Reservation Dogs

We woke up in a sundial. The architecture lends itself for this, but I see that everywhere. The sun hadn't risen yet, but light started filtering in, and I set my camera up for time-lapse. Being a build day we didn't have to pack up and hit the road at sunrise. We were able to relax, have a leisurely breakfast and attend to personal needs. At 9 am Pinky, from the OST Partnership for Housing arrived to brief us on the day's work.

We went to the home of Francis, a U.S. Marine Veteran of the Vietnam era. His is a humble home I'd estimate under 700 square feet. We painted the exterior, installed a new front door, and constructed railings around his porch, and caulked around his windows. Last winter they had days of -8 degrees, and snow of 4 feet. You can imagine the drifts the prairie wind creates as it blows over his house. It is wonderfully fulfilling to be able to make such improvement in someone's home. More work will follow, and hopefully our work will inspire more to help this mission and perhaps form a covenant partner in this area to further the work. Funds are limited, but eventually Francis would like a shower in his home.

The reservation is a world of it's own. One thing is very apparent early on; reservation dogs. They are everywhere- friendly wanderers scavenging for food and attention constantly. They aren't sad animals, but seem quite content. Then, we don't see the suffering one's either. I am sure they have short lives, for all that I've encountered have exceptionally good teeth, indicating youth. They come around, and then just as happily wander off. This light colored one was exceptionally friendly and charming to all, but then returned with a rat in her mouth, flopped down and rolled all over it, and ate it. Still charming to me, but repulsive to others. Then again, I was wearing work gloves as I petted her
Wild horsed showed up as well, one of them quite tame and affectionate, taking quite well to being approached and petted.

After the workday was done we were treated to a traditional Lakota meal of Wohanpi (beef soup) Wojapi (berry soup), Wigli Unkagapi (fry bread), and watermelon. It will remain a memorable meal.

David Snell, President of the Fuller Center for Housing, spent the last two evenings with us. For most it was their first meeting with him. He always attends some point of this ride, and chose this point for he has a history with the local leaders through his affiliations with the Department of HUD and Habitat for Humanity. He spoke frankly of the social issues of this area and how we can work with the locals, as well as some history of Millard Fuller, and how this mission evolved.

Tomorrow is 87 miles to Rapid City, SD and two days off. While there we will visit historical sites of the area, such as Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Little Bighorn, where Custer met his infamous end. It's been a good day.