Last night was punctuated by cards, cards, and yes, more cards. There was even a late night final cutthroat game between Carey and Jenny. In case you are wondering, JennyMa is the reigning champ at Tourette’s, and every other card game known. It was a later night than usual, but sleep came quickly again for most.
We awoke to another tasty breakfast and then ventured on a “walkabout” of the western island. I am told we walked nearly 4 miles and 9 thousand steps. The views are breathtaking! It still boggles the mind that this island paradise remains nearly untouched and undeveloped. However, the thought of that progress, despite the intended benefit, comes with great apprehension.
Once we returned from our walk, we met with one of the local mayors and a councilman to discuss our future plans and determine what kind of support there might be in the community. We are thrilled to know we are well received and our plans have the blessing of local leadership! Shortly thereafter the new team arrived from Les Cayes with Nora. They are 11 strong, made up of nurses, teachers and others. They will hold 2 medical clinics during their stay and participate in orphanage activities as well as the trade school graduation.
After we lunched together, our team took a trip to the main market in the town of Madame Bernard. The government is developing a very nice new market and hopefully the new president will bring it to completion. We also met a nice missionary woman from Ireland at the market and she promises to speak with us later about our plans for medical care on this island. It seems we make more connections everywhere we go.
After the hot day’s travels and hikes, we all decided one last trip to the beach would be in order. We were accompanied by many school and orphanage children on the 3-mile round trip journey, but the time spent in between was again most refreshing; so hard to depart this idyllic place. On the upside, when we returned, I had the chance to bond further with my newest friend, a 2-yr old white mare that I may soon own. I am considering naming her Ferrari or Porsche…she could be my “midlife hotrod” when I return to the island. Hoping for approval from “the boss.”
Soon after our return, we had another delicious meal, followed by a meeting of the minds with our organization and both Nora and Léon. We have shared a multitude of ideas…some basic and others quite lofty. I leave this discussion both energized and understandably a bit overwhelmed, but I am reminded of how far we have come in a relatively short time. I am repeatedly reassured by Léon’s regular response, “I can do that. That’s easy.” He inspires confidence!
So now we wind down after a very productive and exhausting day, both physically and mentally. Tomorrow morning we will eat breakfast and depart for the mainland and Port au Prince, where we will reunite with our friends Josi and Mildred and the great people of St Joseph’s. I am certain there will be some rooftop relaxation involved.
Wish us a restful night, safe travels tomorrow and unlimited success in our endeavors. Will share more tomorrow night.
Love to All,
The Team