This is the fourth trip that we have made to Pignon, Haiti
and we will forever have our hearts and souls connected to the country and our
friends who live there.
For a week in July, with the help of eight Haitian friends
and Destany Morgan from Coarsegold, we put on a summer program for the children
of the community. As in past years this program was at the Vallee d’Adoration et
Benediction (Valley of Adoration and Benediction) Elementary School in Pignon.
The entire program is done in a single 20’ X 30’ classroom with no air
conditioning and minimal ventilation. Along with singing both Creole and
English songs (the Hokey-Pokey is still a favorite), creating craft projects
(including edible bracelets made with licorice whips and Fruit Loops) and Bible
stories there was plenty of outdoor recreation. Being outdoors gives the kids
time to burn off some of their apparently unlimited energy as well as give us a
chance to catch our breaths. The week typically starts with about 100 kids and
by the end of the week that number has grown to over 250. We try to arrange
lunches each day and on Friday we give each student a toothbrush and toothpaste
along with some small gifts. The news of lunches and gifts spreads throughout
the community and as a result this year we hit a record of 292 kids on Friday.
It was a madhouse and lots of fun. The week is not only fun for the kids it
gives parents a break knowing that their children will be well supervised and
entertained. We feel blessed to have the energy, support and encouragement to
continue this program.

As always we are happy to be back. We feel grateful each and
every day for the abundance and comforts we enjoy at home. These trips have had
such a positive effect on our lives and those of our family and friends. Every
trip we learn more about ourselves and what is important in living a life that
benefits the greater good.
We are very blessed.
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