Three Days to Go...

Hard to believe but it really is coming to the end of my stay here in Bayonnais. For the past few days I have been scattered due to trying to figure out what to pack of the last of my possessions, what to give away, what to ignore and let them worry about, and still tending to the needs of the children. I was quite frustrated for a couple of days because it seemed that most everyone was more concerned about what I was going to be giving them rather then the fact that I am really leaving. It stung a little. I had some that were mad at me for giving one item to one child and not the other. Trying to get them to understand that I do not have eleven of everything I own did not seem to matter. I had some that scoffed at what I gave them and others who actually were very grateful and excited. I had visitors that came under the pretense to say goodbye only to inquire about some of my things in the very next breath. I even had a couple that demanded specific items. The number one requested item was my portable CD player that everyone has coveted since day one. I have decided it is going with me. Wouldn't want to be responsible for a civil war.
While working in my room I came across the very first group picture I ever saw of the kids. My heart jumped in my throat. I could not believe
the remarkable difference in these children in the near eight months I have been here. I wish Jeemy-Ska and Smith could have been in this photo but they were not there that day. Anyway, you can see for yourself how they looked back then. (Note: Aquel was hit in the head by a rock earlier in the day).

They really were a sad looking bunch back then. I am so grateful for every minute I spent here. It wasn't always fun or easy but it was definitely worth it.

I was anticipating the arrival of the group from Huntersville, North Carolina on Wednesday; which was delayed for another day and a half. They encountered problems with delayed planes in Charlotte, spent the night in Miami, and delayed luggage in Port Au Prince. Then, just when they were almost here in Bayonnais, the bus had a flat tire near my (not so) favorite spot. They arrived quite late last night.

I shared their frustration for different reasons. I was so ready for their company. Like them, I had hoped that we could have more quality time together, but as it was, everything was being rushed. I took time from my not-so-fun chore of packing to go to OFCB and say hello this afternoon. They were in the process of building new benches for the new school building. Wow! They were doing such a great job and the benches are fantastic! I know the kids will really appreciate the comfortable seats and the larger writing area. My praises to the builders. I should have taken more pictures but I was just so happy to see Rita, David, Scott and Jim again and we were all trying to catch up on each other. I was also very happy to meet the rest of the group. Having been isolated for a while, it was strange to hear English spoken the American way. Ha! I could have spent the day there but we all had obligations. They will be here tomorrow morning to bring wonderful things for the kids and the extra suitcases for me to pack with. Note to Carrie: the blankets are beautiful! Here are the few photos I had the presence of mind to take:

It may look like Scott and Jim are goofing off but I can assure you they were both pretty sweaty and grungy. They stopped long enough to take a quick break to say hello and then they were right back at it again. Those are some mighty fine benches, guys! Great job!

Right now the kids are happily watching the movie, Flicka, for the third time and it's almost over. Need to go and get them ready for bed. It's going to be a long and busy day tomorrow. I just hope my adrenaline slows down enough for a good night's sleep. Hope to post once more before leaving so stay tuned. My love to all!