Last night we slept with great anticipation for our travels to come. We awoke and packed our belongings for the return trip. We had one last breakfast with our hosts and the other team before we trekked back down to the beach landing area. Once all luggage was loaded and passengers on board, we shoved off for the 45 minute boat ride to the Les Cayes pier. Clearly we will see this place again and I am certain for many years to come as we march on towards our ultimate goals.
The day was calm with gentle rollers and a following breeze as we made the journey. We were even shaded from the sun for part of the trip so it was not too warm. All in all, this leg was a pleasant one as we took in the beautiful coastline and clear blue water one last time, accompanied all the way by our guardian angel, Léon.
However, once at the pier, things became a bit more anxious. The once gentle rollers were now crashing the pier, then pulling back out to sea and the water level was low, which made disembarking the boat a rather hair raising experience to say the very least! As always, this team is up for the challenge and we were able to retrieve all bags and people intact…after all, we are Project Starfish and now, Team Léon!
We loaded the van, made our way to the Les Cayes guesthouse for a pit stop and then set out on our journey to Port au Prince. Yet another hair raising experience, but this one lasting no less than 4 and a half hours. Our driver for the day is André and he apparently hates driving from behind, which creates many opportunities to challenge all manner of oncoming vehicles, from bicycles to Mack dump trucks. His aggressive and erratic style of driving has taken its toll on more than one of the team. As nice as he is, I think we will request a different driver in the future, if only for the purpose of self preservation.
Once in the big city, we may have experienced the longest shortcuts of our Haitian travels…and yes that is plural. We did stop at the Deli Mart for some provisions to bring home and met back up with our favorite new friend Gary, who took us gently on to our destination, our favorite oasis in a busy city, St Joseph’s. We were greeted by a familiar face and friend, Walnes who showed us to our rooms. Once unloaded, the team finally exhaled, dropped our possessions in our rooms and made a beeline to the rooftop deck for well deserved cooling breezes and a refreshing drink.
We were surprised shortly thereafter with Josi, his wife Ruth, and his ever growing handsome son Borchely – he will be 6-yrs old in October! We all enjoyed a very delicious meal and listened to Josi share his vision for his business, his education and that of his wife and son and again, his grander vision for his country. I think it is fitting that we drove by the new Haiti Supreme Court building twice. I will not be surprised to find out Josi is sitting on that court some day.
After dinner, some of us were able to visit briefly with our friend Mildred. She is still living at Delmas 91 and helping with Angel Missions while Vanessa remains in the states. Shortly thereafter, we had the difficult farewell with Josi and his family, as always. We pray for their safety and continued success!
Now we wind down on the rooftop and begin planning for our departure in the morning, which is sure to include the usual gauntlet at the airport. Wish us luck. That’s all for now.
Will let you know when we have arrived in the states.
Love to All,
The Team