Scott in Swaziland: Dreams Do Come True.

During the month of July we had visitors from northern California. David's parents, David and Jane Haproff, came to stay with us in Swaziland. All of our friends and extended family here were very pleased to be able to meet David's parents. Soon and without any prompting they became known as Mukhulu (grandfather) and Gogo (grandmother) Haproff. Our friends here were very taken with their incredible warmth, sense of family, and understanding and deep love for Africa. Jane and David had spent three years in Kenya forty years ago as lay missionaries, and it showed by their quick understanding and intuitiveness of the local culture. Many days were spent visiting the patients and families that we have gotten to know here, and they really considered it an honor to get to meet the matriarch and patriarch of the Haproff family. Additionally, they made home visits with the Home Based Care team, and that was one of the highlights of their stay for all concerned.
Soon after their arrival we took them to meet Elsie, Siphesihle, and the family. It was love at first sight. Jane and David made it a priority of theirs to find out what could be done to help this family. Shelter for the family became an obvious starting point and plans were made to build Elsie a home that would provide lasting shelter for her family. We enlisted the help of Mnendisis, who is a young local builder and contractor. He has built several homes for needy Home Based Care patients and their families. The vast majority of the materials for building the house we purchased locally from Swazi owned businesses. Thus helping to provide support for the local economy. The plans for the home were sketched, pricing of materials and labor were provided and it was time to buy the materials. We wanted to begin construction as quickly as possible so that David and Jane would be able to see the project through to completion. It took a lot of time running errands, buying supplies and providing transportation for the builders but the fruits of all of our labor payed off. The construction of the house was completed before David and Jane's departure and the painting and finishing touches soon thereafter.
A great deal of gratitude is owed to Mukhulu and Gogo Haproff. They completely funded the project without hesitation and asked for nothing in return. Many tears were shed by Elsie and her family at the great gift that they received, a new home that they will have as their own to keep them warm and dry for a lifetime to come. This home was truly a labor of love. A lasting gift of love, support and compassion for those less fortunate than us. Thank you Jane and David for making this dream come true.

Elsie with great joy in her heart as construction of her new home was about to begin.

Gogo Haproff with Siphesihle at her homestead as the project is about to begin.

With Elsie and Siphesihle's old home in the background, clearing of the land is initiated. As you can see their old hut was in desperate need of improvements.

Above, measuring the floor plan for the new home. The hut to the left is one that Elsie built almost single-handedly this year, it will last for many years to come. Elsie has five surviving children of seven born to her, so the space is much needed when they are all at home.

Below, the river sand arrives. The sand is mixed with the concrete to make to go further and to save on expenses.

David and I moving some of the concrete blocks used in the construction. Before our arrival Elsie has already moved 90% of th blocks, but we showed up in time for the photo op.

Above, David Sr. surveying the project on the first full day of construction. Standing with David is Mncedisi who was our builder.

Evening is falling and all are pleased with the progress made already.

Below, David and Jane saying goodnight to Elsie, Doris and Siphesihle.

Fast forward to about a week and a half later. Below, the blocks are all in place and soon the concrete floor will be placed and skim coating will begin.

Two days of skim coating and all if looking good.

Below, David checking out the site of the much needed outhouse. It certainly appears deep enough and should last a good 10 to 15 years.

The outhouse has taken shape and will be ready for use in a day or two.

Below Mukhulu and Gogo Haproff visit the nearly completed house the day before they left Swaziland. Having to say goodbye was not easy. Many tears were shed and lots of love exchanged.

The following Saturday we spent the day applying a coat of primer to Elsie's new home. Below, I'm taking a break after spending most of the morning applying primer.

Painting time at Mzilakazi. That is name of the area where Elsie's homestead is. David had to do much improvising in order to reach the higher areas without a ladder.

Below, Elsie's young son Thembekhosi having a rest while overseeing the painting being done on his new home. This has become a favorite spot for him to take it all in.