The morning’s wake-up call (our friend the rooster) was accompanied by what sounded like a semi-truck trying to turn around in a 2 car parking lot. This woke us all up and thus begun our day… well kinda, a few of us managed to catch a few more moments of sleep before finally rising for our last full day here. Bill and Tim were already over at Marie’s orphanage before most of the team had woken up and made a cross for the church using the remaining 2x4’s.
After eating our breakfast of coffee and assorted power bars/trail mixes, we began the task of replacing the large tarp that covers the main deck between the adjoining buildings within Marie’s compound. Marie has been sleeping on this deck since the team’s arrival and it has been affected by the weather and winds for some time now. It took some interesting engineering to get the new tarp in position, but once in place the tarp was a noticeable improvement and should be able to withstand the weather that Haiti is expecting. While securing the tarp on the roof, we took a look at the compound’s 200 gallon water reservoir and decided to add the extra reservoir to provide more water. This proved successful and now there is double the water to support the compound.
We then took off down the street to visit the girls at the orphanage and had a great time playing with them and practicing their version of “patty cake.” Most of the girls were sitting in one of the classrooms with Sophia (one of the teachers) singing songs and practicing their vocabulary. Although the Ministry of Education has been adamant that school will not begin again until April 5th, the children appear eager to return to their studies. When we arrived they were very happy to have more people to play with, particularly Trevor – the girls seem to enjoy braiding his hair and ripping out the hairs of the rest of the team… not sure why, but they get a kick out of the faces we make I suppose.
After visiting the girls, the team loaded up in the truck and drove to Pastor Wislet’s orphanage which supports more than 50 children. We spent some time adjusting the military-grade UN tent to provide more air flow and also distributed some supplies which included food, clothing, toys, and necklaces. The pastor’s wife, Jaqline, had their choir assemble and sing several songs for us which sounded great! They also expressed an interest in coming to the US and singing at various churches in the near future as well.
When we left Pastor Wislet’s compound, we stopped by the “Metal Worker’s” section of town. These artists mainly use 55 gallon steel drums and pound them with various sized hammers and chisels to create some very unique ornamental pieces. Although most of the team isn’t into the artsy stuff, let alone shopping around, we managed to walk around the area for almost an hour and even made a few small purchases.
When we returned to Marie’s house, a few of the guys took a look at the generator that supports Marie’s compound and determined that due to bad air flow and ventilation, the system has been overheating. This issue will need to be addressed in the near future to ensure adequate power supply. We’re looking at ways to fix this during our next trip here in April.
Later in the evening we visited Debbie over at the Hope House, and had dinner with her. Debbie prepared a great meal for us and even served a cake in celebration of both: Marie’s and Debbie’s birthdays which they both intended to celebrate in January. Afterwards we asked Debbie of her experiences here over the last 20+ years, in particular the events immediately following the earthquake. It is amazing to hear some of the stories that Marie and Debbie share, and to feel their overwhelming faith and support for the Haitian people. We ended up staying over at the Hope House for quite some time, until Marie gave us the “Ok, let’s go” signal. At times she reminds me of some of the Drill Sergeants I once worked for, which is awesome because sometimes that's exactly what's needed.
So here we are at 10:30 p.m. packing our clothing and equipment, and preparing for our departure tomorrow. Marie is already asleep, and most of the team is shooting the breeze and reflecting on the week’s events. The Haitians we’ve met have touched us more than words can begin to describe and we’ve seen the Lord at work throughout the week. Haiti will be in need of much support into the foreseeable future and I am confident that with the many efforts of the world community, the Haitian people will overcome.
3.24.2010
3.22.2010
Blog Update by Jay J
It is another beautiful sunny day, approx. 90 deg F. There was a nice breeze during the entire day that felt very good to everyone. We started the day with some breakfast. Bob made some scrambled eggs for those who were up early enough to catch him cooking on the stove. Bob got up very early so luckily I was one of the few.
After breakfast, we went to the girls orphanage to tie down the new roof so that it does not blow away during the hurricane season. The new roof (made only from tarp and wood) covers most of the orphans dining area and will now allow outdoor cooking and cleaning even during rainy days. Bill used his creativity skills to design a gutter system that will capture the rain water and allow anyone within the orphanage to route it to one of two different directions, either within the orphanage so that it can be used to clean dirty dishes, shower, store in a water tank, etc., or outside of the orphanage so that it does not cause any flooding. The person who does most of the cooking and cleaning for the orphans, whose name is Joceline, was extremely happy that we did this project because it will greatly improve her working conditions. She could not speak a word of English, but showed her appreciation by giving everyone a big smile and a hug when we were finished, which was about 9:00am.
The next activity on our agenda was to visit the clean water manufacturing facility and pick up the 497 bags of water that we had left over from last week, and distribute them to those living in ‘tent cities’. When we reached the manufacturing facility, the man in charge said he would not have any drivers until noon because they were distributing water and ice, so we decided to load 97 bags in our truck and give them to Marie. The remaining 400 bags stayed in the cold storage facility until we came back to pick them up. Each bag of water contained 60 pouches, each with approx 8 oz of water, so we had 24,000 pouches that we wanted to distribute in the tent city that Marie’s half sister lives.
To give you some background, Jim, Bob, and me (Jay) went to visit Marie’s half-sister on Saturday to discuss how we would distribute all the water to the ~2000 families living in tents. The living conditions in this tent city was probably the worse I have seen in my life. It happened to rain night before, so this place was completely muddy, hot, humid, and smelly, especially near the outdoor toilets (which were holes in the ground surrounded by flies). Each tent was only 2-3 feet from the next, and I could honestly say that I had never seen any worse living conditions in my entire life. Everything looked dirty and many people did not have shoes so their feet were completely covered in mud. I was not sure why Marie’s half sister was not staying with Marie in her relatively nice place. Nonetheless, we agreed to come back to give them the water on Monday, and she was going to have a few guys help us.
We loaded up the refrigerated truck and drove to tent city. Since it had not rained in a couple of days, the ground was completely dry. We setup an assembly line to drop off all 400 bags of water in the church tent so that they can distribute the bags to each family. See pics below.
After we finished dropping off the water, we walked around the area, and everyone was very nice to us. The kids were very excited to see us, so there must have been at least 25 kids trying to hold our hands/arms. The parents were very trusting and did not mind if their kids followed us throughout the camp. A very cute two-year old boy wanted to follow me around everywhere so I carried him with one arm while holding the hand of another two kids. All the other guys also had at least 2 or 3 kids with them. It is amazing how friendly these people were to us even though they lived in the worse conditions imaginable. Seeing the smiles on the kids faces made me want to do more for all the people living in the camp. Although we gave them clean water, they probably would have appreciated food more. I pray that these people won’t have to live in these conditions for too long, and that God will provide them the food that they desperately need.
When we got back to Marie’s place, we cleaned up and had dinner. Josh cooked delicious spaghetti for all of us, and we spent the rest of the evening enjoying each other’s company.
After breakfast, we went to the girls orphanage to tie down the new roof so that it does not blow away during the hurricane season. The new roof (made only from tarp and wood) covers most of the orphans dining area and will now allow outdoor cooking and cleaning even during rainy days. Bill used his creativity skills to design a gutter system that will capture the rain water and allow anyone within the orphanage to route it to one of two different directions, either within the orphanage so that it can be used to clean dirty dishes, shower, store in a water tank, etc., or outside of the orphanage so that it does not cause any flooding. The person who does most of the cooking and cleaning for the orphans, whose name is Joceline, was extremely happy that we did this project because it will greatly improve her working conditions. She could not speak a word of English, but showed her appreciation by giving everyone a big smile and a hug when we were finished, which was about 9:00am.
The next activity on our agenda was to visit the clean water manufacturing facility and pick up the 497 bags of water that we had left over from last week, and distribute them to those living in ‘tent cities’. When we reached the manufacturing facility, the man in charge said he would not have any drivers until noon because they were distributing water and ice, so we decided to load 97 bags in our truck and give them to Marie. The remaining 400 bags stayed in the cold storage facility until we came back to pick them up. Each bag of water contained 60 pouches, each with approx 8 oz of water, so we had 24,000 pouches that we wanted to distribute in the tent city that Marie’s half sister lives.
To give you some background, Jim, Bob, and me (Jay) went to visit Marie’s half-sister on Saturday to discuss how we would distribute all the water to the ~2000 families living in tents. The living conditions in this tent city was probably the worse I have seen in my life. It happened to rain night before, so this place was completely muddy, hot, humid, and smelly, especially near the outdoor toilets (which were holes in the ground surrounded by flies). Each tent was only 2-3 feet from the next, and I could honestly say that I had never seen any worse living conditions in my entire life. Everything looked dirty and many people did not have shoes so their feet were completely covered in mud. I was not sure why Marie’s half sister was not staying with Marie in her relatively nice place. Nonetheless, we agreed to come back to give them the water on Monday, and she was going to have a few guys help us.
We loaded up the refrigerated truck and drove to tent city. Since it had not rained in a couple of days, the ground was completely dry. We setup an assembly line to drop off all 400 bags of water in the church tent so that they can distribute the bags to each family. See pics below.
After we finished dropping off the water, we walked around the area, and everyone was very nice to us. The kids were very excited to see us, so there must have been at least 25 kids trying to hold our hands/arms. The parents were very trusting and did not mind if their kids followed us throughout the camp. A very cute two-year old boy wanted to follow me around everywhere so I carried him with one arm while holding the hand of another two kids. All the other guys also had at least 2 or 3 kids with them. It is amazing how friendly these people were to us even though they lived in the worse conditions imaginable. Seeing the smiles on the kids faces made me want to do more for all the people living in the camp. Although we gave them clean water, they probably would have appreciated food more. I pray that these people won’t have to live in these conditions for too long, and that God will provide them the food that they desperately need.
When we got back to Marie’s place, we cleaned up and had dinner. Josh cooked delicious spaghetti for all of us, and we spent the rest of the evening enjoying each other’s company.
3.21.2010
Where to start!
Where to start!
First of all this is my first blog to the world, so go easy on me. Most of you who have kept up on the blog (if that’s the right term) have read about some of the prior events we have all experienced, so I won’t start from the beginning. Today was a very special day for me and also for the others I’m sure. Today was church day. It started with the rooster alarm clock which goes off every morning about 5:30, breakfast, a little sit and talk time and then off to church. We arrived at about 9:00 (a guess) in our Sunday best and I soon realized I was under dressed. I sat in the back row as to not bring attention to myself and listened to the Sunday school lesson. Had somewhat of a difficult time keeping up with the hour lesson due to a slight language barrier, others were coming forth with answers and I really didn’t want to start any heated arguments, so I kept quiet. Praise and worship started next and I recognized the first song but couldn’t remember the words, so again I kept quiet. The beautiful singing continued for about 30 minutes. It’s kind of cool that praising God can be understood in any language. (Don’t tell my wife that I was moving with the music and raising my hands above my head, kind of embarrasses her I think.) Marie brought all of us up front and Pastor Bob gave a beautiful moving message translated by Marie. The moving part was Marie’s translation, sorry Bob. We all introduced ourselves and when it came to me I had somewhat of a tough time. With all the new friends I have made and knowing that they have helped me more than the reverse I became a little choked up. We all returned to our seats and came time for more music and the collection. I have an inexpensive necklace hanging from my rear view mirror which I picked up some time ago. It’s a cord with a small copper coin attached (remember Ethan) which reminds me every day of the woman who gave everything she had while others gave of their excess. That’s exactly how I felt today during the collection. We finished the day by enclosing the temporary shelter that housed Marie and the girls shortly after the quake and that now houses (as I found out after the service) the Deacon and his wife. Wow, small world. Wish we could do something about the dirt floor; at least it’s not mud, yet. The other half of the crew, the better half (sorry Bob) finished the shelter over the small courtyard at the orphanage. The woman who cooks for the girls, which is an all day event, praised God and move the charcoal cook stove as soon as we were done. What great faith. Finally I was able to spend some quality time with the girls, the part that I have been patiently waiting for and a little scared of. The girls are so loving, inquisitive, and upbeat that it washed away all my preconceived anxiety immediately. I felt like a tree the way they were all hanging on me, and loved it. Toni you will also. Well, I really don’t want to wear out this blog thing out so I think I will give it up and get on with the adventure, I mean work. (Brothers at RIFD, believe me your money is changing lives, one at a time, mine included.) Thanks all. Not Bob- Tim
First of all this is my first blog to the world, so go easy on me. Most of you who have kept up on the blog (if that’s the right term) have read about some of the prior events we have all experienced, so I won’t start from the beginning. Today was a very special day for me and also for the others I’m sure. Today was church day. It started with the rooster alarm clock which goes off every morning about 5:30, breakfast, a little sit and talk time and then off to church. We arrived at about 9:00 (a guess) in our Sunday best and I soon realized I was under dressed. I sat in the back row as to not bring attention to myself and listened to the Sunday school lesson. Had somewhat of a difficult time keeping up with the hour lesson due to a slight language barrier, others were coming forth with answers and I really didn’t want to start any heated arguments, so I kept quiet. Praise and worship started next and I recognized the first song but couldn’t remember the words, so again I kept quiet. The beautiful singing continued for about 30 minutes. It’s kind of cool that praising God can be understood in any language. (Don’t tell my wife that I was moving with the music and raising my hands above my head, kind of embarrasses her I think.) Marie brought all of us up front and Pastor Bob gave a beautiful moving message translated by Marie. The moving part was Marie’s translation, sorry Bob. We all introduced ourselves and when it came to me I had somewhat of a tough time. With all the new friends I have made and knowing that they have helped me more than the reverse I became a little choked up. We all returned to our seats and came time for more music and the collection. I have an inexpensive necklace hanging from my rear view mirror which I picked up some time ago. It’s a cord with a small copper coin attached (remember Ethan) which reminds me every day of the woman who gave everything she had while others gave of their excess. That’s exactly how I felt today during the collection. We finished the day by enclosing the temporary shelter that housed Marie and the girls shortly after the quake and that now houses (as I found out after the service) the Deacon and his wife. Wow, small world. Wish we could do something about the dirt floor; at least it’s not mud, yet. The other half of the crew, the better half (sorry Bob) finished the shelter over the small courtyard at the orphanage. The woman who cooks for the girls, which is an all day event, praised God and move the charcoal cook stove as soon as we were done. What great faith. Finally I was able to spend some quality time with the girls, the part that I have been patiently waiting for and a little scared of. The girls are so loving, inquisitive, and upbeat that it washed away all my preconceived anxiety immediately. I felt like a tree the way they were all hanging on me, and loved it. Toni you will also. Well, I really don’t want to wear out this blog thing out so I think I will give it up and get on with the adventure, I mean work. (Brothers at RIFD, believe me your money is changing lives, one at a time, mine included.) Thanks all. Not Bob- Tim
3.20.2010
My day in Haiti, By JJP
A day in the life of a White man in Haiti!
So my morning began with a bunch of roosters crowing at 4:45..or so I think. I don’t get a cell phone signal and have put my watch away because everywhere I go people like it and want it, so losing track of time is the norm around here, and I can't say that I mind. There’s no real running water except for the tank on the roof that is restocked with water from the rain or by hand from the well. I took a shower, which was cold, but with it being 78 degrees and humid last night it felt good. The guys were all up early and made pancakes, which by the way we have been able to eat really well since we’ve been here(and I thought I was gonna lose all this weight from sweating and eating nothing but beef jerky!). Anywho, after breakfast we packed up and headed over to the orphanage to get started on building the temporary church. A few of the guys went shopping at a place called Eco-Depot, the Haitian version of Home Depot, only about a 16th of the size and less materials. While mon frère(that’s my father in French) got started on getting the wall started, I helped a couple of the local construction men raise and mount the cross on the ceiling of the school. For the life of me I can’t remember their names, but they have to be the hardest working men around. There were a handful of men that showed up for work today, however we had nowhere near the work for them, so they ended up sitting around the vast majority of the day and making fun of all of us, and me for my sporadic and somewhat incorrect French/Creole.
I thought the heat wouldn’t be such a problem here considering I used to live in Houston, and work at Caterpillar for 3 years, but it sucks the life outta you. The heat itself isn’t so bad, but the sun reflecting off the concrete gives you the feeling of being in a weber charcoal grill. After getting more than 75% of the church built I came back to our compound to take some Aleve and restock on the sunblock. After I got all set I went to head back and everyone decided to take a break, I suppose I might have been the ring leader on that one, oops! So after a nice recharging of the batteries, both literally (power tools), and figuratively we went back to the orphanage to finish the construction of the temporary church for tomorrow.
So we’re using the power tools in the heat, which seems to deplete the batteries twice as fast, so dad sent me back to the compound to cool them off and charge them. I ended up helping an elderly woman that was on the corner trying to sell some good with a wheel barrow full of stuff back to where we stay, she was more than grateful. When I got back, Marie was reading a book and I decided it was my time to sit down w/her and discuss life. We had a wonderful heart to heart and I wish that she were able to be cloned, all would be right with the world. I won’t say exactly what we talked about, but I came away from it with an even better perspective on life then what I went in to it with having seen and lived what I have for the last 3 days. Our talk seemed to last forever, but in reality it was only an hour, I probably should have paid her a psychiatrist’s salary, but I promised instead to go home and talk to the people of Caterpillar to see if they would sponsor the school so the girls can learn and grow up to do something better for the people of Haiti.
All in all, it was another great day, the church got finished, I made more friends for life, and I learned that the life down here has shown that we as Americans live way to structured, and take way too many things for granted. I’ve learned so much in the short time I’ve been here and hope to learn all that and more in the days to come, and not just how to play Spades ;)!
Until I write again, God Bless!
Jacob J.
So my morning began with a bunch of roosters crowing at 4:45..or so I think. I don’t get a cell phone signal and have put my watch away because everywhere I go people like it and want it, so losing track of time is the norm around here, and I can't say that I mind. There’s no real running water except for the tank on the roof that is restocked with water from the rain or by hand from the well. I took a shower, which was cold, but with it being 78 degrees and humid last night it felt good. The guys were all up early and made pancakes, which by the way we have been able to eat really well since we’ve been here(and I thought I was gonna lose all this weight from sweating and eating nothing but beef jerky!). Anywho, after breakfast we packed up and headed over to the orphanage to get started on building the temporary church. A few of the guys went shopping at a place called Eco-Depot, the Haitian version of Home Depot, only about a 16th of the size and less materials. While mon frère(that’s my father in French) got started on getting the wall started, I helped a couple of the local construction men raise and mount the cross on the ceiling of the school. For the life of me I can’t remember their names, but they have to be the hardest working men around. There were a handful of men that showed up for work today, however we had nowhere near the work for them, so they ended up sitting around the vast majority of the day and making fun of all of us, and me for my sporadic and somewhat incorrect French/Creole.
I thought the heat wouldn’t be such a problem here considering I used to live in Houston, and work at Caterpillar for 3 years, but it sucks the life outta you. The heat itself isn’t so bad, but the sun reflecting off the concrete gives you the feeling of being in a weber charcoal grill. After getting more than 75% of the church built I came back to our compound to take some Aleve and restock on the sunblock. After I got all set I went to head back and everyone decided to take a break, I suppose I might have been the ring leader on that one, oops! So after a nice recharging of the batteries, both literally (power tools), and figuratively we went back to the orphanage to finish the construction of the temporary church for tomorrow.
So we’re using the power tools in the heat, which seems to deplete the batteries twice as fast, so dad sent me back to the compound to cool them off and charge them. I ended up helping an elderly woman that was on the corner trying to sell some good with a wheel barrow full of stuff back to where we stay, she was more than grateful. When I got back, Marie was reading a book and I decided it was my time to sit down w/her and discuss life. We had a wonderful heart to heart and I wish that she were able to be cloned, all would be right with the world. I won’t say exactly what we talked about, but I came away from it with an even better perspective on life then what I went in to it with having seen and lived what I have for the last 3 days. Our talk seemed to last forever, but in reality it was only an hour, I probably should have paid her a psychiatrist’s salary, but I promised instead to go home and talk to the people of Caterpillar to see if they would sponsor the school so the girls can learn and grow up to do something better for the people of Haiti.
All in all, it was another great day, the church got finished, I made more friends for life, and I learned that the life down here has shown that we as Americans live way to structured, and take way too many things for granted. I’ve learned so much in the short time I’ve been here and hope to learn all that and more in the days to come, and not just how to play Spades ;)!
Until I write again, God Bless!
Jacob J.
Temporary Church/Shelter Up!
Greetings from Bon Repos, Haiti!
This will be a short post by Josh as will be posting about our day later. However, we have a few pictures that we'd love to share with you all. We had a successful day culminating with the completion of the Church & shelter for the children. Everyone was pleased as we will be able to utilize it for Church service tomorrow. We also mounted the cross salvaged from the previous Church/orphanage and it is now firmly cemented in place on the corner of the existing school building next to the shelter we constructed. Enough with the typing, on with the pictures!
This first picture shows the process of building the trusses. We demonstrated to the Haitian workers and then let them at it!
Raising the support posts to mount the trusses to:
Hammering away:
Viola! Completed. The salvaged cross can be seen in the upper left in its new home!
This will be a short post by Josh as will be posting about our day later. However, we have a few pictures that we'd love to share with you all. We had a successful day culminating with the completion of the Church & shelter for the children. Everyone was pleased as we will be able to utilize it for Church service tomorrow. We also mounted the cross salvaged from the previous Church/orphanage and it is now firmly cemented in place on the corner of the existing school building next to the shelter we constructed. Enough with the typing, on with the pictures!
This first picture shows the process of building the trusses. We demonstrated to the Haitian workers and then let them at it!
Raising the support posts to mount the trusses to:
Hammering away:
Viola! Completed. The salvaged cross can be seen in the upper left in its new home!
3.19.2010
TGIF in Haiti
TGIF - Yes it's been a really wild day in Haiti. We had a lot of rain last night. When I woke up from the sound of the downpour, all I could think of was how was the deacon from the church was staying dry underneath a tin roof and bed sheets for walls. We woke up this morning, had a quick bite for breakfeast and got right to work with some of my brothers in arms. Five of us went across the street to the deacon's house and hung some tarps on the walls and made it a better (read dry) place. The rest of the guys went down to take measurements for the church building we will raise attached to the school. When we finsihed with the tarps, Pastor Winslet from Coehna orphanage showed up. It was so good to see him. He was all smiles as I gave him a soccer referee shirt and whistle. His orphanage now has a boys soccer team! He asked us to take a break tomorrow and go visit him to watch the boys play a soccer at 2pm. We talked about his family, the orphanage and life in Haiti after the quake. We laughed some. He has such a calm Pastor's spirit. After the conversation, Jim Meyer came back with the rest of guys from the lumber store. It's always a half day trip to get lumber and great for our first timers to learn the Haiti way of doing things. Again, we smiled and laughed with Pastor. Jim showed the Pastor the bags of goods we are bringing to him and the orphans tomorrow. After the conversation, a whole host of activity started in the field across the street. It seems some people from nearby decided the open lot was fair game to live in. We then went over to the Grace House of Hope orphanage. The place was busy with activities. We had workers breaking down the property wall that collapsed, others building ceiling beams and still others mixing cement for a new base for a cross above the complex. The girls were around but only to steal a hug, baseball cap or piece of bublegum from our pockets. It was a blast to watch: Tim Gibbons teach the Haitians to use the saw and cut lumber, Jacob and Josh lead the Haitian crew to build the ceiling beams, Rod jumping in everywhere, Trevor swinging the sledge hammer while learning the Creole language, Jay teaching the girls to do puzzles, Bill making sure we were doing it the right way, Eric using the powerdrill and Jim talking with everybody. The best part of the work day happened at the end when we circled up to pray. All the workers circled up and before Jim or I could pray, our new best Haitian friend Big John prayed in Creole over us all. It was awesome to hear this big man pray for us and the mission. We then came home for dinner and mangos. By this time, the lot across from Marie was half full with people living under bedsheets. I sure hope it doesn't rain tonight. Just another day in Haiti. We are so blessed.
3.18.2010
Bill - Thursday, March 18
Got up early, after very humid night and rain that came 3 times last night. The group from Georgia was going to distribute some cold water (in the plastic pouches) at the homeless camp side. We decided that it is God calling us to be part of this venture and touch few people today. Off we went to search for Army escort and pick up water pouches directly from water bottler. First task turned out to be somewhat difficult, all army check points wanted to help, but they could not make the decision or could not leave a post. Went to several places, finally Eric who works for the State Department was able to get someone with authority. Sergeant/Major committed 40 to 50 troops to keep water distribution orderly. Went over by the bottling plant (or should I say a pouch filling plant) to purchase the water. Plant employs 175 employees at that location and another 200 employees in another location. At this time business is very slow due to all the foreign aid coming in and water is being distributed for free. We purchased 800 bags which equates to 43000 water pouches. So we drove in a convoy through town, Impact for Jesus guys with the 5 missionaries from Georgia on the back of a pickup truck, a refrigerated truck, and 4 buses of US Army troops. Went over to the Palace with a tent city is right across. Two lines were formed and we handed out ice cold water (it was 90 degrees plus today). Us troops enjoyed to be part of this process, handing out water and keeping everything orderly. Few people that spoke English, told us that they needed food, not water, we had no food. At this stop we’ve gave out 2 pouches per person. Next, we drove through narrow streets of the city to our next stop. Some streets, the devastation is totally incredible. Neighborhoods gone, collapsed. Some neighborhoods not as bad. In my opinion the downtown area was hit the hardest (tallest buildings in the city). Found the people supper friendly, all smiling and waving. Kids, as anyplace else in the world, always looking for a hand out, but smiling. There are a lot of people on the streets; it does not seem that anyone is inside any buildings. Once at the second camp, located close to American Embassy, however we lost out our military escort. We enlisted help from the camp “leader”. At this camp, everyone received a full bag of ice cold single serve water pouches (60 to a bag). Great feeling to make a difference in people’s life, even if it is only for few minutes. We’ve stopped at another camp by the airport, enlisted camp committee to help make a line, but their leadership was not as strong. Shoving and pushing, crowd started to be unruly, closed the truck and moved on since we did not want to get out of hand (without any military support). Returned back to bottling plant, unloaded almost 500 bags back in to refrigerated storage for future use (we are thinking about doing this next week at Marie’s sister church next week). There is some rebuilding activity in parts of the city, but when comparing with a need, it’s not much. Local government wants to get people out of downtown area, so not much aid is visible. But when you go on the outskirts of town, not much aid is visible as well. Came back to Marie’s quite exhausted, with Marie waiting for us with dinner.
Learning for the day: be ready for God to take you on unexpected journey, just let him lead you.
Do not try to impose your American thinking on local people, their culture and life is so much different from ours.
Learn from the people over here, they are so resilient and full of life (they are amazing).
Be ready for tomorrow, God might have a surprise for you.
Learning for the day: be ready for God to take you on unexpected journey, just let him lead you.
Do not try to impose your American thinking on local people, their culture and life is so much different from ours.
Learn from the people over here, they are so resilient and full of life (they are amazing).
Be ready for tomorrow, God might have a surprise for you.
3.17.2010
Trevor Wednesday March 17, 2010... Saint Patties. haitia style
We arrived in haiti about 4 hours ago. The journey to haiti was just the beginning of the adventure.. i will have a whole lot to share already. Things are incredibly unorganized in the haitian air port after the earthquake... since what was modernized was destroyed they pretty much just shuttle you to a big warehouse where they dump your stuff and pretty much have a free for all to get it.. got kind of intense at times, but was totally cool if you just laid back and waited for the mob to clear. We then pushed through a large crowd of haitians surrounding the gates of the air port to throw all of our stuff into a truck and then pile on top of what we through in the bed. It was a pretty low key, but very eye opening drive. after we arrived everyone got settled in, but I didn't have anything to settle in so i just spent a solid chunk of time talking with native haitians. Many of them are very good at english for the shotty encounters they have with english speakers. We talked about life in America, life in Haiti, exchanged basic acquaintences and I learned a small handful of creole. I have found a few people already who know some spanish, but no english so the little spanish I know comes in very useful. Otherwise hand gestures, friendly smiles and hand shakes go a long way. We then went to the orphanage and spent time playing with the kids there. That might have been one of the most fun experiences of mylife. These girls couldn't even speak english, but we made friends quickly and spent time running around the orphanage as the girls chased us around. They taught us some creole like hello, how are you, hair, and a few others i;m still working. The girls were obsessed with my hair. they didn't want us to leave. We then went back to Marie's, the lady who runs the orphanage, and ate dinner. Haitian people are extremely friendly. The hospitality we have received from those interacting with us has been incredible. The people we meet on the streets even greet us with smiles, waves, and bonswas (good afternoons). At worst they just stare at you in bewilderment. But all in all the people are extremely friendly and seem to find joy in genuine relationships since they have nothing else. Many of them freely talk of God, while others simply smile with joy at having someone to smile with. some parts are tough mainly how americans seem to think in contrast to how haitians think. hard to explain cuze i don;t understand, but an obvious different. Any way, dont know what we're doing tomorrow, but i'm excited for wherever Jesus leads. Thanks for all your support guys.
3.10.2010
Back Home - 3-10-2010
Well --- we are safely back home and I have been walking around in circles trying to decide what to do first. My mind and heart are still in Haiti. As per usual, when I return I am overwhelmed with all I that I have and I feel totally excessive. The simplicity of life in Haiti speaks volumes when you compare their daily lives to ours. Even though they have next to nothing, I feel a loving,determined aura coming from them -- NOT one of despair and anxiety (a disposition I emulate WAY too often.)
I must share with you the happenings of our last full day. Besides us women whining in disbelief that it was our last day, we went at it determined to saturate the girls with love and activity in our last hours.
The oldest seven girls seem to spend most of their day HAND washing clothes. You can imagine the amount of laundry every day from 26 girls - not to mention the number of wet beds from the youngest! I always feel like they are short changed by not getting to participate in activities. (We were able to leave them with fun activities to do on their own and they were excited.)
The morning began with a father bringing his two daughters to Marie -- ages 3 and 5 years old. They lost their home in the quake, he lost his job and they are living outside and unable to feed or care for their children. He also has a 2 year old boy, who Marie was unable to receive. The two little girls came all clean, with their hair done pretty. I stayed behind as I couldn't emotionally stand to watch him leave them at the orphanage. I learned that they joined the other girls and no tears were shed. UNBELIEVABLE! How can this be? Marie explained that she rarely has a child cry. They look at this as being rescued. An opportunity to be fed and a place to sleep.
As the morning continued, I set up my "spa" area, Jeneane had a group of 8 - 10 girls SO elated to be doing math problems from an activity book we brought. They were SO proud of themselves to bring her the completed pages. The girls are truly hungry to learn. It was very impressive how quickly they solved their work sheets. We could have used about 100 more sheets! Joan had activities of singing, jump rope, and other fun things.
So -- I began with the youngest and we worked our way up for pedicures! :) The girls know the correct "pecking order" - so there were few squabbles to be "next" in line. They soaked their feet in a little dishpan I brought and I washed their legs and feet - tickling included at no charge! Then they received a massage with lotion of their arms, legs and feet. Once the toenails were polished, each got two squirts of perfume under their chin and got a layer of Sister Patty's lip gloss across their beautiful lips. Oh, my! Each one strutted off with their hands on their hips and pushing out their shiny lips for all to admire. It was priceless!! Joan and Jeneane came to my rescue as after my 9th "customer" - this old back was screaming for mercy. I can't explain the sheer exhilaration I felt as I did this and watched their tiny faces take in all the one on one attention and to be touched and loved in this way. Needless to say, I received much more than I could have possibly given to them.
In the late afternoon, our style show began. Jeneane had bought a new pair of shorts with a coordinate shirt for each girl. SO - we matched up the sizes to a particular girl. It has always amazed me that when I told up any article of clothing, they yell out who it will fit. 99% of the time they are right - so that was the order in which the clothes were dispensed. You must picture the scene as 28 girls watched and waited to hear their name called. The smallest 10 girls had to be stripped of the dirty clothes they were wearing and the dusty clothes soon laid in a pile as the style show began. It was so precious to see them admire each other and point out like colors in their outfits. By the end of the process it was getting dark and we were trying to take photos in groups and then the entire group in their new duds. I'm not sure bedlam is the right word -- but it was pretty darn close! We finally gave up trying to get them in proper rows and everyone standing still with the perfect smile and just started flashing photos. Then in the dark we had to start taking off the new clothes and replace them with the old....by the time we walked back to Marie's house we were all in agreement that we had an exhausting - but wonderful last day.
We went to bed sad that it was our last night to hear all the sounds of the night - roosters at 3:00 a.m., singing throughout the night, buzzing mosquitoes, goats in stereo and just the voices of the night. When we woke up we were all sharing faces of sadness as we knew we had to go to the girls to say our "goodbyes." We had about an hour to spend with them, so got in as many hugs and fun as we could. The older girls sang while I did a video, which made the younger ones participate as well. They LOVE watching it play back and laugh so hard at each other that you can't help but join in. I have a lump in my throat as I type this as it was just an unbelievable week. The three oldest girls wrote each of us a letter explaining how much they love us and thanked us for everything. It was so touching and I will cherish it. Then they all lined up from youngest to oldest and we went from one to the next to say goodbye. I told each one I loved them and so does God and by about the forth child my tears wet their sweet cheeks as I kissed them. I've found that they don't really understand my tears - the youngest ones anyway - as they aren't used to people crying under those circumstances. The oldest girls has teary eyes and shed tears as well - which always makes me feel even worse. I tried to assure them that I would be back again and that everything will only be getting better! They smile and shake their head.
It's never easy saying goodbye -- but this time seemed harder. I waited so long to go to Haiti since the quake and was so busy for nearly two months with the flurry of activity related to Haiti relief -- all wonderful - yet exhausting. I must say it was possibly my best visit I have ever had.
By the end of the week I could see that Marie was getting encouraged by the progress at the site. She hired 13 men who were begging for work. None had any money to feed their family. Two or more men would put shovel fulls of broken brick into a wheelbarrow, then a man would push the wheelbarrow way down the road and dump it, then there were two men waiting for the load which they would break up further on the road. This process went on for 10 hours. Noticeable improvement was made, and families are being fed. It's all good!
So - thanks to those who have been interested in following the blog, offered prayers and may I again say that I can always go to Haiti, but if is wasn't for all the generous, caring hearts -- NO progress would be made, hunger would continue and desperation would breed. But - it is such an honor to be able to assure Marie and Pastor Wislet that your united hearts intend to bring renewal and restoration. I wish I could give each of you the blessing of seeing the sparkle in their eye and feeling the sincerity in their voice as they humbly say, "Merci!"
To each of you I, too, extend my heartfelt thanksgiving. Jim leaves a week from today with a team of nine men (poor Marie!). I also intend to put photos and short videos on the website -- so keep "tuning in" - as Haiti Relief continues.
God's blessings to each of you.
I must share with you the happenings of our last full day. Besides us women whining in disbelief that it was our last day, we went at it determined to saturate the girls with love and activity in our last hours.
The oldest seven girls seem to spend most of their day HAND washing clothes. You can imagine the amount of laundry every day from 26 girls - not to mention the number of wet beds from the youngest! I always feel like they are short changed by not getting to participate in activities. (We were able to leave them with fun activities to do on their own and they were excited.)
The morning began with a father bringing his two daughters to Marie -- ages 3 and 5 years old. They lost their home in the quake, he lost his job and they are living outside and unable to feed or care for their children. He also has a 2 year old boy, who Marie was unable to receive. The two little girls came all clean, with their hair done pretty. I stayed behind as I couldn't emotionally stand to watch him leave them at the orphanage. I learned that they joined the other girls and no tears were shed. UNBELIEVABLE! How can this be? Marie explained that she rarely has a child cry. They look at this as being rescued. An opportunity to be fed and a place to sleep.
As the morning continued, I set up my "spa" area, Jeneane had a group of 8 - 10 girls SO elated to be doing math problems from an activity book we brought. They were SO proud of themselves to bring her the completed pages. The girls are truly hungry to learn. It was very impressive how quickly they solved their work sheets. We could have used about 100 more sheets! Joan had activities of singing, jump rope, and other fun things.
So -- I began with the youngest and we worked our way up for pedicures! :) The girls know the correct "pecking order" - so there were few squabbles to be "next" in line. They soaked their feet in a little dishpan I brought and I washed their legs and feet - tickling included at no charge! Then they received a massage with lotion of their arms, legs and feet. Once the toenails were polished, each got two squirts of perfume under their chin and got a layer of Sister Patty's lip gloss across their beautiful lips. Oh, my! Each one strutted off with their hands on their hips and pushing out their shiny lips for all to admire. It was priceless!! Joan and Jeneane came to my rescue as after my 9th "customer" - this old back was screaming for mercy. I can't explain the sheer exhilaration I felt as I did this and watched their tiny faces take in all the one on one attention and to be touched and loved in this way. Needless to say, I received much more than I could have possibly given to them.
In the late afternoon, our style show began. Jeneane had bought a new pair of shorts with a coordinate shirt for each girl. SO - we matched up the sizes to a particular girl. It has always amazed me that when I told up any article of clothing, they yell out who it will fit. 99% of the time they are right - so that was the order in which the clothes were dispensed. You must picture the scene as 28 girls watched and waited to hear their name called. The smallest 10 girls had to be stripped of the dirty clothes they were wearing and the dusty clothes soon laid in a pile as the style show began. It was so precious to see them admire each other and point out like colors in their outfits. By the end of the process it was getting dark and we were trying to take photos in groups and then the entire group in their new duds. I'm not sure bedlam is the right word -- but it was pretty darn close! We finally gave up trying to get them in proper rows and everyone standing still with the perfect smile and just started flashing photos. Then in the dark we had to start taking off the new clothes and replace them with the old....by the time we walked back to Marie's house we were all in agreement that we had an exhausting - but wonderful last day.
We went to bed sad that it was our last night to hear all the sounds of the night - roosters at 3:00 a.m., singing throughout the night, buzzing mosquitoes, goats in stereo and just the voices of the night. When we woke up we were all sharing faces of sadness as we knew we had to go to the girls to say our "goodbyes." We had about an hour to spend with them, so got in as many hugs and fun as we could. The older girls sang while I did a video, which made the younger ones participate as well. They LOVE watching it play back and laugh so hard at each other that you can't help but join in. I have a lump in my throat as I type this as it was just an unbelievable week. The three oldest girls wrote each of us a letter explaining how much they love us and thanked us for everything. It was so touching and I will cherish it. Then they all lined up from youngest to oldest and we went from one to the next to say goodbye. I told each one I loved them and so does God and by about the forth child my tears wet their sweet cheeks as I kissed them. I've found that they don't really understand my tears - the youngest ones anyway - as they aren't used to people crying under those circumstances. The oldest girls has teary eyes and shed tears as well - which always makes me feel even worse. I tried to assure them that I would be back again and that everything will only be getting better! They smile and shake their head.
It's never easy saying goodbye -- but this time seemed harder. I waited so long to go to Haiti since the quake and was so busy for nearly two months with the flurry of activity related to Haiti relief -- all wonderful - yet exhausting. I must say it was possibly my best visit I have ever had.
By the end of the week I could see that Marie was getting encouraged by the progress at the site. She hired 13 men who were begging for work. None had any money to feed their family. Two or more men would put shovel fulls of broken brick into a wheelbarrow, then a man would push the wheelbarrow way down the road and dump it, then there were two men waiting for the load which they would break up further on the road. This process went on for 10 hours. Noticeable improvement was made, and families are being fed. It's all good!
So - thanks to those who have been interested in following the blog, offered prayers and may I again say that I can always go to Haiti, but if is wasn't for all the generous, caring hearts -- NO progress would be made, hunger would continue and desperation would breed. But - it is such an honor to be able to assure Marie and Pastor Wislet that your united hearts intend to bring renewal and restoration. I wish I could give each of you the blessing of seeing the sparkle in their eye and feeling the sincerity in their voice as they humbly say, "Merci!"
To each of you I, too, extend my heartfelt thanksgiving. Jim leaves a week from today with a team of nine men (poor Marie!). I also intend to put photos and short videos on the website -- so keep "tuning in" - as Haiti Relief continues.
God's blessings to each of you.
3.08.2010
Monday- 3-08 -- Last full day
Jim was certainly a more responsible “blogger” on his visit then I have been. The days whiz by and then exhaustion hits. Yesterday, being Sunday, began early as the make shift church that was originally the gravel area that housed the girls across from Marie’s was a flurry of activity. Chairs were all carried to the area (it was so great to see the church all set up with chairs which were donated from Wheatland Salem church that came on the shipping container last spring) Bricks were stacked to make a podium and musical instruments were “warming up”. The position of how the church collapsed spared the drum set and (antique) sound system – but the microphone worked none the less as long as you stood in a specific spot to avoid screeching feed back! By 8:00 a.m. the girls arrived in a little line coming from the orphanage. They were all dressed up in their “church clothes”, socks trimmed with lace and hair bows and barrettes galore. The youngest 13 took their place in little chairs on the front rows. Others from the neighborhood arrived – ties worn by men and ladies in proper dresses. There ended up being over 100 people all together. The Sunday School portion begins at 8:00 a.m. and we joined them for church at 10:00 and it lasted until noon. So – these little ones sit there for 4 hours! I can’t imagine. I couldn’t stand church for ONE hour as a child. Many of us in America keep tabs on the length of the service and fear it will go into “overtime” after 45 min. or an hour. About 10 of Marie’s girls sang. They told Marie they wanted to sing to Joan, Jeneane and me to thank us for all we have done for them. Of course I cried to hear their beautiful voices and see their wonderful spirits unite. Debby from Hope House joined us at the worship service and we got to spend some time with her after church. She shared stories of her experiences since the quake and I hung on to every word. She is an amazing woman with a heart for others. She is an explorer and is in tune with what is happening in the country.
After our chat she graciously drove us to the “artisan community” which is about 80 make shift buildings, usually one room that houses the metal art work of the people who work and live there. SO –we even had a couple hours of SHOPPING! It was so amazing to see the labors of these artists. They are so proud to display what they have made from tin. We watched them “creating” as well as they take a nail or sharp instrument and pound a pattern onto the metal and cut away pieces and create more patterns than I could describe! They expect you to barter over the price, which is SO hard for me. I feel like for every dollar I expect them to give up – they could have bought food. Debby assured me that they would be offended if we DIDN’T! Can you imagine if that was the practice in the States? I made Debby do the talking for me – and then she would nod if she thought their new price sounded fair and I would agree to complete the transaction. So between the four of us, we felt we did our fair share to help the economy of Haiti. Someone has to do it – right? (I can see Jim rolling his eyes to that comment all the way over here!)
The weather had been totally unexpected to the Haitians as it was cloudy and actually chilly for two days and nights. I could tell they were talking about it at church. By yesterday afternoon the sun did come out which actually felt good. Jeneane had the treasure of a pair of socks and a fleece jacket to wear to bed and I found a comforter in a box and was thrilled to be nestled under it at night. VERY strange for Haiti.
The late afternoon was spent playing with the girls. They rush into Jeneane and Joan’s arms now and call them by name and it’s so heartwarming. I remain amazed at these two women. They have been such a blessing to be with and are truly “missionaries”. They jump in with both feet and have adapted and been a beautiful example to the girls as we bring them love and hope. As night approached it was time for church again. Another two hours was spent worshipping at the make shift church. We played with the youngest 13 at Marie’s house. Glow in the dark bracelets were a hit and they created earrings and necklaces out of them and wanted a picture of themselves with every new invention. It was a bit crazy and exhausting for this old lady to keep up with the craziness…but having their smiles, hugs and dancing around kept me going.
We were all pretty much semi-comatose by our late dinner at 8:30 – and went to bed. I had a several mosquitoes visit in the night and their buzzing by in my ear was so frustrating. I spent the majority of the night with a sheet over my head and itching. I have no idea of the time, it was still dark, but a group gathered at the make shift church and began singing. They worshipped for about an hour or so. We talked about it this morning that we practically went to bed with singing and woke to singing. This morning Joan said she was ready to grab her flashlight and walk over and tell them that they were totally confused and that YESTERDAY was Sunday. We are so aware of their faithfulness!
I am not sure if I mentioned and not taking the time to read back through blogs, but with donations Marie had a man install lights for the girls in their make shift rooms so they can have some degree of lights. The electricity comes and goes from the government – and usually not when you need it.
None of us can believe this is our last full day. We have a list of things that we want to be sure to get accomplished with the girls. There are always so many things you want to do – but getting it organized and actually accomplished is another.
Marie has been up and rolling since early morning. She comes and goes between her house and the orphanage and is always on some mission with activity surrounding her. I still have absolutely NO idea how she does what she does. At 73 years old the woman truly has more energy than I ever remember having. She told us that there are so many men out of work with hungry families that she is going to put them to work. So – she bought two wheelbarrows and she is going to have them continue to carry away the rubble and clean up the area at the orphanage. She has been waiting for several days for a dump truck to come, but having the men work will give them pride and purpose. One day Jeneane and I were moving some sledge hammers out of the way and had to lift them with TWO hands just to move them, so to think these guys swing them over their head over and over again for 12 hours – is truly incomprehensible to me!
I’m happy to say I HAVE seen progress this week at Grace House of Hope and I hope with the Pastor receiving additional money through generous donators to Impact For Jesus, he, too, will be buying needed items that we all take for granted to improve their living conditions. I spoke a few sentences at church yesterday and assured the congregation that they have not been forgotten. Prayers continue of their behalf and that in a few months we will be worshiping in the NEW church….but to our same loving God who never changes nor leaves us.
I have so much in my heart to share – but will close for now. As a bit of a disclaimer, please forgive all misspelled words and poor grammar. I type this as quickly as possible with fear that the screen will go black and I will lose the entry. That is what happened on what I wrote the last time and when I finally found it somewhere in the “blog world” – I hurried and hit “post” before I lost it again. I can hear you techno. Geniuses out there laughing…
Time to get busy – this time tomorrow I will be heading to the airport so won’t have the chance to write. Please pray for our safety in returning home. Again may I thank all for being a part of our “caring hearts ministry” as together we continue to change innocent lives.
After our chat she graciously drove us to the “artisan community” which is about 80 make shift buildings, usually one room that houses the metal art work of the people who work and live there. SO –we even had a couple hours of SHOPPING! It was so amazing to see the labors of these artists. They are so proud to display what they have made from tin. We watched them “creating” as well as they take a nail or sharp instrument and pound a pattern onto the metal and cut away pieces and create more patterns than I could describe! They expect you to barter over the price, which is SO hard for me. I feel like for every dollar I expect them to give up – they could have bought food. Debby assured me that they would be offended if we DIDN’T! Can you imagine if that was the practice in the States? I made Debby do the talking for me – and then she would nod if she thought their new price sounded fair and I would agree to complete the transaction. So between the four of us, we felt we did our fair share to help the economy of Haiti. Someone has to do it – right? (I can see Jim rolling his eyes to that comment all the way over here!)
The weather had been totally unexpected to the Haitians as it was cloudy and actually chilly for two days and nights. I could tell they were talking about it at church. By yesterday afternoon the sun did come out which actually felt good. Jeneane had the treasure of a pair of socks and a fleece jacket to wear to bed and I found a comforter in a box and was thrilled to be nestled under it at night. VERY strange for Haiti.
The late afternoon was spent playing with the girls. They rush into Jeneane and Joan’s arms now and call them by name and it’s so heartwarming. I remain amazed at these two women. They have been such a blessing to be with and are truly “missionaries”. They jump in with both feet and have adapted and been a beautiful example to the girls as we bring them love and hope. As night approached it was time for church again. Another two hours was spent worshipping at the make shift church. We played with the youngest 13 at Marie’s house. Glow in the dark bracelets were a hit and they created earrings and necklaces out of them and wanted a picture of themselves with every new invention. It was a bit crazy and exhausting for this old lady to keep up with the craziness…but having their smiles, hugs and dancing around kept me going.
We were all pretty much semi-comatose by our late dinner at 8:30 – and went to bed. I had a several mosquitoes visit in the night and their buzzing by in my ear was so frustrating. I spent the majority of the night with a sheet over my head and itching. I have no idea of the time, it was still dark, but a group gathered at the make shift church and began singing. They worshipped for about an hour or so. We talked about it this morning that we practically went to bed with singing and woke to singing. This morning Joan said she was ready to grab her flashlight and walk over and tell them that they were totally confused and that YESTERDAY was Sunday. We are so aware of their faithfulness!
I am not sure if I mentioned and not taking the time to read back through blogs, but with donations Marie had a man install lights for the girls in their make shift rooms so they can have some degree of lights. The electricity comes and goes from the government – and usually not when you need it.
None of us can believe this is our last full day. We have a list of things that we want to be sure to get accomplished with the girls. There are always so many things you want to do – but getting it organized and actually accomplished is another.
Marie has been up and rolling since early morning. She comes and goes between her house and the orphanage and is always on some mission with activity surrounding her. I still have absolutely NO idea how she does what she does. At 73 years old the woman truly has more energy than I ever remember having. She told us that there are so many men out of work with hungry families that she is going to put them to work. So – she bought two wheelbarrows and she is going to have them continue to carry away the rubble and clean up the area at the orphanage. She has been waiting for several days for a dump truck to come, but having the men work will give them pride and purpose. One day Jeneane and I were moving some sledge hammers out of the way and had to lift them with TWO hands just to move them, so to think these guys swing them over their head over and over again for 12 hours – is truly incomprehensible to me!
I’m happy to say I HAVE seen progress this week at Grace House of Hope and I hope with the Pastor receiving additional money through generous donators to Impact For Jesus, he, too, will be buying needed items that we all take for granted to improve their living conditions. I spoke a few sentences at church yesterday and assured the congregation that they have not been forgotten. Prayers continue of their behalf and that in a few months we will be worshiping in the NEW church….but to our same loving God who never changes nor leaves us.
I have so much in my heart to share – but will close for now. As a bit of a disclaimer, please forgive all misspelled words and poor grammar. I type this as quickly as possible with fear that the screen will go black and I will lose the entry. That is what happened on what I wrote the last time and when I finally found it somewhere in the “blog world” – I hurried and hit “post” before I lost it again. I can hear you techno. Geniuses out there laughing…
Time to get busy – this time tomorrow I will be heading to the airport so won’t have the chance to write. Please pray for our safety in returning home. Again may I thank all for being a part of our “caring hearts ministry” as together we continue to change innocent lives.
3.06.2010
Saturday night--action happening
I apologize for not writing earlier, but the day begins and before you know it, it's nearly over.I will try to describe yesterday. We left in the morning for our day "away" to see what lies beyond Marie's area. We started by stopping at Marie's sisters house where her three story church collapsed. There is a huge tent city there. We walked into the "city" and tried to carry smiles to encourage those staring back at us. Because of the rain the ground was muddy and we weren't sure what we were walking in. The tents practically touch each other - all different types and some made with whatever they could find. I was pleased to see that it's business as usual for people, as outside of their tent they would have a little box set up selling whatever they can to bring money. There was even a woman cooking and people in line to be fed. Her sister had a huge tarp/tent up with a service going on. People were worshiping and dancing and they even had music and drums. It was told that they were thanking God for being alive and arriving from PAP to this site. It was VERY upsetting to see little children walking around half dressed with nothing to do and just staring at us. I wanted to have an unlimited supply of ANYTHING to give them, but had nothing but a smile and to tell them "God bless you!"
From there we went to Food for the Poor. This is the International Warehouse where we hope to get our container from to deliver all the collections we have at the warehouse. I wasn't able to speak to anyone, but the warehouse was buzzing with activity and full of supplies.
Then we took the longgggg drive to PAP. The traffic was so bad and people everywhere. Soon we saw the downed buildings. It felt like we were in a bad movie and I actually started feeling sick to my stomach. The task at hand seems so enormous that I felt speechless - for those who know me - that takes something huge. In over and hour of driving thru street after street we only saw TWO cranes working on the rubble. Every other HUGE mound of broken structure remained as it was two months ago. The people on the street all walked around the bricks and they looked as if it was just another day in Haiti. I didn't see any relief workers to speak of. That's what stood out to me. NO progress. I didn't even want to think about how many bodies were buried. Joan, Jeneane and I each had personal moments when grief and tears were shed over something that broke our heart. It's all too huge of a problem to even feel "it's all going to be ok!" I hope I am totally wrong and that there is EXTENSIVE planning or the next step to repair Haiti. We did see two different sections of land that were cleared and our companion and translator, Frenzy said that was where the government donated land for people to come and set up a temporary home. Let me tell you the space wouldn't begin to make ANY kind of noticeable difference. So - after going through PAP and Delmas, another area affected - (The Carribean Market - which was talked about on the news) - we finally reached the second orphanage - COENHA.
The 30 children were waiting and greeted us with big smiles. They got a kick out of me trying to remember all of their names and pronouncing them so badly. We did a couple of craft projects with them and because we had taken so many photos and video of the sights in PAP, our batteries went dead on our cameras! big frustration for me, as I like to have many photos to see of their sponsored child. I was enouraged that they had a huge nice tent in their yard where they all continue to sleep. They have additional children staying with them that lost their home in the quake. Besides the tent I have to say they are living in dire straights. They need EVERYTHING. The children are so polite and well behaved. They are thankful for every little thing you give them. I assured the Pastor of all the people who have donated to improve their living conditions. they are sleeping on cement with a tattered sheet to protect them from the rough concrete. There are 8 bunk beds for all those children and NONE of them have a mattress - only frames! I was able to leave him with some hygiene supplies and a few clothes. He said the children all need shoes and clothes for church. This is a time when ALL Haitians want and do look very respectable. They have their "dressy" church outfit. So - when I get home I will have to work on determining how to get relief to them. By the time we got home we were all emotionally drained. Another noisy night of dogs, goats and roosters. I couldn't sleep well and believe it or not I was COLD! The weather the past two days has been overcast and not even hot. I have never experienced that here before.
But - today was a new day and we had pancakes for breakfast - so that was a great start. Today we spent our time and energy at the orphanage site trying to make it as cleaned up and safe as possible for the girls. ALL the girls worked so hard. Even the youngest helped with garbage patrol. While no one else may think the area looks too great - we have a pile of garbage to prove it! MANY things are still displaced and needed, but it was starting to look more like "home". The afternoon was spent having fun as we did more crafts and the girls enjoyed seeing the cards other children had made for them. The tried to read the English and enjoyed the challenge. They made cards in return to send back with us, thanking those who were so thoughtful in caring for them.
One of the little girls had a high fever, and Marie said it has been running thru the group of them since the quake. But - I was glad to see that the rest of them look healthly, sound healthy and I savor any laughter they offer. Their smiles make me melt and it's a good thing my stays are generally only a week, or they would be even MORE spoiled.
I asked the three oldest girls if they had been afraid. They all said "yes." And then they indicated that they still are. I wish I was able to talk with them and allow them to vent their experience and console them - or whatever. It HAS to have a lasting impact on all of them that needs to be addressed. (I might have mentioned on a prior BLOG that Catholic Relief Services did come two days ago and spoke with the girls in an organized fashion for quite awhile. I was told they were offering "psychological support." I was quite impressed and happy about that.
Well - you have probably read more than you cared to read....but you know me when I start talkin' Haiti. I am ashamed of myself that I haven't mentioned before now how incredibly thankful I am to be able to come here and tell them they have NOT been forgotten and rebuilding WILL take place and they need not feel abandoned. But, the only reason I CAN say it is because of ALL the caring hearts that were so generous to make that a reality. I truly thank again EVERYONE for the honor of being able to give them this wonderful hope and news.
Tomorrow we will have "church" across from Marie's under the tin roofed arch that she had built right after the quake where they slept in the gravel. There are tarps and anything they could find around parts of it. The good news being that God could care less where we worship Him - So tomorrow we will be giving thanksgiving for what we DO have and rely on Him to lead us from here!
From there we went to Food for the Poor. This is the International Warehouse where we hope to get our container from to deliver all the collections we have at the warehouse. I wasn't able to speak to anyone, but the warehouse was buzzing with activity and full of supplies.
Then we took the longgggg drive to PAP. The traffic was so bad and people everywhere. Soon we saw the downed buildings. It felt like we were in a bad movie and I actually started feeling sick to my stomach. The task at hand seems so enormous that I felt speechless - for those who know me - that takes something huge. In over and hour of driving thru street after street we only saw TWO cranes working on the rubble. Every other HUGE mound of broken structure remained as it was two months ago. The people on the street all walked around the bricks and they looked as if it was just another day in Haiti. I didn't see any relief workers to speak of. That's what stood out to me. NO progress. I didn't even want to think about how many bodies were buried. Joan, Jeneane and I each had personal moments when grief and tears were shed over something that broke our heart. It's all too huge of a problem to even feel "it's all going to be ok!" I hope I am totally wrong and that there is EXTENSIVE planning or the next step to repair Haiti. We did see two different sections of land that were cleared and our companion and translator, Frenzy said that was where the government donated land for people to come and set up a temporary home. Let me tell you the space wouldn't begin to make ANY kind of noticeable difference. So - after going through PAP and Delmas, another area affected - (The Carribean Market - which was talked about on the news) - we finally reached the second orphanage - COENHA.
The 30 children were waiting and greeted us with big smiles. They got a kick out of me trying to remember all of their names and pronouncing them so badly. We did a couple of craft projects with them and because we had taken so many photos and video of the sights in PAP, our batteries went dead on our cameras! big frustration for me, as I like to have many photos to see of their sponsored child. I was enouraged that they had a huge nice tent in their yard where they all continue to sleep. They have additional children staying with them that lost their home in the quake. Besides the tent I have to say they are living in dire straights. They need EVERYTHING. The children are so polite and well behaved. They are thankful for every little thing you give them. I assured the Pastor of all the people who have donated to improve their living conditions. they are sleeping on cement with a tattered sheet to protect them from the rough concrete. There are 8 bunk beds for all those children and NONE of them have a mattress - only frames! I was able to leave him with some hygiene supplies and a few clothes. He said the children all need shoes and clothes for church. This is a time when ALL Haitians want and do look very respectable. They have their "dressy" church outfit. So - when I get home I will have to work on determining how to get relief to them. By the time we got home we were all emotionally drained. Another noisy night of dogs, goats and roosters. I couldn't sleep well and believe it or not I was COLD! The weather the past two days has been overcast and not even hot. I have never experienced that here before.
But - today was a new day and we had pancakes for breakfast - so that was a great start. Today we spent our time and energy at the orphanage site trying to make it as cleaned up and safe as possible for the girls. ALL the girls worked so hard. Even the youngest helped with garbage patrol. While no one else may think the area looks too great - we have a pile of garbage to prove it! MANY things are still displaced and needed, but it was starting to look more like "home". The afternoon was spent having fun as we did more crafts and the girls enjoyed seeing the cards other children had made for them. The tried to read the English and enjoyed the challenge. They made cards in return to send back with us, thanking those who were so thoughtful in caring for them.
One of the little girls had a high fever, and Marie said it has been running thru the group of them since the quake. But - I was glad to see that the rest of them look healthly, sound healthy and I savor any laughter they offer. Their smiles make me melt and it's a good thing my stays are generally only a week, or they would be even MORE spoiled.
I asked the three oldest girls if they had been afraid. They all said "yes." And then they indicated that they still are. I wish I was able to talk with them and allow them to vent their experience and console them - or whatever. It HAS to have a lasting impact on all of them that needs to be addressed. (I might have mentioned on a prior BLOG that Catholic Relief Services did come two days ago and spoke with the girls in an organized fashion for quite awhile. I was told they were offering "psychological support." I was quite impressed and happy about that.
Well - you have probably read more than you cared to read....but you know me when I start talkin' Haiti. I am ashamed of myself that I haven't mentioned before now how incredibly thankful I am to be able to come here and tell them they have NOT been forgotten and rebuilding WILL take place and they need not feel abandoned. But, the only reason I CAN say it is because of ALL the caring hearts that were so generous to make that a reality. I truly thank again EVERYONE for the honor of being able to give them this wonderful hope and news.
Tomorrow we will have "church" across from Marie's under the tin roofed arch that she had built right after the quake where they slept in the gravel. There are tarps and anything they could find around parts of it. The good news being that God could care less where we worship Him - So tomorrow we will be giving thanksgiving for what we DO have and rely on Him to lead us from here!
3.05.2010
Day three -- Friday
Friday morning has come after hours of rain last night. Thunder included. As I heard the pounding rain all I could think about was the thousands of people trying to withstand the pouring under their cardboard make shift tent. I feel like we are part of the elite living here. Yesterday flew by for me. This is not uncommon. While life is very slow here, the days go quickly. I had several hours alone with Marie and we had a wonderful conversation. She needed additional confirmation that rebuilding IS a reality. She says she still can’t believe that it will really happen. I tried to tell her about all the amazing people who have donated and care about her and the girls welfare. We realize that she has been living here trying to survive and get thru the day, while I have been on the receiving end of things. It still makes me sit it awe at all that has transpired the last, almost two months, at the outpouring of generous hearts. I hope many are reading this to confirm to them that THEY are a vital part of this reality. I guess I can’t expect Marie to feel that. I’ve told her many stories about the schools who have done collections in addition to Wheatland Salem and other churches, as well. She just shakes her head and then lies her head down on the table trying to take it all in.
The Pastor from COENHA came to visit and I was able to talk with him through Marie translating for a couple hours, as well. His needs are SO great. All he had on hand were bags of rice and water. The skinny mattresses that he had are ruined and rotting. He needed toothbrushes/paste, bar soap, all things we had brought and able to supply. We filled a big sack for him with raisins, granola bars, etc. and Marie gave him a gallon size can of mixed vegetables. He was so thankful to also receive money to go and purchase some thin mattress pads that they have here and more food for the children. We will be going to his orphanage this morning to play with the children, take photos, and we’ve packed a bin of new clothes.
Helicopters continue to go overhead thru out the day – which is really my only sign that something unusual is happening in Haiti. Otherwise, it feels like it usually does – only more bricks lying about.
The girls were in their glory as Joan and Jeneane spent hours there yesterday playing everything imaginable. They have already fallen in love with the girls and know many by name. Last night at dinner they both told Marie they suspect this won’t be their only trip to Haiti. We had a wonderful dinner last night of chicken and vegetables. We were eating like savages, although very aware what sat before us exceeded what 99% of the country was eating. Marie told us stories of her life after dinner and had all of us laughing. She herself was laughing so hard. Then she said it has been so long since she has laughed, that life really must be getting OK!
Debbie came to visit for a short time with a team of about 10 medical people from Georgia. They had been working downtown PAP and came for a visit. This group has done medical clinics for Lazarus Project on several other occasions. It was very refreshing to see them.
So far the bugs have been behaving and not affecting us. We feel at home. Last night we heard singing and across from Marie’s house, where they slept in the gravel, there was a gathering of people singing praises. When I went to bed I could hear others singing in the distance. Marie said that the entire nation has united in their faith and that rumor has is that VOO-DOO is over. The President and high officials kneeled in front of a gathering of people to proclaim their faith. She feels the country is finally together and people say there is a “new Haiti.”
Time to hit the bath bucket and get this day started. We are doing well, despite the heat, and have more plans and desires that will be possible to get in – time is going so fast.
I must end by sharing this visual for you. Joan brought a ukulele and sat down on the ground in front of Marie’s gate and began playing to two of the children walking by. Before you knew it there were 10+ kids grinning ear to ear as she taught them “Head Shoulders Knees and Toes”. All you could see were big huge smiles and these children doing all the motions and singing. After about the third round they were singing it in English and following every movement. It was SO dear. I got the SHEER JOY of giving them each a piece of Bubble Gum and watch them skip off – looking back at us with big smiles. Joan is truly a “kid magnet”. What a blessing.
May each of you know that part of you was brought here with me and I know that is what sustains me and makes the love I have overflow for the people around me.
The Pastor from COENHA came to visit and I was able to talk with him through Marie translating for a couple hours, as well. His needs are SO great. All he had on hand were bags of rice and water. The skinny mattresses that he had are ruined and rotting. He needed toothbrushes/paste, bar soap, all things we had brought and able to supply. We filled a big sack for him with raisins, granola bars, etc. and Marie gave him a gallon size can of mixed vegetables. He was so thankful to also receive money to go and purchase some thin mattress pads that they have here and more food for the children. We will be going to his orphanage this morning to play with the children, take photos, and we’ve packed a bin of new clothes.
Helicopters continue to go overhead thru out the day – which is really my only sign that something unusual is happening in Haiti. Otherwise, it feels like it usually does – only more bricks lying about.
The girls were in their glory as Joan and Jeneane spent hours there yesterday playing everything imaginable. They have already fallen in love with the girls and know many by name. Last night at dinner they both told Marie they suspect this won’t be their only trip to Haiti. We had a wonderful dinner last night of chicken and vegetables. We were eating like savages, although very aware what sat before us exceeded what 99% of the country was eating. Marie told us stories of her life after dinner and had all of us laughing. She herself was laughing so hard. Then she said it has been so long since she has laughed, that life really must be getting OK!
Debbie came to visit for a short time with a team of about 10 medical people from Georgia. They had been working downtown PAP and came for a visit. This group has done medical clinics for Lazarus Project on several other occasions. It was very refreshing to see them.
So far the bugs have been behaving and not affecting us. We feel at home. Last night we heard singing and across from Marie’s house, where they slept in the gravel, there was a gathering of people singing praises. When I went to bed I could hear others singing in the distance. Marie said that the entire nation has united in their faith and that rumor has is that VOO-DOO is over. The President and high officials kneeled in front of a gathering of people to proclaim their faith. She feels the country is finally together and people say there is a “new Haiti.”
Time to hit the bath bucket and get this day started. We are doing well, despite the heat, and have more plans and desires that will be possible to get in – time is going so fast.
I must end by sharing this visual for you. Joan brought a ukulele and sat down on the ground in front of Marie’s gate and began playing to two of the children walking by. Before you knew it there were 10+ kids grinning ear to ear as she taught them “Head Shoulders Knees and Toes”. All you could see were big huge smiles and these children doing all the motions and singing. After about the third round they were singing it in English and following every movement. It was SO dear. I got the SHEER JOY of giving them each a piece of Bubble Gum and watch them skip off – looking back at us with big smiles. Joan is truly a “kid magnet”. What a blessing.
May each of you know that part of you was brought here with me and I know that is what sustains me and makes the love I have overflow for the people around me.
3.04.2010
day 2 -- moving day
What a difference a day can make. Lots of activity yesterday, especially by the girls ages 8 – 16. Their level of energy and work activity is always mind boggling to me. Marie announced that she couldn’t watch the girls sleep outside on the cement any longer. She said six weeks was long enough to make the children live this way. Prior to the earthquake she had been trying to improve the conditions in a preschool classroom, so it was decided the girls would return to the orphanage sight. The flurry began with trying to put back together broken bed frames. The condition of the mattresses brought Jeneane to tears. There had to be bugs and such living in these tattered, ripped open, filthy mattresses. I asked Marie if we could go get new mattresses, but she chose to wait and get them settled and someday when they have their REAL rooms again – new mattresses will greet them. I was relieved to see the beds made with clean sheets and from there each girl took such pride in their “space”. Beds were adorned with a dirty doll, or stuffed animal – others covered cement bricks that they used as a night stand and put little things like plastic spoons or forks, or anything that they could find all arranged to look neat and “pretty.”Several had photos of their sponsors lying on their bed. Jeneane and I mainly worked in one of the rooms where we were overwhelmed with garbage, and piles of misc. things from clothes to parts of a Christmas tree. It was very overwhelming, upsetting, not to mention the heat and bites from red ants. Joan was the “camp leader” as she entertained the youngest 12 girls for hours on end with singing, painting, jump rope, coloring – you name it, she pulled it out of her hip pocket. They were enthralled and overjoyed.
By dusk the girls started migrating to the old orphanage after a huge plate of wheat and beans. I felt sad to see them go there knowing how totally unsafe the grounds are. There are SO many obstacles and broken bricks and glass and just stuff to walk around and the space for them to actually “play” almost doesn’t exist. During our dinner of mac and cheese Marie started missing them already. She wanted to walk to see if they were ok in the dark with our flashlights. We decided not, and all went to bed totally drained and exhausted. In the night there was a down pour of rain and as I heard it I was actually glad for the first time they were under cover and not under the stars getting soaked.
A new day has begun and we’ve learned the girls had a good first night sleeping 2-3 in a bed – but a mattress none the less. They loaded a pickup truck with all the cooking pans and such this morning from Marie’s house to return that operation to the make shift orphanage, as well.
My heart so aches for the youngest 12 and Marie agreed to hire another person to care for just them. So – as I type, I new woman who is thrilled to have a job will be going to be working to keep the youngest 12 clean and safe! I am so happy.
Time to get back to work – we are going to spend today continuing to go thru the rubble and piles of stuff to determine what to save and what to throw away. (Marie has great difficulty throwing ANYTHING away - now I know why – sometimes life takes it all away and you never know what you might need!)
We are all hanging in despite the heat. It zaps the energy out of us mid-west girls! Please keep praying for the people of Haiti. Every familiar face I see I throw my arms around them and say, “God bless you!” and they can sense I’m celebrating that they were spared. Strangers have said, “thank you for coming to Haiti to help us.” I almost feel guilty accepting their thanksgiving when it feels like I am doing nothing, compared to their needs. We will see what this day brings our way.
By dusk the girls started migrating to the old orphanage after a huge plate of wheat and beans. I felt sad to see them go there knowing how totally unsafe the grounds are. There are SO many obstacles and broken bricks and glass and just stuff to walk around and the space for them to actually “play” almost doesn’t exist. During our dinner of mac and cheese Marie started missing them already. She wanted to walk to see if they were ok in the dark with our flashlights. We decided not, and all went to bed totally drained and exhausted. In the night there was a down pour of rain and as I heard it I was actually glad for the first time they were under cover and not under the stars getting soaked.
A new day has begun and we’ve learned the girls had a good first night sleeping 2-3 in a bed – but a mattress none the less. They loaded a pickup truck with all the cooking pans and such this morning from Marie’s house to return that operation to the make shift orphanage, as well.
My heart so aches for the youngest 12 and Marie agreed to hire another person to care for just them. So – as I type, I new woman who is thrilled to have a job will be going to be working to keep the youngest 12 clean and safe! I am so happy.
Time to get back to work – we are going to spend today continuing to go thru the rubble and piles of stuff to determine what to save and what to throw away. (Marie has great difficulty throwing ANYTHING away - now I know why – sometimes life takes it all away and you never know what you might need!)
We are all hanging in despite the heat. It zaps the energy out of us mid-west girls! Please keep praying for the people of Haiti. Every familiar face I see I throw my arms around them and say, “God bless you!” and they can sense I’m celebrating that they were spared. Strangers have said, “thank you for coming to Haiti to help us.” I almost feel guilty accepting their thanksgiving when it feels like I am doing nothing, compared to their needs. We will see what this day brings our way.
3.03.2010
Daylight after a long night -- Wed. March 3
A new day has come after a very dark and long night. As we were preparing to land at the airport in Haiti I could see tent cities and the army tents from the sky and my excitement grew. The logistics at the airport were very different, but peaceful with servicemen all around. We met up with Marie and got to ride in her “new” pickup truck. I found the streets to look basically the same. The ‘’old Haiti” already looked so distressed, that I didn’t see much change. Once we reached Marie’s neighborhood I began to see the damage in her area. Small tent cities were in place (30-50) and security walls down. When we reached the orphanage I could already see that the outside security wall had been replaced. When I walked through the gate and saw the mound of rubble that used to be the church and orphanage I just broke into tears. I thought I was prepared through pictures Jim had provided, but I wasn’t. I was overwhelmed with the scattering of all the contents that was housed in these buildings. Everything was jammed into school classrooms or strewn on the ground. A shoe here, doll there, piece of clothing, etc. It was MUCH more than I could stand to look at. It was TOTALLY overwhelming. Marie and I stood and cried and she was so discouraged, which gave me strength. I assured her one day we would remember this moment as we saw a new orphanage and church standing tall. She said she hoped she would live to see it. I was greeted with huge smiles from the girls and I cried thru that, too! (Surprise, surprise!) Once the darkness came, it seemed to affect me even more.
While some things felt the same, it was totally different. I felt displaced, just as the girls are by being here. To watch them lay out their thin blankets/sheets onto the cement under the stars and just lie down in their dirty clothes, I thought my heart would break. Marie sounded so drained and discouraged and I had a hard time assuring her all will be fine when I could see it will take SO long to return to whatever normal will be.
Under our mosquito nets we all tried to sleep. I have a lump in my throat as I type this as I can’t believe this is “life in Haiti”. The roosters had their normal performance from about 1:00 a.m. until we got up at 6:00 a.m. Joan and Jeneane are coloring with the younger girls right now which give them something to do. The 6-7 older girls are shelling beans. Everyone has their job. A couple of the six year olds were mopping the cement this morning after a 10 year old finished sweeping. My mission today is to keep the girls busy so Marie has a break and to encourage her. She already put on the new dress and shoes I brought her and feels special! I am sure after today, it will start feeling “normal” to me, too! To say that Haitians are “survivors”, would be putting it mildly. A huge reminder of all the things that stressed me out before I came, I am humbled and ashamed. Time to embrace the day --- I’ve certainly waited long enough to get here!
While some things felt the same, it was totally different. I felt displaced, just as the girls are by being here. To watch them lay out their thin blankets/sheets onto the cement under the stars and just lie down in their dirty clothes, I thought my heart would break. Marie sounded so drained and discouraged and I had a hard time assuring her all will be fine when I could see it will take SO long to return to whatever normal will be.
Under our mosquito nets we all tried to sleep. I have a lump in my throat as I type this as I can’t believe this is “life in Haiti”. The roosters had their normal performance from about 1:00 a.m. until we got up at 6:00 a.m. Joan and Jeneane are coloring with the younger girls right now which give them something to do. The 6-7 older girls are shelling beans. Everyone has their job. A couple of the six year olds were mopping the cement this morning after a 10 year old finished sweeping. My mission today is to keep the girls busy so Marie has a break and to encourage her. She already put on the new dress and shoes I brought her and feels special! I am sure after today, it will start feeling “normal” to me, too! To say that Haitians are “survivors”, would be putting it mildly. A huge reminder of all the things that stressed me out before I came, I am humbled and ashamed. Time to embrace the day --- I’ve certainly waited long enough to get here!
3.02.2010
Tuesday March 2, 2010--The three amigas arrive safely
Jim spoke with Patty tonight and they have arrived safely at Marie’s house in Haiti. Patty is very sad, however. She is seeing the current living conditions of the girls—sleeping on the ground outside, and the mess and disarray of the masses of salvaged items from the church and orphanage scattered everywhere and anywhere there is room. Haiti always appears somewhat chaotic to us Americans but this is new level of chaos. The three women from Naperville, Patty, Joan, and Jeneane are all tired and will going to bed without any blog update. I totally understand. There will be plenty of opportunity to write about all they see and do. I only hope that they are able to see some light in the darkness of this tragedy. I’m sure they will. As the Newsboys put it:
‘Cause all the powers of darkness
Can’t drown out a single word
When all God’s children sing out
Glory, glory, hallelujah
He reigns, He reigns
All God’s people singing
Glory, glory, hallelujah
He reigns, He reigns
The Haitian’s are singing just that! He reigns!!!
‘Cause all the powers of darkness
Can’t drown out a single word
When all God’s children sing out
Glory, glory, hallelujah
He reigns, He reigns
All God’s people singing
Glory, glory, hallelujah
He reigns, He reigns
The Haitian’s are singing just that! He reigns!!!
3.01.2010
Monday March 1st – preparing for departure
Well – my bags are packed (almost) and I’m ready to get to Haiti. It’s amazing how quickly one can pack 300 pounds. I’m traveling with two friends, Jeneane and Joan, and talked both of them out their allotted bags. It’s so exciting to take much of what others have collected: cards for the girls which were made by students at two different schools, hand bags sewn by students at a middle school, gifts an 11 year old received for the girls instead of for herself at her birthday party and a menagerie of collected clothes and food. Mama Santa is hitting the sky for Haiti.
My burning desire is to hug each girl until she squirms for mercy. We want to have a “spa” day when everyone gets a bath, lotion rub from head to toe, clean clothes, pedicure and manicure and Macaroni and cheese with mini sausage links!
I have been waiting for this opportunity since the day the quake hit. Marie threatens to leave me there all alone so she can take a break. This many girls underfoot 24/7 has exceeded her patience level. The rains have started. They did get two large tarps that they have tried to tie over the area the girls are sleeping.
May your prayers continue for the people for Haiti. I’m off and running.
My burning desire is to hug each girl until she squirms for mercy. We want to have a “spa” day when everyone gets a bath, lotion rub from head to toe, clean clothes, pedicure and manicure and Macaroni and cheese with mini sausage links!
I have been waiting for this opportunity since the day the quake hit. Marie threatens to leave me there all alone so she can take a break. This many girls underfoot 24/7 has exceeded her patience level. The rains have started. They did get two large tarps that they have tried to tie over the area the girls are sleeping.
May your prayers continue for the people for Haiti. I’m off and running.
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