Haiti Day Three

Today we woke up early had breakfast and packed up to head to Jacmel. Before our trip though, we stopped at the orphanage again to drop off supplies for the kids and Mama. We left lots of vitamins, antibacterial ointments, and what seemed like a million toothbrushes and pairs of eyeglasses collected in Colorado. Thanks to everyone who donated for our trip. Mama was almost to tears with joy when she saw what we had brought. After visiting the orphans, we crammed into a little van and started the 2 hour drive across the mountains to Jacmel. Jacmel is a beautiful coastal town. Lots more trees, lots less traffic, and feels much safer then port-au-prince. We spent the day just walking around the city getting a feel for the culture and lifestyle in Jacmel. Tomorrow we will head into the mountains to run a research study on the prevalence of malaria in Haiti that is sponsored by the University of Florida. Should be another long day, but we are all well and having a good time. Miss you all back home!

Mike, Dianna, Kim, Stephanie, Amy, and Erin

Message from the rest of the gang.  Beautiful day in Haiti, sunshine and a little breeze.  Thanks to Katie Gibson from Sioux Center High School all the children loved their notebooks and pens!  We received many hand written Haitian notes of thanks from the children. We also handed each of them their sponsor letters which they proudly cared around and had Mama read them over and over. Gretchen and Mark they loved the dog picture a big hit!
I will say 13 people and all our luggage in a small van was an interesting trip to Jacmel. GOOD news no one was car sick this time.
Jacmel feels like home. The town is quiet and has a peaceful feel. We went on a walking tour after checking into the Issiah House.  And we had an afternoon soda pop at Hotel De La Place.  We will have a early start on long day tomorrow. We will also stop by the land on our way out of town tomorrow.  Barb, Julie, Frank and Kristen are going strong. God Bless.