It is our fourth night here in Haiti. I am already dreading
the day that we leave. I had the opportunity to spend most of my days here at
New Life spending more time with the children. I played soccer with Hannah,
Marissa, Jeremy, Vanessa, Wisbens, Gibons, Charles, and a few rotating subs,
especially for me since today I feel like I am fighting off a cold/ sinus
infection. It felt great to just spend time with the children. I feel that
during my last few trips, I was visiting New Life in passing. I was here but
not here. I was busy trying to do so many things outside of New Life and not
spending enough quality time with the children here. I feel like I learned a
lot more about the children these past few days with just spending more time
with them.
Today, I changed multiple diapers, got to carry Caleb and
put him to bed, played with the babies making fun car noises with the toys,
picked up Rosena after having a tantrum, and kissed Daftka's ouchie on her head. I feel like these are things
that often get overlooked- the reassurance after a fall, talking to the babies
while changing them, cradling the babies and helping them nap, and playing and
making noises with the toys to expand upon their social and play skills. So
many thoughts go through my mind such as; what kinds of educational toys can I
get sent over for the babies and the toddlers to expand upon their dramatic
play skills, who picks them up after they fall, who carries them when they
don't feel well, who tucks them into sleep, etc. Then when I start asking
myself these questions, I begin to feel sad and feel like I need to come to
Haiti more often so I can do those things.
I am hoping that I can come back next year in July and spend
more time with the girls. I feel like my departure this time will be a lot
harder to do because I had the opportunity to build stronger relationships. For
my new year's goal, I am hoping to come back and spend time with the children
at New Life.
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