Dibs

We started out at the Home for sick and dying children.  This stop was different than last year's visit for me.  There were a lot of parents visiting their children, men as well.  We saw the men much more involved in changing diapers, showing affection, and playing with their children.  It was a really neat thing to see.  There was another large missionary team visiting as well, so with all the parents there, most of the children were all busy.  The few kids that were left were hand picking who they wanted to play with.

The second half of our day was spent at Juno's orphanage.  The kids were so excited for us to arrive. As soon as we emerged from the Tap-tap, each child picked one of us out to grab a hold of.  They wanted to play and talk, but mainly just hold our hands or get a hug.  I am again reminded of the importance of human touch and need we all have for affection as acutely demonstrated by these kids.  We sang songs, played games, did a faith lesson and then a craft.  Jeff and Luke along with our Haitian interpreter Nixon, taught the kids the Haitian version of Simon Says.  It took a couple practices, but they finally got it.  The kids all thought it was hilarious when one messed up.

 
My favorite part of the day was right at the end.  Each of the kids were asked to run and sit on their beds.  Each child was given a tote bag with a toothbrush, toothpaste, canned meat, applesauce, a comb/brush, and bar of soap inside.  In addition, each was given a homemade pillow.  The kids loved their gifts and all had a huge smile on their faces.  As we were leaving, all the kids ran up to the Tap-Tap, totes in hand waving goodbye.