On our way out to Kantolomba we picked up one of Nancy’s technicians, who will walk the sewing team through the process of threading the world’s most complicated sewing machine—an “overlocker” we bought in May.
The threading demonstration.
They had learned how to thread it but it is incredibly complex. This time we took photos and notes and everything we could think of to be sure they have something to refer back to several weeks from now when they have to go through this process again.
Georgina being on maternity leave, Nelly and Ethel are really the ones who will take responsibility for knowing the machines.
Ashwini interacting with some of the older students in the program.
We purchased a piece of property across the road from the main Living Compassion compound as a place to dig the new pit latrines in an effort to have that area separate from the rest of the daily activities. Cheri and Jen met with the men who will take on the project. We laid out exactly where the holes will be dug.
We visited the existing pit latrine to discuss the design of the new ones. We’re trying to find the line between having enough cement to hold the structure against the heavy November through April rains and putting unnecessary amounts of concrete into the earth. The foundation of the old one appears to have been built with huge amounts of concrete. However, after much discussion we learned from Muyunda that it’s actually a thin layer of concrete over mealie meal sacks and wood.
Surveying the new site.
Deciding on an exact spot for the holes.
Looking at the existing pit latrine.
We’ve learned over time that a very clear understanding of the desired outcome, on both sides, is critical to our success—in this case drawing exact plans, including specification for the size and length of timbers and numbers of “pockets” of concrete.
The signed blueprints and contract for the new pit latrines.
A few more stops before heading home for the day.
Jen trying on a little girl’s dress the cooperative made.
Some of our adorable friends.
Christine, Veronica and Beauty doing the dishes.
Jen greeting Anne’s granddaughter