A slight set-back

On Saturday, Jim, Barb, Lacey, and the children waited for eight hours at the embassy to get on their flight, only to find out it had been canceled. We are hoping they will fly out toward the end of the week. We have to remember, nothing is ever for sure in Haiti until it's history! Commercial flights are running, but they are booked up way in advance.

I met up with Cheryl Ankenbauer and family from Michigan. They are adopting Rosena (13) below, and Jim and Lacey will be escorting Rosena to Florida as well. The Ankenbauers invited me to stay with them at their parents' home at Marco Island. It's beautiful here. I now have two new nieces: Kate and Beth! (and they have 17 new cousins! ha ha) The girls are so excited to meet their new sister, Rosena! It has been such a blessing to be with them while waiting! The Lord is so good. I will be sure to let you all know about any updates as soon as possible.

Can you believe how happy they are, even after such a disappointing day?

One of the happiest days of my life

I am sitting at the Miami International Airport thinking about what a grand day this is going to be. We didn't have to wait nearly as long as most other adoptive parents, and I almost feel guilty. I cannot even count the miracles that brought us to this place. Praise the Lord!

So many lives were lost in this tragedy, and Haiti will be suffering for a long time. There are countless survivors who lost loved ones; and over and over again, I hear how strong and resilient they are. They are thankful to be alive, and continue to praise the Lord and count their blessings. My prayer is that we will not forget Haiti and it's beautiful people: that Haiti will be in our hearts forever.

Jim helped Anderson make a pen for his laying hen.
Jim and Tommy getting some one-on-one. A trip up town with the Wilsons.Tearing down damaged buildings. Army troops brought in food and supplies.

New Crew at Ruuska Village

The gals have been cooking, cleaning, and taking care of children. The guys and Kathy tore down a building all by hand, in order to start a new one. It was a long and tiring day!

Greg and Sandy Wilson

Kathy & Justline-we knew she would love this job!

Lacey & baby Mora
Kathy Johnson & baby Mora

Kathy and Heather with Ruth, Justline, Jennyka, Stephen & Roseline.
Justin Heppner and Greg

Kathy, Heather, Sandy, and Greg before boarding the plane in Florida

UNICEF

Special Field Report: Haiti's Orphans Held Hostage from Douglas Phillips on Vimeo.

Jim spent two days at the American Embassy and found out that our paperwork has been delayed because of the snow in Washington. We're really hoping next week will be the week! It's an opportunity to grow in patience and trust in God!! Greg, Sandy, Heather, and Kathy arrived safely at the village yesterday and dug right in! I wouldn't have expected anything less. They are going to be such a great help to the village.

Sam
Tommy
Samantha- what a cutie!
Happy Nannies!
More happy people!
Heather Hanson is leaving tomorrow with her parents, Greg and Sandy Wilson, and Cathy Johnson! I know they are going to be a great help to Ruuska Village!