Final Update

         Today for our “fun day” we took a trip to the beach and natural pools formed by waterfalls for a bit of relaxation after the ministry work we have been doing this week. Our first stop, a beach in Jacmel, was over two hours away. But despite the long, crammed bus ride spirits remained high. Upon arrival at the beach, we all marveled at the beauty of the Caribbean Sea. The water was a sparkling blue and the waves, large and roaring as they curled and crashed on the shore were glorious. We set our belongings in a thatch roofed pavilion and hit the water, only to find the ocean floor was covered with rocks and kelp. But that didn’t stop some from having a good time jumping the waves, though several members of the team emerged from the water with cuts and bruises. Others stayed in the sand and searched for shells. Meanwhile, after spotting all the Americans arrive at the beach, vendors began to swarm the pavilion like flies. They laid out their wares on the ground and urged anyone nearby to take a look at their products. They sold handmade trinkets, paintings, hats, and jewelry. However while buying, you never take a Haitian vender up on his first offer. Bartering is expected. I personally enjoyed this and made out fairly well. Some notable barters in our group were Amanda and Julie. Amanda’s strategy was to bluntly refuse high prices and Julie, with her quite sweet nature, simply talked to the venders and managed to get two bracelets for free!
       After two hours up at the beach, we loaded back on to the bus and traveled up into the mountains, traveling to a series of natural pools. The journey up the mountain had some truly spectacular views and a few too many hairpin turns and close roadside drops for my liking. Luckily, Redgi was driving the bus and made sure we made arrived safely. To reach to pools we hiked down a steep trail and passed several other white people! (Apparently it was a tourist hot spot). The pools were beautiful. Worn into the rocks by small waterfalls, the pools were over 50 feet deep and a lovely blue. One was peaceful, calm, and easy to access. The second required a moderate climb and a trip down a rope. The climb was worth it. The second pool had a waterfall and rocks perfect for cliff jumping. The most daring of the group jumped off the highest cliff (Zach, Tim, Michelle, and Kendra).
       Overall we had a very fun time.  After the long drive home, we were all tired and ready to rest and wake up early for our trip extensive trip home.


                                                     -Michael


       Looking forward to finally coming home and being able to see my family again (and enjoy air conditioning). But, this week God has really worked through me and with me and I truly feel like I have grown closer to God. I hope that everyone else on the team has had as much as an amazing time as I have. And I’m looking forward to read all of my letters. I pray that God will bless the team, the staff, my family, and Haiti.
                                                 -- Evan