market day for housewarming gifts

Today broke fresh and clear with beautiful sunshine and a mild breeze. A group of us left early for the local market to shop for items needed for the gift baskets given to each family who receive a new house. The local market in Chimaltinango lacks the tourist feel and looks very authentic, which it is. This is where the people shop on any day for their usual needs - food, clothing, housewares, flowers, etc. The contrasts in Guatemala are striking. The dirt, dust, and refuse are everywhere, yet the colors of the textiles, fresh produce, and flowers are right there alongside it all. The women are especially colorful, combining many patterns and colors on every piece of clothing. It would have been wonderful to take a camera around the market and take photos of the coloful people, produce, chickens, and chicken busses that crowd the streets and market stalls. We stand out in this market and the locals do not appreciate photographs being taken of them in this environment, and we want to show respect and avoid any offense. Items purchased included large and small buckets and baskets, brooms, and cleaning products. Added to this is a blanket, towels, Bibles, lace curtains, and hygiene items such as shampoo, toothpaste and brushes, soap, and combs. We are looking forward to presenting these items Wednesday at the dedication ceremonies at each of the 15 houses built through God's help. We have been changed to bring change, and blessed to be a blessing.