Travel Memoir Story - chapter One

Over a year ago, I began writing a story to document my travels and experiences while living in Taiwan. I worked diligently for about a month, but then lost sight of my initial goal. I am now wanting to focus on my story more, and someday finish it. Maybe I can take a shot at getting published. Here is the first chapter (or part of a chapter?). I appreciate any comments and feedback...I'm always looking to better my writing and constructive criticism is appreciated! ENJOY


Sometimes change can be so consistent and gradual that you don’t even notice it happening until you’ve transformed into someone different and enlightened. Other times it’s so abrupt and sudden that your life is taken by surprise and the world seems to be spinning on different axels. Spending a year in a different country with no one to hold my hand and guide me around made me realize how much change can happen when you allow it to.

I was born to be adventurous. Since I can remember, my parents have told stories of my childhood adventures to everyone from the bagger at the grocery store to the ladies at church.

It was an Indian summer in Michigan, I was four and the little neighbor girl, Shianne, was 3. The day began like any other day, up in my bedroom together playing house or dolls. I had a plastic record player that played all my favorite Disney tunes. Because the door was closed and the music kept playing, my mom assumed our safety and continued to work on her own around the house. Shianne and I decided that it was a beautiful day for an adventure. She was never the brave or audacious one. That’s where my excitement played a vital role.
“My mom knows a queen, and she lives in a castle, and I’ve been there” I promised Shianne.
“There aren’t any castles in Owosso, and you don’t know any queens” she challenged.
“Uh huh. I’ll even show you…we just have to go through the jungle to get there.” My excitement grew with every line I fed my naïve friend.
“There are no castles OR jungles here, just Meijer and corn fields.” Shianne insisted.
“Well I’ll get my gun just in case, and I’ll show you that there are castles, jungles, AND a beautiful queen.” By now Shianne was so intrigued. She wanted to believe me, but was also a little scared. I promised her that nothing could get in our way with my gun, and I would protect her. Of course, she didn’t know that my gun was just a piece of wood with a trigger that made a clicking noise. It’s amazing how much our imaginations can turn simple objects in to extraordinary truths.
We set out behind my house, just us girls, the gun, and a desire to find this queen. It was the odd year for farmers, so that meant that corn was still in the field in late August. Making our way through the now drying stalks gave reason to believe that we were in an enchanted forest. My gun now became a machete to chop down the “vines” in our new backyard jungle. With each step, the corn stalks crunched beneath our flip flop sandals. With our noses burning under the hot August sun, we made our way through the first field. Coming up to the fence row, we were faced with ten feet of densely grown forest. We approached the edge when I spotted a baby fawn in need. To an adult’s eye, I had a half-eaten corn stalk in my arms, but to me and Shianne, we were nursing the fawn back to health after being debilitated by a black bear. Neither of us seemed concern with the temporary set-back. We were concerned about our little fawn’s health. Once it was back up on its feet, we continued on our endeavor. After another field, this time soy beans, we arrived at the Golden Woods Subdivision. The houses of doctors and politicians towered above our awe-stricken eyes. Directly to our left was the castle. It was a beautiful, newly build, light brick house, complete with a circle driveway, professionally landscaped yard. Because of the tinted windows in the BMW, I believed the queen would be home, because her limo was obviously in the driveway. Without any hesitation, we made our way to the queen’s front door. On the step, tea was steeping in the sunshine. I remembered the last time my mom took me to visit her, the tea was so good. I always wished my mom steeped tea in the sunshine, too.
“See, we can even have tea with the queen” I whispered to Shianne.
My mom’s friend, Dianne, came to the door, a puzzled look on her face as she looked down at two near-toddlers smiling up at her like she was the Queen of England.
“Hi, Katie, where is your mom?” Dianne asked, still confused.
“I think she’s at home. We came through the jungle, and even saved a baby deer, cuz I wanted to show Shianne the castle.” I told her, standing proud in front of my earlier-reluctant friend.
“Oh, did you now?” I nodded. “I think I’ll just give your mom a call, you girls wait here.”
I was so excited that she was going to tell my mom about our big adventure. I was sure that she’d be more proud than ever.
I was wrong.
We may have only been two fields away from Dianne’s house, but it was more than a ten minute drive to go through town. By the time my mom pulled in the driveway, she was raging mad. From the stories she’s told, Shianne and I were both in for a big punishment. But, once she arrived, our story was so convincing. She said we were too precious to punish. She simply told us how dangerous our adventure was, and if we were to leave the house again, we needed to ask her first.
Wow, were we ever lucky. As an adult, I look back at that experience and can’t believe how easy we got away with it. Today, a search team would be set out for us, and we would be in a whole heap of trouble.

My desire to truly see the world began in fifth grade, when I realized that I wasn’t going to follow the crowd and be part of the so called norm. I always knew I was different, but when I was younger I thought it was because I was the only redhead in my class. Growing up, I realized the difference was in my heart. I had a desire to do something bigger and go somewhere outside of my small suburban town.

Fifth grade was when I started to realize that my desire was to get out and see the world. It started by changing my name every few days, which luckily my teacher, Mrs. Waters, found amusing and played along. Then I began writing in codes, my own foreign language. Unfortunately, that didn’t go over too well with the teacher. Bobby, the boy that sat next to me, figured I was writing something about him, so he convinced Mrs.
Waters to ban us girls from writing in codes.

It was also that year, a time for changes not only physically, but emotionally too, that I began to find interest in exploring the world. I decided that I was going to open my own bank account and start saving money to be a foreign exchange student. My parents thought this was a great time to start teaching me about the value of a dollar and the rewards of budgeting.

Every year my small town of Owosso holds a historical festival to celebrate a writer, James Oliver Curwood, which resided in Owosso in the 1800’s. People from all around come to the Curwood castle for the education tours, but also the midway rides and over-priced games are a big hit among families with children. Our family was no exception. My Dad was always a frugal man that wanted to instill in us children the value of a dollar, and deterred us from spending frivolously on useless things. The Curwood festival remains in my mind as the biggest financial lesson from my childhood. Dad would give me and my brother, John, each twenty dollars for the weekend of the festival. We were able to enjoy the festival and participate in any attractions that we wanted for the entire weekend. One catch. Dad told us that whatever money we had left on Sunday, after the festival, he would double for us. This would excite both me and my brother, knowing that if we didn’t spend all our money, we would end up with even more money as a reward. John and I both set out with the intentions of saving our money and just enjoying the time of freedom with our friends. I guess once I set foot on festival grounds, the excitement of fair food and midway outweighed my father’s proposition. Before the end of the first day, I had played games a few times each, ordered numerous helping of fries and vinegar, and bargain shopped for useless toys at the flee market section of the festival. I made sure, though, to save enough for Saturday’s ride special. Signs all over town advertised a deal on all-you-can-ride bracelets. My friends and I would spend the entire morning running from hastily assembled rides to the next.
As you can probably deduce from my memories, come Sunday, my wallet was empty. I would not be getting any reward money after all. But John, however, was never temped by the aroma of the fair food, or the games that no one ever won. He simply took the festival as a time to romp around with his buddies, maybe smile at a few girls from his class, and participate in the 3-on-3 basketball tournament. Watching him get another crisp twenty dollar bill on Sunday was enough to make me sick. I couldn’t believe that he spent the same amount of time at the festival as I, but now he has forty dollars in his pockets, while mine are empty. Next year, I would NOT let this happen.

Being so close in age, John and I were always competitive no matter what came about. In school, we always compared report cards, in sports, though John always excelled, we compared statistics, and everything else in life would remain a competition between my older, wiser, and stronger brother. I always strived to be like him; I envied his strength and confidence not only on the field, but also with friends. As you’ll learn later in the story, the money discipline took a turn for the better (for me at least) in our young adult years, and things started to look up for me come college. Still being competitive with my brother, I prided myself with my grades, my financial discipline, and my constant desire to be something better. I won’t say that the competition with my brother was what drove me, but it has always been and will always be a thought in the back of my head.

The fifth grade beginning to my travel interests stuck for a few years, but once boyfriends and extracurricular activities came into the picture, the foreign exchange desire started to wear off. In high school I became the typical bite-off-more-than-you-can-chew teenager. I was balancing advanced classes, cheer leading, a waitress job, and a boyfriend. Add in the stress of being a teenager, and one could imagine how my life quickly became a whirlwind of schedules and commitments.

High school came and went in a blur. I was preparing for college while my high school sweetheart, Brian, was preparing to spend his senior year abroad as a foreign exchange student. Wait a second. Wasn’t that my dream? Spending my senior year abroad completely escaped my mind until Brian brought it up casually during a conversation. I was so disappointed in myself for letting that dream slip through my hands during my busy high school years. Since that moment, I have regretted staying at home and not experiencing the world while I could. The thought of studying abroad in college was always an option, perhaps I would look in to that. That also never worked out. My senior year I evaluated how my life as an adult had gone so far, and where I wanted it to go. So far, I had quite a few I-wish-I-would-haves under my belt. Did I want to go through life always wishing and dreaming only to end up with unfulfilled dreams?

One thing I learned about my mom as an adult was that she had so many wonderful ideas and aspirations, but they rarely transpired. I never really took any thought to this, but I soon realized that my mom had gone through her entire life saying “I wish I would have” or “I never did…” and I wasn’t about to make those same mistakes. This long line of lost dreams was going to stop with me.

I spent hours studying for finals, and thousands of dollars on my college education. Graduation day had finally come, along with the question of “what now?” For most, the reply would consist of finding an apartment, landing a new job, etc… But for me, it was a different story. I chose to travel half way across the world and use my education to teach English to Taiwanese children for my first year out of college. Some would say that this decision was a very brave thing for me to do, but I feel as if it is what I had been called to do, and hopefully could make an impact at a Taiwanese school.

The opportunity came along during a visit to my education advisor at Olivet College. While she finished a meeting, I wondered around the waiting area, glancing at pictures and postings on the bulletin board. There was a ripped out magazine article that advertised in big, bold letters “TEACH IN TAIWAN.” With one look at it, I said in my mind “okay.” I immediately wrote down the website, and soon began the application process. Everything in the beginning went so quickly. I applied, was accepted, and even invited to an orientation.

As I drove an hour to reach the orientation destination, my heart pounded with anticipation. I had so many questions about living abroad. What do I pack? Do I need to get any vaccinations or shots? Where will I live? What is my town like? What is the food like? How many other people from Michigan will be going?

My anticipations quickly dissipated when I arrived at the orientation that was actually intended for area superintendents and principals who were preparing to take a trip to Taiwan to hire teachers to return with them to America. Though it was nice to network with administrators, the meeting ended up leaving me with unanswered questions and a small feeling of doubt.

As I returned home, my parents awaited all the details on the trip that were to come in just a few short months. Disappointed, I told them that I had no answers, but I was very confident that answers and information would come soon. It was only April, and I wasn’t going to leave until August. Over the next few months, my frustrations seem to only build. On the outside, I didn’t give on to my hesitations; my Dad did enough of that for the both of us. He continued saying day after day that this experience was not going to come to fruition, and it would be more beneficial for me to begin looking in Michigan for a teaching job. I hated the idea that this dream had come so close to happening, and then it would end up not happening. I continued to believe and convince others that I was actually moving to Taiwan in a few months.

A few months turned into a few weeks, and still I haven’t heard anything about Taiwan. I was constantly emailing my person of contact, but continued to receive no information. It was the first week of August, and I began to believe my Dad that maybe this wasn’t going to happen. Then the phone rang.

I was working at the time, but decided to answer my phone and take a short break. It was a lady with a thick Chinese accent, saying she was from the Taiwan embassy in Chicago. I had a flight itinerary in exactly 6 days, and I had a lot to get done in the meantime. 6 days? How can I prepare, physically and mentally, to leave the country in only 6 days? The most important thing to get done was applying for an expedited visa. I had gotten my passport weeks before, but still had to get another picture taken, and send my passport overnight to Chicago. My passport took weeks to arrive, in my mind there was no possible way that I would have my passport in hand in 6 days when I was supposed to board a plane for Asia. Somehow, the passport returned from Chicago with a day to spare. Wednesday morning, the FedEx truck arriving in my driveway with a small envelope encasing my passport and new visa was the biggest relief thus far. Now it was time to begin packing. I had never received answers of what to pack. From researching the country, I knew that the climate was very hot and humid. Choosing all my summer clothes only made since, right? Upon arrival in Taiwan, I quickly learned how my wardrobe did not meet Taiwanese standards.

Over the summer, as I thought about Taiwan everyday, I contemplated not only why I wanted this adventure, but also what I wanted to get out of it.

My junior year in college was a major turning point in my life. A few friends that I had gotten very close to and trusted began to go other directions. My best friend was being distant all year, and I wasn’t sure how to approach the situation. My college friendships were beginning to fade already, and my interest in being at college had been gone since the day I moved in for the third time. I didn’t realize it at the time, but for the majority of my junior year, I was walking around depressed, just going from day to day. I couldn’t wait for what was to come next. I became dormant in my room, and only came out for classes and meals. My friends tried to help me, but I was in denial. This caused them to pull even further away from our friendship. By the end of the school year, I had no ambition for finals or a summer job. At the last minute, I applied and interviewed to work as a student worker in the admissions department. The ladies that worked as admissions representatives were always so upbeat and friendly, maybe staying at school for the summer, and being surrounded by positive people, would help me to lift myself out of the slump that had consumed my junior year. My duties were very minimal, and this caused me to watch the minutes go by until my shift was over. I quickly fell into the same routine; I would complete my responsibilities for the day before retorting to my room to sleep or watch tv alone. Even my roommates, who I had not been friends with previously, tried to get me involved and overall happier. It didn’t help that I was having constant problems with my boyfriend. After countless arguments and threats of breaking up, I finally accepted his threat and ended an unhealthy relationship. I thought this would make things better. The loneliness began to consume me, and within days, I had spun into such a deep depression, that I felt hopeless. When my roommates and closer friends saw the impact the breakup had on me, they all began to work very hard to get me back to the Kate they remember from years before. My family all stepped up to help me get over this depressive state of being. Everyone wanted to cheerful, hyper Kate back, including me. After a few weeks, I decided that it was best for me to move home and commute my senior year. It was going to be a busy semester, but I would hopefully get out of my depression and be happy again. It was the next semester when I found the magazine article about teaching in Taiwan. My initial goal was to take a year away from the disappointments I’d creative for myself in life and figure out who I was and what I wanted out of life. If I were to take away the distraction of boys, family drama, and everything else, maybe I could focus on myself for a while. When I made this decision, I compiled a mental list of everything else I wanted to accomplish over the span of a year abroad. Because I assumed my job would not be very difficult, I was hoping to have the opportunity to travel and learn as much about the culture as I could. There was one other major goal for my year away.

My parents divorced while I was in middle school, and I spend my high school years with my Mom, while my brother was on the other side of town with my Dad. During my senior year in high school, I began to re-develop a relationship with my Dad. It was very slow to progress, but soon we became close and I developed a trust in my Dad that I was unable to develop with anyone else. After walking across the stage in cap and gown, I decided to move in with my Dad. Because he was single and had a lot of down time, he was extremely involved in my brother’s life. My moving in was a hard transition for all of us, as he began to balance the attention he gave both me and my older brother. As John moved to back to college, Dad and my relationship began to grow even closer. He was used to being there for anything John had needed, and I relished in the attention and help that my Dad had showered upon me. I soon became pretty dependent on having my Dad there for my every need or desire. Throughout college, he was a call away for anything I needed. Not only was I a “daddy’s girl” but I was so dependent on my Dad, I wondered how I would ever live on my own. I made a pact to myself that I was going to become an independent young woman, without sacrificing the relationship I had developed with my Father. Living in Taiwan was going to help me become independent. Being a half a world away, Dad was no longer just a phone call away. I felt that the “sink-or-swim” method was the only way for me.

On August 16th, I boarded the plane after a tear-filled good-bye to my family. My Dad and step-mom were so supportive in the last week as I rushed around to get everything together. As they watched me walk through security, they waited and waved until they could no longer see me. I remember I had started to tear up, and by the time I was going through security checks, I was crying rather hard. The employee that watched the x-ray screen handed me a box of tissues, and they all seem genuinely concerned about my well-being. I wasn’t sad; really, it was just very hard for me to leave my friends and family for an entire year. But I had made a pact to myself, and I was going to survive this year no matter what came my way.

I was anxious to see what awaited me twelve time zones away. I had no idea then what was to come. Back in April at the orientation, I had met the other young man from Michigan that was to embark on the same journey. We had kept in contact through e mail, and I was looking forward to meeting up with him at the airport. On the short trip from Detroit to Chicago, I anticipated meeting up with the other man, Matthew, and sharing my excitement for the upcoming trip. As soon as I disembarked the aircraft, I began to search for Matthew. My next flight wasn’t for an hour or more, so I had time to look around. Matthew was no where to be seen. As boarding calls began for my flight to Las Angelas, I began to worry that Matthew had missed his flight to Chicago. A small panic started to build within me. Though I did not know Matthew well, he was a familiar face and that gave me comfort in this next step of flying to my new home. Four hours later, I landed in L.A., still with no word from Matthew. Having never flown internationally, I was overwhelmed and confused on what I was supposed to do next. No one was there to tell me where to go or what to do. I walked my entire luggage (2 suitcases weighting 50 lbs, a backpack and a large purse) to an Asian airline. There were so many airlines to choose from and everyone seemed to know what they were doing. I began to hear conversations in more languages than I’d ever dreamed of. I was panicking, my head was spinning. I was lost. Being exhausted from carrying luggage, and very confused, I decided to sit down and catch my breath. Then came my first phone call home. Dad couldn’t rescue me from this, but maybe hearing some familiar voices would help calm me. There was nothing I could do without knowing which airline to go to, so I called home to say that I made it to L.A. safely. Of course, my parents asked me what I was doing, and asked me all about the flights so far. I shared with them how marvelous the west looked from the air. The land was absolutely beautiful. I told them I couldn’t believe how God had created such vast landscapes so close to home. The mountains and valleys of golden clay and limestone definitely caught my interest.

While on the plane, my nose was smooshed up against the window as I stared in awe at the mountains and valleys below. I couldn’t contain my excitement, so I turned to the person (who was sound asleep) with eyes bright as a child on Christmas morning. “Wow! Look out the window! Isn’t that amazing! Is this the grand canyon?” Needless to say, he wasn’t very pleased that I woke him from his airline slumber to look out the window.

Now what was I doing? Well, I told them I was a little lost and confused as of what to do next. Knowing that this was my first challenge of independence, my Dad chuckled and said, well I can’t help you, hun! If only I were to know how many times I would hear this statement throughout the year.

Hanging up the phone, I decided to find the gate with China Airlines, so that I wouldn’t have to cart my luggage around any longer. I knew I had two hours before boarding, but my arms were beyond tired. Somehow, I found where I was supposed to be, only to find out that I had an extra 4 hours until the plane boarded. 6 hours in the airport, and I had already gone through security, so leaving to explore wasn’t an option. 6 hours at the terminal. 6 hours alone. And where was Matthew? I decided to walk into a nearby bar and watch the Olympics. Before I knew it, a handsome Australian introduced himself to me. We shared a drink, and began telling each other stories. He was going back to his family in Australia after visiting family in America. He had been everywhere. I learned about staying in hostels (before this conversation I hadn’t even heard the word “hostel”) and a website called couch surfing. I heard all about backpacking Europe and tap-taps in Haiti. This handsome Australian had opened my eyes to the endless possibilities. He warned me “Once you start traveling, you get the bug, and you’ll never be able to settle.”



My first ten days in Taiwan was spent in a government-funded educational foundation with twenty-four other foreign English teachers. Here we spent ten hours days attending seminars and classes dealing with everything from culture shock to difficulties in teaching. Though some of the classes seemed like more of time fillers than actual useful information, this time was very helpful in regard to adjusting to a foreign lifestyle. I was also able to network with others going through the same situation. As a result, I now have a friend in every county of the country and am able to visit them during my free time.
On the third night of orientation, we were taken as a group down the road into the night market. My mom’s lectures on being careful and protected at all times kept running through my mind. I practically clung to the chaperones clothes as we wove our way through busy streets. Everything seemed so dirty and cheap, why were all the other Americans so excited about this? The smells alone made me want to go back to the dorms. The food did not look like anything for humans. What was I doing here? How was I going to survive this place? The chaperones, four young Taiwanese military boys, led us to a few shops to test our bargaining skills and the few words we had learned during class, and then decided to treat us to a Taiwanese snack. They had all spent time in America so were familiar with our culture. But they couldn’t compare this snack to anything I would recognize. Well, if you can’t tell me what it is, I’m not eating it. Is it fish? Animal? plant? Chemical? The boys seemed to devour their treats…and I just watched, a little disgusted. Finally, that little voice inside of me spoke up “you’re hear to overcome your boundaries, learn new things, and take leaps of faith…it’s just a snack…try it!” So I asked a few more questions, sniffed around (seriously, I sniffed the bowl), and decided to take a little piece. It was like a soft tofu-like substance, which reminded me of flavor-less jello jigglers. Then there were beans (kidney, pinto?) on top and some simple syrup. The toping on this tofu beany cake was a scoop of shaved it. Boy, I was sweating, could I just take the ice? Since I took so long to decide to try it, the ice had melted and now it was more of a tofu beany soup. I took some of the tofu and soupy syrup, and it wasn’t that bad. It was just sugary bean curd…nothing to get so worked up about! Would I have it again? If it was offered, I would be polite, but I think I’ll stick to non-bean desserts.
As we were walking, I noticed several stray, mangy dogs. I kept my distance, who knew what kind of diseases they had. When we were about to head back to the dorms, an awful smell snuck into my nose. I thought my nose hairs would singe off right there. It was the most awful thing I have ever encountered. I looked around. Was in the water running in the street? Some vendor cooking….something? I figured it was a dog that had been homeless, possibly sick, and just finished bathing in a sewer. That was the only logical explanation. It wasn’t long before I found out the source of the smell. Stinky Tofu. Yes, something edible. Think of the most awful smell in the entire world and multiply it by a hundred. Now you have stinky tofu. Take a bite. I learn that it is fermented tofu that goes through a process similar to cheese or yogurt (Chinese people do not use many dairy products so it is hard to compare). Then, it is grilled or deep fried, thus dispersing the stench into the air. To top it all off, a fermented vegetable salad and vinegar substance is usually served on top, making it the trio of stink.

Following the 10 day orientation a representative from the school where I would be teaching picked me up and we made the 3 hour drive south to the small town of Hsin Kang which is in the county of Chiayi, Taiwan. My school placed me with a host family that lives across the street from the school. I was so grateful to have been placed with the Huang family; they has opened their home to me as if I was one of their own. I has my own room and bathroom on a separate floor than their family so I had plenty of privacy. But, they were always present when I need someone to be around.

Because school had not yet started, I wanted to get some initial impressions of the Taiwanese culture. The very first thing I noticed in this foreign land was how everything smells different. This is something that we don’t always consider when traveling; the air, the water, the food, the people. It all took getting used to. The food was definitely not what I expected being a first time traveler. My naivety had me believing that I would have General Tso’s chicken and fried rice for a year. You can’t beat that! The food here is NOTHING like one could imagine. Since landing in Taiwan, I had claimed to be a vegetarian, because sometimes I do not know what I’m eating. I would rather have a vegetable surprise than a meat surprise! And usually the non-vegetarians have their food staring at them, eyeballs and all.

Transportation is the next major shock as a foreigner. Traffic laws are mere suggestions in Taiwan; if you don’t feel like stopping at a red light, don’t! If you get a cell phone call and want to stop in the middle of the road to chat, it is perfectly alright. The police will only pull over a moped driver with no helmet, or a driver that turns right on a red light. Everything else is fair game! (See later story when I am pulled over by a police officer)

Finally, my third major shock is in regards to restroom use. There are traditional western toilets in most new buildings, but in buildings more than ten years old, there is what I like to call a “squatty potty.” I was never informed of this “potty,” and when I first entered a stall with this porcelain hole in the ground, I was terrified. Even now that I am used to this commode, it is still humiliating to use. Also, not all restrooms supply toilet paper, so I must carry tissues at all times. Toilet paper does not come in rolls in Asia; instead, there are bags of tissues that we carry in our purse like a mother has Kleenex during flu season. It is different, but an easy adjustment. Unless I forgot my bag of tissues, then it becomes a little more challenging.

Return to Haiti?!

Since my trip to Haiti last March, I have looked forward to getting the opportunity to return! Well, just my luck, I have a couple of those opportunities! As mentioned in the day-to-day thought on Haiti, there were a few people interested in adopting. Well, God says ask and you shall receive... Holly and Chris, as well as Michelle and Jonathan, have both began the adoption process of beautiful Haitian children. Watching them go through each step is truly amazing, and I cannot wait until the day that they are able to be together as a family! Because the process takes so long, they are not able to be together as a family yet, so they have decided to spend the holiday in Haiti. Holly and Chris will be there for the entire month of December with some other friends. They have invited me to join them for a week or two to help out at the orphanage and spend time with the children. It's a great opportunity to return to Haiti...and it will be in a different setting not being with an organization....we will have the freedom to plan our days and visit whichever places we wish. I had a great time with FFCIN in March, but now that we know the places and the city a little better, it will be great to have the freedom of our own plans.
So the next step is money. I have been making Christmas cards like a crazy woman to sell to family, friends, and craft-show-enthusiasts. So far I have made about $250. My goal is $900. If you are reading this and God speaks to you to give me that $900, well, God is great! If you are reading this and God speaks to you to give me $5, God is still wonderful and I appreciate every bit that everyone is able to help!

March 11, 2010

This is our last day, so we spent our last moments at Leslie's. I purposely didn't focus on any one child for a long time this week because I knew that saying goodbye would be really hard. It was still very sad; but everyone else who connected had an even harder time. Michelle is seriously about adopting Kerby. She gave him and his brother and sister matching bracelets and few other little things. She had worn a cheapo ring to replace her wedding ring this week, and she gave that to him. They have completely connected since the beginning and it's so awesome to watch. Today, Kerby was asking her aboout family and finally asked her to be his mom. I can't imagine what the two of them are going through right now! This is exciting and devistating all at the same time. It usually takes 2 years and 10 grand to adopt. If he could go home with her tomorrow, he would. I have grown to love so many of these kids. Driving away and saying goodbye was awful. We were all crying, and when some of the kids started crying, I took charge...I said "ok wrap it up let's go!" But then Patrick took FOREVER to go. Once he went, he stopped at the gate for some reason and waited for what seemed like ten minutes. We all just wanted to leave and get it over with. I don't know what the hold up was.
Since we were done for the day except for tonight's celebration Sarah, Michelle, and I decided to go to a cyber cafe. We really thought it would be a short trip, there and back in an hour. 3 hours later, we were dropped off, then walked through dirty, hot, side streets avoiding stagnant gray water. About 45 minutes and 3 big hills later, we find this "quaint" little place...like a closet. It was 25 gouds (less than a dollar) for 30 minutes. The bugs were terrible, it was hot, and their seemed to be some Creole drama between some men right outside. I really didn't want to linger. I checked facebook and email and was done in 15. We took a different way back and walked a little downtown before catching a "tap tap." Those poor little trucks have so much weight...they have to be in terrible conditions. We were dropped off right by the house and it was 5 gouds a person. That was the most I've ever worked for just to get online.
Last night on the phone, John was so adorable. He said that everytime he sees my car, he gets so excited...but then he remembers I'm gone and he's sad. That's so cute. He took Saturday off so he could pick me up from the airport and have the rest of the weekend with me.
Tonight we're having some kind of party - farewell or something. I think I'll take a nap until then....

Well the party was a bust! While the guests (orphanage directors) were arriving, a glass bottle was dropped and cut Whitney's leg really bad. The girls freaked out and made a scene, so everyone gathered around to look. I was trying to crowd control, and I also wanted to help. . Brooke had helping her under control, so I tried to clear the area, then just stay away myself. I was really annoyed at how dramatic some girls acted when it happened. Once they took Whitney in the bathroom to clean her up, they were crying and OMG'ing and carrying on. I think everyone was annoyed and embarassed for them. There definitely is a huge distinction in levels of maturity here. The rest of us went into a different room and prayed for her. The mood of the party went from 100 to 0 in a split second. I saw the cut and knew she'd need stitches. Once they cleaned and wrapped her leg, they carried her to the car. We received a call about 40 minutes later sayin gshe was ok and got stitches. Routine procedure. There was still some drama and stress coming from people, but the rest of us just went away from them to let them be dramatic on their own.
For the evening, we had our guests eat and enjoy the feast...but since Rebecca was gone, she asked that they left. Gertrude and her girls left pretty quickly, but Leslie stuck around. The Kentucky girls were asking about the kids they each fell in love with. Afmika, the girl that clung to Holly, still has a Dad in Haiti and would need permission before adoption. Candice wasn't set on adopting because of her finances, so the fact that Kayla the baby isn't adoptable wasn't a huge upset. Michelle was so afraid that Leslie was goingn to say that Kerby isn't adoptable, but that wasn't the case. His Dad is in the city and will more than likely give permission. I'm so excited for her...that's great news. I truly can see her going through with this.
So that was our exciting last night. I'm excited to go hom...I always get a little homesick. I would be able to stay longer if communication (email, text) were easier. but today was proof of what a pain that is! Even though I'm going to look like crap, I can't wait to run up to John and give him a huge hug and kiss at the airport!!!!!!!!!!


Oh my goodness, we just went on a run to get some fried plantains ...it was super funny! We drove about 10-15 minutes until we found someone selling them. We counted up that we needed 50...and when joseph told the guy, he said that he didn't want to take the time to count them all. It's funny how this culture has no concept of customer service. You'd think they'd be happy to get our money! Even at the restaurant the other day they seemed so annoyed that we came in to eat. Sorry to inconvenience your phone call, you ARE on the job!


The security at this airport was so strange! When we arrived outside, there was a podium with a paper checklist of names. A guy found my name, and allowed me to proceed to the next "checkpoint." He didn't even look at my passport , and there I was in the building already. There were two xray machines and two body scanners, but only one was being used. ha ha! After "security" we went to the counters to get our boarding passes. I asked for a change of itinerary so I could get home in less than 2 days. There is a flight 10 mins after we land in Miami, but I'm pretty sure I won't ever make that! I got excited though! After boarding passes, we stopped at the immigration cubicle. I don't think he really checked anything there either. Then it was on to the next checkpoint with xrays! They patted everyone down at this checkpoint. The guy took my shampooo, conditioner, and gel. I was ticked. Then it was finally up the escalator to the "gate." It's really just a big room with 2 doors, gate 1 and gate 2!! There are 2 counters and 1 or 2 workers, depends on the time.. Pretty primitive compared to what we're used to! Now we wait for 4:15 to board the plane, and I'm crossing my fingers to get a connecting flight to DTW TONIGHT!

That night was not so good...but I'd rather not share all that information...we'll just say I was really happy when I got home!
Thanks for reading! Hopefully I will have the opportunity for another international adventure soon!!!!!!!!!!!

March 10th, 2010

Another long, tiring day down, and only one left to go. We started at about 8 today, wo we took our sweet time getting ready and eating breakfast. We arrived at Leslie's orphanage at about 830. It's so awesome how the kids have the volunteers that they've bonded with and wait, looking for her as we arrive. I haven't stuck with one kids at any orphanage because I'm afraid I won't be able to leave him/her. Today, this little guy, Jerry, wanted to stick by me. We swung together, colored, kicked around a ball, etc... We did some group circle games which were a blast and got the kids up and active. Then, out of nowhere, a talent show developed. One of the bigger boys got a drum and kids took their turns singing, dancing, and rapping. It was awesome. Jerry was called up to do his little dance. What a doll! Then, the sun was getting hot, so we relocated to a shady area and played musical chairs and a game similar to duck, duck goose. After those games, we did an individual game where 2 kids had to race. They were blindfolded and about 50 feet away there was a package of crackers dangling from a string. They had to walk, find the crackers, then open and eat them with no hands. Even the spectators loved this one! Jerry asked the teacher for crackers, then was a little snot once he got them. He made noises of satisfaction as he ate them, laughed because the other kids didn't get any, and basically bragged. The snottiness didn't stop there! Another little girl wanted to sit on my lap, so I made room for both of them. He was trying to stop her from getting up, then they got in a pinching fight. For the next hour, they were just at each other. Just as they settled down, they were called for showers. Ugh!
We were lucky enough to get to come home for lunch today, and Rebecca needed to run errands. So we got a break that was more than an hour long. Of course, I napped. It was just what I needed. After break, it was on to Gertrude's for one last visit. Gertrude's orphanage is the special needs place, but big things are going on there. There are construction crews in and out fixing the place. She has a generator to even have electricity...but needs these batteries for it. All of us volunteers pooled together enough money to buy her 6 of the 8 batteries she needs. They are 130 USD each.
The kids that aren't in wheelchairs do not treat each other kindly like they do at Leslie's. They hit and take things from each other all the time. There's one little girl that we call the Queen Bee. She has little gold earrings which makes us thing she might belong to one of the workers. She is the bosiest little girl ever. If I have a kid on my lap and she wants to be there, she'll snake her way up until she's confortable. Or she'll just demand the other kid leaves. When we got crayons and coloring books, so many kids tried to hoard crayons. It was stressful and a little chaotic. In these situations I grab a child or two and go off to the side to color or play with them away from the chaos.
On our first visit, this orphanage was my favorite, and I now realize it's because they have the most "stuff." But, the kids don't behave, they don't have a schedule, and there isn't a lot of space to do anything. All the opposite at Leslie's. They have NOTHING, sleep in tents, but are sooooo sweet, pray before and after meals, have a schedule, and have so much fun with one another. That truly goes to show how unimportant STUFF is.
There are so many flies around Gertrude's, and I can't figure out why. I don't see trash or dirtiness anywhere, so I'm not sure what it is. It's so sad that the flies land on the kids heads and faces and they's so used to it, they have no reaction. It seems like the handicap kids have flies on their faces constantly...it's such a sad sight.
There is this little guy, Jonata, that I was playing with today. He's always in a baby play seat, so I was holding him, then decided to walk with him. He was so excited to walk holding on to both of my hands above. I was so proud of him...I bet anything that this was the first time he's walked outside of his baby jumper. Later, we sat and were coloring and playing. He keping trying to get my attention when i'd look away, and he would call "momma, momma." He did it over and over again. It hurt so much...I can't be his momma...and he may never have one!
Around 4 it was time to go. This was our last visit to Gertrude's. As we were leaving, a girl from Texas was arriving for a 2-week stay. She said they adopted her sister from this orphanage and have helped them ever since. What a great story!
As we got in the truck, there was a little old lady in a tent that looked desparate for anything. We had some leftover water pouches, so I suggested we give the rest to her and the 2 boys with her. Michelle agreed, since she paid for them. Well one of the girls had to comment on my "bad choice," just as usual. This happened to be my last nerve. I really got angry at all the little comments that follow whatever I do or say. I quit smiling and immediately kept to myself. I started to cry at one point just because I couldn't take it anymore. Why am I being treated poorly by the girls that I thought I would get closest to? What did I do to offend them? I kept to myself and waited until we got home before letting off some steam. Whitney asked me what was wrong, so I do give her credit for trying.
Once we got home, Michelle immediately asked me to go on a walk. She's feeling similar treatement from someone else, so we both needed to vent. She is so amazing. I adore her. After dinner she told me that the girls had asked about me...she kept it simple and said I felt a little ganged up on. She said they seemed remorseful and knew what they had done. I'm glad it wasn't a big shocker. The fact that they knew they upset me makes me think possibly they are sorry.
It's 745 and I get to use my calling card at 9. I can't stop looking at the clock. I'm gonna call Dad first, then John. I'm so excited to have more than 2 minutes!!!

March 9, 2010

Today was sort of an R&R day for us. We started off by renting another truck so we'd be comfortable today. Just going from the house to the orphanage is no big deal; but we were on the road for hours so we needed more room. It took an hour @ Hertz near the airport. We all hung out in the shade and it seemed like it took forever. After we got the truck we went to get some of Jimmmy's orphaned kids. Only 4 of 7 of them could come, but that was great for them anyway. This writing will seem like things went quickly, but we never are able to drive faster than 25; and being with a big group things take a long time. We started off at 8:00 and by time we started up the mountain it was noon. We stopped at an actual restaurant to eat. Service is not a strong point here....customers are treated like a burden! It was a hamburger place which made me nervous, but I dealt. The burger had a bunch of nasty sauce that I tried to wipe off, but there was too much! I ate a little more than half then couldn't eat anymore. After lunch, we kept trucking up the mountain. We stopped for some good views, and stopped at a couple little shops. Things are so expensive here! We barter, but it's such a difficult and lengthy process. It's not even fun or worth it like it is in other countries. Hours up the windy mountain road, we finally make it to this Baptists mission place. Vendors bombarded us as soon as we parked...it was overwhelming but nothing as far as what was to come. Rebecca told us to shop the gift shop first because that will go to the mission, but they barely had anything to choose from. So...we went out into the chaos. They would start at a ridiculous price like $5 for a mini flag...it took SO much to get it down to one or two bucks where we were atleast willing to pay. There's still a lot for a cheap flag, but it was going to help someone's family, so it was justifiable. The vendors were crowding us and telling us to come see their items. I got so overwhelmed and couldn't deal with it. I was about to have a panic attack. I bought some glags, a cup, a keychain, and a bracelet then I was done. The other girls were patient enough to stand and get prices down. They got handmade drums, painting, carved globes, and masks all for like 5 and 10 bucks. When they were showing all their stuff I was a little bummed because there were things I would have really liked to buy.....they weren't useless little knick knacks. Lots of the girls spent a long time, so we kinda had to sit around for a while and entertain the little boys. Next was the zoo....well sort of a zoo... I thought it was hilarious that they had some goats penned up when EVERYWHERE we look there are goats piling through garbage. Then they had a really old alligator with a dead rabbit next to it. The monkey was the best part. He was all about one of the little boys and followed him in his cage everywhere. The younger boys started out really scared of it, but slowly would watch from a distance. There were also a few peacocks. That's the zoo, thanks for stopping by! My favorite part was the little park that was set up. The boys had a blast on the slide and played for a long time. Then it was time to go because going down the mountain and taking the boys home took a long time and we had to get back before dark. We left at about 330. The sun had already gone (I think behind clouds0 and it was starting to get chilly. In the back of the truck were me, Michelle, Joel, and the two little boys. Once we dropped them off, Boney joined us. The 4 of us had a blast on the way home. Those are my most 4 favorite people of this trip! I have a cough and my lungs hurt (I think from exaust fumes) so I keep joking about having the black lung. But they love my "northern accent" and mock me as if I sound like Fran Drescher. Ha ha! Once we got home we were all beat! Thankfully, dinner was ready to go. It was a Haitian stew similar to beef stew.
Devotion was cool tonight. We went around and said 3 things that we're thankful for. Mine were:
1. New beginnings - a forgiving God
2. Unique and personal gifts from God
3. Supportive and loving family and friends

Next, we went around and said a prayer request. They were:
Paige: family togetherness during rough times
Karissa: to be more Godly and encourage her family to do the same
Joel: to be a stronger leader
Sarah: to know or find out what's next for her in life.
Rebecca: help for a son who steals and her kids that are struggling
Holly: raising money to return to Haiti
Candice: Financial struggles and moving when she returns home
Michelle: to be able to adopt Kerby
Me: My siblings faith restored/bitterness from past gone
Whitney: for her Dad and the trials he's been facing
Brooke: applying for nursing schools

Our last question was if we were an old, dying person passing on wisdom to the younger generation, what would we say? My answer was "give generously." We just completed this series in church and it really hit home for me and John. This week has really opened my eyes so much more to the face that I am SO blessed and have so many comforts in life. I feel guilty for all the things that I have and the fact that there are more things that I want. I need to give more love, understanding, time, and figure out my financial giving to the church.

March 8, 2010

We just got back from Leslie's orphanage. The kids are so behaved there! They line up and wash their hands before they eat. They sing a prayer of thanks before AND after each meal. We brought activities for them this time. We played freely with them jump roping, coloring, and making bracelets. I couldn't believe how perfect they color! They live in a dirt field with tents, and they color than most of the kids in the US their same age. It shows that they value simple things more than we. With the jewelry, they were making rings and necklaces and bracelets with patterns. We really had a great time bonding during these activities. Before we left, Michelle and I helped the ladies wash the clothes. They go from bucket to bucked back to the first bucket then to the second again washing and scrubbing and rinsing every piece of clothing. They take pride in their belongings. I've seen rugged homeless people getting their shoes shined, all the cars are washing often, and the orphans get clothes that are not just scrubbed, but also ironed!
Today is the first hot and sunny day since we've been here. It's lovely. I'm glad that Leslie's orphanage has a few coconut trees to provide shade!
The teacher, Philip, was here today. I had someone translate while I asked him a few questions. He went to college for teacher training. 1 in 5 Haitian teachers haven't passed the 3rd grade. He comes to the orphanage all day long every day of the week. He teaches them about plants, painting, writing, and getting along. He's like to have someone come in to teach them English. I told him that I'd send some books and supplies. To learn more about education, I was talking to Joseph. He is 19 and has gone up to the 10th grade. The only kids that go to school in Haiti are the ones that can pay for it. His mom was so poor, so he left to live in between an orphanage and the streets. He paid his own way through school. He wants to be either a mechanic or work at a bank. He also says he's good with electronics. I'm so amazed by his life. He is doing everything every day to make something of himself. He's got so much desire and such a big heart!
We came home today for a quick lunch and we'll be leaving for Mother Theresa's house soon. We're having a Mexican fiesta tonight with homemade tortillas, guacamole, homemade refried beans, salsa, the works! We're all pretty excited!
Michelle is seriously talking about adopting a boy, Kerby, and taking him home. She's sent pictures to her family back in Kentucky and said that she's completely serious. If I were married and stable in my life I would definitely think about it. All I can do for now is help.

I'm pretty sure that going to the Mother Theresa house was one of the most difficule and rewarding things I've ever done. I teared up when we first walked in, but God gave me strength to do what needed to be done. We sat at the edge of a dying person's bed and massaged lotion into their hands, arms, legs... Some of them had AIDS, TB, Hepatitis, other's probably had undiagnosed cancers. They were all skin and bones, many of them 70 or 80 lbs. Even when my Grandma was dying and withering away to nothing, she wasn't that sickly-looking or small. The first woman that Michelle and I visited was 29. She kept talking about her cough, so she probably has TB. She has 5 kids; one died, one is at the same hospital, and the other three are at an orphanage. The 2nd lady I visited kept asking me to give her medicine and something to help her sleep. The boy didn't translate everything, but I understood "Vagine" in Creole, and she had pulled down her panties, so I'm guessing she was having some female problems that the male translator didn't want to share with me. I sat with her and nodded my head as she told me her story in Creole. WHen we prayed hand in hand, she said Creole as I said English. That was powerful. I sat with one other woman briefly before we moved downstairs to sit with the men. They were a little more modest, but very eager to get their turn. They lifted their shirts to get a chest and back rub. They weren't as shy, and it didn't seem like they were as sick as the women. We sang "Amazing Grace" to them, and they sang it back in Creole, then we sang together in both languages. There really is nothing to help these people. They have a bed, slippers, and a cup with their name. I assume since they were asking us for medicine, they don't have am ample supply on hand.

I'm trying to find a time that I can go to a cyber cafe to send an email to let everyone know sort of what's going on. I really need to get a calling card, too! It's so hard to get anything or go anywhere because if it's getting close to dark we can't leave the house. During the day when it's light out we're at the orphanage or somewhere working. I guess tomorrow we might go shopping or something. We're going to try and make a schedule for the rest of the week.
Michelle has been letting me use her phone to text John every night. He said he'd call me tonight, but then we said he'd rather have me get a cheap calling card and call tomorrow. He even called my Dad and filled him in with everything I've told him in our 2 minute conversations. What a guy! I really never thought it would be so hard to be away from him! We are apart all week and just see each other on the weekends...but I guess now being so far away and having emotionally draining days it's harder than ever to be away. Just having someone to hold me while I release the emotions would be great. I'm going to need a lot of TLC when I get home.Too bad I only have Sunday then it's back to work! I wish I could take a few more days to recoup!

Uh! I'm so frustrated with 'P' and 'K.' When we get to Miami on Friday, we have a 12 hour layover. They are going to stay at the airport all night and party and get drunk. We were supposed to go to the hotel and rest before the morning....now I'm stuck by myself. Not like I want to hang out with them for another day, but I really don't want to be in a hotel all by myself. I'm also going to try and get a flight straight to Detroit instead of stopping in NY for 3 hours. I know I'll just want to get home asap. I just texted John about my frustration and he said remember why you are there, and you'll soon be home with me. That's exactly what I needed to be reminded. <3

We just had our nightly devotional and it was so much different than our other ones. We started by humming a sad song that I didn't know, then we surrounded Joseph and Boney with prayer. Let me give some history...Rebecca adopted 8 boys from an orphanage where an American guy was molesting children. They now all live in the US and are doing well for themselves. There were some other boys that she wasn't able to adopt. That's Boney, Jimmy, Joseph, the boys who were helping us now. Well, tonight Rebecca was sharing stories of her sons and showing pictures and Joseph and Boney couldn't handle it. They walked away and we're devastated and crying. I wasn't here for any of this, but Holly came upstairs crying and told me everything. These three boys already feel like they will never be good enough no matter how hard they try. They are absolutely crushed right now! During devotional, Boney had on his head phones and was shaking and holding back tears. Joseph wouldn't stay in the room with us. He was bawling and went off by himself. If there was a way to take them back, I would in a heartbeat.
After the prayer, we discussed how the rest of our week will go. It's nice to have somewhat of a plan. Then, Paige shared for the devotion part. All she said was that she believes in God but doesn't go to church or anything. She said after these few days she's been so inspired. I truly hope that her heart has fully opened to Christ and she's able to change. I'm sure far from perfect, so I feel bad for criticizing, but like I said...she doesn't seem like the type of girl to be on a Christian mission. Rebecca gave some testimony on the power of prayer. She opened our eyes to the fact that there are people on this earth that don't have a single soul that has ever prayed for them. She challenged us to think about the people we've never met or passed and pray deeply for him/her. I'm so honored to have the opportunity to pray for the sick, frail men and women today. I pray in my mind for these kids when they hug and snuggle with us. I know that God is with them, and I pray that they feel love in their lives. I need to pray more often and deeper. I'm going to get a prayer board and a prayer area, and devote time every week to pray for people.

March I7, 2010

I got a wonderful night's sleep. My head is feeling much better, stomach pain and diarrhea are still both horrible, but I have medicine for them now. This morning we're going to church, then to a food distribution. I'm not sure what the afternoon holds.

Church was great. It was probably the ugliest I've ever looked, nasty hair, no makeup...but the worship moved me beyond belief. There wasn't a message per se', we did a lot of worship, then the pastor shared a story of earthquake miracles. This was the first time since the earthquake that the congregation met....and it was packed! We were outside like an amphitheater set up and there were extra folding chairs, but still people standing! We didn't make it to the distribution because church ran later than we thought. After church, we went to see where the boys live. En route, we pulled over to get some avocados and mandarin oranges - SO GOOD! These tropical islands know how to make their fruit! I was feeling normal so far, no headache, no cramps... We got to the place where Joseph lives. They were straight up slums. There were small walkways in between each hut. I started to feel hot and light headed. We got to walk inside of Joseph's hut. There were 3 rooms divided by sheets. Each room was just about big enough for a twin mattress. He had a framed picture of Jesus hung up. I'm not sure if it was from what I was seeing & experiencing or completely physical...but I became dizzy and nauseous. Rebecca walked me to the back where a filthy stream and garbage was. I was dry heaving, but that sight and smell alone was enough to make me pass out. They took me back to the truck and I rested my head for about ten minutes before everyone else returned. They all got to go through the slum houses...something that no news crew is able to do...so that was a really great experience. But I missed it. On the way back home, we went by the airport to find a money exchanger. Street boys jumped on and almost got in the car asking for money. Rebecca talked to them and showed them love, then gave them each a little money. I teared up, it was the most heart wrenching sight. The boys that came up after she ran out whined and looked so sad. It broke my heart to pieces. She is so generous and loving towards kids who we would typically turn our heads in disgust at. After the airport, we found a man standing on the corner doing money exchange. Literally walking about with a hunk of money waving it around to advertise that he does exchanges. Why doesn't he get jumped? Who knows. See...it's not quite as dangerous as you all think ;) He counted and bartered a rate and they went back and fourth in Creole, then finally exchanged cash and we were on our way..it was so strange...Usually, it's a business transaction with double-pane glass, not what appears to be a drug deal on the streets. Now we're back at the house, done for the day. I'm going to rest and try to feel better.

For dinner we made spaghetti and it was scrumptious! I've been dehydrated and everything else, so it was nice to refuel! My nap was heavenly! All my pains and dizzy spells are gone. I have energy! And I'm going to need it tomorrow. We're going to Leslie's orphanage first. This is the one in tents and no building. We're going to do activities like games and crafts. In the afternoon, we're going back to Mother Theresa's home for the Destitute and Dying. Rebecca said they aren't as bad as usual...they are up and walking around. We're giving everyone pictures of Jesus, talking to them, listening to them... Candace read the Bible story of the woman who washed Jesus' feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. Being humbled that way and giving it all up for someone else is just absolutely incredible. She spoke about worshiping halfheartedly. We are worshiping through our work by serving. We discussed how we don't do good works to buy our spot in heaven, but we are using our God-given talents to love God's people and to show them God's love for them. To go through an entire life without even 5 minutes of love would be the most devastating thing ever. Rebecca said that there are people in this world who have never felt or been loved...and we are making it our personal missions to show those lonely souls love.

March 6, 2010

Man! Haiti is LOUD at night. Dogs howled, whined, and yipped ALL night long, horns honked, rooster crowed....I think every one of us woke up a hundred times. As soon as the alarm clock went off at 6:00, everyone snapped up and began chatting. I hate waking up so early, but we have to use the daylight while we have it! 'P' and 'K' slept on the porch and have some kind of bugbite all over their faces...they look like chicken pox. Of course, being drama queens, we will not hear the end of this!
Becca said that the orphanage we're going to this morning is the hardest. She said there's mostly babies and they are all in bad shape. "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" Ph 4:13

Oh man, I have diarrhea and a migraine. Today I had to push myself to keep going. It was a Loooooonnnnngggg day! We started with a really good breakfast of scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, and toast. After a few chores around the house, we took off to the first orphanage, Gertrude's orphanage. It was SO MUCH better than the one we went to yesterday. They actually had a house. They were finishing up breakfast (grits?) when we got there. But once we were in, no kids were interested in eating. They immediately started playing with us and wanting to be held. They had a lot of special needs kids and wheelchairs. The workers just wheeled them out, parked them, and sort of forgot about them. When we tried to talk/play with them, there was no interest shown. The other kids ate up all the attention until they literally fell asleep in our arms. I had probably 4 kids fall asleep in my arms...they were absolutely precious. When we left, I got a little choked up, but was fine after a minute. It took atleast 2 hours for our next stop. It was apparently rush hour. 3 lanes were all going in one direction, then one car decided to use up the 4th lane...tough luck for anyone that wanted to go in the opposite direction. Along the road, walking vendors stopped at cars to sell water, snacks, lottery tickets.... When we were approaching our next destination, we saw lines of people waiting outside the gates, some with steaming plate of rice. The place we stopped was Mother Theresa's house for the Destitute and Dying. We were only stopping to schedule a time for a visit. 2 hours to schedule a time. Boy, I wish they had a phone! We'll be going Monday morning. Soon, we left to go to the third orphanage...what became known as the "baby house." We went through winding, rubble-filled streets. We were able to go through the wealthier part of PAP, which was the most effected by the quakes. The President's Palace was crumbling and there was so much devistation. The streets were packed again, and driving was rediculous! There was one point where it was impossible to get through in our direction. Joseph got out to direct traffic. Then a UN tuck full of UN police go out and stopped traffic so that we could get through. That was really cool! Out of nowhere, we stopped and they said we were there. Becca said to start in the baby rooms then go upstairs to the older kids. I pretty much stayed in the baby room the whole time. The babies were not responsive at all to our cooing and attention. That was heartbreaking. Of course, they never get attention other than feeding and occasional changing. The first baby I picked up was full of diarrhea diaper and it got all over me. I was so disgusted, but didn't show my feelings. I wondered how long she had been sitting in this mess.
Rebecca told us a story about when she first started at this orphanage. The babies would sit, motionless, in plastic chairs. Feces and urine was all over the place. She fell in love with the homeliest little girl that had it the worst. She would fall out of her chair and be bleeding and lying in blood and feces. This is how Rebecca found her several times. There were always flies around her, and they layed eggs in her ears. Rebecca and her daughters had to hold the baby down as they pulled maggots out of her face and neck. A few days later she died. I can't even imagine experiencing something like that. But these are conditions that are happening everyday in this world.
The ladies working at the orphanage really didn't like us there. They'd rather the babies just stay in their crib bunks quietly all day long. They clearly were putting an act on while we were there...quickly changing diapers and clothing kids as we were walking in. There's SO MUCH need here and so little help! The director is overwhelmed with an overload of orphans and we just found out that his son was kidnapped before the earthquake. He goes out every morning and digs through rubble trying to find him. He has his own family turmoil and yet he continues to run an orphanage of 70+ kids. That is what selflessness looks like. He is so loving and selfless, I can barely fathom a life like his.
After having the same baby for a while, she began to respond slightly. I got her babbling and even imitating me. That was probably the only developmental stimulation she has EVER gotten. I would've guessed by her body that she was 3 months old, but she had almost a full mouth of teeth, so we was probably close to a year old...very malnourished.
When everyone else left the baby room, I enjoyed the alone time with them. I was physically feeling horrible and really needed some down time. I ended up feeding bottles to 2 of the babies that I was holding at the same time. I've never seen a bottle drank so quickly! I don't think either of them stopped for a breath the entire time. Would they have gotten this bottle if we weren't there?
I decided to join what sounded like great fun upstairs. We began to hand out stickers and bubbles. Handing things out is so chaotic because everyone wants something that they can call their own. Bigger kids steal from the little ones, and they trick us into giving them more than one. They have no concept of waiting, sharing, anything....
Tonight at devotion and sharing time, Rebecca had to talk to us about the boys that are helping us this week. She has 5 or 6 boys that she's taken under her wings in the last few years. She adopted 8 boys from the same group, but were unable to take the whole group...so these are the boys that she couldn't adopt but still has a heart for. They began as street kids who begged and stole. She brought them to Christ and gave them a new start. She trusts them and they love her like a mom, but she is still cautious. She told us to be firm if they were ever to ask or hint for anything. She doesn't wanting them handling any of our money, and she keeps money and passports locked in her room. Her main goal for these young men's lives is to make them employable. I'd say she's doing a great job! They are a wonderful and fun bunch of boys!
They came from MB's home for street boys. He's an American who "rescues" street boys and has TONS of financial support from America.....but he sexually abuses the boys. Rebecca told us her life story. She's been threatened by MB and the Embassy supports him and has threatened her. She is trying to out him, but he has insider support. I guess the FBI is involved now, so she has to be very careful. She gave her testimony and story one night and we recorded it...I can't wait to share this story with others. MB's website is Haitianstreetboys.com >>> DO NOT GIVE MONEY TO THIS ORGANIZATION. Though he may feed, cloth, and house kids...he is molesting them....DO NOT SUPPORT THIS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

March 5, 2010

"Now I'm on the plane to Haiti. Last night was pretty event-less. We got to the hotel and pretty much crashed. 'P' and 'K' were in bed by 830, but I stayed up until about 930. I didn't sleep well at all.
John is so wonderful and supportive. He's been texting and calling so much since I left. Man, I love him!
We got together with the whole group at the airport and had about 2 hours before the flight. Everyone was laughing until we cried. Holly Wood, from Kentucky, is pretty much the funniest person I've ever met. She was telling us about finding out that her uncle was really her father, and told us so many other eyebrow raising things about her life. She's had it rough, but her faith is so strong. She's awesome.
The plane is packed full and all the employees of American Airlines are uptight. I bet since the earthquakes, the number of flights going to PAP have been outrageous!
I wonder what the rest of my day will be like....


As we were landing, we saw military barracks set up all around the airport. As we landed "Time of my Life" by David Cook played....everyone was silent in thought and prayer. What a moment!
Since there was damage to the airport, luggage claim was chaotic. They literally threw luggage off the back of a truck and everyone pushed and shoved until they got their bags and totes. It was hot, loud, and crazy! Luckily, most of us just laughed at the whole scene. We never imagined an airport being so lax.


We just got back from the first orphanage. It wasn't at all what I expected. There was what used to be a building, but now looked more like a shelter and storage area. The kids sleep in tents underneath big blue tarps. The entire property was dirt, stone, and broken cinder blocks....about the size of a subdivision yard. There was nothing for them to do. I guess they race, or play imaginative games or something. Many of the smaller kids had tshirts with no pants or underwear on. The little girls with dresses had no panties, and I noticed that boys wore no underwear either. Most of the clothes didn't fit, so a lot of bare bottoms were flashed. They all had on crocs, which were beginning to wear out. As we approached in our packed truck, a lot of us wanted to cry. I reminded everyone that there is a time and a place to cry.The kids all came running up to us as we pulled in. Some of the greeted us with hugs. It seemed like SO many kids flocked to Joel, the only guy in our group. He's a big, friendly-looking guy! For the first hour, we just went around and played, held, and hugged the kids. Then we got out bubbles, glow bracelets, tooth brushes, and toothpaste and handed them out. They all flocked to us and weren't waiting patiently at all. I noticed some kids had several items, so I'm pretty sure there is a hierarchy structure where some kids just bully others. Just as we finished handing things out, it was time for their worship session. Rebecca said that this orphanage is very structured, which is wonderful. She said a lot of orphanages have no structure at all. I can't imagine how they pass the time....I would thing it would be SO BORING!
It took about 45 minutes to get to the orphanage, and it's only 4 miles away. The roads are made to be 2-way, but everyone drives however he wants. When we went through the "main street," people were EVERYWHERE! No one really has a job, there's no electricity yet, so they just gather together! There were lots of food stands and such. Similar to Taiwan, but dirtier and sadder-looking. The most shocking sight so far was when we went over a bridge. The river was mostly dried up, garbage was replacing where water used to be...and a slum town was set up. It looks absolutely wretched! We saw pigs and goats eating garbage and wading in the gray, merky water. We also saw a big dead pig in a field, rotting. There were cows and chickens grazing all around in open fields. Not all buildings were broken down...some were ceompletely crumbles, some were standing but about to crumble. Many of them were standing but completely gutted out...I didn't understand that. Most people are sleeping outside because they are afraid of more earthquakes.
It's only 830pm, but since electricity is very limited, we're all ready for bed. Once it's dark, there's not much to do. We had dinner after resting a bit. It was pretty good. There was a simple lettuce salad, baked chicken, and red beans with rice. Spicy and tasty, actually! After dinner, I took a "shower." I had a basin of water to rinse off, then I dipped my head in to wash my hair. Very primitive, but it worked and felt good after a hot day!

March 3, 2010

"On my way to Haiti...well Miami first, but then Haiti. I'm really nervous about what I may encounter. It's been 6 weeks since the earthquakes. I know things have gotten better, but the country is still devastated. I hope that I don't see any dead bodies...that's my biggest fear. Before the flight I met 'P' (omitted names for privacy) and 'K' at Friday's in the airport. We had talked on facebook before, but this was the first time we met in person. They are not what I would expect of mission-trip type girls, but I still think we'll have a great time. We are staying tonight in Miami before going to Port-au-Prince tomorrow, so I'm sure we'll have a fun girls night in the hotel.

Haiti

Hey Everyone! First of all, I want to express how much I miss my Taiwan friends. I became really close to Kevin and Julie most of all, and I miss you guys so much! I hope you both are enjoying your second years!
Since I've been back, I have been coaching Varsity cheerleading and substitute teaching. Both have their good days and bad. The beginning of the year was spent in a high school English class, which I enjoyed a lot! I was planning on returning to Olivet to add to my degree a secondary certification. Then I was offered two more long-term positions. Money had to come first thanks to my high rent! Starting anyday now, I will be teaching 2nd grade for 8 week; then in April I will begin teaching 1st grade for 6 weeks. I enjoy long-term positions so much more than day to day subbing because it makes me feel worthwhile and I'm able to develop a relationship with the students.
Changing pace a little bit, on March 6-13, my boyfriend, John, and I will be traveling to Port-Au-Prince, Haiti. We had planned the trip to work in an orphanage before the earthquakes. Since the disaster, our plans for the trip have changed a little because our focus will be more on disaster relief than on working in the orphanage. I feel so fortunate to have the opportunity to help this nation that is in dire need of everything. Though I am excited to go, I have to think about the reality of the situation. It's not pretty. I'm preparing my heart for what I may encounter, but I don't think that anything can really prepare us for what we are about to embark on. We need prayers more than ever!
Everything else is same ole' American life! I will give updates on Haiti until March, and when we return, I will have alot to talk about and tons of pictures to share!