The Krul Family

Judging versus Loving

2012-01-30T08:44:00.000-08:00

Judging others, aren't we all guilty of that?

God wouldn't have to tell us over and over in the Bible not to judge or speak evil of each other if it wasn't a problem. Although there are many different Bible verses that address this issue, the verses I am about to share are the ones God has been using to teach me these last few months.

The first one can be found in James 4:11-12:
¹¹Speak not evil one of another, brethren. He that speaketh evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge.

¹²There is one lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy: who art thou that judgest another?

In Mark 12:30-31 it says:
³⁰And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment.

³¹And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.

So if we are judging our neighbour we aren't a doer of the law, since the second commandment clearly states we are to LOVE our neighbour. You can't judge and love at the same time.

Also, it's not our job to judge. It's God's.

While judging might be something done internally it often leads to us speaking evil of others. Why do we do it? I think we do it to make us feel better about ourselves. How often do we say things like; Do you now what that person did? Look at what she's wearing? I heard this person say that, can you believe it? And in the back of our minds we pat ourselves on the back. We would never do, or wear, or say something like that!

But what does the Bible say?

In Titus 3:2-5 we can find these words:

2..speak evil of no man.... but be gentle....

³For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another.

⁴But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared,

⁵Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;

Those are powerful words. Don't speak evil, but be gentle. Look at yourself, at your past. Don't you remember when you were foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving all kinds of lusts and pleasures, living in wickedness and envy, hateful and hating one another? It's only by the kindness and love of God and the regeneration of the Holy Spirit that we are renewed. Not be anything we have done. Don't forget that! So love your neighbor, don't speak evil and be gentle.

It's simple really. I didn't realize how truly simple it was till last month. We were in Port au Prince driving to the airport, when a Haitian man flagged us down. We recognized him as someone who occasionally worked at the airport and he asked us for a ride. We stopped and let him into the back where he found a seat beside Jayden. After greeting us with a friendly"Bonjou" he popped his headphones back into his ears and gazed out the window.

Jayden very quickly began to complain. "Mom," he whispered loudly. "That man stinks, I don't want to sit by him!" Horrified at my child, I glanced back and as I turned I could smell it too. Sweat.

Thankfully the man with the earphones hadn't heard Jayden and I quickly admonished him. "Jayden you can't say that! That isn't nice!"He looked at me for a moment, but made no response. Then several seconds later slightly off tune he began to sing the last line of his favourite song. "Give me an understanding heart."

It's a song based on Psalm 86 and goes like this:
Teach me O Lord Thy way of truth
and from it I will not depart
That I may steadfastly obey
Give me an understanding heart

I was stunned. Out of the mouth of a little child came wisdom far beyond his years. An understanding heart. That was it.

The next time we feel an urge to judge or say something bad about someone else let's instead ask God for an understanding heart. And let's ask in faith, God did say "Ask and it shall be given" (Matthew 7:7)

Dear Dad

2012-01-16T13:36:00.000-08:00

I just want to say I love you!

Just look at my eyes and you will see how much I miss you.

Please come home soon and play in the snow with me!

Ps: I'm taking good care of Mommy!

XOXO Jayden

A New Place To Call Home

2012-01-10T07:15:00.000-08:00

The friendly warmth of the fireplace wraps itself around me in the early morning coolness. It's 7:00 a.m. in Agassiz, BC and the sun has yet to peak her face over the beautiful snow capped mountains.

I reach over and take a sip of my favorite Earl Grey tea and then a bite of my Dutch biscuit with chocolate sprinkles. Yum!

Opening my laptop I check the date on my last blog post and notice it has been exactly two weeks. Skim reading 'Busy Days, Sleepless Nights,' I marvel at the changes that have taken place.

Two weeks ago we lived in Port au Prince, Haiti, a city with a population of over 4 million people. Now we live in Agassiz, BC, a town of barely 6000. The warm Caribbean versus the beautiful snow peaked mountains of Canada. Bustling city, farm country. Ants, mosquitoes and cockroaches, now not a bug to be seen. The smells of the city versus "fresh country air," as Jayden likes to say.

Snuggling deeper into Jason's hoodie, I smile at the memories of the last two weeks.

Playing in the snow,

sledding,

ice skating,

dinners with family and friends,

and settling into our temporary home.

Now the 6 weeks before my due date stretch out in front of me. Since Jason flew back to Haiti for one more month of duty with MAF before furlough begins, I'm planning to fill my time relaxing, reading, playing with Jayden, and spending time with family and friends.

Busy Days, Sleepless Nights

2011-12-27T12:40:00.000-08:00

The soft pink curtains sway gently as a welcoming breeze makes its way through the flimsy screens. In the darkness I watch their ghostly forms dance this way and that. Turning over, I re-adjust my pillows to find the ever illusive comfortable sleeping position. Insomnia has plagued me these last few months.

Finally, giving up, I sit up and ease ever so quietly out of bed. Walking carefully through the maze of suitcases that plaster our bedroom floor I silently open the door and slip out into the hallway. Closing it softly behind me I flip on the hallway light. Making my way to Jayden’s bedroom I crack open the door and smile at the sight of three small boys sprawled out on beds and air mattresses.

Reaching above the door frame, I feel with my fingers till they touch something metal; the hallway gate key. Closing my fingers around it I insert the key into the iron security gate and it opens with a click.

In the kitchen I fill a glass with water and ice. The kitchen clock reads 3:00 a.m., meaning it’s probably about 3:25. Even with new batteries its accuracy never last long and I’ve learned to slowly add 5 then 10, and now up to 25 minutes to get real time.

Cradling my glass, I head over to the living room and turn on the light. No cockroaches scurry off into darker corners and for this I am thankful. I make myself comfortable on the couch and slowly sip my ice water. Today is a special day. My 26th birthday and the day we travel to Canada. Still unable to fully wrap my mind around the changes that are to come, I decide instead to reminisce about this past week.

With our friends from Canada and their three children visiting us, it’s been a busy and exciting week. As I lay my head back on the armrest a string of memories play in my mind.

Visiting the downtown core.

The heart breaking poverty there.

Parents, so desperate they beg us to take their children.

The filthy streets.

MAF flights.

Landing in Oanaminthe

Feeling like the odd ones out!

Okay, that's better!

A bus ride through the village with adopted Uncle Jason.

Christmas feeding programs.

Make new friends.

Handing out Bible verse coloring books.

Happy kids!

This is for you!

Rice and beans.

Christmas Eve.

And special times with special friends.

Gradually the images fade in my weary brain. Drinking the last sips of water I shuffle back up the stairs, through the hallway and into our bedroom. Crawling under the thin sheet I close my eyes and dream. Winter coats, boots, the flu bug, airports, babies, Jason, Jayden, family, friends.

Slowly I doze off into a restless sleep. Less then 2.5 hours before it's time to get up and get ready to leave Haiti. It seems so unreal.

Christmas Outreach Program

2011-12-19T04:08:00.000-08:00

The sun steadily sinks lower in the cerulean sky as children push and jostle each other to get through the orphanage gate. Today is the Christmas Outreach Program and anticipation and excitement buzzes through the air.

Finally it's our turn and as we enter the courtyard we can see a crowd has already formed inside.

To get a better view we climb up the side of a crumbled wall and get comfortable on the roof of a neighboring house.

With over 400 people in the community attending, it takes a little for the crowd to settle down, but when they finally do the Christmas program begins.

Strains of 'Gloria in Excelsis Dio' waft upward as the children who regularly attend the feeding program sing their praises to God.

The T-Rex that Jayden had snuck along in his pocket evidently begins to get hungry so the boys collect dinosaur vegetation to calm its grumbling tummy.

The program continues with various songs and skits allowing both those who live in the orphanage and attend the feeding programs to participate.

After a rousing round of applause for all their efforts, the crowd quiets as the Christmas Story is read. As the ancient Biblical words resound around us, I glance up.

The fading sunlight illuminates a cross perched on a neighboring building. Christmas is all about celebrating Christ's birth, but the cross is a reminder of what Jesus came to do. He came to die for sinners.

Darkness falls and the program ends. As we mingle, the kids are quickly surrounded.

Two girls playfully touch Dia's silky locks and she giggles.

Josh soon finds someone his own age and does his best to communicate using sign language.

Other children crowd around us, asking to get their pictures taking.

Slowly the courtyard empties and it's time to return home. In the pale light of the moon we make our through the dusty streets back to the car. The birth of Jesus. What a special occasion to share and celebrate with the community around us.

Mosaic of Memories

2011-12-14T06:12:00.000-08:00

Sarah's Visit

long flight, crossing time zones, finally here

busy traffic, bright colors, dusty roads

From 2011

colorful art, pushy vendors, bartering time

From 2011

turquoise water, white sand, coconut milk

beautiful sunset, warm temperatures, perfect day

MAF flight, sensational scenery, breathtaking

all on 1 motorbike, village life, step back in time

lazy rivers, crowded markets, friendly children

crumbled palace, broken cathedral, heartbreaking poverty

Haitian rice, feeding programs, brown eyes

beautiful jewelry, talented artists, new hope

dinosaur paint set, dinosaur books, a little boys adoring gaze

long talks, good times, special friends

You Can Help!

2011-12-07T11:33:00.001-08:00

Three and a half years ago we met Anoud, Denise and their two boys for the first time. All four of them were too thin and the youngest of the two boys showed signs of malnutrition.

Anoud had been employed on our property for the past 10 years, but Denise had no income and lived an hour away in a tin shack on the side of a ravine with their two boys. The tin shack didn't keep out the wind, or the rats, or the torrential rain and life was hard.

Not wanting Anoud to lose his job, we agreed to hire him and asked Denise if she would like to live on our property with him as well. At first she was hesitant, saying their two kids were too noisy, but when we convinced her that we had a noisy boy too and that wouldn't be a problem she gratefully accepted.

As we learned the language the friendship grew not only between the adults but also between the three boys.

The following summer their family expanded when Jocemine was born. To honor our friendship Anoud and Denise chose to name her after both Jason and I. It was very special.

A year later we officially became godmother and father of all three of their children in a special dedication service.

Denise who had begun to help me around the house talked often about wanting to learn a new skill. Coming from a large family, she only went to school when her parents could afford it which was not very often, leaving her almost illiterate.

When I heard about the Apparent Project jewelry making program I approached her and asked if she would be interested in learning how to make beads from recycled paper and design necklaces. She was thrilled and several weeks later we went to the Apparent Project to learn together.

It didn't take very long for her to become a talented bead maker and jewelry designer and she soon taught her husband as well.

"With the money I earn I would like to help my elderly parents, pay money to rebuild our church, send my second child to school and save up for a piece of land," Denise told me. Very ambitiously she set to work and did just that. She sent money to her parents, donated to her church, paid for Sabboule's schooling and saved whatever was left to purchase a piece of property.

"This piece of property can change the life of my family," she said. It means that we will always have a place to rent out or live on. It can be a legacy for our children.

Several days ago Denise approached me to say she found a piece of land to purchase. With the legal fees she only needs $1200 more.

She has over $1200 worth of jewelry waiting to be sold so this is where you can help. A friend of mine hopes to return to Chilliwack with Denise's jewelry on December 14. If we can sell $1200 worth before the end of the year Denise can buy the land. If you live in or around the Chilliwack area and would like to purchase some of her amazing jewelry please email us.

Her jewelry is beautiful and unique and makes great Christmas gifts!

If you have family, friends or coworkers that would be interested and would like to sell some of the jewelry to them before Christmas we can work that out as well.

Will you help Denise realize her dream and leave a legacy for her children?

November: Prep Month

2011-12-05T04:35:00.000-08:00

November was prep month; meaning I spent hours writing lists, organizing cupboards and closets, packing, washing curtains, mending clothes, cleaning fans, wiping down dusty suitcases and studying re-entry books.

With the whole month of December packed full of visits from friends, November was it.

Jason teased me that I was going overboard with nesting due to pregnancy hormones, but I firmly believe that in order to experience a positive cross-cultural transition some special planning was in order. Especially considering that others would be living in our home while we were away.

Although it’s one thing to physically prepare for a cross-cultural move, there are definite mental and emotional things to consider as well. What’s it like transitioning between two countries and cultures that have so little in common? Two books that have graced my nightstand this past month were ‘Re-Entry' and the 'Art of Coming Home’.

Some of the challenges the books covered were these:

Climate changes. Temperatures in Port au Prince rarely dip under 20 degrees Celsius over the winter months. During the afternoons it’s still easily in the low 30’s. Over the last three years our bodies have adapted. 35 degrees is no longer hot, and 20 degrees means we pull out our sweaters and extra blankets.

Going from that to Chilliwack, where temperatures have stubbornly hovered around 0 degrees will be a shock to our systems!

Traffic in Port au Prince is crazy. Every time I drive I feel like I’m in some bizarre video game twisting the wheel this way and that to avoid potholes, animals, pedestrians, dump trucks, rocks and garbage. The only difference is, is that its real life and doesn’t come with a ‘redo’ or ‘try again’ button. After three years though, it’s my new normal. I actually enjoy the challenge and feel like I’ve learned some impressive defensive driving tactics. Also, my average speed is 15km/h, with 30km/h being my maximum. Going from that to driving on highways with 100 km/h speed limits is mind boggling.

Shopping in Haiti is all about bartering and building relationships. During the process there is a lot of talking, joking, and touching involved. When you finally agree on a price many vendors pull change out of various undergarments. Going from that to electronic self checkouts seems crazy.

I buy my fruits and vegetables in outdoor markets. Most of the food is on the ground, dusty and dirty. I bleach everything I buy for 20 minutes before considering it safe to eat. Now go to your local Safeway and see the magnificent display of brightly polished shining fruits and vegetables. Don’t be surprised if you’ll find me there just looking at it all in awe one morning.

Physical changes. The last time my friends and family saw me was when I was 12 weeks pregnant and hardly showing. Since then my baby bump has grown rapidly and most days I feel more elephant than human. Throw in clumsiness, forgetfulness and fatigue and I’m certain I’m up for an interesting cross-cultural transition!

Not to forget the lack of exotic pets in Canada.

What are we going to do without frogs on our couch, my pet gecko in the kitchen, cockroaches snacking on our lasagne and tarantulas skittering across the floor?

A Letter From Jayden

2011-11-28T09:59:00.001-08:00

Dear Grandpa & Grandma, Oma & Opa

Finally a letter from me again! In exactly one month we hope to fly all the way to Canada and I can't wait to see you and my aunts, uncles, cousins and friends! I am very excited!

Last week Wednesday, Daddy, Mommy and I flew to Santiago! I was so excited I talked about nothing else that whole week and barely slept the night before we left. That morning, I kept coming out even though it was dark, and asking Mom if it was time to go yet.

Mom was not so happy about that!

Oh well, we both got up early and packed our bags. Mom even made a pilot uniform for me, so I could look just like Dad.

Although flying airplanes is pretty cool,

It can be exhausting!

I think I might become a paleontologists anyway. I fly all the time, nothing to exciting about that!

A paleontologist on the other hand studies dinosaurs and their fossils! Now that is interesting! Did you know that the hadrosaur had as many as 2,000 teeth? And that there were dinosaurs the size of chickens? And that paleontologists have discovered fossils of a velociraptor and a proceratops in battle, moments before they were buried in a sandstorm?

I spend so much time looking at the pictures and getting mom to read ALL the facts that I sometimes fall asleep with my dinosaur books!

Anyway, back to our Santiago trip. Since both Daddy and Mommy and Uncle Anthony and Auntie Sher had some time off because of US Thanksgiving, we thought it would be the perfect time to get together! Especially considering we do live on the same island and all!

I have to say it is pretty handy having a Dad who is a pilot. All we had to do was jump in the MAF airplane and in less then 1 hour we were in Santiago!

Uncle Anthony and Mattais came to pick us up at the Santiago airport and it was great catching up with them.

Since there is a not a lot for kids to do at their apartment we decided to make the short drive to the beach and spend two days there. I had great fun burying Kaelie's feet in the sand.

Later when Kaelie got an ice cream cone, she shared it with me.

Besides playing in the waves and building sandcastles, we also participated in a bow and arrow contest.

Mom, Dad, Uncle Anthony and Auntie Sher tried some target practice. It's a little scary seeing Mommy with a gun isn't it?

At the beach there was also kayaks and catamarans that we could use for free.

Dad and Uncle Anthony spent many hours boating. After one particularly rough afternoon out on the ocean in their kayaks we had to drag Dad back in.

Once we rolled him out,

It was our turn!

One night while we were there, they let Kaelie and I dress up. Kaelie had a butterfly outfit and I was allowed to wear a little dwarf outfit.

From 2011

At first I didn't want to because the beard tickled and I was tired, but Mom talked me into it.

While Dad and Uncle Anthony had cappuccinos and talked all about what life was like in Haiti and the Dominican,

Mom and Auntie Sher spent hours talking about babies.

Anyway, I had a great time with my cousins, so great in fact, I've used up my voice!

That's why computers come in handy I guess!

That's all for now! Can't wait to see you and hope you liked my letter.

XOXO Jayden

A Great Ending To A Not So Great Morning

2011-11-21T09:15:00.001-08:00

Blackness crowds around me and with my last strength I try to fight it before it overtakes me.

I can’t see.

Barely able to put one foot in front of the other I lean heavily on the French man holding me up. “I can’t see,” I whisper hoarsely, the words barely forming through stiff lips.

Saturday morning had started early. Fasting for twelve hours for a routine glucose test wasn’t my idea of fun, and I was hungry. Since Medlab is open 24-7, I wasted no time filling my water bottle, grabbing a few snacks for later, slipping a book into my bag and heading out to the car. Turning the key into the ignition the numbers on the dashboard clock glowed 6:10.

The roads were thankfully quiet, and the short trip to Medlab took under 10 minutes, nothing like the previous day when Jason and I spent 2 hours battling traffic to get there. No signs indicated that where I turned in was a hospital, but it was. Although Canopy Verte Hospital suffered from earthquake damage it was still functioning.

Early morning sunshine added a serene glow to the surroundings, but I barely dared look up to enjoy the beauty. The cobblestones on the parking lot had sprung loose during the earthquake and I now focused on not tripping over the convoluted parkway.

Paying no attention to the cracks in the walls I pushed open the door to the lab. At this time of morning the waiting room was deserted. Looking towards the back I was thankful to see that the French man that had been working there the previous day was there again. At least he spoke a little English since I didn’t know very many French or Creole medical terms. Recognizing me, he headed over to the desk and helped the attendant fill out the correct paperwork for my glucose test.

Once the forms were filled out he directed me to a chair inside where another attendant jabbed me with a needle for a blood sample. Thankfully she had no trouble finding my vein and after a few minutes she was finished.

When I was ready the French man passed me a bottle of orange colored glucose water and instructed me to drink it and wait one hour. Checking the time on my phone I obeyed his instructions and prepared to wait. Pulling my book out of my bag, I relished the thought of one hour of uninterrupted reading time. As I read my attention strayed every now and then to the increasingly busy waiting room. Mom’s with babies, husbands and wives and men in various uniforms joined me, waited for their turn to do various tests, and then left again.

From behind the pages of my book I felt the occasional curious stare. Both my white skin and the fact that I was reading made me an object of interest. Looking around I noted that there was no magazine racks or any other reading material in view.

When my hour was up, the waiting room had emptied again and the only people left were one man and two pregnant women. The French man seeing I was ready for my second test, directed me to a new attendant.

This time around things didn’t go so well. Not being able to find my vein the attendant began to dig around my arm with her needle. Feeling intense pain in my arm, I bit my lip and grimaced.

“Sa fe mal?” (That hurts?) The attendant questioned, concerned.

“Wi.”

She pulled the needle out, loosened the ribbon around my upper arm and massaged the area where my main vein was located. Then she tried again. No blood filled her syringe the second time either and I tried not to cry as she hunted around with her needle.

Weak with lack of food, the intense pain in my arm now caused my head to spin and my stomach to turn. Noticing my discomfort the French man was beside me in a second and tried to reassure me.

“Why don’t you try her other arm?” He spoke in French to the attendant. She nodded and thankfully this time it worked. By the time she was finished I felt really sick and nauseous, so the French man offered to help me inside the lab to a bathroom there. What I wanted to do was lie down, but noting the dirty floor, I decided against it.

As the French man helped me up and back out of the waiting room, the tiny still functioning part of my brain noticed the shocked expression of the Haitian man still waiting for his blood test results. I must look really bad.

To get to the bathroom we had to make our way through the hallway and barely conscious I stumbled along.

Now, darkness crowds around me and with my last strength I try to fight it before my eyes are overcome and my world goes black.

Why did I not ask Jason to come with again? I groan, not remembering the last time I felt this miserable.

Thankfully, by the time we reach the tiny bathroom my vision begins to clear again and I find a place to sit. The French man pushes a garbage can towards me and then steps out to give me some privacy. Laying my head down on my lap I slowly begin to feel better.

A few minutes later the French man returns with a kind smile. “You look better!” He says. “Your lips were white but now they are red again. Don’t go home yet though. Just wait in the waiting room till you feel better.”

I nod my thanks and then slowly make my way to a bench. After a few minutes I felt better and head over to the car for some snacks. The food and water restore me and when I feel ready, I carefully drive home.

Walking up the stairs a concerned Jason meets me at the door.

“How come you’re walking so weird?” He questions and I grimace.

“I don’t feel so good,” I mutter, collapsing on the couch. I tell him what happened and he shakes his head and then quickly gets to work making me some breakfast.

An hour and a half later I feel much better and head over to my friend’s house for the baby shower she is hosting for me. Fresh fruit and delicious apple cinnamon cake is laid out on the table, along with assorted muffins, juices and teas. We play games and then my friends spoil me with baby gifts and money to purchase things for him/her in Canada.

“A great way to end a not so great morning!” I sigh, sharing my Medlab incident with them.

Mole St. Nicolas

2011-11-14T08:12:00.001-08:00

Some days, life is almost normal. Like the Saturdays Jason has off and we sleep in a little, eat a leisurely breakfast, do odd jobs around the house and have soap fights while washing the car.

Sometimes we’ll go for a swim at a nearby pool or get take out from Epidor, a Haitian-American style fast food place close to our home. We always joke that it’s not a place to eat if you’ve recently been to Canada or the US, but the longer you’re in Haiti, the better the food tastes.

Other days, life more resembles an article out of an adventure magazine and last Saturday was one of those days. It happened like this:

Jason was scheduled to have Saturday off. MAF flies Saturdays so the pilots take turns taking that day off.

Friday morning my phone rings; it’s Jason. “Will, Bernard asked if I could fly him to Mole St. Nicolas on Saturday with two business associates. He realizes it’s my day off, but said that you and Jayden could come with as well. What do you think?”

“That would be awesome! I would love to come! It’s one of the three airstrips in Haiti that I haven’t visited yet!”

“Great! I hate to tell him no and I think it would be fun too!”

See, Haiti is a warm climate culture, meaning relationships are very important. Bernard has become a good friend in these last three years and helped us out in numerous ways, not the least, getting Jason released from a Haitian prison two years ago after a serious accident involving a pedestrian. Although we can never repay him for all he has done, we like to take any opportunity that does arise and this is one of those opportunities.

The next morning when I wake up it’s still dark. Baby K is kicking up a storm in my stomach and I smile as I put my hand on my belly. I love the feeling of new life and at six months now, I feel him/her kicking constantly.

With no alarm clocks, I’m unsure of the time, but I guess it must be around 5:00 a.m. That’s when Baby K usually wakes up.

Since there is a lot to do, I decide to get up and start prepping. I fill our backpack with sunscreen, towels, swimsuits, extra clothes, granola bars, water bottles and my camera. Then when most things are packed I get out my Bible verse memory note book and study the words as the sun slowly peeks her head over the mountains.

At 6:00 a.m. Jason and Jayden get up and after a quick breakfast of cheese on raisin toast we head to the car. With school out and few tap taps on the road we get to the airport in record timing. Since Bernard and his associates haven’t arrived yet, we wait in the office and Jayden gets to work emptying the backpack he packed all by himself. Out comes 40 plastic animals a T-shirt and a pair of shorts.

“Wow Jayden! You really did come prepared,” I joke as he gets to work arranging his animals on the desk.

He turns and smiles proudly at me. He loves doing things by himself. A double dosage of a gene he received from both his parents.

Not long after, Bernard arrives with Sebastian and Lionel. We head out to the tarmac to Jason, who had meanwhile been prepping the airplane for takeoff. Just then Christine walks over to say an emergency flight has come up and if Jason could do a pick-up in Cap Haitian for a man in a coma.

“Sure. Why don’t I drop everyone off at Mole St. Nicolas and then head down, pick up the patient in Cap Haitian and fly him back to Port au Prince. After I’ve unloaded the patient I’ll head back to Mole.”

“Sounds good. I’ll let the doctors and medical staff in Cap Haitian know that you are coming.”

Ten minutes later with all safety and pre-flight checks completed we are air bound. I love flying and keep my eyes glued to the window as the landscape changes beneath us.

55 minutes later the Mole airstrip comes in sight. A narrow gravel road? Really?

I shake my head in amazement as Jason circles over and then executes a text book landing.

We deplane and Jason makes quick work of unloading our backpacks. Before readying the aircraft for takeoff once again we take a quick family shot on the wing.

Several minutes later we wave goodbye to him and then watch as a police car pulls up.

“That’s our ride!” says Bernard, and I do my best to squelch a giggle.

“Hmm, this should be interesting.”

Two police officers greet us with friendly handshakes and “Bonjou’s.” Then noticing I’m pregnant they insist I sit up front. Bernard helps Jayden into the back as I get comfortable in the front passenger seat. As we are about to leave police officer number two makes motions to sit up front as well.

“I can sit in the back, if you would like to sit here,” I say in Creole motioning to the empty spots on the benches in the back.

“Oh no.” The officer replies. “There’s plenty of room here!” I shake my head and move over towards the gearshift. Not the most comfortable position but it will have to do. Personal space boundaries don’t really exist here either.

We bump over a rough gravel road until we reach a mountain of saab.

Saab is a white looking rock used for building purposes. Sebastian and Lionel who speak English, French and Creole fluently ask the officers to stop and the police car screeches to a halt. I’m thankful for the handle conveniently located over the glove box to steady myself.

Lionel and Sebastian own a brick making company in Port au Prince and are here to look at re-opening a limestone mine in Mole St. Nicolas. If they can re-open this mine, it would create hundreds of jobs for the people of Mole, something that’s sadly lacking here, and I’m excited to be part of this.

Looking through the window I watch as the two men now get to work filling bags with samples of saab.

With the back door still hanging open the police car suddenly jerks forward.
“Where are you going?” the officer on the right questions the one on my left. The car comes to a fast halt.

“The two men haven’t come back!”

Embarrassed the officer driving wipes his brow. Then the two of them burst out laughing. I can’t help but laugh too as the officer driving now sheepishly waits for the two men to return.

A few minutes later Lionel and Sebastian return and we make our way over to the town of Mole. It’s very picturesque and from the hilltop we are on, I take photos as best as I can while leaning over the police officer on my right.

Once in the town we stop at the old mayor’s house. Since Lionel and Sebastian’s meeting is with him, we leave them at the house and then pile into a gator.

We pass the town center, remnants of forts,

and cross narrow wooden bridges.

Palm trees wave overhead as a gentle breeze plays with our hair.

Several minutes later we arrive at Columbus beach. The bright turquoise water beckons through the trees and in no time at all we dig our toes into the powdery white sand.

This two mile stretch of beach is called Columbus beach because apparently this is the beach where Christopher Columbus landed in 1492.

Rumor has it that he named the area Mole St. Nicolas after the mole on St. Nicolas nose. If nothing else, Christopher Columbus did have a sense of humor!

Although Mole St. Nicolas has no functioning hotels, there is a small restaurant with bathrooms located right off the beach. Jayden and I make fast work of changing into our swimsuits and then dip our toes into the pristine ocean.

The water is perfect. After a quick dip I lay out my towel as Bernard plays with Jayden in the gentle waves.

With no tourism the only others on the beach are Haitian children. The older kids wear shorts or underwear as the younger kids run around totally naked.

Looking at the untouched scenic beauty I imagine what it was like for Christopher Columbus. It really doesn’t look like anything has changed over these last 500 years.

Keeping my eyes on Jayden, I lay back and simply relax. Soft yellow butterflies flit around me as the waves gently lap near my feet. It’s so peaceful here.

After an hour of playing and jumping in the waves, Jayden makes friends with several Haitian boys. Together they make sand cakes on the beach and I watch amused as Jayden then teaches them to sing ‘Happy Birthday'.

All his plastic animals are soon invited to the party too and the boys have fun playing.

At noon, I hear the hum of an airplane overhead and watch as Jason circles and lands. 15 minutes later he joins us and we swim and play in the water.

An hour later it’s time for lunch and we head back to the Mayor’s house for a delicious meal of fish, rice and beans and plantains.

Jayden is a little worried when he sees the eye still in the fish and keeps cautioning the others not to eat the eye.

When I let him try a piece of fish he quickly spits it out with a tiny bone. Since the rice and beans are quite spicy I finally dig out a granola bar for him which he gobbles down. Later he brags how he ate fish that had an eye! Funny kid!

After lunch we explore the mayor’s house and sit on the balcony overlooking the town. Bright flowering trees hang over the railing offering both shade and beauty. When Lionel and Sebastian have finished their meetings we head back to the gator for a ride to the airport.

On the way we stop to chat with a friend of Bernard. As he waits Jayden makes himself comfortable behind the wheel.

Ten minutes later we’re on our way again. Tall gorgeous cacti loom all around us as we zip over narrow gravel roads. Back in the airplane we fasten our seat belts and get ready for takeoff. As the airplane taxis on the narrow runway a donkey charges out of a nearby stand of cacti. Jason veers to miss it and we pull up safely. Closing my eyes, I silently pray for a safe flight home.

Not long into the flight Jayden falls asleep beside me. Nearing Port au Prince I watch as the sun slowly descends.

What a beautiful day!

Join us for Dinner

2011-11-05T04:42:00.000-07:00

Click. The light is turned off, leaving only the glow of freshly lit candles to pierce the darkness.

"Jayden!"

"Mom, can we eat dinner with the lights off? Please Mom? Please?"

"Well, we can hardly see what we're eating! Maybe, if I turn the little light on the desk on too."

I reach over to switch on the desk lamp and point it towards the dining room table. The light casts waving shadows on the wall.

"I love it, I love it!" an excited four-year old jumps up and down on his way to his booster seat.

"Dad, time to eat! Look at the candles!!"

Jason joins us at the table and together we sit down and pray. After prayer I pick up a serving spoon and ladle a portion of an unidentifiable substance onto each of our plates.

"What is this?" Jason questions. Lifting a fork full to his nose.

"Umm.. Slop!"

"Slop?"

"Well I'm not sure what to call it! It's frozen leftovers that I added some spaghetti sauce to!"

"Slop?" Jayden now questions, echoing his father.

Suddenly we all burst out laughing.

Jason reaches over to pour the juice and the shadows on the wall move. He puts the juice down and begins to make dinosaurs shadows with his hands. Entranced Jayden stares. Then slowly he lifts his little hand.

Shriieeeek

"Mom that dinosaur is eating me!" He starts to giggle.

The big dinosaur shadow begins to moan and howl.

"Mom, mom, I'm scared!"

"Okay guys! Enough. Eat your slop!"

We all start laughing again.

"Eat your slop!" Jayden repeats starting to giggle uncontrollably now.

Finally, we all dig in.

Silence reigns.

"Slop actually tastes pretty good." Jason says reaching for a second helping.

Who would have guessed?

Find out for yourselves. Join us for dinner!

Jacmel

2011-10-25T06:17:00.000-07:00

Muddy rain water splashes upward as Dieucon manoeuvres the Suzuki over the sorry excuse for a street.

“Do Canada’s roads look like this too?” He turns to look at me and I grin. “Not really.”

How do you describe the differences in infrastructure to someone who’s never been outside of Haiti? I stop and mull it over in my mind before finally replying.

“It’s hard to picture if you haven’t seen it before. The roads are paved and clearly marked; there are sidewalks, speed limits, traffic lights, highways, overpasses, bridges, and tunnels. You just have to see it for yourself sometime.”

He nods and then turns sharply to avoid a serious pothole.

Traffic had come to a standstill on the main roads so we now snake our way through narrow side streets.

I turn to check the backseat and see Jayden absorbed in a Berenstain Bear Book. “I like bumpy roads, I like bumpy roads,” he sings as he rocks back and forth.

50 minutes later we finally reach our destination. I thank Dieucon for the ride and then grab our backpacks and bags out of the backseat. Unhooking Jayden’s seat belt I strap on his backpack and together we make our way to the domestic terminal.

Opening the door to the waiting security scanner I brace myself for whatever battle may lay ahead. With the dessert fork incident still fresh in my mind and then the last time where they begged and cajoled for me to gift them my pepper spray, I brace myself for combat.

No worries this time though. I breathe a sigh of relief as they scan our bags and wave us through.

Walking to the MAF front office curious stares are cast our way. A pregnant white girl with a hyper four-year old seems kind of out of place here I guess. Ignoring the stares I lift my head and drag the protesting Jayden into the office. He’s always trying to run off in some other direction.

Inside Gary greets us and then proceeds to weigh us and our bags and fill out a manifest. As soon as he’s finished we head through the terminal to the tarmac. Today is the day we’ll be flying to Jacmel!

An hour and a half later when Jason and a friend of ours, John Pipkin, have completed their flights for the day we head out to the airplane.

John and his wife Joyce come down regularly to Haiti to volunteer with MAF and today they are celebrating their 23rd anniversary. As their 'adopted' kids they invited us to join them in Jacmel for a few days.

Now peering out through the window I watch as the sprawling city of Port au Prince slowly disappears from view.

We head towards the coast and from my vantage point I can see the skeletons of sunken ships nestled against the reefs below. What’s their story I wonder?

Looking back I see that Jayden has fallen asleep. All that running around this morning must have tired him out!

Twelve minutes later the coastal town of Jacmel comes into view. It’s beautiful!

John lands smoothly on the paved runway and we then taxi to the terminal. It’s brand new, built in anticipation of the tourism industry that has yet to come.

Since there are no taxis and John and Joyce don’t feel comfortable riding motorcycles one of the airport officials calls a friend. He shows up 10 minutes later in a little white beater car.

Laughing we all pile in.

A few minutes later we arrive at Cap Lamandou. It’s a beautiful hotel on the bluffs with a great view of the Caribbean below.

After depositing our bags in our hotel rooms we lounge in the pool as the sun sets.

The following day, after a gorgeous sunrise, we spend some time soaking in God’s beautiful creation.

Jacmel truly is a beautiful place!

Goodbye Team!

2011-10-15T13:36:00.000-07:00

Thanks for your hard work and turning this..

into 7 new homes for earthquake refugees!

May God grant safe travels and hope to see you all again soon!

Glimpses of Monday

2011-10-12T09:11:00.000-07:00

Jingle, creak, groan. I hang on for dear life as the old U-haul truck barrels over the rutted road. The teens and Jayden sit on the back ledge as the rest of us hold onto side bars.

We arrive at the job site several minutes later and I take photo's as several team members discuss the plans for today.

The girls get right to work painting. So far things are progressing really well.

A donkey grazing at the job site soon becomes a popular photo op as some of the Haitian workers want to pose with it and Jayden.

It’s all about working together and it’s encouraging to see how well it goes.

Hearing the hum of an airplane, I look up at the cloudy sky to see Jason flying overhead.

The weather is perfect for working, not too hot or humid today.

Jayden makes friends with a little boy called Jimmy and together we go exploring.

We follow a narrow path unsure of where it will take us.

On the trail we meet two baby goats and their Mama.

On a bluff overlooking the river we take a break.

From our vantage point we have a great view of what's happening down below.

We follow the trail to the main road and then make our way to the air strip where Mark and James are mowing. We spy on Mark through a gap in the cactus fence.

The village is full of animals and on the way to the airport gate we meet a giant black pig

and a pack horse.

The grass that hasn’t been cut yet is very high and the two boys have fun running through it.

Jayden goes for a ride on the mower. He loves it!

James drives up several minutes later on his mower since he had problems getting it started.

Back at the job site the team continues to work hard.

Jayden finds a perfect place to play on a giant mountain of dirt.

He soon makes new friends who help him plant trees on the 'deforested' mountain.

At 1:00 p.m. Jason flies in to pick up Jayden and I and several other passengers.

Circling over the job site we can see the progress that has been made since Saturday.

Sunday in the Village

2011-10-12T03:59:00.000-07:00

5:30 a.m.
Meee, Meee. Cock a doodle do. I stir and sit up in the semi darkness. The screened window opening does nothing to block out the village noises so I just sit for a moment and listen.

“Mom, Mom!” Jayden’s awake too and slides out of his narrow bunk on the opposite side of the room. I look over at the other corner where Jason is still sleeping soundly.

“Shhh Jay, Daddy’s still sleeping.”

I quietly help Jayden get changed and slip on his shoes and then we head outside into the early morning coolness. A light mist hovers over the compound.

Camera in hand, we explore the premises.

I turn to snap a picture of the guesthouse where we are staying.

Then we follow the trail past a beautiful hibiscus bush.

A couple of guinea hens look up curiously as we pass.

Further down the path the church comes into sight. It’s a fairly new church plant, and it’s where we will be attending later this morning.

Finishing our tour we walk back to the camp for a breakfast of bread and cinnamon buns. By now everyone’s awake and I laugh as I watch them stretch and yawn. Haiti mornings are always early.

Church starts at 8:00 so at ten to eight we all walk over. When we arrive, the benches are only half full, but it’s interesting to watch as more and more people come as the service progresses.

I find a back bench to sit with Jayden, and am soon joined by two and then five and then 8 other children. The bench that comfortably fits 8 soon proudly boasts 13!

The singing last for the first hour, and it’s beautiful to listen too. After that Jayden starts to fidget badly, partly from being so squished and partly from being tired, so I decide to take him back to the guesthouse. These last few days have been really busy so I lay him down for awhile. He doesn’t complain as I pull off his shoes and cover him with a sheet.

Church is over an hour later and the team decides to go for a walk before lunch. On their walk they see voodoo caves, altars and even a skull.

After a delicious lunch of pate,a Haitian meat pie, and an hour afternoon rest it’s time to drive back to the other mission for the evening service there.

Saturday in Pictures

2011-10-11T12:32:00.000-07:00

6:40 a.m.
Early morning mists hangs over the city as Jayden and I wait at our gate for a ride to the airport.

At the domestic terminal, Michael Broyles, our MAF pilot for today, readies the caravan for flight. It will be our first flight in the caravan and Jayden and I are excited.

Inside, the caravan is spacious!

Our co-pilot Kaydence, Michael’s daughter, greets us from the cockpit where she is propped up on a giant pillow!

An excited Jayden flashes me a huge grin!

Our first stop is the Hinche airport. It’s a rocky, dirt strip not far from Pignon, our destination.

10 minutes after takeoff from Hinche, Pignon’s grassy airstrip comes into sight.

As we descend, I catch a good glimpse of the job site where the team is working.

The airplane Jason flew to Pignon yesterday afternoon is parked on the side of the runway.

Jason comes driving up several minutes later in a vehicle borrowed from a Pastor to pick up Jayden and I and our bags. The job site is walking distance from the airport so that’s our first stop. The team is working hard putting up 7 homes for earthquake victims who relocated to Pignon.

A group of kids hang around the job site and help out when they can.

Jayden and I take cover from the burning sun in the makeshift church. A group of kids join us and we spend some time getting to know them.

At noon we head to the guesthouse for lunch. After lunch we drive to Can De Le Gras for a food distribution of rice and beans that Jason and several team members had purchased at the local market. The kids are excited to see us and the team works hard handing out the food.

When we leave an excited and thankful group of children wave us off as they carry the food back to their families.

Driving back to the guesthouse Jayden greets everyone with a “Bonjou! Koman ou ye? (Good day! How are you?) The villagers love it!

At the guesthouse a yellow school bus is waiting for us. We all grab our overnight bags and pile onto the bus.

We laugh at the sign and then watch as it proves to be true as more and more people get on for a free ride!

The 45 minute bus ride to another mission outpost is exciting. We laugh and hang on for dear life as the bus bumps and jolts over the deep ruts in the road!

At the mission outpost a hundred children are waiting in a gazebo. After introductions are made we help the kids make a craft.

After the craft is finished we hand out plates of rice and bean sauce and stewed vegetables.

Then all the children get clothing and school supplies.

Jayden makes new friends quickly.

That night we eat our meal of rice and bean sauce and then head outside to sit around a coal camp fire. A converted witch doctor comes to share his stories about voodoo, zombies, and how God saved him. The flickering flames reminds us that God's light shines through the darkness, and the darkness cannot overcome it. (John 1:15)

Live and Learn

2011-10-07T10:21:00.000-07:00

It was one of those days. I knew it the second I stepped into the kitchen and took in the flooded floor. Live and learn.

Not about to let a little water put a damper on my day, I rolled up my old pajamas and got to work, soaking up the water with a towel. A shop vacuum is really what I needed, but there was no shop vac and no city power so a towel would have to do.

I soaked and wrung out, soaked and wrung out, soaked and wrung out. By the time I was finished my hand were aching and red, but my spirits were high. It was a beautiful day, a brand new morning. Besides, the whole mess really was my own fault. I guess maybe the cockroaches were a little to blame too, but blaming never got anyone anywhere.

Last night after an evening snack of crackers and cheese I had put my plate of crumbs in the kitchen sink. Not having the energy to wash it right then, I had filled the sink with several inches of water, so it wouldn't attract roaches, and then turned off the tap. Apparently the tap wasn't completely shut and water dripped all night filling the sink, flooding the counter and then leaving an inch and a half of water all over the kitchen floor.

Oh well. Live and learn.

An hour later the floor was dry and two fans were blowing out whatever moisture was left. Since Jason and Jayden were both up now it was time to make some breakfast.

An hour later Jason's phone rang. He'd been working hard trying to get the grass on Pignon's airstrip cut in time to fly the team there tomorrow. All tractors and mowers in the village were broken down so 25 men were hired to cut grass with their machetes. To expedite the process and for safety reasons MAF had put a hold on all flights going into Pignon till the grass was cut.

Just as I was suggesting Jason call again to see if they were actually working, the phone rang. Yes, a whole group was working so it looked like the team flights could go through, but one of the workers badly cut himself with his machete. Yup, it was one of those days.

Jason left shortly after with Jayden to run errands before picking up the team. A half an hour later he called to say he argued for the last 20 minutes with a police officers who wanted him to pay a bribe because Jayden was sitting in the front seat.

"The front seat?"

"Yes, apparently kids can hang off of the back of tap taps, but if they see a white man with a child in the front seat dollar signs flash. He couldn't write me a ticket but wanted a bribe. It took some persuasive talking for me to get my license back!"

"You at least put him in the back now right?"

"Yes."

Live and learn.

One vehicle wasn't enough to pick up our team of 9 and all their bags, so a little while later I headed to the airport as well. On the way I stopped to get air for my tires and was surprised when I didn't have to pay. I guess compressed air is the only free thing in Haiti. Just when you think you have it figured out there's an unexpected surprise. Feeling bad for the sweating man who had spent ten minutes pumping up my tires I tipped him anyway.

At the international arrivals Jason talked the guard into letting me drive inside the gate. Inside I waited and another official told me I couldn't park there. It took some talking, but finally he agreed to let me stay.

Live and learn.

Just before noon, the team walked into the parking lot and we loaded everything into the two vehicles. The Caribbean sun burned down, but the excitement in the air was tangible and I knew it was going to be a good day.

We dropped off the bags, then drove off to sight see, eat lunch and souvenir shop.

Jayden found a new girlfriend.

Apparently girls can't resist those baby blues.

The team was amazed to learn that if the asking price was $15 the purchase price could be as low as a dollar. Live and learn.

That night as I cooked a giant pan of spaghetti and noodles, warmed up garlic bread, and cut up lemon cake, I worried what to do with all the leftovers, since everyone ate a late lunch. It was amazing to see the food vanish before my eyes. Life and learn.

That night city power turned off at 7:00 p.m. and with all the fans running the batteries died at 4:00 a.m. Instantly warm and wide awake, I gave my husband a quick hug before he stumbled out of bed to turn the generator on.

Yup, it was one of those days. Full of challenges, which we've learned to look at as possibilities. Possibilities to live and learn.

Latest Happenings Around the House

2011-10-05T07:34:00.001-07:00

Yesterday Nicholas started a new school year and it was Sabboule's first day ever.

They looked so cute that morning, all dressed up in their new uniforms.

Nicholas, who has been studying all summer with Anoud, had a great day and came home with glowing reports from his elementary school teachers.

Sabboule's day, however, was a different story. Very shy, he cried when his Mom dropped him off and then came home with a full lunch box of food. Apparently he didn't remember his name so the teacher gave him the wrong lunch! This morning Denise decided to remedy the situation by making a name tag for him. At least this way, the teacher will know who he is!

The two school boys left behind a grumpy two year old sister.

"Why can't I go to school? I'm just as smart as they are!" Is what she is thinking.

Our yard is a mess!

The next door neighbors complained that our beautiful trees are shedding leaves on their property so we have to cut down some of the branches hanging over the walls. The tree-hugger inside me shudders at every whack of the machete. Especially in a country where trees are such a novelty.

Imagine cutting this all with a machete? No chain saws or axes! It's really incredible.

There's one tree they are cutting down completely and when I complained to Anoud he showed me how the roots were growing into the neighbors wall. "With your bedroom wall only 3 meters away, it's dangerous to keep the tree here," he told me. "If this tree fell, your bedroom wall could collapse."

I'd like to see them cut that with a machete!

On a brighter note, at least our solar panels are getting more sun and there's a chance our internet connection might work better too, with less branches in the way.

Jayden is growing up fast! Every now and then when I check on him after putting him in bed, I find him sleeping in ours.

The other night when I said "Goodnight Baby." He seriously informed me that he was not my baby. " The baby is in your tummy Mom. I'm the big brother!"

Why do they have to grow up so fast?

I agreed to not call him baby anymore, but he'll still always be my baby to me!

Ps: Sher, if you noticed the little dog in his arm, he adopted one of yours, hope that's okay!

And yes, if you all were wondering if the sheets on our bed are really that pink, they are. Just like the rest of the room! My husband said I could decorate our room whichever way I wanted, so I did!

This morning we moved all Jayden's furniture into ours, in anticipation for the team of 9 who hopes to arrive tomorrow.

With 3 sleeping in the guestroom, four in Jayden's bedroom and two in the living room it will be a full house. We're excited!

And that is Haiti happenings around the house in a nutshell.

Doctor's Visit

2011-09-30T12:23:00.000-07:00

Hi! My name is Jayden and I’m four years old. On Wednesday Dad had a day off so we all went to the Doctor’s office. Usually Mom goes by herself every month, but since Dad was home, we decided it would be fun to go all together.

At 11:00 we got into our car and away we went. The roads were bumpy and the traffic was busy, but I like bumpy roads. From my vantage point in my car seat I could see and count all the cars around us.

After a little while, with Mom giving Dad directions, we arrived at the Doctor's office. We had to park on the side of the road because the gate was closed, but that was no problem. Mom held my hand very tightly as we crossed the street since traffic up in Petionville is very busy.

Mom knew just what to do as she slid open the brown gate and Dad and I followed her inside. The office looked quite nice.

We walked up the stairs to the receptionist desk where Mom checked in.

“Ou ka chita la.” (You can sit there) The lady at the desk told us pointing to the waiting area.

We each found a chair to sit on, but didn’t have to wait long, since the Doctor was ready for us.

“Welcome,” the Doctor said and shook all our hands as Mom made the introductions. The Doctor asked Mom questions and then it was time to go to the exam room. Mom had to lay on a special bed, which made me nervous.

“Is the baby going to come out, Dad?” I whispered. I’m pretty sure babies are sneezed out, but it still sounds sort of painful.

The Doctor hearing my question, smiled at me.

“Don’t worry little boy,” he said. “The baby first has to get bigger before he/she comes out.”

Relieved I nodded.

Dad lifted me up so I could see as the Doctor put some cream on Mom’s tummy. He then turned on a machine with a special stick at the end that he placed on Mom’s tummy. When he was ready the Doctor turned the lights off and we could see the little baby on the screen. The baby was jumping and waving. Mom said that was because he/she was happy.

The Doctor measured all the baby parts and then took the ultrasound video and put it on a DVD for Mom to take home. He does this every time so we can see how the baby is getting bigger and bigger.

When we were done, I spent some time looking at the fish in the Doctor's fish tank.

Mom asked the Doctor if she could take a picture and he said; “Of course, as long as that boy comes on it too.”

Then Mom booked her next appointment and it was time to go home. It was interesting to visit the Doctor. Maybe I can come some other time again, Mom said.

Sunday School

2011-09-27T11:00:00.001-07:00

Early morning sunshine filters through the trees illuminating our gazebo classroom. It’s 8:45 on Sunday morning and my third week of teaching Sunday School to a group of 6 middle schoolers.

Today our theme is praise and we are studying two Bible passages; Psalm 118:19-29 and Matthew 21:1-11. The students, divided into a group of boys and a group of girls, take turns reading verses from each passage. Their voices are carried by the breeze and the songs of the birds rousting in the surrounding trees echo their praise.

Both passages have a similar line “Blessed is He that cometh in the name of the Lord” (Psalm 118:26 and Matthew 21:9) Praise. What does it mean and why are we to praise Jesus?

When both groups are finished reading their assigned passage we gather together around the table to discuss the passages and answer questions; How are the passages similar? How are they different? What does it mean to praise Jesus? What can we learn from these passages about why Jesus deserves our praise?

Then we look at each passage verse by verse and discuss what the words mean. After the discussion we take a snack break before beginning our weekly activities. One of the activities for today is sharing a pen with a partner and copying a Bible verse.

This proves to be a very difficult, painstaking task. What is this supposed to teach us? How we can’t serve two masters. It’s a very interesting analogy and leads to some lively discussion in the pre-teen group.

At the end of our hour long session we close with singing and prayer. As the sweet strains of “Take my life and let it be,” float upward, I take a moment to pray. Let our lives and everything we have truly be consecrated to Thee, Lord.

Rejoice Always

2011-09-17T12:51:00.000-07:00

But the Comforter, [which is] the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. John 14:26

The early morning sun shines brightly as I re-read the Bible verses in front of me. Several months ago I had memorized the verses 1 Thes 5:16-18, but it’s not until now that the Spirit speaks to me through these verses.

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

Does this mean as believers and followers of Christ we are promised happiness here on earth? Happiness that will allow us to rejoice always? On the contrary Jesus tells his followers specifically in John 16:33 that; In the world you will have tribulation.

The dictionary defines tribulation as: Great affliction, trial, or distress; suffering:

So why and how are we to rejoice always? Because, as John 16:33 continues, “be of good cheer, I (Jesus) have overcome the world.

We can rejoice because of what Jesus has done.

Imagine, you are a mother or father and see your child struggle tremendously. You feel for him, because you have experienced the same, (Jesus lived on earth and was a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief, Isaiah 53). But even as you see your child struggle you encourage him to rejoice because you know that there is an end in sight, an end to all suffering and pain, an end where sorrow will be turned to joy.

Our heavenly Father does the same. He encourages us to rejoice because; The sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared to the glory which shall be revealed in us. And Romans 8:18 Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. 1 Cor 2:9

Jesus says in John 16:20 Verily, verily, I say unto you, That ye shall weep and lament, but the world shall rejoice: and ye shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy. 21 A woman when she is in travail hath sorrow, because her hour is come : but as soon as she is delivered of the child, she remembereth no more the anguish, for joy that a man is born into the world. 22 And ye now therefore have sorrow: but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice , and your joy no man taketh from you.

Giving birth is a painful experience, but so great is the joy when you hold the new born baby in your arms, you don`t remember the pain anymore. That is the analogy Jesus uses between life and eternity. Life is painful, but so great is the joy when you begin eternity with God you no longer remember the pain.

During struggles and trials how often do we focus on the temporal life here? In Col 3:2 it says “Set your mind on things above, not on things that are on the earth.”

Jesus tells us in John 14:1-4 Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in me. In my father`s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to myself; that where I am, there you may be also.

Jesus promises believers that he is preparing a place for them. A glorious, eternal home where all tears will be wiped from their eyes. (Revelations 21:4) While we wait for his return he has promised that; I will be with you always, even until the end of the world. Matt 28:20.

Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice Phil 4:4

Because of what He has done, we have reason to rejoice. My lips shall greatly rejoice when I sing unto thee and my soul which thou hast redeemed. Psalm 71:23

Working Days..

2011-09-14T09:16:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, September 6, 2011

“Hey Will, tomorrow I won’t be flying because the airplanes are going in for inspections, do you want to come to work with me and help me figure out a problem with our EDH (city power) bills? This issue with the extra charge on our account has been dragging on for months and its one big headache! Maybe your past experience at the accounting office can help us figure out what is going on.”

“What about Jayden?”

“We can take him along. Just bring books and crayons and activities. We’ll have a family work day.”

“Okay, sounds good!”

Wednesday, 6:00 a.m. September 7, 2011

“Come on Jayden! You have to wake up! We’re going to work with Daddy!”

The groggy boy refuses to comply so I finally pick him up and deposit him on the couch in the playroom.

With no milk for cereal, or bread for toast, I quickly whip up a batch of pancakes. Brushing on butter and syrup I ready three plates.

“Jason, Jayden time to eat!”

Still half asleep Jayden slowly makes his way to the kitchen, rubbing his eyes and yawning.

“You have to hurry Jayden, we’re going to work with Daddy!”

“Okay, Mom!”

After praying together we dig in. The pancakes are delicious!

When breakfast is finished and the dishes are cleared away we head to the truck for a ride to the airport. Since it’s before 7:00 a.m. the roads are still fairly quiet.

It doesn’t take long before we arrive at the domestic terminal. In the office Christine is already working, as she’s the new MAF scheduler.

I spend a few minutes chatting with her before getting Jayden set up at an empty desk with coloring books and felts.

Then I pull up an office chair beside my husband and get to work sorting through stacks of paperwork.

Every few minutes I lean over to chat and joke with him. Working together at a desk brings back memories of our college days. Just like back then, I’m still a pretty good distraction, and I notice he doesn’t get that much work done on the sheets he’s filling out.

Since all the bills are in French and each month all the MAF family bills are paid with one cheque it takes some sorting and organizing before I pinpoint the problem. Once I have the problem figured out, I organize all the paperwork into one file.

“It looks like we’ll have to take a trip to the EDH office,” I tell Jason.

“Gregory, the accountant, has tried that already with no success, so maybe you need to go along.”

“Alright, let’s plan a day for next week then.”

I find Gregory and Diecon, the MAF driver, and we decide on next week Tuesday morning.

“I’ll leave Jayden with Denise, since I don’t know how long it will take,” I tell them and they nod.

“See you next week!” They bid their goodbyes, and since our work is finished, Jayden and I pack up our backpacks to go back home.

“I kind of liked the whole pushing paper thing,” I tell Jason. “Maybe, I’ll have to come more often.”

Amused he smiles and shakes his head.

“You mean you don’t like working with us?” I ask incredulously. Still grinning, he gives us both a quick hug. “See you at home later!”

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Early morning sunshine filters through the windows as I pull a fresh banana loaf out of the oven. Having no other snacks in the house, I decided that banana loaf would be the perfect treat to take to the office, share with the guys and munch on, while I wait for who knows how long at the EDH office! Nothing in Haiti is ever easy, and part of me dreads spending a day explaining a complex problem in a second language.

At 8:30 I kiss Jayden goodbye, give last minute instructions to Denise and hop in the MAF truck. Anoud opens the gate and I slowly back out. At the end of our street, I check my purse only to realize I forgot my cell phone.

Should I worry about going back to get it? Yup, I better. Slowly backing up I park the truck in front of our house as Anoud unlocks the small door in the gate. Always protective of us, he makes sure the truck is out of sight before going back to work.

I thank him and then run inside to search the house for the phone. Not finding it in any of the usual places I finally find it in a side pocket of a different purse. Pulling it out, I run back to the truck and wave goodbye to Anoud. Now to remember how to get to the airport.

Since the main roads are too busy I now take the back roads, and thankfully find my way without a single wrong turn. At this time of day it takes 30 minutes instead of 15 to get to the airport. Parking the truck in the mud parking area I grimace. How am I going to walk through that? Stepping out of the truck I lock the doors and feel squishy mud sucking at my feet. Glad I decided not to wear my customary flip flops, I gingerly make my way to the paved road. With heavy rains every night the city is full of this oozing, nasty mud.

At the main paved road I stomp my feet to try to get the mud off but it stubbornly clings to my black shoes. Oh, well, nothing I can do about it, I decide, as I make my way to airport security.

I stop to put my big purse through the scanner and then carrying my water bottle I walk through the malfunctioning metal detector. Just as I’m ready to pull my purse back off the belt on the other side, a security officer stops me.

“Do you have a fork in your purse?” He asks in Creole.

“Yes.” I reply.

“You need to give that to me Madam!”

“My tiny desert fork?”

“Yes, Madam, it can be used as a weapon.”

“Excuse me Sir, but I have a little baby in my stomach, so I need to eat!” I reply, pointing to my barely visible four month baby bump.

“Sorry Madam!”

“I’m not giving you my fork Sir!” I reply, refusing to lose this battle.” It belongs to a set my Mom bought me for my wedding!”

Seeing my determined expression, he wavers.

“Are you with MAF?”

“Yes sir.” I reply.

“Alright then, just go.”

Smiling triumphantly I pick up my purse and continue on my way. Meeting Jason in the terminal, I can’t help but tease him. “I guess its okay to attack MAF pilots with desert forks!” I joke, telling him of the little episode. Laughingly he shakes his head.

“On a more serious note, a friend of ours is here,” he says, pointing to the waiting area. “He was in a head on collision with a car while driving his motor bike up the road to the Baptist mission. A vehicle was passing on a blind corner and ran right into him.”

“Oh no.”

I walk over to see Stan in a wheel chair with one full leg cast, a banged up knee, and abrasions on his hands and arms. After talking to him for a few minutes he tells us that thankfully he has no head injuries. “The Doctors here are concerned about my chest pains and low blood pressure though, so MAF will fly me to Pignon where Missionary Flights International will pick me up and take me to Florida.“

Expressing our concern and regret we spend some more time talking to him and his parents.

When Gregory and Diecon show up I bid Jason and Stan goodbye and make my way back to the truck.

“Do you want to drive?” Diecon asks.

“I don’t know where the office is so you go ahead.”

“Okay.”

All three of us hop in the truck and off we go. Since both Gregory and Diecon speak English, conversation now flows mostly in English with a few Creole words thrown in. Always wanting to learn more about Haitian culture, I ask questions about family, children and marriage. I learn that men can marry at any age without social pressures whereas women are pressured to be married before age 30. I also learn that although traditionally Haitians had large families, many young Haitians now have small families, 2 or 3 children, so they can provide better for their children and give them good educations. I learn that it’s normal for children to start school at the age of 2, since most schooling is in French and at that age, children learn the language quicker. We go on to talk about driving in Haiti and the process of gaining a Driver’s license.

“Did you know that some people purchase a drivers license in Haiti without a single test or lesson?” Diecon asks.

“I certainly did not! Are you serious?”

“Yup, many people don't want to deal with the hassle of getting a license at a driving school because of the exams, cost of renting a vehicle, and paying large sums for an instructor. Taking a road test in crazy Port au Prince traffic can be a nightmare too, so they chose to avoid this by finding someone at the license office who will make a Driver's license for them; for a price of course. “

“Wow, that’s a scary thought!”

Diecon and Gregrory just shrug. “That’s life here. You can do almost anything if you have some money and know the right people.”

My cultural lesson ends at that moment as we pull into what looks like a deserted scrap yard.

“Umm Diecon, I don’t see any EDH office! You aren’t secretly kidnapping me are you?” I joke.

He laughs. “Nope. This is the EDH scrap yard. We have to drive through it to get to the office.”

“Okay then. “

Holding the thick file folder in one hand and balancing my over sized purse in the other we make our way to the front entrance. Inside it seems like a slow day as many people are sitting behind their desks doing nothing. We walk up to a man with a computer who is working and he motions for us to sit down. Gregory explains the problem and after scanning through the paperwork and scratching his head he beckons for us to follow him. We make our way up a flight of stairs. First into one office and then into the next. This goes on for about 15 minutes till we are lead downstairs again to the initial office.

Feeling a little useless as Gregory and Diecon do all the talking I realize my main purpose here is my skin color. Being white means I must be important, and pretty soon more and more people are ‘put on the case.’ I feel a little awkward just being viewed as important because of my skin color, but at least it looks like some progress is being made.

I guess I just have to learn to accept the fact that skin color matters here, I think to myself. It means I have to pay more for fruits and vegetables at the outdoor markets and I’ll have more people ask me for money on the streets, but it also means I get helped quicker in situations like this. It feels wrong, but there’s nothing I can really do about it.

Back in the main office a lady prints out statements from each family showing what happened with the payments. Now with this information we can fix the problem internally. Looking at the metal beams holding up the ceiling tiles at awkward angles I’m a little glad that it doesn’t take long for the printouts to be made. This multi-storey building does not appear to be very earthquake safe.

Knowing it’s useless to think that way, as our times and lives are in God’s hands, I shake my head to clear those thoughts as I follow Gregory and Diecon outside into the warm Caribbean sunshine. Walking back to the truck I thank God again for answering my prayers and resolving the EDH paperwork issues.

My working days, for now, are over.

The Living Word

2011-09-08T06:31:00.000-07:00

"Jason, Jason!" Stepping out of the airplane I see an excited Djempsky and two of his friends waving at me from the edge of the airstrip.

"Map vini!" (I'm coming) I tell them and then proceed to unload cargo and passengers. When I'm finished I make my way over to the boys and greet them in Creole.

Djempsky pulls out one of the many Haitian Creole Bible Verse Coloring Books that we have distributed, and shows me that he has colored all the pages. Then he begins to recite all the verses to me.

I am astonished since there are at least two dozen pages in it: the ten commandments; verses about sin and that all have come short of the glory of God; verses saying that Jesus Christ came into the world to save sinners and that he died on the cross and rose again. I continue to listen as he recites Bible verses about eternal life through faith in Jesus and that we are saved through grace alone.

"That’s great," I say, "but what are you going to do now? That’s the only Creole coloring book I have."

Djempsky smiles, and points to his two friends. "Well, I’m going to teach him. And then I’m going to teach him."

I take a moment to study their faces. How amazing it is to see young boys with such a passion to learn God’s word and teach others. God’s word is indeed powerful and alive.

Click on the 'Bible Verse Coloring Books' on the side bar to learn more about how you can help to spread God's Word.

Attacked!

2011-08-29T11:41:00.000-07:00

Saturday, August 27

I look up at the cloudless sky as the warm Caribbean sun steadily climbs higher. The soft breeze and gentle call of the birds give no indication of what today will bring.

It’s 9:00 a.m. and I’m readying the 206, HH FLY, for a charter flight to Pignon. Feeling my cell phone vibrate at my side, I reach down to check the caller ID and notice it’s Lefils, our airstrip agent in LaGonave.

After the customary ‘Bonjou. Koman ou ye?’ Lefils tells me about a serious motorcycle accident that just happened. “Is it possible for you to do a medivac flight and transport two patients to the hospital in Port au Prince?” He asks, switching over to English.

Since my Pignon passengers are already waiting, I tell him that I’ll head over as soon as I’ve dropped them off. "Great! We’ll be waiting for you.” He says, before hanging up.

Since the 206 only has room for one stretcher, I slide it in the side of the plane and then load the passengers and cargo for Pignon. After a 25 minute flight, I land on the grassy Pignon strip and unload the passengers and cargo.
Now off to Lagonave.

The uneventful thirty minute flight from Pignon to Lagonave gives no hint of the danger I’ll soon be in. Even the sometimes stormy Caribbean ocean, parallel to the sandy La Gonave runway, is idyllic and peaceful today.

Down on the ground, the peaceful scene changes to something more chaotic as a massive crowd waits to watch the medical evacuation. Once the airplane engine is turned off, a pickup truck slowly advances closer. Hopping out of the airplane I quickly spot the two seriously injured, unconscious patients in the back. With the help of several bystanders we load the first patient onto the spine board and carefully place him in the aircraft. Since we have only one spine board I secure the second patient using two cargo straps and three seat belts. His head is swollen and there is a deep gash in his left temple.

Once both patients are secure, a third, smaller, middle aged man asks if he can travel with me to accompany the patients. I direct him to the co-pilot seat and then proceed to help him with his seat belt.

With both patients unconscious in the rear of the aircraft I now focus my attention completely on takeoff and flight.

Not even five minutes later disaster strikes. The second patient wakes up and thrashes around in the rear of the aircraft. Within minutes he has managed to undo the cargo straps and seat belts that were keeping him safe.

“Talk to him,” I instruct the man beside me in Creole and he tries his best to calm the patient. Disoriented and confused due to his head injury the patient begins to scream and yell and then frantically tries to open the cargo door at the back of the airplane. Looking back I watch in horror as he manages to unlock the door and cracks it open.

“PA FE SA!” I yell, and momentarily stunned he stops. Thankfully the outside wind force is strong enough to push the door back closed, but it remains unlocked.

“You need to get in the back and restrain the passenger,” I tell the man beside me, and he nervously fumbles with his seat belt.

Checking my instruments and making sure I’m on course I miss the enraged expression of the patient in the back. Suddenly a seat belt is wrapped around my neck from behind and twisted viciously. I let out a yell and then instinctively twist and punch. Feeling the seat belt loosen around my throat, I turn to see the man gingerly cupping his jaw.

“Get in the back now,” I tell the frightened man beside me. “Sit on him if you have too, but you need to restrain him before he gets worse and causes our airplane to crash!”

The fear of crashing is enough to propel the timid man into action and I watch as he climbs between the seats. Although much smaller than the patient, his fear of death empowers him to wrestle down the man.

Praying for calm, I remain focused on flying, checking back occasionally on the two men behind me, two men engaged in a life and death struggle.

Spotting the Port au Prince runway in front of me, I breathe a sigh of relief and thanks. Whispering a prayer of thanks to God, I focus on executing a safe landing.

Back at the MAF hanger, the Red Cross is waiting with their ambulance and quickly sedate the man.

Looking up at the azure heavens I marvel at how peaceful they still appear. Feeling a welcoming breeze brush my face I’m reminded that, regardless of the circumstances I may find myself in, my Father in Heaven is everywhere present.

Village Visit (part II) by Esther Krul

2011-08-23T14:38:00.002-07:00

It’s nine o’clock Saturday morning and Will and Jayden have just arrived at Pastor Caleb’s house in Pignon. After a quick breakfast, Will, Jayden, a friend named Joe, and I are off to the market.

The bumpy roads quickly remind me that ‘this is Haiti’. After a ten minute drive we’re at the market and ready to buy the food for the food distribution this afternoon. Stepping out of the vehicle, the sound of a thousand peoples’ voices mingling with the sticky air overwhelms me.

Horses, donkeys, ducks, and chickens are all over the place and we need to watch where we step. Pushing through the masses of people I see vendors everywhere selling fruits, vegetables, rice, pastas and many other types of food; some which I don’t recognize.

It doesn’t take long before the crowd around us thickens as ‘blan’ in the market isn’t an everyday occurrence. Other then the curious stares, people are friendly and we smile back at them. Since the bulk of our money is for purchasing rice and beans we decide to do that first.

Joe, who is Haitian, can get a better price if he’s not seen with us, so Will counts out the correct amount of money and we separate from him. Ten minutes later, Joe returns with a huge sack of rice, and later another huge sack of beans. We load it into the vehicle, lock it and then go on the lookout for bouillon cubes (a popular Haitian seasoning), garlic cloves, juice powder packages, and treats for the children.

Rather than buying from the bigger vendors, Will decides to help some of the smaller ones and goes around making purchases all over the place. Speaking Creole, she jokes and laughs with the sellers before purchasing anything since relationships are very important in the bargaining process.

As we go from vendor to vendor we pass the meat department and I cringe. Dead animal parts lie on tables covered with flies.

Boiling pots of animal intestines fill the air with their unsavory scent.

By one table, chickens run around franticly trying to escape their death sentence. Cute little gloats bleat in horror at the thought of their imminent demise. Right then and there I decide to look no further.

Squelching my queasiness, we continue purchasing everything we need. Some vendors, not realizing how well Will can understand and speak Creole, try to overcharge us, but she quickly wins them over with her easy smile and kind words.

An hour later, with a very complaining Jayden in tow, who by now is hot, irritable, thirsty, and tired of people touching his skin and staring, we make our way back to the vehicle. Driving back to Pastor Caleb’s house I wipe the sweat from my face. That was quite the experience!

Back at the house, Will and I quickly get to work dividing the rice and beans into separate bags and adding the garlic and bullion.

When we are finished we sit back and take a rest.

“What a morning!” We say to each other.

At 1:00 p.m. Jason flies in and after a delicious lunch of rice and beans and fresh mango we load all the food into the vehicle and head to the camp for the distribution.

As we drive up to ‘Can De Le Gras,’ where Jason, Will and Jayden lived for three months for language and cultural study, we hear children signing.

I smile; it feels good to be here in Pignon, and it feels good be able to help the people here. I hop out of the car and the coolness of the air feels refreshing. I peer up into the sky and see threatening dark clouds surrounding the village. Just then the first rain drops begin to fall. We quickly unload the food, coloring books, and crayons and run under the gazebo for shelter from the falling rain.

Under the gazebo are two large tables. Sitting around the tables on chairs are about 50 children, half boys and half girls. Under the direction of John, a Haitian friend of Will and Jason’s, each child sits quietly waiting for the distribution to begin.

Before we start, they sing a few more Haitian hymns for us and it’s really special to listen too. Then one by one, in exemplary fashion they come up to collect their coloring book, crayons and crackers. “Merci” they thank me politely and after finding out how to say ‘you’re welcome’ I respond with a cheerful “Pa dekwa”.

As I hand out the items I study the children. Even with their clean faces and cute hairdos, I can see their poverty in their threadbare clothes and tattered shoes. Even the little hair bows can’t hide the orange tinge of malnutrition in some of the girls’ hair.

When we’ve finished handing out the coloring books, crayons and crackers we hand out bags of food to each child.

One child impulsively hugs me as I give her the food and my heart breaks. To be so thankful just to be able to take home food for her family; we really don’t have any idea what that is like. Blinking back tears I continue handing out the food. What a privilege it is to be able to help these children and their families in this way.

Village Visit (part I)

2011-08-23T09:27:00.000-07:00

Saturday, August 21, 5:40 a.m., Port au Prince

“Mom?” Already awake I watch as the bedroom door is hesitantly pushed open and a small figure appears. Even in the gray dawn I can see him, clutching spotty dog in one hand and his blanket in the other.

I close my eyes as he tiptoes quietly to my side of the bed.

“Is it time to wake up Mom?” He whispers in my ear.

I open my eyes and look up into big blue eyes, inquisitively peering down at me. Yawning and stretching I smile up at his sweet face.

“I think it’s a little early, but we’re going to the village today so it doesn’t hurt to get a head start.” I whisper back.

“Okay Mom.”

Easing out of bed I quickly change into the clothes I laid out the night before and then get my toiletries ready. Slipping them in the previously packed backpack I make my way to Jayden’s room to help him get changed. His Thomas backpack is already packed too.

Once he is dressed we both head to the kitchen. Mixing up pancake batter I quickly ready three plates for breakfast. The aroma of fresh pancakes is enough to draw Jason out of bed and minutes later we sit down to enjoy them.

At 6:30 on the dot we pick up our backpacks and head down the stairs to the truck.

Early morning sun filters through the towering trees that surround our home as turtle doves coo in the branches. Away from the busy streets our home is a haven of peace and quiet. Driving towards the main road the peace and quiet is quickly replaced by honking horns and shouting vendors. We make a quick stop to pick up Matt and then we’re on Delmas.

Even this early, the main road is a beehive of activity. We watch curiously as a fight breaks out around a tap tap. A teenage boy leans down to pick up a piece of rubble and aims it at another man. Yelling and shouting, others try to intervene.

“Maybe someone didn’t want to pay the tap tap fare.” Jason muses.

“Who knows?” I reply.

The main road turns into broken pavement and wet gravel. As the truck sloshes its way through, it accidentally splashes another truck with its windows open. “Hey,” the man yells angrily shaking his fist. Oops, better be more careful around the puddles. We send him an apologetic wave and carry on.

Looking through the window I marvel how normal all this has become; the garbage littering the streets, the crowds of people, the vendors, the smells, the bumpy roads.

At what moment in time did what once was so foreign become so familiar? I wonder.

Fifteen minutes later we arrive at the international terminal to drop off Matt. After a three month internship with MAF it’s time for him to return home to Canada. Baggage handlers jostle each other in attempts to grab his one suitcase and backpack but Matt keeps a firm grip on them. We wave goodbye and then head back to the domestic terminal.

Locking the truck we dodge puddles as we make our way to the airport entrance. Dropping our backpacks on the X-ray scanner we head through the metal detector. Since in all the times I’ve gone to the airport I’ve never heard it go off I’m almost positive it’s malfunctioning. “At least it looks good,” I remind myself.

Curious stares are cast in our direction as we make our way to the main office. Although “Blan” (white people) are fairly common in Haiti with the influx of relief and work teams, “ti blan” (little white kids) are not. Oblivious to the stares Jayden walks behind me, proudly carrying his Thomas backpack.

At the front office a manifest is filled out and Jayden and I are weighed on a big scale. Jayden thinks this is great fun and watches in delight as our backpacks are weighed as well. With the manifest filled out we head through the main airport doors onto the tarmac.

The airplane is waiting, and as Jason completes the checklists I help Jayden get in and fasten his seat belt. Ten minutes later we taxi to the active runway. Taking off I look across at the bright blue sky and the mountains in the distance. Even with her poverty and filth, Haiti still is a beautiful place.

25 minutes later, Pignon’s airstrip comes in sight. Holding Jayden’s hand in preparation for a bumpy landing on the grass airstrip I soak in the green. Rainy season always changes the village from brown to green and l love how fertile it looks.

Pulling to a stop at the side of the runway, Jason helps us get out and unloads are bags. Boaz opens the gate and Pastor Caleb and Debbie walk in to greet us. It’s nice to see them again after almost a year. Jason still has more flights to do before joining us, so we bid him goodbye.

Roosters crow and hens cackle as we make our way through the familiar gates.

We make the short drive to Pastor Caleb’s house where we are met be Esther who Jason had dropped off the afternoon before.

After our second pancake breakfast we get ready to hit the local market to buy food for the food distribution planned for the afternoon.

The Feeding Program - By Esther Krul

2011-08-13T16:58:00.000-07:00

I sit down on the cement steps and wrap my arms around a small boy. No one knows his age, but by his height I assume he’s at least three. The heat of his body overwhelms me as he weakly clings to me. I try to help him stand but he’s too weak and malnourished. Giving up, I simply hold him. With him in my arms I instantly feel my body temperature begin to climb. It’s my fifth day in Haiti, and I’m still trying to adjust to the 40 degree Celsius weather.

The sounds of children singing momentarily distracts me and I look up to see see about one hundred and forty children sitting on benches in front of me. Many are barefoot and their clothes are worn and tattered.

When the singing stops the Haitian man leading the feeding program announces in Creole that it is time to eat. Immediately all one hundred and forty children straighten up and stop talking. An older boy nudges me and then motions for me to pass him the child I’m holding. Without his warm little body snuggled against me, I instantly feel a little cooler which is welcome relief.

Empty handed now, I get up and head to the outdoor kitchen to collect plates of rice and beans to distribute. After handing out a dozen or so plates with the other volunteers I stop at a table where a little boy is lying with his head on the table, fast asleep. His plate of rice and beans sits untouched in front of him. I walk up to him and tap him on the back.

“You need to wake up and eat,” I tell him, but there is no reply. I pick him up and gently touch his hands. Opening his large brown eyes he looks at me and offers a weak smile. “Come on, you need to eat,” I urge him again. I pick up his spoon, fill it with rice and beans and bring it to his mouth. He opens his mouth and starts to eat it, but seconds later his head falls down into his arms again and he’s once again asleep.

I tap him again and once again he’s only awake long enough to take a bite before he dozes off. With this slow process it seems to take forever for me to help him finish his plate but finally we’re done. After helping him drink his water he slowly sits up and offers me a grateful smile. Then being one of the last to leave, he slowly shuffles to the gate.

As I look around at the court yard that was once full of children, my heart breaks. Many of these children are still living in make-shift tents and most of them don’t know if they’ll get any other meals besides the three time a week feeding program meals they get here. It's hard to see children suffer.

Trying to stay positive I think about the small difference I made here today. Even if it was only holding one child and helping another eat. I know it made a difference to those two boys.

Home!

2011-08-13T09:38:00.000-07:00

Canada, 3:00 a.m.
Ring, ring, ring. The sound of Jason’s cell phone alarm wakes me and I roll over sleepily. Today is the day. Our last one in Canada. No time to waste I slip out of bed, give Jason a gentle nudge and then head to the bathroom for my contacts. Once I can see clearly I give my teeth a quick brush and run a comb through my hair. 15 seconds, record timing.

Now I’d better check if Esther is awake.

I head up the stairs and sure enough the lights are on. I laugh as I watch her straighten her hair and double check her reflection.

“This has nothing to do with your boyfriend driving us to the airport does it?” I tease.

Before she can sputter back a reply I vanish back down the stairs to Jayden’s room. He’s sleeping like a log and I manage to change him completely without waking him. Leaving him lying on top of the covers like a store mannequin I head back to our room to collect our suitcases. Today is the day!

Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
Caribbean heat wraps itself around me like a warm welcoming hug. “Ah feels like home," I whisper into the darkness. Although exhausted from the many hours of traveling and the miles of walking to catch connecting flights, I can’t stop the smile from growing into full bloom on my face. I love the warmth!

Surrounded by a half a dozen suitcases I watch from my vantage point on the sidewalk as Jason interacts with several taxi drivers.

“Ou pale Creole?” He asks a Haitian looking taxi driver and suddenly three of them are nodding.

“Wi, wi, wi!”

I watch in delight at how friendly they become. Within minutes we get a half price discount fare to our hotel and we’re on our way.

Nassau
Fun in the sun, some time at the beach, shopping and water sliding.

What a great way to end our midterm break!

Port au Prince
I watch the freckled face of my sleeping son and gently rub his cheek. 35,000 feet up I shift in my seat to get comfortable and then glance at the man across the aisle. Jason and Esther both got bumped up to first class which leaves me looking for someone to talk to.

“Do you live in Haiti?” I ask the man across the aisle.

“My family does,” he replies, “but I’m not sure yet.I have a one way ticket booked and it just depends on if I can find work and how I adjust. Is this your first visit?”

I laugh. “Nope, I’ve lived there for almost three years.”

“Really?” He looks at me in surprise. “Do you like it, living there that is?”

“I love it.”

He seems even more surprised. “What’s there to love?” He asks astonished.

“Well, I love the people, the lifestyle and the weather's pretty great too! Except for August, that is.”

“But it’s dusty and the roads are horrible and there’s no malls and nothing to do.” He argues back.

“That’s just perspective. Life is real there, a little gritty but real, and trust me there's lots to do!"

I go on to tell him about MAF and then about the Apparent Project. Seeing my excitement and hearing about ways that organizations are helping his people perks him up a little. He asks me to write down the name of the Apparent Project so that he can look it up online. I hand him the paper just as the captain's voice comes over the speakers. It’s time to fasten our seat belts and get ready to land.

Since my buckle is still on, I lean over the still sleeping Jayden and absorb the familiar landscape below.

Almost home.

Caribbean music filters through the hallway and I smile. Pulling our carryon baggage, Esther, Jason and I head to the waiting bus. Looking through the window I see the main airport sign is missing a T.

Welcome to Haiti!

Dust and charcoal smoke mix with the humid air as we make our way to the truck. Carrying the sleeping Jayden I soak it all in.

When he starts to wake up I put him down and instantly he complains.

“It's too hot, too hot.”

“You’ll be alright,” I smile down and pat his head.

He looks up at me disbelievingly and my smile turns into a grin. “You’re a big boy now, remember?” Lifting his head he walks a little taller, still clutching my hand.

With suitcases and carry on tied down in the back of the truck we are on our way. The rutted streets, wandering pigs, earthquake damage and the sounds of vendors calling, all remind me that I’m home.

20 minutes later we turn down our familiar street. Jason honks and a few minutes later a grinning Anoud rolls open the security gate.

“Denise, Denise, vini.” He yells. She comes running and I hug her. It’s so nice to see them and their kids. Carrying two backpacks I make my way up the front steps, Jayden close behind me.

“We’re at Jayden’s house! We’re at Jayden’s house!” He shouts excitedly as I open the front door.

Stepping inside the familiar sights and smells of home surround me. It’s sure good to be back. Closing my eyes I silently thank God for his care and faithfulness toward us.

Home at last.

Goodbye Canada

2011-07-28T14:20:00.000-07:00

I settle down on the soft green grass balancing my chocolate banana ice cream in my left hand.

Mmm, it's good!

"There's no chair Mom!" Jayden comes up behind me sucking on his Popsicle.

"You don't need one Jay. Just sit on the grass."

"Okay." He plops down beside me and then leans over to take a giant bite out of my ice cream.

"Hey! That's mine."

"I like yours Mom," he says grinning around a mouthful of chocolate and banana.

"Alright then." Leaning back, I look up at the smiling sun. It's so warm and beautiful. It's hard to believe it's already our last day in Canada. The past five weeks have flown by!

After a busy morning of laundry, packing, vacuuming, dusting and wiping I finally have a few minutes just to sit and relax. Relax and reflect.

I close my eyes as the sun warms my face. Memories of the last few weeks run through my mind.

Special times with family and friends,

Camping in Oroville,

Our trip to Alberta

Visiting family there and sharing our work with MAF in a presentation,

Photographing wildlife and plant life,

Hiking rocky cliffs and glaciers

Boating on Moraine Lake,

Then back in Chilliwack saying goodbye again.

Can it really have been five weeks?

June 23 - July 28. Yup, five weeks exactly.

My thoughts drift to the week ahead and I smile in anticipation. For an easier transition and a chance to grocery shop and simply relax we'll spend the next days in Florida and Nassua. It will be a nice break before going home to Haiti.

Home, that's sounding pretty good too.

The Other Side of the World

2011-07-07T12:11:00.000-07:00

Exactly two weeks ago today we left one side of the world, Haiti, for the other, Canada. On the world globe they may not appear to be on opposite sides but they might as well be. There's just no comparing the two places, and honestly, I don't want too. Instead, I want to focus on the things I love wherever I happen to be.

In Jayden's words Canada is "Wow, beautiful!" and "Not bumpy!" (The roads that is).

It really is a beautiful place and we are enjoying our time in the outdoors and spending time with family and friends. Some of my favorite pictures are...

My two traveling companions.

The Fraser Valley from above.

A rainbow, reminding us of God's promise as we drove through the valley.

The famous Mount Cheam still covered in snow, visible from the backyard.

God's intricate handiwork.

Oh to be young again!

Make new friends!

Stanley Park.

Watching Canada Day fireworks with Grandpa.

Stars that go BANG!" (Jayden)

I love flowers!

Quadding in Coalmont!

That's just a small glimpse of what we've been up to, but even bloggers need holidays once in awhile right?

God's Beautiful Creation

2011-06-18T06:01:00.001-07:00

"Mom, it's time to wake up."

I roll over and sleepily open my eyes. A cute, pajama clad boy is standing by the bed, one hand holding his special blanket and the other his favourite dog Cocoa.

"Okay, Jay. I'm coming."

I crawl sleepily out of bed and together we walk to the playroom and get comfortable on the couch.

Outside the early morning sun bathes the world in a golden glow as doves softly coo. It's so beautiful and peaceful.

Even in a country, known for her poverty, filth and chaos, God's beautiful creation shines through.

As I recall the beauty I've seen here, I remember the words of Psalm 19:1.

The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork.

Reconciliation

2011-06-10T12:18:00.000-07:00

“Mom!” Jayden walks up to me half crying. A moment later he’s followed by Jason. “Will, where are you? Jayden just pushed “K” in the mud!”

“Jayden! You better go and say sorry.”

I grab him and march off to find K and her Mom but they’ve already gone home. One little girl, muddy and crying, and one upset Mother.

What to do? By the time we leave the party I still haven’t come up with an answer.

Maybe I’ll go apologize tomorrow when I see them at church, I think to myself. Then the self-justification begins: It wasn’t my fault that he pushed her in the mud, and I can’t supervise him 24/7, and besides that one incident, he did play really well.

Maybe I’ll just forget about the whole thing, sweep it under the rug, besides, the “Love and Logic” parenting book that I’ve been faithfully studying says not to make excuses or apologies for your children. That’s just teaching them they can do wrong and you will pick up the pieces. It’s not teaching them responsibility.

Responsibility, hmm, maybe I’ll make Jayden say sorry at church tomorrow. The arguments begin again: You know how Jayden says sorry. He says it at least 10 times a day and usually in a very cheerful manner. “Sorry, sorry, sorry,” I hear whenever I catch him doing something wrong. Humph. Is K really going to appreciate a forced “sorry,” or a cheerful nonchalant “Oh well, better next time, kind of sorry”?

What about letting him make a card for her? I'm not sure where the idea comes from but it seems like a good one. I know she loves purple so maybe a purple card with flower stickers and butterfly stamps.

I spend some time explaining to Jayden how sad she was and that’s not how you treat a friend (he really loves her a lot), and then ask how he would feel if another boy would push him in the mud.

“I would be sad” he responds thoughtfully.

Then I talk to him about making a card.

“A card?” he asks.

“ Yes, a sorry card.”

With stickers and stamping pads?”

“Yes.”

He nods excitedly. I pull out the stickers Oma Krul sends faithfully with her letters and a box of stamps and ink. He quickly gets to working making a beautiful card. Purple construction paper, pink flower stickers, heart and butterfly stamps; before long the artistic creation is ready.

“Here’s a pen Jayden, Mom will help you write it.” Jayden nods again. I hold his hand carefully in mine and together we write.

Dear K

Sorry for pushing you in the mud.

Love J

At church the next morning we find a spot in the back row. As we wait for the service to begin an excited little boy cranes his neck, watching for the arrival of K. Suddenly he flies out of his seat and out the door.

“This is for you K!” He says handing the now slightly bent envelope to her.

I watch from my seat as K carefully pulls the card out of the envelope and reads the words.

“Dear K, Sorry for pushing you in the mud, Love J.

A smile lights up her face. She grins at Jayden, he's forgiven. Then she walks to the bench in front of us and sits down. I watch as very carefully, with her small fingers, she traces the butterflies, flowers and hearts. Then she opens it again and reads it. “Dear K, sorry for pushing you in the mud, love J.

A little while later the sermon begins. The message is about reconciliation. Reconciliation with God and with our neighbours.

I think of the times that my pride has kept me from reconciling with others. The times I justified my own actions, or swept wrongs under the rug and even jumped on them when they threatened to crawl back out.

My eyes drift to the seat in front of me at K, still clutching her card.

Reconciliation, it’s really so simple that little kids can do it.

It’s as simple as a card that says “Dear K, sorry for pushing you in the mud. Love J.

Rain, Mud and Loss

2011-06-08T12:08:00.000-07:00

His small dark hand clasps mine as we slowly make our way through the ankle deep mud. "Jezi sove," (Jesus rescues) he sings quietly. Trying not to let my tears add to the already muddy mess around me I focus on just taking one step at a time.

Last night the rains were incredible. While we placed Tupperware containers and buckets under various leaks, felt our wooden doors expand with moisture, watched the paint in the hallway continue to mold and tried not to shudder at the smell of damp towels and sheets, it was nothing compared to what we see here.

Brick homes with entire walls washed away.

Four feet high water damage in some of the wooden Maxima homes the teams built. People ankle deep in mud trying to wash the few items they have left in the filthy water pouring down what used to be dirt streets.

Ruined books, clothes, dishes and schoolwork in muddy piles outside people's homes.

Walking further I notice people sitting and standing on their roofs surrounded by the few things they have left. Nowhere to go and more rain in the forecast.

Earlier this morning, when the rains had stopped, Shelley had gone out to survey the damage and then sent out a message to the community that people needed sheets, clothing, shoes and food. Hearing the news Denise and I went through what was left of our donated clothing and then through our own cupboards to see what we could give. When I hesitated about handing out the sheets that we use whenever we have teams Denise assured me that God would provide new ones and I could go ahead and give them away.

By the time Jason came home from work we had four suitcases of supplies ready to go. After loading it all into the cruiser we headed to Eagle market to buy food with money that had been previously donated. God must have known we would need it, I thought, as we loaded a grocery cart full of food that was nutritious and ready to eat; raisins, peanuts, dried fruit, and crackers.

At the Apparent Project, Shelley had ten Haitians teenagers waiting, ready to help. They each loaded a garbage bag with food, clothing, sheets and shoes. Then together we walked down into the ravine.

After wading through filthy puddles and streams we stopped and Shelley instructed each of the teenagers to split up and find 1 or 2 families who had lost everything and give them the supplies.

Jason, Matt (a MAF volunteer currently staying at our house), Shelley and I headed to Makensia's house to drop off a tarp, a waterproof suitcase and also a portion of food, clothing and supplies.

Earlier, when Shelley had checked the home of Makensia, the mother of baby twins and an artisan at the Apparent Project, she had found it full of mud. Even the pack and play, which she had just received from a friend, and something she was so grateful for, was completely destroyed. Thankfully her sister and twin daughters were okay.

Along the way we stop to watch three boys, rescuing items from a newly formed stream.

Ten minutes later, after walking through oozing mud and filthy streams we reach Makensia's home. She has been hard at work and managed to clean most of the mud out of her house. What's left of her possessions is pitiful. I talk to her for a minute and then give her food and supplies. Even with all her material loses she still manages to smile and thank us for coming.

Walking back, a boy who looks about ten years old comes to talk to me. He's wearing an over sized, peach colored man shirt and tells me that's all he has left.

"The water came and washed everything away," he says in Creole.

I check my backpack and find my last granola bar. It's all I have left. He thanks me and smiles.

This time a tear does fall. Watching it land in the filthy stream I think about how the supplies we handed out is just like that tear, only a drop in a raging river of need.

God help them. Jezi sove.

Upcoming Events

2011-05-25T10:01:00.000-07:00

Saturday, June 4, 2011

Annual MAF Garage Sale,
Plant Sale, Car Wash & BBQ Luncheon

at the Unity Christian School Hall on McNaught Road, Chilliwack, BC, Canada

Donated items for the garage sale may be dropped off at the above location, Friday, June 3 between 3:00 and 8:00 p.m.

Proceeds go to supporting our work with MAF in Haiti.

Monday, June 27, 2011

MAF Banquet Fundraiser - British Columbia

We hope to do a presentation about MAF and our work in Haiti at the NRC Fellowship Hall
located at 8920 Broadway Street
Chilliwack, British Columbia

(space is limited, RSVP by email jwkrul@gmail.com)

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

MAF - Dessert Evening - ALBERTA

We hope to do a presentation about MAF and our work in Haiti at the Bethel Free Reformed Church Fellowship Hall
Located on highway 3A, 15 km west of Lethbridge

For further information email us at jwkrul@gmail.com

Rumor has it...

2011-05-25T09:34:00.000-07:00

Rumor has it that the reason for the burning barricade and demonstrations near our home was because a baby had died and someone had left the corpse in front of the school on Delmas 83, just past A Simon. The police had been contacted to retrieve the body, but didn't come initially.

After five days the baby's corpse began to create quite a scent. People wanted the corpse removed, but when this didn't happen, they demonstrated. They barricaded the road in front of the school on 83 and additionally burned tires at the corner of A Simon and Delmas 83.

The result was that people got the attention of the police and the police came and removed the corpse and the barriers.

I'm not sure if this is true or not, but it would explain why no one was angry or protesting.

It makes me sad to think that someone could just leave a child's body on the street and also sad that the only way for the people to be heard is for them to build a road block and light it on fire.

A Very Present Help in Trouble

2011-05-24T11:40:00.000-07:00

“The Apparent Project sure was a bee hive of activity.. ” I stop in mid sentence, not believing my eyes.

“What is that?”

Two vehicles ahead of us several men are pulling large branches and tree trunks across the road forming a barricade. Seconds later the pile bursts into flame.

I rub my eyes. Is this real?

Honk, Honk. The two vehicles in front of us are trying to back up.

“What is going on?”

“I have no idea,” Gene Jones replies nervously, backing up our vehicle too.

“Me neither,” adds Jan, his wife.

“I thought everyone was happy with the election results and I haven’t heard anything about protests, so what’s happening?” I wonder out loud.

Unsure of what to do Gene backs up some more and we wait. Craning my neck to assess the situation further I notice that other then the burning barricade not much seems to be happening.

“I don’t think any vehicle is getting through that anytime soon and I don't know a different route, so I might as well walk home from here, it’s not far.”

“Okay,” the Jones’s reluctantly agree.

I lift Jayden and his stuffed doggy Cocoa out of the car and say goodbye. Holding them both in my arms I cautiously make my way to the burning road block.

The Caribbean sun reaching its zenith, burns mercilessly while the added heat of the blazing fire makes the temperature almost unbearable.

Ignoring the heat I edge closer while continuing to assess the situation. From my vantage point I can see that several tires and a bag full of garbage have been added to the fire.

I look around to see who is responsible but it’s hard to tell. A crowd is beginning to form but they seem more curious then fearful. Several bystanders have begun directing traffic. I glance at the street vendors and notice that they’re not moving. Everyone seems relatively calm.

I watch as several motorcycles and people make their way past the barricade to the right without any problems so I decide to do the same. Keeping my eyes wide open for trouble, I carefully make my way towards the barricade. Still holding Jayden, I do my best to shield him as hot ashes and soot blow at us.

No one stops us.

Picking up the pace now, I hurry on. Reaching the bend a police officer in an unmarked vehicle pulls to a stop in front of the fiery barricade. He looks at it for a moment and then backs up and turns around. Seeing Jayden and I he rolls down his window.

“Tout bon?” he asks.

I nod, I’m okay.

He looks at me doubtfully, and I offer a weak smile. I guess I look worried. When we’ve rounded the bend I put Jayden down and reach for my phone. Jason doesn’t answer, but when I call Christine she does.

“It might have something to do with an accident,” she tells me. Her house is only a stone’s throw from the burning barricade so she promises to keep an eye on it and send out updates.

Calming my pounding heart I send a silent prayer upward to my Father who is everywhere present.

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Psalm 46:1

Cleaning and Dreaming

2011-05-20T12:45:00.000-07:00

Achoo! Dust tickles my nose and I sneeze.

I pick up a pair of shoes and proceed to load them into Jayden’s cart. Once the cart is full Jayden pulls it proudly into the bedroom and dumps the shoes on a pile. With our trip to Canada a mere month away it’s time to crack down on organizing and cleaning. Binders, books, papers, shoes, clothes; everything gets piled into the cart and transported from the closet to the bedroom floor.

Dust swirls through the air. I sneeze again. I think I’m allergic.

Jayden loves helping. “Look at this Mom!” He says over and over again holding up some random object. When he finds 3 skull caps in Jason’s flight helmet box he’s ecstatic!

“Look at my hat!” He pulls on a red one and then passes me a yellow. I pull mine on and giggling we check out the results in the mirror.

“Mom, look a fish puzzle!” Hat still on his head he gets to work. Two seconds later it’s pulled apart and five seconds after that it’s all back together!

Just then a crack of thunder rumbles. I check my watch, it’s only 2:00 p.m.. Rainy season is here. Through the open window I feel the breeze pick up. It swirls the dust around in the closet. I pull myself up of the ground and move closer to the window. A cool breeze on a hot day, what a blessing. Looking past the screen and bars I see dark clouds rolling in.

“Looks and feels like rain Jayden.”

Several minutes later a gentle rain falls, cooling the humid city. Finding a spot on the floor beside Jayden I close my eyes and dream of grass fields, cool air, and mountains with thousands of trees. Canada. Only four weeks away!

My thoughts drift over the faces of family members and friends; it’ll be so nice to see them again!

Pushing the puzzle aside Jayden nestles down beside me.

“When are we going to Grandpa’s house Mom?”

“Soon Jayden.”

“Can I feed the horses carrots and play with the little Tigger and Winnie the Pooh and Piglet?”

“Yup.”

“But it’s first my Thomas Birthday right?”

“Yes, your birthday comes first.”

He sighs contently and then we both close our eyes and continue to dream.

Safely Home

2011-05-07T12:44:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, May 4

After 28 hours of traveling I finally catch my first glimpses of Port au Prince. I press my face against the glass to get a better look. Almost home!

Eight minutes later the plane lands smoothly and I take a moment to thank God for bringing me home safely. It doesn’t take long to de-plane and minutes later we’re on a bus to the main terminal. When the bus stops and the doors open I catch sight of Jason. I run toward him and hug him. There’s nothing like 12 days away to realize how blessed I really am with such a wonderful man. He hugs me tightly and then teasingly pushes me away.

“We’re in the airport you know!”

I laugh and hug him again. It’s sure great to see him!

We head through customs together and then wait with Shelley for our suitcases. Once we have them all Jason drives to the domestic terminal. He needs to do more flights today so Dieucon will be dropping us off. At the terminal Jason hops out and Dieucon hops in.

Driving through the rugged streets I can’t stop smiling. It’s nice to be home. Blue skies, palm trees, friendly people, unpaved roads, Caribbean heat. I turn to Shelley and we agree that though China was great, we’re glad we live in Haiti.

After 20 minutes of navigating rough roads we stop by Shelley’s gate. Dieucon and I help unload her suitcases and then it’s my turn to get dropped off. As we turn onto Rue Barbancourt I’m met with the familiar sight of a half a dozen UN soldiers. Even though things have been quiet since the elections they’re still there. I wave at them and they wave back. I then lean over to honk the special pattern so that Anoud knows it’s me and can open the gate.

A minute later we pull in and Anoud rolls the gate shut behind us. As Dieucon turns off the car I hop out and run to the stairs. Running up I meet Jayden halfway. He looks at me and blinks as if he can’t believe his eyes. Considering that he thought that just like Jonah, I had been swallowed by a big fish, I guess to him it is a miracle! Getting over his surprise he launches himself at me and I catch him in my arms. “I love you Mom!” he hoarsely whispers as I squeeze him tight.