We thought we should post one last blog to let everyone know we are home safe and sound. Noah and Anica are so happy to see the snow. We arrived in Calgary on Thursday at 10:00 PM. Friday morning at 8:00 am the kids had the snow suits on and were out playing in the snow. They are true Albertans. After five weeks in the sun and heat we all welcomed the snow and cold air.
Now that we are back we are trying hard not to get caught up in the business of the western life, but we have realized that pace in Haiti versus Canada is quite different. We found that we had more time to read, listen to God's word and pray, much more often than we do here. Our plan is to make sure this fits into our lives here. When we asked Anica what she most wanted to do back in Canada, she said I want to read my Bible everyday like we do here in Haiti.
We are very thankful that we have so many friends and family that were praying for us and are eager to hear our stories. We are all trying to process the whole experience and should have it refined over the next few weeks as we tell and re-tell these stories.
Please be patient as we tranistion back to our lives here in Red Deer. We look forward to sharing with all of you our experiences in Haiti.
God Bless!
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Last Day in Haiti!
We finished taking pictures of all the 0 to grade 2 kids. They have preschool here and there are many very cute 2 year olds. We must have taken close to 100 photos this morning.
The picture taking took most of the morning, so we had lunch and started to get organized to go to the beach after lunch. Nicole became the interpreter for Mme Luciano in the gift shop, so we didn't start for the beach until 2:30pm. While I was waiting I took 15 minutes to sit in the sun to get a tan. I wanted to make sure I could tell people when I get back that I took time to suntan. I actually timed it and it was very difficult - smoking hot. As I sat there I had three different Haitian come ask me why I was punishing myself.
The last trip to the beach was good. We bought 3 pepsi and shared them as we sat on the beach and watched to water wash up. We will miss this part of Haiti.
Tonight and actually the last few evenings Nicole and I have spent some time thinking about re-entering back to our life in Canada. We already have our weekend booked and Noah's Birthday is the following weekend. Then Christmas blessings!
Please pray for patience, guidance and discernment as we make our way home. We both want our time here in Haiti to renew our minds and our spirits and our lives. We look forward to all God has for our family!
Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
See you soon!!!
The picture taking took most of the morning, so we had lunch and started to get organized to go to the beach after lunch. Nicole became the interpreter for Mme Luciano in the gift shop, so we didn't start for the beach until 2:30pm. While I was waiting I took 15 minutes to sit in the sun to get a tan. I wanted to make sure I could tell people when I get back that I took time to suntan. I actually timed it and it was very difficult - smoking hot. As I sat there I had three different Haitian come ask me why I was punishing myself.
The last trip to the beach was good. We bought 3 pepsi and shared them as we sat on the beach and watched to water wash up. We will miss this part of Haiti.
Tonight and actually the last few evenings Nicole and I have spent some time thinking about re-entering back to our life in Canada. We already have our weekend booked and Noah's Birthday is the following weekend. Then Christmas blessings!
Please pray for patience, guidance and discernment as we make our way home. We both want our time here in Haiti to renew our minds and our spirits and our lives. We look forward to all God has for our family!
Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
See you soon!!!
Monday, November 15, 2010
Day 28 in Haiti
Yesterday was our last Sunday to celebrate and worship with the full congregation. After a very passionate sermon on Praise, Pastor Marc called us up to the front to pray for us. They prayed for being here for five weeks and that we would have a safe journey home. They also prayed for when we will come back? It was a powerful and emotional experience to say the least.
We are going to try and process as best we can our first trip here before we commit to a return trip. As we start to say good-bye to some of the people it is difficult to think how we could not come back. We will leave this to prayer at a later time and listen to God for his guidance once again.
Today we spent the morning taking pictures and recording information of the 210 children at the school. We are working on getting sponsorship cards for each of the kids. This year the school admission and teachers salary was 90% covered by earthquake relief money, but next year each of the kids will need to pay for their own school fees. Any of you that may be interested in getting involved in Haiti Arise (the ones we don't convince to come visit for themselves) we will have all the information shortly and will be glad to help you get set up to sponsor 1 or 2 or 10 kids for next year.
Tomorrow we will be going to the beach one last time. We will miss this part of Haiti for sure.
1 John 4:7 - Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God.
Time to start packing!!
We are going to try and process as best we can our first trip here before we commit to a return trip. As we start to say good-bye to some of the people it is difficult to think how we could not come back. We will leave this to prayer at a later time and listen to God for his guidance once again.
Today we spent the morning taking pictures and recording information of the 210 children at the school. We are working on getting sponsorship cards for each of the kids. This year the school admission and teachers salary was 90% covered by earthquake relief money, but next year each of the kids will need to pay for their own school fees. Any of you that may be interested in getting involved in Haiti Arise (the ones we don't convince to come visit for themselves) we will have all the information shortly and will be glad to help you get set up to sponsor 1 or 2 or 10 kids for next year.
Tomorrow we will be going to the beach one last time. We will miss this part of Haiti for sure.
1 John 4:7 - Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God.
Time to start packing!!
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Day 26 in Haiti
You know, when we planned to come to Haiti Nicole and I brought John McAurthers b of James study. We figured there would be plenty of time to do this. Well I finally finished chapter 1 of 5 of the study, Nicole is a chapter ahead of me.
So many other things have happened though that we don't feel at all guilty like we would back home. That will be likely the most important lesson that we all learned while down here. Everything that happens and what we should be focusing on in our lives is on God's timing not ours.
The other thing we will miss is this blogging time, because it forces us to sit and reflect on the day, what we learned, the mistakes we made, and how God has been in our day whether we noticed or not.
Yesterday we experienced another after shock later in the day. The Haitians that were here were very frightened. The clinic was on so there were many people inside the building. They all screamed and scattered outside very quickly. I was unsure what was going on; the panicked frenzy confused me more than the tremor. It brought to reality the horrible experience they had already endured with the deadly earthquake and how fresh it still was. I cannot fathom living with such a fear on a daily basis compounded by the poverty and brokenness here in Haiti.
We did forget to mention that the kids were up early (6am) on Friday morning to help in the kitchen. It was pancake day and Anica wanted to get the recipe for both the pancakes and the syrup. They both had a great time and the ladies in the kitchen enjoyed the help. We will share the recipe for these pancakes when we get back. You can take two, but you can only finish one.
Only four more sleeps before we start our journey home, not that any of us are counting!
We will share James 1:25 with you.
"But if you look carefully into the perfect law that sets you free, and if you do what it says and don't forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it."
Noah, Anica, Nicole and Charles
So many other things have happened though that we don't feel at all guilty like we would back home. That will be likely the most important lesson that we all learned while down here. Everything that happens and what we should be focusing on in our lives is on God's timing not ours.
The other thing we will miss is this blogging time, because it forces us to sit and reflect on the day, what we learned, the mistakes we made, and how God has been in our day whether we noticed or not.
Yesterday we experienced another after shock later in the day. The Haitians that were here were very frightened. The clinic was on so there were many people inside the building. They all screamed and scattered outside very quickly. I was unsure what was going on; the panicked frenzy confused me more than the tremor. It brought to reality the horrible experience they had already endured with the deadly earthquake and how fresh it still was. I cannot fathom living with such a fear on a daily basis compounded by the poverty and brokenness here in Haiti.
We did forget to mention that the kids were up early (6am) on Friday morning to help in the kitchen. It was pancake day and Anica wanted to get the recipe for both the pancakes and the syrup. They both had a great time and the ladies in the kitchen enjoyed the help. We will share the recipe for these pancakes when we get back. You can take two, but you can only finish one.
Only four more sleeps before we start our journey home, not that any of us are counting!
We will share James 1:25 with you.
"But if you look carefully into the perfect law that sets you free, and if you do what it says and don't forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it."
Noah, Anica, Nicole and Charles
Friday, November 12, 2010
Loving the beach
Sorry no blog yesterday they only have so much band width and if they use it all up then it doesn't reset for another 24hrs. Yesterday was a quiet day, Nicole did some school at Lisa's then right after lunch we went to the beach early. It was a tad windy, and the air was cool when you were out of the water. But then we thought, it is November and our friends back home aren't swimming in the Carribean!!
Dr. Don from the medical team lead us in a ten minute Remeberance day ceremony, which was nice to have while down here. We had a chance to explain some of our Canadian history to the Haitians.
Haiti has provided a wonderful time for growing with God; with that comes some "trials and testing". Those are the most challenging hurdles to overcome. It brings us to our knees, vulneralble, weak, broken and lost. Only by calling on Jesus, sometimes over and over ( I am a slow learner sometimes) can we see with His eyes. Tonight was such a challenge. Not an unsual one. One quite common in our every day life; however, this on this occasion, I was spoken to on how to forgive.
In James, we are told that our tongue " is neither friend or foe, yet it is a reflection of our mind and a mirror to our soul. This means its a tool for our hearts and minds. It is an indication of how we are dealing with life, our spiritual growth, our character and our maturity. Tonight I learned such a profound lesson on this. I do not think that my listening ears would have heard His calling back home.
How do you behave with love and grace when the enemy is present; attacking with great fervor? We have had sporadic power since the medical teams arrival, the water pump in not filling the tank on the roof, different personalities and expectations from our "north American standards", sick Haitains in need of medical care, tired staff in need of rest and a modge of people some beleivers and others not. These are some of the examples of the atmosphere here, it is heavy and tense.
Your prayers are needed more than ever as we finish out our days here.
It is so easy to think we are being so humble and submissive to God, by being in Haiti but are we really? We eat three meals a day, take a shower when we want, have a bed and a bedroom, with a roof over our head. We have fans for the heat and some have airconditioning. My guess is less than 10% of Haitians have a solid roof over their head, most of them likely get on meal each day.
As you can see today we are struggling with how we (us and the teams that come here) really are being of any help to the Haitians or if we are just part of a feel good program for ourselves.
And just as I write this Nicole had a great conversation with Jameslee (the oragami security guard) who is going to bring his wife to Haiti Arise to meet us. He loves Anica and Noah and is going to miss them very much. God is in everything we do and it is for us to listen, obey and discern what it is he is teaching us and leading us to.
Duetronomy 31:6
Be strong and couragous do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you, he will not leave you or forsake you.
We are very grateful for your prayers and support.
The Nowochins
Dr. Don from the medical team lead us in a ten minute Remeberance day ceremony, which was nice to have while down here. We had a chance to explain some of our Canadian history to the Haitians.
Haiti has provided a wonderful time for growing with God; with that comes some "trials and testing". Those are the most challenging hurdles to overcome. It brings us to our knees, vulneralble, weak, broken and lost. Only by calling on Jesus, sometimes over and over ( I am a slow learner sometimes) can we see with His eyes. Tonight was such a challenge. Not an unsual one. One quite common in our every day life; however, this on this occasion, I was spoken to on how to forgive.
In James, we are told that our tongue " is neither friend or foe, yet it is a reflection of our mind and a mirror to our soul. This means its a tool for our hearts and minds. It is an indication of how we are dealing with life, our spiritual growth, our character and our maturity. Tonight I learned such a profound lesson on this. I do not think that my listening ears would have heard His calling back home.
How do you behave with love and grace when the enemy is present; attacking with great fervor? We have had sporadic power since the medical teams arrival, the water pump in not filling the tank on the roof, different personalities and expectations from our "north American standards", sick Haitains in need of medical care, tired staff in need of rest and a modge of people some beleivers and others not. These are some of the examples of the atmosphere here, it is heavy and tense.
Your prayers are needed more than ever as we finish out our days here.
It is so easy to think we are being so humble and submissive to God, by being in Haiti but are we really? We eat three meals a day, take a shower when we want, have a bed and a bedroom, with a roof over our head. We have fans for the heat and some have airconditioning. My guess is less than 10% of Haitians have a solid roof over their head, most of them likely get on meal each day.
As you can see today we are struggling with how we (us and the teams that come here) really are being of any help to the Haitians or if we are just part of a feel good program for ourselves.
And just as I write this Nicole had a great conversation with Jameslee (the oragami security guard) who is going to bring his wife to Haiti Arise to meet us. He loves Anica and Noah and is going to miss them very much. God is in everything we do and it is for us to listen, obey and discern what it is he is teaching us and leading us to.
Duetronomy 31:6
Be strong and couragous do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you, he will not leave you or forsake you.
We are very grateful for your prayers and support.
The Nowochins
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Countdown home
Its been another sick day here at the property. Charles took ill shortly before lunch. I left for school with the kids this morning and by the time we returned he was asleep in bed.
He is on the mend ( much speedier than I) must be from better stock than I! Not really sure what is being shared here. Waiting to see who it disables next; like a video game. (Haitian humour).
The kids and I went to the ocean to cool off. Such a nice and relaxing time. Hoping to get a few more days in! We had a quiet evening watching a movie "Knights from the Bronx" with Ted Danson. Good movie!
Not much else except that we are counting the days home.
Love the Nowochins
He is on the mend ( much speedier than I) must be from better stock than I! Not really sure what is being shared here. Waiting to see who it disables next; like a video game. (Haitian humour).
The kids and I went to the ocean to cool off. Such a nice and relaxing time. Hoping to get a few more days in! We had a quiet evening watching a movie "Knights from the Bronx" with Ted Danson. Good movie!
Not much else except that we are counting the days home.
Love the Nowochins
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Still in Haiti
Only one more week to go. Even though Anica is counting the days she is having fun helping out with the medical team and also helping the carpenter to odd jobs around the compound. Today she was a plumbing apprentice.
Noah and I witnessed the gravel truck getting stuck while trying to dump his load of gravel. The truck is probably early 1950`s MACK. It is pieced together as best possible with only one seat for the driver, but three of them in the cab. The reason the truck was stuck was because he stalled it. The only way to restart the truck is to push start it. So the bobcat was pushing form behind with six Haitians also pushing, it only moved 5 feet and he got it started. An amazing feat. To get the hydraulics to work they pulled a large pipe out of the cab and started whacking at something under the truck. It worked!
The rest of the day we took inventory of what they have in the shed and the sea can, so they will know what they have.
This evening I spoke at the church service. As I mentioned yesterday I spoke on Romans 12. I highly recommend if you have to speak in front of a group, do it infornt of people you don`t know, and have an interpreter. With the interpreter you only have to say 4-5 words at a time, then you have time to think about your next 4-5 words. Those that attended said it was a good message so I will take it at that. The key verse that I focused on was Romans 12:2.
``Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of you mind, then you will be able to test and approve what God`s will is, his good, acceptable and perfect will.``
The rest of the night we sat around the table a visited. I made popcorn for everyone and we all enjoyed it.
Bye for now!!
Noah and I witnessed the gravel truck getting stuck while trying to dump his load of gravel. The truck is probably early 1950`s MACK. It is pieced together as best possible with only one seat for the driver, but three of them in the cab. The reason the truck was stuck was because he stalled it. The only way to restart the truck is to push start it. So the bobcat was pushing form behind with six Haitians also pushing, it only moved 5 feet and he got it started. An amazing feat. To get the hydraulics to work they pulled a large pipe out of the cab and started whacking at something under the truck. It worked!
The rest of the day we took inventory of what they have in the shed and the sea can, so they will know what they have.
This evening I spoke at the church service. As I mentioned yesterday I spoke on Romans 12. I highly recommend if you have to speak in front of a group, do it infornt of people you don`t know, and have an interpreter. With the interpreter you only have to say 4-5 words at a time, then you have time to think about your next 4-5 words. Those that attended said it was a good message so I will take it at that. The key verse that I focused on was Romans 12:2.
``Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of you mind, then you will be able to test and approve what God`s will is, his good, acceptable and perfect will.``
The rest of the night we sat around the table a visited. I made popcorn for everyone and we all enjoyed it.
Bye for now!!
Monday, November 8, 2010
Day 21 in Haiti
Today was a horrible day for Nicole. She spent the whole night last night running to the bathroom. Her stomach was purging something both top and bottom. She has been in bed all day and hasn't moved. (Actually she just got up and I gave her some water. She has been in bed since 10 pm yesterday, it is now 10 pm again.) I must say I have never seen her this sick before. Finally around supper time she was able to keep down water and a couple of gravel. She is now sleeping and we hope that she is well in the morning. The doctors and nurses are only concerned if she gets dehydrated, otherwise it hopefully will run its course and she will be out of bed in the morning. Your prayers for her are very much welcome.
With Nicole in bed all day, I was in charge of the kids. I did some French reading with the kids for school, then we completed a couple of Sudoku for their math. (Dad's always find the simplist things to do, then praise themselves for being such great home school Dads!!) All of us prayed tonight that mom gets better so she can be in charge of school.
In the afternoon all of us including the medical team (which had the day off) went to the beach. This was the first day we have been at the beach before 2:00 pm. Anica and Noah actually got a little sun. We've have spent so much time in the shade trying to stay cool that we haven't had to worry about getting a tan let alone burnt. The medical team however is taking Cypro and one of the side affects is skin that burns easily. So half a dozen of them came back red like lobsters.
The temperature is starting to cool for the winter months and it was only 28 C today compared to 35C when we first arrived. Right now it is only 25C and I am finally not sweating while typing. We are all looking forward to the snow, so I hope you don't mind that we are praying for mountains of snow when we return.
Tonight I will be doing some preparation. I was asked to give my testimony to the chruch on Tuesday night so I have to give some thought to what I want to say. I will likely talk about Romans 12 as this is the chapter that I keep coming back to again and again. Give it a read sometime and see if you can follow the guidelines for a week or two!! I continue to fail miserably.
Being is Haiti has been such a great experience so far. This is a beautiful country and although it will take some time, lots of effort, and God's mercy this can be the jewel of the Caribbean once again.
I will leave you with this verse I read this morning.
Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Romans 12:12
Talk to you tomorrow.
Charles, Nicole, Anica, Noah.
P.S. We do enjoy reading any comments you post on the blog, it means alot to hear from our friends back home.
With Nicole in bed all day, I was in charge of the kids. I did some French reading with the kids for school, then we completed a couple of Sudoku for their math. (Dad's always find the simplist things to do, then praise themselves for being such great home school Dads!!) All of us prayed tonight that mom gets better so she can be in charge of school.
In the afternoon all of us including the medical team (which had the day off) went to the beach. This was the first day we have been at the beach before 2:00 pm. Anica and Noah actually got a little sun. We've have spent so much time in the shade trying to stay cool that we haven't had to worry about getting a tan let alone burnt. The medical team however is taking Cypro and one of the side affects is skin that burns easily. So half a dozen of them came back red like lobsters.
The temperature is starting to cool for the winter months and it was only 28 C today compared to 35C when we first arrived. Right now it is only 25C and I am finally not sweating while typing. We are all looking forward to the snow, so I hope you don't mind that we are praying for mountains of snow when we return.
Tonight I will be doing some preparation. I was asked to give my testimony to the chruch on Tuesday night so I have to give some thought to what I want to say. I will likely talk about Romans 12 as this is the chapter that I keep coming back to again and again. Give it a read sometime and see if you can follow the guidelines for a week or two!! I continue to fail miserably.
Being is Haiti has been such a great experience so far. This is a beautiful country and although it will take some time, lots of effort, and God's mercy this can be the jewel of the Caribbean once again.
I will leave you with this verse I read this morning.
Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Romans 12:12
Talk to you tomorrow.
Charles, Nicole, Anica, Noah.
P.S. We do enjoy reading any comments you post on the blog, it means alot to hear from our friends back home.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Day 20 in Haiti
Today was church. The rain for the past three days has made everyone stay in their home with all the mud and the potential to rain some more. As a result church started around 8:45 and was barely half full. The message today was delivered by Chris the couple that is here for one year. He wants to be a pastor one day. His message was about the power of the tongue. To both build up and to tear down and that we should use our tongue to testify, to praise God and to encourage and build up those around us. It was a great message and one that we should all listen to often. He talked at length about gossip and how one little comment can change a relationship immediately and forever.
After church we had a number of boys that wanted some soccer balls. We have about 50 soccer balls in the back room that teams have brought down in the past few months, so each Sunday we have started to give some away. Every boy has the same reaction when they get a new ball. All smiles, it is great to see.
Anica wasn't feeling well so I stayed back at the campus with her and played some games and relaxed. It was nice to spend so quiet time just Anica and I. She is feeling better and will need on more day of rest to be back to her regular self. Thank-you for your prayers.
Nicole went with Chris and Rebecca and Kathleen to Tapion ( spelling las time was incorrect) to the childrens church. It was again another God time. This church is a kids church; begun by Mme Roselyn. Its for the kids because the parents do not go to church up in the mountain area. Kids come and run the service. They sing and have amazing memorizing skills. They had over 6 memory verses( long ones such as John 1:1-14). Rebecca and I went up to teach them a song " Our God is So great". It was so fun to watch them trying to repeat after us. It was a fun time. Even getting there, Marc Eddy and Johnny came with us. They are 2 amazing young men whose heart for the Lord is evident is all parts of their lives. Marc Eddy sang songs on our return trip. It was a good time hanging out!
I am already thinking I we will miss Haiti. We are getting more than comfortable as each passing day. Lisa and I are already talking about what God may have next for us. Prayers will lead us where we are to be!
Charles, Nicole, Anica, and Noah
After church we had a number of boys that wanted some soccer balls. We have about 50 soccer balls in the back room that teams have brought down in the past few months, so each Sunday we have started to give some away. Every boy has the same reaction when they get a new ball. All smiles, it is great to see.
Anica wasn't feeling well so I stayed back at the campus with her and played some games and relaxed. It was nice to spend so quiet time just Anica and I. She is feeling better and will need on more day of rest to be back to her regular self. Thank-you for your prayers.
Nicole went with Chris and Rebecca and Kathleen to Tapion ( spelling las time was incorrect) to the childrens church. It was again another God time. This church is a kids church; begun by Mme Roselyn. Its for the kids because the parents do not go to church up in the mountain area. Kids come and run the service. They sing and have amazing memorizing skills. They had over 6 memory verses( long ones such as John 1:1-14). Rebecca and I went up to teach them a song " Our God is So great". It was so fun to watch them trying to repeat after us. It was a fun time. Even getting there, Marc Eddy and Johnny came with us. They are 2 amazing young men whose heart for the Lord is evident is all parts of their lives. Marc Eddy sang songs on our return trip. It was a good time hanging out!
I am already thinking I we will miss Haiti. We are getting more than comfortable as each passing day. Lisa and I are already talking about what God may have next for us. Prayers will lead us where we are to be!
Charles, Nicole, Anica, and Noah
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Day? were not sure its Haiti time
TOMAS missed us completely. However, down the way, Leogane ( 20 miles from here) had some severe flooding. There was some riotting in the streets today of Leogane; Haitians barricaded the road out of town ( which is the only way to the airport) in anger and frustration of the damage. The folks who left this morning were on an adventure of a lifetime. James, Michelle ( Marcs step-brother and wife) and their friends from Cochrane were on their way to Port Prince. The had a policemen with them who had to call for back up. Shots were fired in the air, then they were taken seriously and allowed to the airport. Real Hollywood material here in Haiti!
This morning we went for a walk down to the beach to see the affects of the wind and rain. A few fallen trees and more garbage washed up on the beach. We picked some seashells at the water for a while then made our way back just in time to miss the rain.
Around 11 am we went with a number of people to Petit Goave which is 20 minutes west of here. A little boy that came to the medical clinic needed emergency surgery and was sent to Petit Goave Hospital. By the grace of God there was a surgeon (from Calgary) that was available the boy had surgery as soon as we arrived and was finished and back at the compound by 3:00 pm.
The ride to Petit Goave was an adventure in itself. All of us were in the back of the Ford Ranger. The driver puts his seatbelt on then drives on the highway at 100 km/h while we are in the back, sitting on the rails of the truck. Not what you would consider real safe. At two different spots along the road it goes to one lane. In Haiti that mean first come first serve as long as you honk first. The second spot is a blind corner coming down the mountain to Petit Goave, this one is more intersting yet.Then part of the road was severely damages duing the quake and the rain has washed alot of it away; we had to drive on a Haitian shoulder ( not much there).
We have fun getting wind blown and made it there safe and sound.
Once at Petit Goave, we went to the market. As a result of the rains their was much more garbage that was washed all over the place. At the market it was dirty and smelly. As we all walked through the market Anica turned to Dad and said I don't feel good. Not two seconds laster she was throughing up. As soon as we got her out of the market she was feeling a little better. We went to the market so the staff could buy some supplies for the weekend. Since Anica was not feeling well she road in the front seat with air conditioning and a window if needed. Nicole, Noah and I sat in the back with the food supplies. Fresh carrots and potatoes, some noodles, 5 dozen eggs and to 25lb bags of fresh cut beef (still dripping out of the bag). Once we were travelling it wasn't too bad, but everytime we stopped the smell was not so pleasant. After today, there is a good chance Nicole may not eat meat until we get back home.
Tonight Anica was in bed before supper to get some rest and fight off whatever was making her ill. A good nights rest will probably be all she needs. All of us have been relatively healthy and we hope to stay that way.
After supper our group, Marc, Lisa, Chris, Rebecca and Kathleen, met to review the week, since we didn't have time on Wednesday as we planned. It is good to talk about what is happening and what needs to be done. The best part is when we pray at the end. It is very powerful when everyone says a few words or prayer and for each other, the medical team and for the people of Haiti. I actually could feel the heaviness of the past week lifting as we prayed.
And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, guard our hearts and our minds throught Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7
This morning we went for a walk down to the beach to see the affects of the wind and rain. A few fallen trees and more garbage washed up on the beach. We picked some seashells at the water for a while then made our way back just in time to miss the rain.
Around 11 am we went with a number of people to Petit Goave which is 20 minutes west of here. A little boy that came to the medical clinic needed emergency surgery and was sent to Petit Goave Hospital. By the grace of God there was a surgeon (from Calgary) that was available the boy had surgery as soon as we arrived and was finished and back at the compound by 3:00 pm.
The ride to Petit Goave was an adventure in itself. All of us were in the back of the Ford Ranger. The driver puts his seatbelt on then drives on the highway at 100 km/h while we are in the back, sitting on the rails of the truck. Not what you would consider real safe. At two different spots along the road it goes to one lane. In Haiti that mean first come first serve as long as you honk first. The second spot is a blind corner coming down the mountain to Petit Goave, this one is more intersting yet.Then part of the road was severely damages duing the quake and the rain has washed alot of it away; we had to drive on a Haitian shoulder ( not much there).
We have fun getting wind blown and made it there safe and sound.
Once at Petit Goave, we went to the market. As a result of the rains their was much more garbage that was washed all over the place. At the market it was dirty and smelly. As we all walked through the market Anica turned to Dad and said I don't feel good. Not two seconds laster she was throughing up. As soon as we got her out of the market she was feeling a little better. We went to the market so the staff could buy some supplies for the weekend. Since Anica was not feeling well she road in the front seat with air conditioning and a window if needed. Nicole, Noah and I sat in the back with the food supplies. Fresh carrots and potatoes, some noodles, 5 dozen eggs and to 25lb bags of fresh cut beef (still dripping out of the bag). Once we were travelling it wasn't too bad, but everytime we stopped the smell was not so pleasant. After today, there is a good chance Nicole may not eat meat until we get back home.
Tonight Anica was in bed before supper to get some rest and fight off whatever was making her ill. A good nights rest will probably be all she needs. All of us have been relatively healthy and we hope to stay that way.
After supper our group, Marc, Lisa, Chris, Rebecca and Kathleen, met to review the week, since we didn't have time on Wednesday as we planned. It is good to talk about what is happening and what needs to be done. The best part is when we pray at the end. It is very powerful when everyone says a few words or prayer and for each other, the medical team and for the people of Haiti. I actually could feel the heaviness of the past week lifting as we prayed.
And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, guard our hearts and our minds throught Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7
Friday, November 5, 2010
Tomas
Hello family and friends
We are bracing for the eye of hurricane Tomas ( now level 1 hurricane) to hit later this evening. As I laid in bed last night, the rain was intense and the wind whistled loudly. I could not rest knowing that all many Haitians are without any shelter, cold and afraid. My thoughts were vividly imaged with people at our window saying "entree" which is french for "in" I felt someone over me, dripping looking for a warm blanket....I awoke in a startle and freaked Charles out. My heart was beating so fast I could not calm myself. I walked out of our room and looked around, convinced I could hear some voices. However, no one was inside.
This morning I shared with a few Christian ladies about my night. Michelle Roberts ( Marcs sister in-law) is here from Calgary shared with me the lyrics to the song "I will exalt you". They comforted me and I hope to comfort others today with these powerful words
"I will exalt You, I will exalt You, I will exalt You, You are my God. My hiding place, my sage refuge, treasure Lord, You are my Friend and King, anointed One most holy!"
Bless you all.
We are bracing for the eye of hurricane Tomas ( now level 1 hurricane) to hit later this evening. As I laid in bed last night, the rain was intense and the wind whistled loudly. I could not rest knowing that all many Haitians are without any shelter, cold and afraid. My thoughts were vividly imaged with people at our window saying "entree" which is french for "in" I felt someone over me, dripping looking for a warm blanket....I awoke in a startle and freaked Charles out. My heart was beating so fast I could not calm myself. I walked out of our room and looked around, convinced I could hear some voices. However, no one was inside.
This morning I shared with a few Christian ladies about my night. Michelle Roberts ( Marcs sister in-law) is here from Calgary shared with me the lyrics to the song "I will exalt you". They comforted me and I hope to comfort others today with these powerful words
"I will exalt You, I will exalt You, I will exalt You, You are my God. My hiding place, my sage refuge, treasure Lord, You are my Friend and King, anointed One most holy!"
Bless you all.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
TOMAS
Tropical storm TOMAS is now coming right over the southwestern part of Haiti. That is where we are. So a weather advisory has been broadcast and we will likely see the worst of the storm tomorrow or Saturday. According to our research and talking with the locals a tropical storm is kind of like a blizzard in Canada. An ice storm would be like a hurricane. So we will get a lot of wind and rain. We will be doing some preparations as many of the staff and worship team will come to Haiti Arise to get to higher ground and be protected inside the walls. We will prepare the school for people to stay in.
We also thought it would be a good idea to let all of you know that the likelihood of the internet being down during the storm is high. So if you don't get a blog or email from us please don't worry. We will let you know how things are as we can.
For those that missed the link the last time and want to follow the storm go the the following link http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/refresh/graphics_at1+shtml/023213.shtml?tswind048?
If you zoom in and can see the little island in the middle of the Haiti horseshoe we are directly south of that island in Grand Goave.
Please pray for the people of Haiti, especially those that are still living and sleeping in tents, which are the majority. Large amounts of rain and possible flooding will not help their situation.
We also thought it would be a good idea to let all of you know that the likelihood of the internet being down during the storm is high. So if you don't get a blog or email from us please don't worry. We will let you know how things are as we can.
For those that missed the link the last time and want to follow the storm go the the following link http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/refresh/graphics_at1+shtml/023213.shtml?tswind048?
If you zoom in and can see the little island in the middle of the Haiti horseshoe we are directly south of that island in Grand Goave.
Please pray for the people of Haiti, especially those that are still living and sleeping in tents, which are the majority. Large amounts of rain and possible flooding will not help their situation.
Day 17 in Haiti
Today was a cloudy and rainy day. TOMAS has moved closer to our area but has been down graded from a hurricane to just a tropical storm. Still forcast to get 10-15 inches of rain.
It is down pouring now! Makes a real mess of a country that still have not recovered from the Earthquake. They closed all schools today and tomrrow; parallel to our snow days in Canada.
School went smoothly today. We had no power, most Haitian live by natural light, which does not work when you live a concrete house with only 2 openings for windows. The city does provide power to those who can pay, but its sporadic. The generator here is a huge blessing to all of us at the property.
Anica and Noah stayed at the Honorat house with Carmita (young Haitian girl that helps with the Lisas kids) for the afternoon ....at 5pm I sent Charles to go and get them. They still had no power and it was really dark!
Charles and I did odd jobs to help the medical teams first day with clinic. They are really organized and run a smooth operation. Dr. Bob had been here many times and he has an amazing team!
I actually had time today to read a book; " A Tale of Three Kings; A Study in Brokeness" by Gene Edwards. A must read to all my "book wormy friends". I wanted to share a passage that really spoke to me
"There is a vast diffence between the outward clothing of the Holy Spirit's power and the inward feeling of the Spirits life. In the first, despite the power, the mans heart may remain unchanged. In the latter, that monster is dealt with".
We are finishing up our eveing with some fellowship and ANOTHER pepsi! Carlyle a wonderful host offered to drive out to town in the rain and find some pepsi. I think I am becoming a popaholic! Never liked the stuff back home.
Everyone has gone too bed, so we are going to make popcorn. MMM!
It is down pouring now! Makes a real mess of a country that still have not recovered from the Earthquake. They closed all schools today and tomrrow; parallel to our snow days in Canada.
School went smoothly today. We had no power, most Haitian live by natural light, which does not work when you live a concrete house with only 2 openings for windows. The city does provide power to those who can pay, but its sporadic. The generator here is a huge blessing to all of us at the property.
Anica and Noah stayed at the Honorat house with Carmita (young Haitian girl that helps with the Lisas kids) for the afternoon ....at 5pm I sent Charles to go and get them. They still had no power and it was really dark!
Charles and I did odd jobs to help the medical teams first day with clinic. They are really organized and run a smooth operation. Dr. Bob had been here many times and he has an amazing team!
I actually had time today to read a book; " A Tale of Three Kings; A Study in Brokeness" by Gene Edwards. A must read to all my "book wormy friends". I wanted to share a passage that really spoke to me
"There is a vast diffence between the outward clothing of the Holy Spirit's power and the inward feeling of the Spirits life. In the first, despite the power, the mans heart may remain unchanged. In the latter, that monster is dealt with".
We are finishing up our eveing with some fellowship and ANOTHER pepsi! Carlyle a wonderful host offered to drive out to town in the rain and find some pepsi. I think I am becoming a popaholic! Never liked the stuff back home.
Everyone has gone too bed, so we are going to make popcorn. MMM!
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Today was market day in Petit Goave. The ladies spend the day getting all the supplies needed until next market day which is Saturday. Mme Luciana is an amazing cook! The food here has been very good. She makes some fantastic potatoes, and beef dish. Her bean sauce is very good on the rice. We are hoping to get a few receipes to bring home. The staff here is are all blessings to Haiti Arise. Chris and Rebecca have HUGE graceful, patient and loving hearts. They are amazing hosts, strong teachers and a graceful husband and wife team. Marc Eddy is Noah's buddy. He is Pastor Marcs newphew and does a lot around the property ( translator, construction, driver and helps out wherever needed). Yvon ( the man who gave his rice when we distributed in Tapillon) also has been doing some mechanical work here. He is honest and hard working. Which in Haiti is like gold!
We spent the morning teaching all the kids! Yup all of mine and all of Lisas. It was really smooth. They all worked a hard and got their work done. My friend Melissa says its easier with more kids....I agree!!
After lunch just the family went for a walk to the beach. While there we bought a couple of cold pepsi and sat on the beach and savored them together. It was nice for the four of us to spend some time together. Being at the compound we don't tend to get much time alone. On the way back from the beach the sky opened up and it poured rain. We were all soaked and loved every minute of it.
The medical team arrived today and we all pitched in to help them get set up. We are not sure how we will be able to help at this time. Most likely we will do our best to stay out of the way for now.
Please pray for how we can be useful while the medical team is here.
Charles, Nicole, Anica and Noah.
We spent the morning teaching all the kids! Yup all of mine and all of Lisas. It was really smooth. They all worked a hard and got their work done. My friend Melissa says its easier with more kids....I agree!!
After lunch just the family went for a walk to the beach. While there we bought a couple of cold pepsi and sat on the beach and savored them together. It was nice for the four of us to spend some time together. Being at the compound we don't tend to get much time alone. On the way back from the beach the sky opened up and it poured rain. We were all soaked and loved every minute of it.
The medical team arrived today and we all pitched in to help them get set up. We are not sure how we will be able to help at this time. Most likely we will do our best to stay out of the way for now.
Please pray for how we can be useful while the medical team is here.
Charles, Nicole, Anica and Noah.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Another very warm and sticky day. This morning the kids and I did some school! Very sucessful...they are getting a routine and we like that. We came back to HAM and Noah went to Petit Goave with Dad and Mr. Chris.
Anica and I worked with Rebecca ( Chris and Rebecca are here for 1 year God Bless them) to rearrange, clean, and prepare for the medical team arriving tomorrow. Charles came back with a treat today! PEPSI! The pop is bottled here, only 3/4 full. The caps are sealed so the hesitancy fades somewhat to not drink it. I do not put much thought into it....just enjoy it!
Worship this evening was AMAZING yet again. Pastor Marc spoke of the only way to get closer to God is though studying the word. If you study the word, share the word, and live by the word we will earn your crown. They sang some gospel songs I felt the spirit move me, move my heart to a higher level. I never thought that was possible. The Lord is ALL AMAZING! Never ceasing to push us further, to take us to another space; one where we are closer to Him.
Mme Luciana is off to the market tomorrow. I placed a special order; chocoloate chip cookies. I hope they taste yummy. Anica has asked her for a few Haitian receipes to take back home and share with all our friends. Noah has a friend, a security guard by the name of Jameslee that makes origami birds for him. He has been saving all of them in a box to keep as souvenirs for home. We are feeling more at home every day, connecting with others, spending time with them and feeling that this is the place God wants us.
Orevwa, tout moun. That is "good bye everybody" in Creole.
Anica and I worked with Rebecca ( Chris and Rebecca are here for 1 year God Bless them) to rearrange, clean, and prepare for the medical team arriving tomorrow. Charles came back with a treat today! PEPSI! The pop is bottled here, only 3/4 full. The caps are sealed so the hesitancy fades somewhat to not drink it. I do not put much thought into it....just enjoy it!
Worship this evening was AMAZING yet again. Pastor Marc spoke of the only way to get closer to God is though studying the word. If you study the word, share the word, and live by the word we will earn your crown. They sang some gospel songs I felt the spirit move me, move my heart to a higher level. I never thought that was possible. The Lord is ALL AMAZING! Never ceasing to push us further, to take us to another space; one where we are closer to Him.
Mme Luciana is off to the market tomorrow. I placed a special order; chocoloate chip cookies. I hope they taste yummy. Anica has asked her for a few Haitian receipes to take back home and share with all our friends. Noah has a friend, a security guard by the name of Jameslee that makes origami birds for him. He has been saving all of them in a box to keep as souvenirs for home. We are feeling more at home every day, connecting with others, spending time with them and feeling that this is the place God wants us.
Orevwa, tout moun. That is "good bye everybody" in Creole.
Monday, November 1, 2010
Day 14 in Haiti
Today was a day off from any kind of work. This morning Nicole and I read some french books with the kids, then watched the last half of Mary Poppins. We love that movie.
After this we really just hung out together. We played in the park, read some more stories and simply spend time together talking. We all enjoyed it. After lunch it was time to go to the beach. We ended up getting there at about 2 pm which allowed us to get an hour or so of sun before it went behind the mountain. We've all been in Haiti for 14 days and we still are white as snow. If we are not in the shade, we are in the water, so no much time in the sun. If you decide to be in the sun, you can only last for about 5 minutes before you overheat!!
This evening we were all invited by Marc and Lisa to out for dinner at a local restaruant that is just down the beach from where we swim. Eight adults and 6 kids went for dinner at Ville Taini. A small restraurnat run by a French couple. They serve a set menu with choice of Beef, Chicken or Fish. We all had beef skewers, and I must say it was very good. There is little chance the beef was from Haiti, I've seen the cows there is no meat on them. For dessert we had ICE CREAM!!! The kids were very excited and the parents enjoyed it too. Three flavors even, chocolate, vanilla and cookies and cream MMMM! If was a very plesant evening and a nice change from the food in the compound.
Last night Nicole and many others said there was an aftershock. It shook the bed and jarred our bedroom door open. I obviously slept through it as I have no recollection whatsoever.
It is a whole different set of challenges to deal with down here. Aftershocks, Tropical storms, and now Cholera. The latest news says that the Cholera came from the UN support team from Nepal. It is said that they dumped their raw sewage into the river.
We have researched tropical storms and hurricanes since these are common here. Tropical Storm TOMAS is coming closer and is probably 1-2 days away. For those interested it is neat to follow the storm, go to the National Hurrican Centre to see live updates on storms.
So as I try to understand the issues that people are dealing with it becomes overwhelming. Many people are living in tents and if they have a house, it is only used during the day. They are too scared to sleep in for fear of another earthquake. When aftershocks happen like last night it simple prolongs their fear and they have no reason to complete their house. Add to this TOMAS which may or may not hit Haiti directly, but will likely bring winds and rain. Wind and rain on tents in not a good combination. If the storm does come closer and causes any kind of flooding then the tents are no much use, the chance of the cholera spreading form the flooding is high and the whole problem just gets worse.
So what do we do? We continue to pray. When we are in the compound we can see all the great things that God is doing for the people that come here and those that are influenced by what Haiti Arise does. When we leave the compound and see where God has not been welcome the results are obvious. I'm not totally sure it is a simple at this but from our point of view it is. God is only there to help if he is asked and invited.
I will leave you with Matthew 7:13.
"Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few."
Good night and God Bless.
Charles, Nicole, Anica and Noah.
After this we really just hung out together. We played in the park, read some more stories and simply spend time together talking. We all enjoyed it. After lunch it was time to go to the beach. We ended up getting there at about 2 pm which allowed us to get an hour or so of sun before it went behind the mountain. We've all been in Haiti for 14 days and we still are white as snow. If we are not in the shade, we are in the water, so no much time in the sun. If you decide to be in the sun, you can only last for about 5 minutes before you overheat!!
This evening we were all invited by Marc and Lisa to out for dinner at a local restaruant that is just down the beach from where we swim. Eight adults and 6 kids went for dinner at Ville Taini. A small restraurnat run by a French couple. They serve a set menu with choice of Beef, Chicken or Fish. We all had beef skewers, and I must say it was very good. There is little chance the beef was from Haiti, I've seen the cows there is no meat on them. For dessert we had ICE CREAM!!! The kids were very excited and the parents enjoyed it too. Three flavors even, chocolate, vanilla and cookies and cream MMMM! If was a very plesant evening and a nice change from the food in the compound.
Last night Nicole and many others said there was an aftershock. It shook the bed and jarred our bedroom door open. I obviously slept through it as I have no recollection whatsoever.
It is a whole different set of challenges to deal with down here. Aftershocks, Tropical storms, and now Cholera. The latest news says that the Cholera came from the UN support team from Nepal. It is said that they dumped their raw sewage into the river.
We have researched tropical storms and hurricanes since these are common here. Tropical Storm TOMAS is coming closer and is probably 1-2 days away. For those interested it is neat to follow the storm, go to the National Hurrican Centre to see live updates on storms.
So as I try to understand the issues that people are dealing with it becomes overwhelming. Many people are living in tents and if they have a house, it is only used during the day. They are too scared to sleep in for fear of another earthquake. When aftershocks happen like last night it simple prolongs their fear and they have no reason to complete their house. Add to this TOMAS which may or may not hit Haiti directly, but will likely bring winds and rain. Wind and rain on tents in not a good combination. If the storm does come closer and causes any kind of flooding then the tents are no much use, the chance of the cholera spreading form the flooding is high and the whole problem just gets worse.
So what do we do? We continue to pray. When we are in the compound we can see all the great things that God is doing for the people that come here and those that are influenced by what Haiti Arise does. When we leave the compound and see where God has not been welcome the results are obvious. I'm not totally sure it is a simple at this but from our point of view it is. God is only there to help if he is asked and invited.
I will leave you with Matthew 7:13.
"Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few."
Good night and God Bless.
Charles, Nicole, Anica and Noah.
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