Machine Washable?

Packing, for some of us, is a painful practice that usually results in a severely over-stuffed suitcase. When packing for a year, the selection process, of clothes in particular, can be agonizing. Apparently, this was not the case for Graham. He wisely limited himself to two pairs of khakis (the pants demanded by his teaching dress code at the Mayatan School) that could be washed at the end of each week. Brilliant . . .

. . . that is until you decide to play fútbol (soccer) with your students during recess.

I was writing emails at the Guacamaya School around 2pm today, when I heard my cell phone ringing. It was Graham and he had an emergency. He quickly relayed to me that he had fallen backwards into a huge hole full of mud (much to the delight of his students) and had destroyed his pants. This presented a problem for the following reasons:

1. I had the only keys to the house.
2. There was a parent meeting at 4pm.
3. We did not (and still do not) have a washing machine.
4. He only had two pairs of work pants.
5. His other pair of khakis were at the lavendería (laundry service).
6. These were his favorite $8 gap khakis he’d bought at Goodwill.

Of course, I rushed home to let Graham into the house, but we were at a bit of a loss. Then we remembered (as it began to rain), we do, it turns out, have an outdoor station for hand-washing. It includes:

1. One large sink.
2. One large basin with ridges.
3. A faucet.
4. A drain.

After thirty minutes of scrubbing, we were amazed. We had saved Graham’s pants using the most tested and true method of cleaning clothes. And, more importantly, we found a new (old) way to save money, electricity, and get exercise!

Our crash course in hand-washing clothes was just another adventure in our transition to the day-to-day routine of living in Copan. And, after a long first week of teaching (for Graham) and Spanish classes (for me), all I can say is: ¡Gracias a dios que hoy es viernes!

Check out Graham hand-washing his pants!