Teary eyes and red checks

Excitement reigned in the housing community all morning as volunteers hastened to wrap up their work, and anticipated the afternoon dedication of each house. For the dedication, we decorated our two houses in a blue theme with balloons, crepe paper and ribbon.

After lunch, ceremonies began. In typical tradition, a ribbon was stretched across the entrance which the homeowner would cut and then invite his family into the house, followed by the invitation to the team volunteers. A memorable moment, with throats choked with joy for this family. 

ON HOUSE #26:

Rajkumar B.K. cut the ribbon and his wife, Mangalmaya B.K. then joined him on the front porch. Sons Nabin, Sabin (not present) and Prabin (a young boy of 5 years) followed.

We are glad to recognize the local Nepali volunteers who worked alongside us all week: Archana, Prabin, and Abir. Thanks to them for their help and for their translations.

Mangalmaya applied the honor of tiki, a swath of red on the forehead, and she then draped the customary yellow scarf on our necks. A joyful time. Rajkumar thanked the Paterson volunteers for coming from so far away to help his family. And, we shared that we also had children and grandchildren.  

Nancy shows off the honor tiki and in the background, Mangalaya and volunteers receiving the tiki.

ON HOUSE #27: 

Silimilarily, the family gathered. Kancji cut the ribbon and invited her husband, Jafat Miya Khatun to enter the house, followed by the volunteers. There are two children, Roshani and Roshani, in the family, but they were not present.

Norma poses between homeowner, Kancji Tananj Khatun, and her mother.

 Norma presented a painting framed in bamboo by Manny.