After we were able to rule out the available properties in Chiriqui area, an opportunity arose near El Valle (an area about 2 hours from the City). We had visited many areas around there before, but nothing seemed to be available that was within a reasonable price range. Then, we were contacted by a land owner that was interested in possibly working with us to buy his land. We were so excited, as this land was perfectly equipped to handle handicapped children. The land owner was handicapped, himself, and had done a fabulous job equipping the entire property for handicap accessibility (which is amazing to find in Panama!). He was originally from the US, and all his property was up to code for wheelchair accessibility. It seemed perfect! See the photos below of the 2 hectare property. It was beautiful! And we were going to be able to move in right away with another family and several orphans...
Matt had been looking high and low, all over Panama, for potential orphanage sites. We finally thought we had narrowed it down to a site outside of Boquete in the Chiriqui province, near the town of Volcan. Most of you know that Ari works with us under HCCM. She came with her son, Josh. Also, our dear friends Jana and Luigi came, along with their kids Aryelle and Levi (and doggy Bibi). And we brought our doggy Jake. We tracked up to the mountains in a caravan of 2 cars, for the 6+ hour drive. It was definitely worth the trip. We were able to rule out several of the locations, as Matt and our friend Rodrigo were able to determine that the locations would not serve an orphanage site for various reasons. Yet it was worthwhile to get to know the area better, establish contacts so that when future land developments arise they will inform us, and also to spend time together as a group (as we have been seeking the Lord as possibly being foster parents on the site.) See our Gallery section under Hunt for Orphanage Sites for a few pictures from this weekend.