Tuesday

I apologize for the delay - the internet is iffy here, partly because the electricity is unpredictable! 


Today started out with Madame Day's famous french toast and fresh fruit. Mmmmmmmmm...

After breakfast, we met with the Haitians who would serve as interpreters. We discussed who would be doing what job, and worked out some other issues.

After lunch, our team met for a celebration of discipleship. We talked about the freedom Christianity brings us, and the things we must sacrifice in order to receive God's blessings. Several in the group shared some of their spiritual experiences. Then we were asked to find a half hour each day while we're here to meditate on God's blessings.

This afternoon, we got the chance to ride to Pistere. We rode, again standing on the back of a utility truck, waving to children along the way. And experiencing a few cynical expressions here and there, as well. :-)

We were given a quick tour of the building that serves as a school and church, and even got to taste coconut milk. But the absolute best thing was when some of the local women and children saw us drive up, they began gathering just outside the entrance and peeking in at us. So we asked if it was ok to go out and visit with them, and Wilbert said it would be alright. Melissa recognized a couple of the children from when the team was here last summer, and began interacting with them. We had lots of photo ops, and there may have even been some tickling involved! One of the ladies asked if Morgan's mother was there (Bob had introduced us, but the relationship must not have been clear). So when we said it was me, the whole group laughed out loud. :-) Haitians have a hard time judging age, so they probably thought we were sisters.

We also met with and prayed for the Pastor of the church, and he asked for prayers for the Deacon, who is having some health issues.

I enjoyed the meeting, and seeing the building, but my favorite part was interacting with the people. On the ride back, I rode backward in the truck, and waved to every child I saw, and some adults as well. Most of the children smile and wave, and some even announce we're going by to their family. It also gave me a better opportunity to take pictures discreetly.

Back at the compound, it was pizza night, more work on VBS supplies, and a makeshift hair salon. Morgan and Christy got cornrows!

While the weather here is hot, I don't think it's any worse than Ohio's hot days without air conditioning. So it hasn't been unbearable. Very sticky and humid, but not unbearable.

Oh, and Sidney people: 6 boxes of the bears arrived on a flight today, but customs wanted to charge LHM 1,000 Haitian dollars, probably because they thought LHM was going to sell them. Doudou told them that was a ridiculous amount and that they wouldn't pay it, so the bears are still sitting at the airport. I will let you know when I have an update on the situation.