Around Pueblo Nuevo

This is what community looks like in the Embera indigenous village of Pueblo Nuevo, Panama, Every day, the women who have time gather at the traditional round thatched Casa Comunal to watch any pre-schoolers who need watching, cook a meal for everyone and work together on their crafts, which they sell. It looked like a happy scene to me – plenty of laughter, chattering and likely some gossip. This frees the young mothers to catch up on house chores or shop, etc.

Imagine if we trusted each other and cooperated and helped each other more, instead of feeling like we must be totally self-sufficient islands.

Imagine…..

Stetson Brigade

We had 22 terrific volunteers from Stetson working in Pueblo Nuevo on the new Bano units (composting toilet, shower and wash tub). It was a HOT and humid day, but they troopered on. It was a delight for me to spend the day with them. They are bright, hard-working and really interesting. Also asked a TON of questions, which I enjoy.

It says a lot about these college kids that instead of spending their Spring Break at the beach lapping up beer, they have chosen to explore a new country and culture and do some good and promote international understanding. Lord knows, we need all of that we can get with Trump at the helm. They give me hope in their generation.

Way off on the edge of Pueblo Nuevo, I found this old composting toilet. Benildo said it was built 10 years ago. Same kind of seat as I used in Peru and good overall construction. Looks like it was used until both sides filled up and then abandoned. The hut next to it is empty. Next week, I’ll use it as a demonstration of what the (very) well mellowed compost looks like. So not a total loss.

This is the classic NGO latrine, built from corrugated metal. Hot and stinky as can be. A couple of the volunteers tried to use it, but turned back by the odor when they got to the door. It really is hard for me to imagine how anyone uses these things. Can they hold their breath that long ??

This is the standard shower area in this area of Panama. Metal or plastic side walls with no roof. A small concrete “shower pad” at left. You dip a bucket in the water barrel and pour it over your head. Kinda like that Ice bucket challenge, but not so cold.

There’s a new colt on the block by my cottage. He and Mom seem to be doing well. I’m also seeing many young calves in the cattle fields. Must be spring.