Tuesday, September 18, 2007

The Middle of Winter

The heaviest part of winter has finally set-in on the island and should last untill the beginning of November. These are excellent conditions for all the trees and plants that have gone in the ground recently but less desirable for construction work.

The roof of the workshop is currently being put on and this structure will serve as the first dwelling as soon as it is completed. Martijn is itching to finally spend a night on the property! Besides the small team working with the workshop the rest of the workers are now permanently busy at the top of the property where the basic lay-out has been established. Work is now focussing on establishing the main paths which will allow for easy movement during the coming months of intense construction.

Meanwhile we still find ourselves caught-up in the local conflict which is complicating the delivery of materials. A meeting between the two groups is being held today with the municipal police which will hopefully result in some sort of resolution. As for Totoco, we have organized a meeting between the involved parties, community leaders and a local human rights organisation in an attempt to mediate. This meeting will take place tomorrow.

On a final note, Roslyn will be arriving back in Nicaragua this week which means the team will be complete once again. We are glad to have her back and look forward to having her input in the design details of the crucial top section of the property.