Mingling with the Haitians

After three days of focusing on the medical facility and painting, today we started with a school assembly at the Village of Hope.  We observed and participated in the kindergarten (ages 3-6) march, raising of the Haitian flag, and singing.  Paul may have even been distracting one child playing peek-a-boo while they were supposed to be paying attention!  For the rookies (Tish and Marilyn), it was an exciting experience.  It was another picture perfect day in Haiti with the mountains as a backdrop to the school.  Some of us who have sponsored children, once again had the opportunity to meet and talk (mostly smile), as well as take pictures with their children.  For Sarah, it was the first year meeting her little guy, Napoleon.  Tish, as the representative from the yoga group, was unable to meet her little girl, Nadge, because she was home ill today.  Tish wrote her a letter and left it with the school for Nadge.  This was a very satisfying experience for Jim, Greer, Mark, and Sarah.  Following the school opening, most of the team went to the medical facility to do what we do best - paint! Once again, we exceeded expectations by running through all the paint. For lunch, we enjoyed the standard Haitian fare of rice and beans (and optional fish sauce) with the students.  

Our return to Hope House found us in a Haitian traffic jam quagmire.  We survived, arrived at Hope House, spent five minute cleaning up and headed to Marie's Orphanage which was a real treat for the mission team.  Marie is responsible for twenty girls up to the age of 14.  She does a remarkable job.  We came bearing numerous fun gifts like bubbles and frisbees.  The real treat for Sarah, Christine, and Tish was having their hair done over and over again.  Yes, we have lots of pictures to share.  Christine even had cornrows until she took them out.  Mark took the lead and led us all in song and dance.  It was a real treat for the kids, as well as the mission team.  Picture Mark putting his whole body into "If You're Happy and You Know It" shake your whole body.  He was even airborne at one point - we have pictures!  We also had a presentation from Liz to Marie of a book, globe, and special candy from our special friends in Texas.  

Upon returning to Hope House, a highlight for Greer was seeing the three children of Lucien.  For dinner we had another great meal of lasagna (with meat - Tish was on her own).  None of us are losing weight!  We will continue on tonight with our nightly devotional.  More to come tomorrow!