Yes, I am FINALLY here!

Picking up from last night, I got some sleep, had a hot shower, and free continental breakfast, then we arrived at the airport excited to be on our way to Haiti. Just as the events of the previous 24 hours had happened, our names were not on the flight list. Hmm ... the lady in Puerto Rico assured us our seats were confirmed. Truth be told, I think she just wanted to get rid of us. Luis came to our rescue! He had helped us the night before and got us on the flight. Angels have been with me every step of this trip.

The flight was supposed to leave Santo Domingo at 8:35, and I think it was closer to 10:35 before we left. Arriving at the Haiti airport was smooth, AND MY BAGGAGE WAS THERE! My next task was to find Big. The missionaries from Florida were a little hesitant about sending me on my way with a stranger, so Jessica said, "Make sure he knows the magic word!" Indeed he did, and shortly after I was on my way to the Manassero's house. I walked into a house full of people just as lunch was ready. I shared my adventure of the past two days and quickly became acquainted with everyone there.

After lunch we came to the guest house. Jamie and Brooke provided an orientation, I unpacked most of my belongings, and took a shower. Cold water never felt so good. The weather is hot and sticky which is a nice change from the cloudy skies back home, and I'm sure the next five weeks will be a perpetual state of sweatiness. I haven't met the kids yet, but I think we're going to do that a little later.

I have so much to say about everything I've seen, but right now I need some rest.

Hotel at last

I finally arrived at the Quality Inn in Santo Domingo.

It's been a long day of travel, especially since I left Ventura over 24 hours ago. I'm looking forward to some sleep and one last hot shower before my flight in the morning. It's a good thing I took Angelica's packing advice to heart -- thanks friend!

On a positive note, the people of Santo Domingo have been very friendly. The airport was so welcoming and people line up and cheer when you leave immigration. So different from arriving at LAX where people stand around baggage claim waiting to get back into traffic. I had some Dominican tacos for dinner and they were pretty tasty, but they didn't have any hot sauce when I asked for it.

I am also so blessed to have met the missionaries from Florida. Jessica, Mellissa, LaGaye, and Isaac have been by my side since Gate 16 in San Juan. They are traveling from Gainesville, Florida to a different part of Haiti to share God's word. This is their second trip and I'm learning from their experiences from last year.

Next stop ... Haiti!

Hello Dominican Republic

I'm now in Santo Domingo. God sent one of his angels to take care of me. We (the missions team from Florida that I met) met an FBI Agent who works for the Dominican embassy and he's taken care of us. We're going to stay at hotel down the road and our flight leaves here at 8:35 am. My bags are already in Haiti, so pray that they are safe when I arrive in the morning.

I'm beyond tired but I know that God will get me through.

New developments

Sometime after I arrived in Puerto Rico they changed the gate for my
next flight. The rep from the airlines insists that they announced the
change and even called my name. I had made friends with some
missionaries from Florida who were also scheduled on my flight to
Haiti. So, now we're waiting together.

I'm on standby for a flight to Santo Domingo and then there's a flight
to Haiti in the morning.

One of the Florida missionaries reminded us of Psalm 62. Pray for safe
travels and I'll let you know when I get to the next place.

Sent from my iPhone

Made it to Puerto Rico

I landed safely in Puerto Rico. Thankfully I was able to sleep most of
the way, and the kind family sitting in my row shared their blankets.
Since when did airlines stop giving out pillows and blankets?

My flight to Haiti leaves in about 3 hours. Going to look for
coffee... More updates to follow.

Sent from my iPhone

Gratitude

As I began preparing for this trip spiritually and emotionally, I knew there was a financial aspect as well. Travel costs, room and board at the guest house, teaching supplies, and other provisions add up quickly. I wrote a letter asking people to open their hearts to pray, donate, or give however they felt led. The response was truly amazing.

I am reminded that God always provides. Philippians 4:6 says, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your request to God."

So, thank you! Thank you to the teachers and co-workers who support me every period of every day. Thank you to the friends near and far who have held my hand through the emotions and excitement. Thank you to Ventura Missionary Church for letting me share my story and be part of your family. Thank you to my family who has instilled in me a sense of giving, a sense of loving, and a sense of belonging. I wouldn't be here without the love and support of each and every one of you.

Getting stuff together

The good news is that my to do list is getting shorter, but it also means that the task of packing is imminent. I've packed for short trips, medium-sized trips, and a three-week trip to Europe, but packing for this trip is causing some mild trepidation. I'll likely start with another list (I love lists!), and I'll quickly cross items off said list as they make it into the suitcase. I'm sure there will be some compromising as I eliminate things I once thought were must haves (Sour Patch Kids are a must have). Right now I have a few piles in an extra room that remind me of the fun ahead. Oh space bags, where are you?

Until then, back to planning ... planning for summer school in Haiti, planning for next school year, and planning some quiet time between now and Friday.