpan, Chimaltenango (Build Site)
La Villa de Don Pancho
Phone: (502) 7840-3202

Panajachel (on Lake Atitlan)
Hotel Kaqchikel
Phone: Tel: (502) 7762-0634, (502) 7762-1312
Hotel E-Mail: hotelkakchiquel@yahoo.com.ar

La Antigua City
Hotel La Merced
Phone: (502) 7832-3197
Hotel E-Mail: posadalamercedantigua@gmail.com

Room Assignments

Content taken from an e-mail from Allan dated 18 August

Room assignments are now available!

Hey - how did he get the n'ice' pillow! 

    Room #1: Lisa and Teresa

    Room #2: Melanie and Megan

    Room #3: Krista and Amanda

    Room #4: Eileen and Joanne

    Room #5: John and Brooke

    Room #6: Dan and Trent

    Presidential Suite (just kidding): Tim

Gifting and Other Social Commentary

Content taken from an e-mail from Allan dated 18 August

GIFTING

During your time in Guatemala you will have the opportunity to meet and work with the families who will be living in the new Habitat homes, as well as with members of the community and the affiliate. This often results in team members wanting to give both individual and group gifts. The purpose of Habitat for Humanity, and of the Global Village program, is to help families improve their situation by giving them a ‘hand up’ rather than a ‘hand out’. In keeping with this philosophy of creating independence, it is important for teams to understand the issues surrounding the giving of individual gifts/money as well as our policy regarding ‘gifting’.

Habitat for Humanity strongly discourages individual gifting as well as large gifts/donations given directly to the individual affiliates. Please note, Habitat for Humanity affiliate staff are not allowed to accept cash donations. While we very much appreciate the sentiment and understand your desire to ‘do more’, the gift of your time, effort, and GV donation is already a tremendously generous one! If team members wish to further support the affiliate and Habitat for Humanity Guatemala, they are encouraged to let their Team Leader know this information and the Team Leader will tell them how to proceed.

Giving individual gifts sets a precedent and falsely raises expectations among the families involved in the project(s) as to what future teams might provide. Individual gifting also has the potential to create jealousy, competition and feelings of ill will among the Habitat families as well as within the community, depending on what type of gift is given and to whom.

If team members wish to bring gifts to the affiliate or to the local community, this should be done in communication with their Team Leader and should be discussed and organized in advance.

Please remember that the families and the affiliate do not expect individual gifts and are already very thankful for your volunteer efforts. Spending time with the affiliate, community, and family members, especially with the children, is the best gift that you can give - and those memories will be everlasting and priceless.


TEAMWORK

(…the difference between a group of isolated individuals and a team of interconnected members...)

T is for Teachable: A teachable spirit helps create a noncompetitive environment in which learning and sharing come naturally. Teachability gives all members the freedom to make mistakes as they learn.
E is for Encouraging: Think of how encouraging words enhance the development of a community. What differences do they make?
A is for Appreciative: What things can we appreciate in others on the team? How can we show our appreciation?
M is for Motivated: Take initiative!
W is for Willing: Team members may have different levels of strength, skill and health, but each should be willing to work to the best of his/her capabilities. Willingness also includes accepting uncomfortable conditions in the host country. Willingly take on the heat, food, bugs and germs.
O is for Open: Be open with what you are learning, experiencing, feeling, thinking, etc. Express both the positive and negative. Your vulnerability with others builds community.
R is for Refreshing: The times may be tough – heat, sickness, exhaustion, physical labour, emotional drain and so on. In those times it will be incredibly refreshing to have another team member help pick up your spirits! Think about how you can be replenishers to each other on a daily basis.
K is for Kindred Spirits: There’s a sense of camaraderie as we pursue this together….different people from different places and walks of life meshing.

F is for Flexible: Anything can change from day to day. A flexible team member will learn to accept the unexpected as the norm.
A is for Agreeable: Living together in close quarters, sharing bathing facilities, and every other aspect of group travel requires everyone to be gracious.
C is for Cooperative: Share with one another, help and assist one another. Instead of grumbling about problems, propose solutions!
T is for Thoughtful: What can you do to make a teammate’s day a little easier?
O is for Obedient: There may be times when the team leader has to ‘pull rank’ and make unpopular decisions. A team player will respect the leader’s authority and encourage others to do the same.
R is for Relational: Get to know the others on your team, especially if you are traveling with someone you already know quite well. Go out of your way to learn about the others…their hopes, their dreams, their history

Packing Tips and Other Items

Wait for me!

Content taken from Allan's e-mail dated 17 August

Pack Light! There, I said it. Lay out everything you plan on wearing for your trip on your bed; then, pack half and put the rest away. Limit your baggage to what you can carry 2 full city blocks without any help. That will help us manage our own bags at airports, through customs, in and out of vans, etc.. For me that means a daypack and mid-sized knapsack.

Luggage

I learned the hard way that EVERYONE has a black, soft sided duffel. Trying to find my bag in the wall of hundreds of black bags “lost” in Istanbul was depressing. Some type of identifying mark on your luggage is important. Sewed on patches, liberal use of outrageously colored yarn or tape also works.

Day packs are handy for the airplane, taking on the worksite, and shopping in town. Keep all important paper work, medication, irreplaceable items and a change of clothes in your carry on. Seldom does a Habitat group arrive at their destination with all luggage in tow. Pack what you will need for the entire flight AND an overnight in your carry on so you can check your luggage through to Guatemala City.

Clothing

You really do not need too much. Plan to wash some of your clothes in your room. Laundry service is available at the hotel. The cost is roughly $1 per item of clothing. In Antigua City it is closer to $5 per load (2Kg).

If you do decide to wash clothes yourself in a sink or tub your clothes will need to be dried on a line. In many instances you can count on cotton garments taken 2 to 3 days to dry, so stay away from cotton if you can.

There are two extremes to think about when packing for a Habitat trip: work clothes and nice clothes. Most of your stuff will be in between, but perhaps a simple shirt will transform those casual togs into something suitable for a nice restaurant. Think about layering and remember that a large chunk of our time will be spent at the worksite, so bring things (shirts, shorts, and pants) that you do not mind ruining with dirt, concrete, mud etc. .

The Basics

For me, being a guy, starting from the top, I like to take:

Me overdressed? Never!

• Hat/cap for sun protection and rain protection (I like to bring a backup)

• Lightweight rain coat/windbreaker

• Fleece vest, pullover or sweater

• Short sleeve semi dressy shirts (2)
• Long sleeve semi dressy shirt (1)
• Shorts (1)
• Pants or Jeans (1)
• Undershorts (4)
• Something to sleep in (pjs)
• Socks (5) I am still searching for the perfect socks- socks that are comfortable, tough and dry quickly.
• Hiking boots or Sturdy shoes (not the super beefy kind just something with a strong toe box and stiff sole)
• Running shoes
• I may also bring a pair of convertible pants/shorts as work clothes
• Work gloves (2 pairs)
• One special outfit (casual not fancy). Casual pants and a casual shirt

I generally try to avoid anything with a large logo on it overseas, though I find it tough to find “generic looking” clothing for travel. I also avoid Canadian flags and the like. Not that I am not patriotic. The best way of not drawing attention to yourself is to wear what you normally wear, with a couple of small modifications.

Toiletries

You’ll find that we will not always be in easy reach of a convenience store or the brands will be different , the packages maybe in Spanish and the prices often higher. Here are some things to consider taking along:

• Soap
• Shampoo
• Deodorant
• Dental care
• Feminine Products
• Personal cosmetic and toiletry items
• Tissues
• TOILET PAPER- yup, bring some. Take a roll from home and squish stuff in a zip-lock bag and it will take less room in your daypack.
• Towel and face cloth (even though they’re provided). This is one luxury I allow myself. I ‘ve have some of the small travel/camp towels and they work quite well. But my favourite is a shammy, cheaper than a camp towel and works better in my opinion.

Personal Items and Medication

• Prescription medication. Pack it in the bottle you get from the pharmacy (keeps it clear at customs and so you don’t get confused yourself)
• Over the counter drugs. If you are susceptible to headaches, cold symptoms or upset stomach, it might not be a bad idea to pack some pain reliever, cold remedy or pepto bismol
• A written copy of your prescription in case you lose the medication and need a refill
• First aid supplies. We will have a team first aid kit, but you may want to band aids for example.
• Insect repellent. Although you guys are in luck , just hang out with me and all the bugs will cling to me and leave you alone!
• Antibacterial wipes –useful for many things
• Sunscreen, chapstick or lotion
• Prescription eye glasses, contact lens solution and contact lenses
• Watch ( a cheap one - not the one you received for Christmas from your wife, mother or girlfriend)
• Sunglasses
• Flashlight , headlamp it may come in handy
• Water purification -We will always have plenty of bottled water with us on the build site. This is something arranged with our host.

Miscellaneous Items

• Good paperback or two to read on the trip and then leave behind
• Family photos to show your new friends
• Travel alarm clock
• Camping knife, scissors, bottle opener type gadget (if you have one)
• Travel sewing kit
• Some to handle laundry (pillow case, small bivy sac)
• Twine or string (clothes line)
• Zip lock bags to put liquid items in in your suitcase (shampoo is always safer inside a Ziploc bag)
• An individual water container with a tight lid
• Camera and extra batteries or a charger
• Small note book or business cards (for giving out your address)
• Games, puzzles, cards
• Snacks (I like Kashi granola bars)

Paperwork and Money

• A driver’s license or other photo id (school or government issued photo id) in addition to your passport
• A safe wallet, purse, pouch to carry your money, id, credit card (always think about pickpockets)
• Your passport. Carry it with you in a safe pocket /pouch or put it in a hotel safety deposit box.

• Two photocopies of your passport (ID Page). Keep one with you and one in your suitcase.

• 2 extra passport photos, for emergency replacement
• Extra copy of your airline itinerary

• Your Medex Travel Insurance card carried with you all the time and a photocopy of it kept in your suitcase.

• Note stating any medical conditions you have or medication you are taking. Keep this with you at all times

• Emergency contact phone and email addresses for family and friends at home

• “Money” in the form of an ATM card or a credit card ( I generally take $100 per week for personal things. That seems about right for gifts, mad-money etc.) Check with your bank regarding your ATM card’s ability to function in Guatemala.

Money Exchange, ATM Machines (cajeros) and Credit Cards

• Money Exchange. You will be able to change any hard currency into Quetzales (Q) with no problem at the airport or at any exchange office Guatemala City or Antigua City.

• The exchange as of August 5, 2010 was $1 CDN=Q7.85 ( Quetzales)

• Cards over cash just does not work in Guatemala. Very few establishments accept cards and those that do, well, they charge up to a 20% processing fee. Most places do not mention a fee beforehand only indicating it on a receipt.

• ATMs have a limit of Q2000 per machine. So if you need to use them it is best to plan ahead to use a couple of different machines . In addition it is not unusual to have machines out of service. In some cases the machine may be down but you will only learn of this when you to try to withdraw funds. What can happen is this: you may not receive your cash but the machine electronically notifies your bank that you did withdraw the funds and your bank will debit your account even though you did not receive your funds. When you attempt to use a machine it is best to record the date, time and location of the machine and call your bank to alert them that the machine is down.

Keeping in Touch

We all love to keep in touch with our loved ones when abroad. If it is necessary for your family members or friends to get in touch with you, the number for Habitat for Humanity Chimaltenango will be available in the Emergency Contact Information to be provided shortly before our departure. A message will be relayed to you. PLEASE tell your family only to contact you in a true state of emergency.

Telephones

In public telephone booths, coins and phone cards can be used. They are sold in Guatemalan Telecom shops, post offices and some kiosks and news-stands (with a sign indicating this). All regular telephone numbers in Guatemala are composed of eight digits. To call from abroad to Guatemala it is necessary to dial the international access code 00 and the country code 502. To call abroad from Guatemala, dial 00, the country code (Canada is 1), the area code and then the number wanted.

Cell Phones

Roaming agreements exist with some international mobile phone companies. Coverage is increasing. Claro, Tigo and Telefonica are the major service providers in Guatemala. A prepaid phone can be purchased for around Q150.

Internet

Internet access is available in our hotel in Tecpan. Internet access is available on payment in some cafés in Antigua City and Guatemala City . In an internet café expect to pay between Q3 and Q6 per hour.

Electricity

The Voltage in Guatemala is 120V. The same as Canada.

Spanish in 20 Minutes

Content taken from Allan's e-mail dated 17 August

Before I travel to a foreign country I always try to learn common expressions like yes, no, please and thank you. This way if I do not understand at least I can be polite while becoming confused. Below I copied some common Spanish phrases for you all to peruse. 

Welcome: Bienvenido (singular) Bienvenidos (plural)
Hello: ¡Hola!¡Diga! ¡Dígame! ¿Sí? ¿Bueno? ¡Hola! ¿Aló? (on phone)

How are you?: ¿Cómo está usted? (formal) ¿Cómo estás? (informal)

I'm fine, thanks. And you?  Bien gracias, ¿y usted? (formal) Bien gracias, ¿y tú? (informal)

Long time no see: ¡Cuánto tiempo! ¡Tanto tiempo sin verte!

What's your name?: ¿Cómo te llamas? (informal) ¿Cómo se llama Usted? (formal)

My name is ... : Me llamo ..., Mi nombre es ...

Where are you from?: ¿De dónde eres? (informal) ¿De dónde es usted? (formal)

I'm from ...: Soy de ...
Pleased to meet you: Mucho gusto Encantado

Good morning: Buenos días

Good afternoon/evening: Buenas tardes

Good night/evening: Buenas noches

Goodbye: Adiós, Hasta luego, Hasta la vista, Hasta mañana
Good luck: ¡Buena suerte!
Cheers/Good health!: ¡Salud!

Have a nice day: ¡Que pase un buen día!

Bon appetit: ¡Buen provecho! ¡Buen apetito!

Bon voyage: ¡Buen viaje!

I don't understand: No entiendo / No comprendo
Please speak more slowly: Por favor hable más despacio
Please write it down: ¿Puede escribirlo, por favor?

Do you speak Spanish?: ¿Habla usted español? (formal) ¿Hablas español? (informal)

Yes, a little: Sí, hablo un poquito de español, Sí, un poco
How do you say ... in Spanish?: ¿Cómo se dice ... en español?

Excuse me: ¡Perdón! ¡Perdone! ¡Discúlpe!
How much is this?¿Cuánto cuesta? ¿Cuánto cuesta esto?
Sorry: ¡Perdón! ¡Perdone! ¡Lo siento!

Thank you: Gracias / Muchas gracias

No problem - it was nothing:  De nada / No hay de qué :

Where's the toilet?¿Dónde están los aseos ¿Dónde están los sanitarios? ¿Dónde está el baño?¿Dónde está el cuarto de baño?
This gentleman/lady will pay for everything: Este hombre/caballero pagará por todo, Esta mujer/dame pagará por todo

Would you like to dance with me?: ¿Querría bailar conmigo? (frm) ¿Querrías bailar conmigo? (inf)

I love you: Te amo / Te quiero
Get well soon: Que te mejores / Que te mejores pronto, ¡Recupérate pronto! Pronta recuperación

Leave me alone!: ¡Déjeme en paz!
Help! : ¡Ayúdame! ¡Socorro! ¡Auxilio!
Fire! : ¡Fuego!
Stop!: ¡Alto!
Call the police!: ¡Llame a la policía!

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year: ¡Feliz Navidad y próspero año nuevo!
Happy Easter: ¡Felices Pascuas!
Happy Birthday: ¡Feliz cumpleaños!

One language is never enough: Un idioma nunca es suficiente, Un solo idioma nunca es suficiente

My hovercraft is full of eels: Mi aerodeslizador está lleno de anguilas

Numbers

0: cero (say-ro)

1: uno(oo-no)

2: dos(dose)

3: tres(trace)

4: cuatro(kwat-ro)

5: cinco(sink-o)

6: seis(saze)

7: siete(see-yet-eh)

8: ocho(och-o)

9: nueve(new-eh-veh)

10: diez(dee-ace)

11: once(ohn-say)

12: doce(dos-say)

13: trece(treh-seh)

14: catorce(ca-TOR-say)

15: quince(KEEN-say)

16: dieciséis(dee-AY-see-saze)

17: diecisiete(dee-AY-see-see-AY-tay )

18: dieciocho(dee-AY-see-och-o)

19: diecinueve(dee-AY-see-new-EH-veh)

20: veinte(Veh-een-tee)
21: veintiuno(Veh-een-tee-oo-no)

22: veintidós(Veh-een-tee-DOS)

23: veintitrés(Veh-een-tee-TRACE)
24: veinticuatro(Veh-een-tee-KWAT-ro)
25: veinticinco(Veh-een-tee-SINK-o)
26: veintiséis(Veh-een-tee-saze)
27: veintisiete(Veh-een-tee-see-ay-tay)

28: veintiocho(Veh-een-tee-OCH-o)

29: veintinueve(Veh-een-tee-new-EH-veh)

30: treinta(treh-een-tah)
31: treinta y uno(treh-een-tah ee oo-no)
32: treinta y dos(treh-een-tah ee DOS)
33: treinta y tres(treh-een-tah ee tres)
34: treinta y cuatro(treh-een-tah ee KWAT-ro)
35: treinta y cinco(treh-een-tah ee SINK-o)

36: treinta y seis(treh-een-tah ee saze)

37: treinta y siete(treh-een-tah ee see-ay-tay)
38: treinta y ocho(treh-een-tah ee OCH-o)
39 treinta y nueve(treh-een-tah ee new-EH-veh)

40 cuarenta(kwar-EN-tah)
41 cuarenta y uno(kwar-EN-tah ee oo-no)
42 cuarenta y dos(kwar-EN-tah ee DOS)
43 cuarenta y tres(kwar-EN-tah ee tres)

44 cuarenta y cuatro(kwar-EN-tah ee KWAT-ro)

45 cuarenta y cinco(kwar-EN-tah ee SINK-o)
46 cuarenta y seis(kwar-EN-tah ee saze)
47 cuarenta y siete(kwar-EN-tah ee see-ay-tay)
48 cuarenta y ocho(kwar-EN-tah ee OCH-o)
49 cuarenta y nueve(kwar-EN-tah ee new-EH-veh)

50 cincuenta(sink-KWEN-tah)

51 cincuenta y uno(sink-KWEN-tah ee oo-no)

52 cincuenta y dos(sink-KWEN-tah ee DOS)
53 cincuenta y tres(sink-KWEN-tah ee tres)
54 cincuenta y cuatro(sink-KWEN-tah ee KWAT-ro)
55 cincuenta y cinco(sink-KWEN-tah ee SINK-o)
56 cincuenta y seis(sink-KWEN-tah ee saze)
57 cincuenta y siete(sink-KWEN-tah ee see-ay-tay)
58 cincuenta y ocho(sink-KWEN-tah ee OCH-o)

59 cincuenta y nueve(sink-KWEN-tah ee new-EH-veh)

60 sesenta(seh-SEHN-tah)
61 sesenta y uno(seh-SEHN-tah ee oo-no)
62 sesenta y dos(seh-SEHN-tah ee DOS)
63 sesenta y tres(seh-SEHN-tah ee tres)
64 sesenta y cuatro(seh-SEHN-tah ee KWAT-ro)
65 sesenta y cinco(seh-SEHN-tah ee SINK-o)

66 sesenta y seis(seh-SEHN-tah ee saze)

67 sesenta y siete(seh-SEHN-tah ee see-ay-tay)
68 sesenta y ocho(seh-SEHN-tah ee OCH-o)
69 sesenta y nueve(seh-SEHN-tah ee new-EH-veh)

70 setenta(seh-TEHN-tah)
71 setenta y uno(seh-TEHN-tah ee oo-no)
72 setenta y dos(seh-TEHN-tah ee DOS)

73 setenta y tres(seh-TEHN-tah ee tres)

74 setenta y cuatro(seh-TEHN-tah ee KWAT-ro)
75 setenta y cinco(seh-TEHN-tah ee SINK-o)
76 setenta y seis(seh-TEHN-tah ee saze)
77 setenta y siete(seh-TEHN-tah ee see-ay-tay)
78 setenta y ocho(seh-TEHN-tah ee OCH-o)
79 setenta y nueve(seh-TEHN-tah ee new-EH-veh)

80 ochenta(och-EHN-tah)
81 ochenta y uno(och-EHN-tah ee oo-no)
82 ochenta y dos(och-EHN-tah ee DOS)
83 ochenta y tres(och-EHN-tah ee tres)
84 ochenta y cuatro(och-EHN-tah ee KWAT-ro)
85 ochenta y cinco(och-EHN-tah ee SINK-o)
86 ochenta y seis(och-EHN-tah ee saze)
87 ochenta y siete(och-EHN-tah ee see-ay-tay)

88 ochenta y ocho(och-EHN-tah ee OCH-o)

89 ochenta y nueve(och-EHN-tah ee new-EH-veh)

90 noventa(no-VEHN-tah)
91 noventa y uno(no-VEHN-tah ee oo-no)
92 noventa y dos(no-VEHN-tah ee DOS)
93 noventa y tres(no-VEHN-tah ee tres)
94 noventa y cuatro(no-VEHN-tah ee KWAT-ro)
95 noventa y cinco(no-VEHN-tah ee SINK-o)

96 noventa y seis(no-VEHN-tah ee saze)

97 noventa y siete(no-VEHN-tah ee see-ay-tay)
98 noventa y ocho(no-VEHN-tah ee OCH-o)
99 noventa y nueve(no-VEHN-tah ee new-EH-veh)

100 cien(see-EHN)

¡Socorro! Mi aerodeslizador está lleno de anguilas!

Build Overview

Content taken from HfH Website

Chimaltenango, Guatemala - October 10 - 20, 2010

This Global Village trip is a chance to experience local culture in Guatemala, helping families’ dreams of a decent and affordable home come true. Discover the country’s culture and life while you help build simple, decent homes for the community in Chimaltenango.

No previous construction skills or experience are required-just a desire to learn, be flexible, share tasks and enjoy making friends and acquaintances from different cultures as well as your own. This 11 day build will be an excellent and a life changing experience.