Fourth Day at the Malnutrition Center

Today was our fourth and final day at the malnutrition center. To begin with, a family had brought four of their children for medical attention and possibly to stay at the center. These children all had 'chicken poop' feet, or feet that had been exposed to dirt floors and unsanitary conditions and had become very badly infected. Tanya put her nursing skills to great use and helped to get these little children's feet to health. All four of the children were able to stay at the center to our surprise, as usually only one child per family can stay due to limited resources at the center. This really shows how the center is growing!
After this traumatic start to the day, we were all really trying to enjoy our last day at the center with the children who we had grown so attached to throughout the week. Our work at the center has really paid off as well, because we had Jose, a child who didn't crack a smile all week, laughing almost, and Sandra, the quietest of the bunch, pointing and talking, and Griselda, a child with cerebral palsy, reaching out and trying to grab things. The results of simply one week here have been extraordinary!
On the technical side of things, we had bought a new lawn mower and weed eater, and with Florida State technical grads leading the way, we mowed the whole jungle around the place! Our back-breaking labor really paid off! Another new purchase was a much-needed freezer for the kitchen. The painting continued as well, with the second coatings adding the finishing touches to the bright and beautiful yellow rooms!
Saying our goodbyes were extremely hard and tears were shed here and there, but knowing that the center would keep the kids growing and getting healthier and healthier helped make it easier. Right as we were starting to leave; however, we unfortunately discovered that the keys to the van had 'disappeared.' We sent out a search party and looked over the whole center, but we came out unsuccessful. We had to have Pastor Mike ride over and bring a spare key!
Despite a few mishaps, this day has turned out to be an amazing last day at the center, and hopefully all of our work there will be greatly appreciated. We gave all of the children much love and affection, and they are all ready for the next team to come and give them just as much love!