Last night we had a nice conversation with our hosts from Mission of Grace in Carries and it leaves our group with many new questions as we explore our options and search for a way to establish our own identity in this tiny country with such great need. No matter the outcome of our deliberations, I know our commitment to serve the Haitian people will not falter.
After much conversation, I think we all hit the sack exhausted and most, if not all, slept rather soundly with no wildlife interruptions. I awoke around 6 AM feeling rested and spent some quiet time reading and thinking before the rest of the team began stirring. At 8 AM sharp a delicious breakfast was served, including a ham and cheese omelet and the best ripe mango ever! We then made our way to the orphanage to play with and hold as many cute kids as we could. Some proceeded on to the senior citizens home, playfully referred to as the Granny’s Home, and some of us just kept holding those kids!
Once we all rejoined at the hotel we loaded the van, said our goodbyes to our new friends, with promises to be in touch and then we headed south for Port. Once in the city limits we weaved a “short cut” to another favorite location, The Apparent Project, where they gladly separated team members from their cash. After that, the exhaustion set in and we headed for familiar territory, St Joseph’s Guest house. We unloaded the roof of the van and some of the team reloaded to go visit our friend Josi and his family. We have been excited to see him and his family as well as his completed home. We were not disappointed.
We then all loaded in the van and headed back to St. Joseph’s for dinner. As always dinner was delicious. We were also joined by Sarah’s friend and former translator Felix Nixon. We were entertained by Charlie as usual and as it got darker, the inevitable farewell occurred. I am again in awe of Josi and how he takes on his responsibility as husband, father, provider, student and servant to his country. I am as convinced as ever that he will do something great for his country.
We are now on the roof for our traditional last night in Haiti. Yes, we are supporting the local economy, but for a good cause…we are determined to win a new car. I think we are also sucking all the band width in the local area as we post to blogs, check emails, connect with friends and family back home and prepare for our travels tomorrow.
As always, we have many fond memories as well as many thoughts of the work ahead, while we plan for our future in this nation. We will spend the rest of this night though reminiscing, quenching our thirst….and I suspect there will be a bed check after midnight this year…you know who you are!
That’s all for tonight. Will send another message tomorrow once we arrive at the Atlanta airport. Here’s hoping for another restful night and a smooth passage through airport security.
Love to All,
The Team
Safe travels to you and your colleagues and congratulations on your work! You have helped so many over the years, you should be very proud. We are proud of you! Love, Deb
Good work team, and welcome home! Can’t wait to see pictures! Don’t forget to set your clocks up, you’re not on Haiti time any more!
Love to all,
Jennyma
Safe travels and thanks for the updates!