january 2016 visit.
Published January 2016.
kozefò trip preparations.
We are planning and packing and preparing for this next adventure. Our group includes a fantastically eclectic group of folks – some returning – many new travelers. There is a large group coming from the church that my sis and I grew up in – where our parents worship and we still celebrate every Christmas Eve. Eight in our group are in there 60’s-70’s…I think. Courageous, generous souls that desire to grow and learn and give of their time and talents. My sweet nephew Eli – really the initiator of this Haitian connection, having been adopted from Haiti and having lived at the very site of our school will be part of our group – traveling with his parents and BOTH grandparents. Now, how cool is that? My dad’s cousin Bob will be joining us from Boston; my sister’s childhood bestie and Kozefò board member Amy will make her first trip to Port au Prince; a random conversation lead to the sister of a new co-worker joining us; a Minnesota-Florida fellow will be connecting with us in Atlanta; a local Woodbury couple will be returning and bring their middle school-aged twins this time. So many great folks!
We have a fun-filled itinerary planned, with the understanding that there needs to be flexibility and a willing spirit to see where the path may lead. Check out our plans and keep us in your thoughts and prayers!
productive day.
There are really no words….or maybe there are just too many words for today. We hit the ground running, and there are just not enough pics on my camera, so I can only share a very small glimpse into the fun we have had here at A New Arrival Primary School. There was a finance meeting and a teacher meeting – complete with receipt documentation and conversations about hopes and dreams for our kiddos. The computer lab was buzzing with activity. Plumbing projects have begun, the painters are rolling, a bookshelf is nearing completion. And the kids. It is really just about the kids for me. There were hugs and songs and stories shared – crafts were made, sewing lessons with 5 and 6 year olds, and Mr. Realdsen has returned as a physical education teacher – doing calisthenics and soccer games with the assistance of a Creole interpreter. So much good stuff today.
My heart is full.
from one world to the next.
There were so many sweet intersections that occurred between my ordinary world back home and the crazy-cool events of the day. I am always in awe when things align the way they do…not really even surprised by it too much anymore. I have figured that this is just the way God likes to work, huh?
Event #1 – Teacher Seminar. This is what I am trained to do…paid to do in real life. And then I get to share a little of my thinking here with teachers that are eager to learn, willing to collaborate, think and consider ways to apply the ideas in their classrooms.
Event #2 – FaceTime Conversation. My friend Amy and her boy Gefte were able to connect today with his father and brother here in Haiti. There was a whole mess of emotions with that chat. The awesomeness of being able to have technology to create this moment, the heartbreak of what it means to relinquish parental rights under very difficult circumstances, the joy in seeing family – Gefte’s smile and “love you dude” to his brother…wow. The complexities of having families in two places and making the most of it all. Hmmm.
Event #3 – The Parental Presentation. The teachers toasted our team with a grand gesture of thanks – cake and champagne. There was gratitude shown to our parents for sharing Lori and me with them here in Haiti. So humbled. So honored. And then there was that fantastic pop of champagne that hit the ceiling! Good times.
Event #4 – Neighborhood walk. I love a good “drop-in visitor” that is willing to show up when I may still be in my jammies. In fact, I have a pal that has been known to show up with her own coffee and hop right into my bed if I still happen to be there! Not everyone feels that way – most prefer to tidy up and prepare for their guests. Well, today we found a few friends in the neighborhood that welcomed us into their homes unannounced with open arms – hugs and I love yous and thank yous as well. We were allowed to drop in. We returned to the home of Sebastien and were greeted with a “Bonswa Madam Sara!” We visited Bradley and his cousin Richardson – we met Samuel and Nolbi’s family. And as we walked through the neigborhood, more and more friends joined us. By the time we returned to the school, we had enough pals for some serious soccer action. Such a perfect way to spend a Saturday!
Event #5 – Pizza and football-very common in my household. So, following a very full day that included much painting, tidying up, computer prep, shelf building and plumbing, the team enjoyed a completely chill evening with conversation, dinner and the Patriots vs. Chiefs game on the big screen at Pizza Amore. Such a gift. Bon Nwit!
the pictures say it all.
The last couple of days were filled with so much beauty – incredible worship, Pastor Adam’s message, Caribbean Sea adventures and a sunset view, smiling students, cheerful workers and a visit to our friend Gladimy’s home. I will let the pics speak for themselves.
back to business.
Wow. What a week. We soaked it all in and have now returned to our work of teaching, nursing, doctoring, ministering, painting, running a craft store, filling pharmaceutical prescriptions, supporting school staff and living the life of retirement…and for our four students on the trip – they are back in class.
Our school in Haiti welcomed us in with open arms, kisses on the cheeks and creative greeting signs.
We experienced so many “good moments” together and share a common love for our students. And now business is back to normal in the hands of some incredibly kind, smart, creative, hard-working and caring individuals. Thank you so much to the staff at ANA Primary School! We are grateful for you all! Mesi Anpil. Until next time.
