Monday Day 1

Hi all!

Hannah here! I'm excited to be back to Tijuana and for the adventures that are yet to come. This will be my 7th time here with Esperanza and I couldn't be happier to be back.

Today was a  beautiful day out. It was sunny and warm with sun and smiles. The very first day of our work took place in La Morita (or very close to). We are working with a gentleman named Marcos. He is a migrant living in Tijuana. Marcos spent his life, from three years old on, living in Riverside, CA, he was recently deported at age 34. His family, wife and four kids, are still living in California so the kids can finish the school year, they will then decide what they are going to do after that.

Despite his narrative, Marcos has dreams that last miles. He would like to convert the trailer he is currently living in into a food truck for hamburgers, he has his colorful sign made and many ideas for the business. Marcos dreams of having his home built so that he can support himself and his family in the best way possible. Marcos, despite the situation he has been put in, remains positive, caring, and wiling to help whomever he can in his life. He has the definition of what we would call a "big heart".

Throughout my time visiting and living in Tijuana, I have met many individuals who have the same narrative as Marcos. It is discouraging to see a nation putting many people through the same story and not learning form their lesson, but I also see the hope these individuals have for themselves, their families, and the world no matter what their next path may be. I am privileged to have been able to share a small part of Marcos's life, along with everyone else's lives I've gotten to be in since being involved in this trip, and accepting a part of Tijuana as my heart too.

Today we helped Marcos with backfilling his foundation in order to pour his floor on Friday. It was a fun day filled with music and laughter, along with lots and lots of dirt. Pastor Kevan also made a great new friend named Scooby, if anyone is interested in seeing photos of that cute little pup, our worksite, or our homeowner, go check out Phil's pictures from the day!

Until next time!
Hannah.