Sunday

Blanding
Edge of cedars
Pioneer museum
Dinosaur museum
Hovenweep? Extra miles!
Four corners
Bluff motel
Bluff fort

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Update 35 & Final Thoughts

Last Stop—Florida to play with Matthew and Chan for a couple of days.  What a treat to see how well they have bonded and are blossoming!!  We went with them to school where Matthew shines as well.  Mostly we just went for walks, built train tracks, tossed balls & watched Matthew consume lots of food...he eats anything:  seaweed crackers, pumpernickel croutons, & spicy soups.      It's amazing to think just a bit over a year ago he was in an orphanage!!   The weather was actually a bit cool (60-70) which helped climatize us to what we're headed for!

Final Thoughts—

Another winter trip over...our 10th.  I never would have imagined when we took our 1st trip to Kenya that it was just the beginning of many awesome adventures.  And I thank God for each & every one of them.  Many people ask me which was my favorite trip.  I can't pick as it is the mix and uniqueness of each that can't be separated from the whole.  Like a smoothie...each added fruit makes it better.

Puerto Rico...a diamond in the rough...cracked & chipped by the powerful Hurricane Maria.  The Puerto Rican's are struggling to rebuild.  Many patiently waiting 6 months for electricity & some water still.  We hit the jack pot connecting with Johanna & Mariely.  Strong woman who lined up jobs then joined us helping their community in Maunabo.    Each night for a month, I went to bed feeling a huge sense of satisfaction knowing we'd made a few lives better.  Hope seem to bloom around us.  It was a privilege to spend the money that our church, friends & family entrusted us with on needed items:  bedding, solar lights, cement and cleaning supplies.  It was exciting  to have the Slys, Sarah, Juli, Ben & Jen join us making it possible for more to get done & a chance to share a special bond with them as we cleaned yards, homes, repaired, rebuilt, roofed and mostly showed we cared.  Getting to spend time with our All Hands gang was an added bonus.  Sincere appreciation humbled as as we were smothered with hugs, notes, meals & gifts.  Often strangers stopped to tell us thank you just for coming to PR.   And those beaches...what a priceless reward for helping them!!    God certainly led us to the right spot and I feel incredibly blessed.

  But my heart aches for PR.  The needs seem overwhelming & the help dwindling.  Lack of tourist is adding to their dilemma. Though a US territory, they seem to be almost ignored...not important enough.  US makes the rules...like no import/export unless on US ships but they have no political voice.  And yet...we saw smiles, determination, pride & appreciation for each tiny bit of improvement. We saw neighbors helping neighbors.  It was an honor to work with them.

  As I watch the sunset out my plane window, I wonder where I'll see the sunrise next winter!

Update 34 pictures

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Update 34

Had an overnight in the quaint town of Ceiba on our way to catch the ferry to Culebra—another PR island paradise...except for the USNavy bombs again.   Smaller than Vieques and more arid...even some cactus.  Here golf carts are the favored mode of transportation for tourist...so we have spent hours jostled about touring the many beaches...each with their own unique flavor.  Zoni Beach is definitely our personal favorite:  50 yards deep & about a half mile long.  White sand, turquoise water, spattering of palm trees & even less beach bums.  Such a jewel & yet so NOT developed.  No hotels, no food stands.  Nothing.  The dirt road here is precarious even on a golf cart.  How does this  place not get noticed by developers?  When will it change?  The only town here is small & nothing to write home about (well, guess I am).  There's a small airport, ferry dock, a few shops & restaurants and a handful of food trucks.  The sign on one kinda tells the story:  Sometimes we're open.  Sometime we're not.  There's so few tourist here.  Locals say they hear that the tourist say maybe next year they'll come back after storm repairs are made...but locals say...they won't survive till next year without the tourist.  We did treat ourselves by dining at the nicest place in town:  Susie's.  It was fine dining which seemed so out of place here!  We are staying in an Airbnb that is built right on the bay.  Rustic but very comfortable & love hearing the waves lap the porch.  We wake to the roosters...they seem to have followed us everywhere in PR.  

We intended to snorkel but ran into too many saying it's not that good thanks to Maria & the northerly winds now.  So we just sit on the beach.  Soak up the sun & beauty & read.   Then move to another beach and repeat.  What a great way to spend our last days in Puerto Rico!

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Pictures

Update 33

We headed to El Morro & Fort San Cristobal in old San Juan.  Jen loved the rich history of this 500 year old massive forts.  Jen wanted at least a little bit of beach time so we headed for the same beach Ben had enjoyed while here only to find the road was closed as 30' waves on Sunday had covered the road with sand.  So we just stood on a cliff overlooking this wild Atlantic coast.  Kinda hurt to drop Jen off at the airport...we'd sure enjoyed having her here.

As we drove off, I booked an Airb&b downtown San Juan for tonight and then we called Reagan to wish her a Happy Birthday.  One of the hardest days not to be home...

It was time for Rog & I to come up with a plan for the rest of our time in PR & for me to get caught up on my writing !

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Update 32

After dinner on Saturday night, Dottie asked us if we'd be working on Monday...Rog & I told her it was completely up to Jen.  Jen mulled it over for a few minutes & then told Dottie...Yup, sign us up to work on Monday.  Dottie grinned, shook her head and said, "Soooo....you drank the Kook-Aid."  

So Monday a.m. we each got into different work vans but all ended up on a roof!  Ironically tomorrow Ben starts his new job as a salesman for Neighborhood Roofing!  But will he ever have the chance to overlook a deep gorgeous valley while working on a roof with many thousand feet drop off??  Harnessed up it felt...exhilarating!! Nice breeze too!

I think we'd all have been glad to have had one more or maybe two or more days to work.  At the evening meeting, I got to "Change the Board" to read not 32 but 33 completed roofs.    And as sit was our last night...we each were asked to say our good bye speech to the group.  Rog said lots of folks talk about ow they wish they could help but AHV were doing it.  I admired their vast backgrounds, ages & cultures that came together all with a caring heart & worked hard to accomplish much for those in most need.  Jen thanked them for a great first time experience & welcoming her into the AHV family.  She said she hoped she back with them somewhere, someday.  I had to pop up & point out that was my daughter-in-law!  After dinner, Jordon taught us how to play Grab It...an intense word game that soon had about a dozen spectators who couldn't help but join in.  Later, I had a fascinating conversation with Jared, a Huff Post journalist.  He strongly felt that since the USA had such a firm grip on the world's economy, we needed to take that responsibility seriously & do what's best for all the world...not just us.  Thinking about that, I climbed up the hill to our dorm & met a few new bunk mates...the constant ebb & flow of volunteers.  Two were PRicans.  

Tues morning...more goodbyes, exchanging email addresses & lots of hugs & even a few tears.  I'll really enjoyed Barb & Morgan.  Then we were off.

  Jen said she thought the AHV community was filled with the nicest people...but of course...they would be the ones who'd come to help others.  She was amazed how quickly she felt like they were good friends.  Jen felt they were so great with the locals & that the locals were so very appreciative.  And finally she said, "I'm glad I drank the Kool-Aid!"  

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Update 31

Sunday...free day.  We gobbled down Dutch pancakes prepared by the guy from...yup, Denmark.  Then we headed for Ponce & the ferry that'd take us to an island...if it had been running.  No go.   So on we drove, all the way to Cabo Rojo (SW corner).  We'd been told by Emily (whose grandparents live there) it had the most beautiful braces.  We'll Hurricane Maria changed that & no sun didn't help.  We drove right by San German where we'd thought we'd be taking Elin & Noah this year...instead we had Noah's mom.  Strange how things work out.  On the drive we stopped at a food truck for local cuisine.  We were so proud of Jen for tying almojabana, tostones, passidillas, ponchos, alcopurrias and of course, rice & beans...which is what she like best.  We meandered our way back to base which gave Jen a chance to see lots more of PR.  Just as we drove up to our base, we hit a broken curb and whishshshsh....flat tire.  Jen quickly took over (Woman Power) & with the help of Rog, Dan & Ken the tire was changed in no time.  Could not have been a better place to get a flat!  

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Update 30

Arrived at the airport in time to pick up Jen...and two All Hand tag-a-longs...one from Belgium (Emma) and other from Russia (Sveta).  We crammed in all the luggage plus pillows & sheet sets we'd picked up to use at base & off we went to Barranquitas.  Up, up, up, using switchbacks after switchbacks for about an hour & a half.  Pulled into the AHV base about 6 pm .  Dottie, (base director who we'd met in Denham Springs AHV base last year) was there to greet us & assign us to a bunk...Rog & I top bunk & Jen a lower one.  Two males & 4 females are our bunk mates...and new friends.  We settled in for a snore fest!

  Up at 6:30 & after a quick orientation, we fixed our breakfast, packed our lunch & were headed to a work site by 8.  Rog & Jen's crew cleaned out a house with a leaky roof.  Jen said it broke her heart to see the kid's toys & clothes having to be trashed.  Jane got garnished up & climbed up on an old leaking roof to remove the CGI (correlated galvanized iron).  Our homeowner sent over a huge lunch of rice/beans/chicken...most I saved for Rog's lunch tomorrow...and ate my peanut butter.  We all got back to base in time for a quick cold shower (only way to do it) and the 5:30 group meeting where each crew summed up their day's work.  I love the sense of pride & accomplishment that permeates throughout the room of about 60 volunteers.  After dinner that was prepared by local cooks (yup included rice & beans), we lingered & visited with other volunteers.  Such a diverse group with fascinating stories!  Amazing how quickly you feel like you've been friends for a long time.

  We had entertainment during night 2...Conor was laughing, yelling, whispering in English, Spanish & using Irish slang too.  All in his sleep.  We actually thought he had someone in bed with him!  When we teased him in the a.m....he was so very apologetic.  It sure got lots of laughs.  Rog was sent off to finish cleaning out the house he'd worked on yesterday.  Jen & I joined "Jesse's Crushing Crew" putting up rafters & purlins.  (Aren't you impressed with my new vocab :). The homeowner was there living in what was left of her home.  She was so very appreciative & spoiled us by making us delicious breakfast sandwiches & later bringing us Pringles & Coke (not Diet).  We'd been told that she had cancer & getting a roof was so her young son could live there was her dying wish.  Talk about pulling on our heart strings!  Jesse's  "Would You Rather x or y" questions & a kid racing his horse past us over and over  & the awesome view of the largest valley in PR were all bonuses to the satisfying work.  

  Saturday night's meeting & dinner was at Nado's...the local bar.  We stood in line waiting for hamburgers that were being grilled by a young man as he grooved & danced to music & slurped  down Medalla beers.  Jen even bought him a Medalla maybe to show how much she appreciated the hamburger or his dance move! Back at base, Rog & Jen played Scrabble with 2 mates...23 yr old Jordon cleaned their clocks!  So great to be back with All Hands people.

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Pictures

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Fwd: Update 29

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Begin forwarded message:

From: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Date: February 28, 2018 at 10:21:29 PM AST
To: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Subject: Update 29

Sitting here in my beach chair, I get an overwhelming surreal feeling that I was plopped into one of those too perfect to be real beach paradise paintings.  The crystal clear, aqua-green  water lapping the powdery white sand all encircled by majestic palm trees...and not another soul (except Rog) in sight.  This is our 5th and last day on Vieques.  After an hour & half ferry ride, I'll be back to Puerto Rico mainland and their real world.  

Doubt I'll ever see another beach this perfect...but sure glad I had days to love it!

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Fwd: Update 28

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Begin forwarded message:

From: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Date: February 28, 2018 at 10:14:48 PM AST
To: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Subject: Update 28

Now I've done the BIG 3:  rode an elephant in a  jungle, a camel in a desert and a horse on a Caribbean beach!  I'm one lucky gal!!  Rog didn't want to go so it was just my guide and me...sad for her because this is peak season & she usually is booked with 10 riders 2X a day...great for me to have my own private ride!  We'll be leaving Vieques tomorrow so I need to wrap up my Vieques notes:

-As we were about to drive off in our sporty red Jeep, the rental clerk said, "Don't lock the doors ever.  If it's locked, someone will think you have valuables in it & break a window.  They never steal vehicles cause...well this is a small island so there's no where they can go."

-Drove passed the bunkers—the Navy's left overs.  Also drove by the crumbling remains of a sugar beet factory & overgrown cotton plants...pre Navy remains.  Sobering.

-We chuckle over seeing over and over projects started but left in limbo like:  a bike path about 200 feet long in the middle of no where; huge concrete lifeguard stations only half built;  giant parking lots with handicap spots that locals say no one uses cause you can just drive right up to the beach, like we did.

-DTE is here!  Yup, Detroit Edition has lots of trucks & men here on Vieques!!  

-Hurricane damage here is obvious with poles down & anything not concrete damaged.  One girl said she describes it saying it was like a huge brush hog took off all the vegetation over 5' tall.

-After crossing multiple speed bumps (called death bumps by locals), the pavement ended & gravel road started.  About 1/2 mile later, we see one of those "Your Speed is xx" signs that's working!  Really??  Who would notice??

I love traveling the "path less traveled."

—

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Fwd: #41. On to Limon. #42. Wildlife in Tortuguera

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Begin forwarded message:

From: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Date: March 13, 2017 at 6:27:25 PM AST
To: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Subject: #41. On to Limon. #42. Wildlife in Tortuguera

#41 On to Limon
Another bus ride gave me more time to take in the view.  Costa Rica is covered in shades of lush greens...from the mountains to the valleys.  We drove through miles & miles of banana trees with their blue bags bulging with ripening fruit.  Hundreds of Dole and Chiquita shipping boxes were stacked high as we got closer to the port of Limon.  We counted 11 cargo ships and a cruise ship in the harbor.  The majority of homes we see are cement with correlated roofs each with a dish on top and large covered front porches where comfy chairs wait for the owners.  One thing that interrupts this pleasant picture is the large number of homes & businesses with walls or fences topped with circular barbed wire...like a stretched out slinky with barbs.  Hope those can disappear soon.  Fried chicken &  seafood both served with rice and French fries are the staples here.  Yup both rice & FF!  As soon as we arrived at our hotel, we jumped in the pool & that's where we spent the next 6 - 7 hours taking a short break to walk the black, sparkling beach.   Glories way to spend a couple days!

#42. Wildlife in Tortuguero
On the east shore, there's a river/canal that runs from Moin to Tortuguero with just a narrow strip of land separating it from the Caribbean Ocean.  It took us over 3 hours by boat giving us a great chance to spot sloths, monkeys & many birds as well as much flora.  I do love boat rides!  Tortuguero is a Nat'l Park & can only be reached by boat.  It's claim to fame is 3 species of turtles lay their eggs here so birth to millions of turtles.  Though we missed the season, we soaked in the jungle taking a canoe ride that squeezed into small tributaries.  Besides more sloth, monkeys & birds, we also saw caiman staring back at us.  Gliding quietly, we listened to the howler monkey & many bird calls.  
The town of Tortuguero is small with just one main walkway.  Small homes are stuck between the town & beach.  It's a place where dogs, cats, chickens & kids freely roam.  It feels far from anywhere...especially far from our kids & kids who were together this weekend.  Wish we were with them...but here too!
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Fwd: #41. On to Limon. #42. Wildlife in Tortuguera

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Begin forwarded message:

From: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Date: March 13, 2017 at 6:27:25 PM AST
To: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Subject: #41. On to Limon. #42. Wildlife in Tortuguera

#41 On to Limon
Another bus ride gave me more time to take in the view.  Costa Rica is covered in shades of lush greens...from the mountains to the valleys.  We drove through miles & miles of banana trees with their blue bags bulging with ripening fruit.  Hundreds of Dole and Chiquita shipping boxes were stacked high as we got closer to the port of Limon.  We counted 11 cargo ships and a cruise ship in the harbor.  The majority of homes we see are cement with correlated roofs each with a dish on top and large covered front porches where comfy chairs wait for the owners.  One thing that interrupts this pleasant picture is the large number of homes & businesses with walls or fences topped with circular barbed wire...like a stretched out slinky with barbs.  Hope those can disappear soon.  Fried chicken &  seafood both served with rice and French fries are the staples here.  Yup both rice & FF!  As soon as we arrived at our hotel, we jumped in the pool & that's where we spent the next 6 - 7 hours taking a short break to walk the black, sparkling beach.   Glories way to spend a couple days!

#42. Wildlife in Tortuguero
On the east shore, there's a river/canal that runs from Moin to Tortuguero with just a narrow strip of land separating it from the Caribbean Ocean.  It took us over 3 hours by boat giving us a great chance to spot sloths, monkeys & many birds as well as much flora.  I do love boat rides!  Tortuguero is a Nat'l Park & can only be reached by boat.  It's claim to fame is 3 species of turtles lay their eggs here so birth to millions of turtles.  Though we missed the season, we soaked in the jungle taking a canoe ride that squeezed into small tributaries.  Besides more sloth, monkeys & birds, we also saw caiman staring back at us.  Gliding quietly, we listened to the howler monkey & many bird calls.  
The town of Tortuguero is small with just one main walkway.  Small homes are stuck between the town & beach.  It's a place where dogs, cats, chickens & kids freely roam.  It feels far from anywhere...especially far from our kids & kids who were together this weekend.  Wish we were with them...but here too!
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Fwd: Update 27

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Begin forwarded message:

From: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Date: February 28, 2018 at 10:10:23 PM AST
To: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Subject: Update  27

We'd heard a few "maybes" but we got the email proof now—Jen (Ben's wife) is coming!!  March 1!!  She wants to volunteer also so we sent a quick email to All Hands & it's looking like we can join their volunteers at the Barranquitas base.  We're thrilled!!

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Fwd: Update 21 pictures

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Begin forwarded message:

From: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Date: February 19, 2018 at 12:54:42 PM AST
To: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Subject: Update 21 pictures

Mariely and Professor Rog

Fwd: Update 25

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Begin forwarded message:

From: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Date: February 26, 2018 at 9:42:10 AM AST
To: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Subject: Update 25

Vieques!  Here is where the gorgeous beaches are!  We arrived in Isabella & after getting a few groceries, we sat waiting for a taxi.  Waiting...Rog asked a guy wearing a bright orange safety vest if knew when a taxi or public bus might arrive.  He said, "Just hop in my Jeep. I've got time right now to take you as I'm waiting for the rest of my buddies to finish working." (He was from the states working for an electric co.). He delivered to the door of our Airb&b.  Knew the place cause he'd just helped get it hooked up to electricity last week.  After Angie, our host, showed us around a bit, we settled in.  Black Sand Beach, one of the ones highlighted in tourist brochures, was close by & could only be reached by foot so off we went to find it.  We walked the road till we came to a large, impressive sign and about 8 cement steps down to creek bed.  At first you could walk beside the creek bed but before long we were walking in the creek and since I'd worn my flip flop, I slipping & sliding and getting agitated.  The brush was getting thicker.  You had to avoid horse manure.  The creek bed was turning to sticky clay.  I finally called it quits.  I couldn't believe this was the only way to one of the most well known beaches on the island!  Really???  We went back to our room & ate P & J sandwiches.  

Next morning, Angie took us to a car rental & we climbed in a red Jeep and took off looking for a beach.  We asked about getting to the Black Sand Beach and for real, that creek bed was the only way to reach it.  I've seen a black sand beach so forget that one.  We found Sun Beach...gorgeous!!!  And only 4 other people on a beach that was miles long. After setting up our beach chairs (provided by Angie), & opening our books, we were planted for the next many hours.  Only our hunger forced us to leave.  Found a busy spot overlooking the ocean and had a great seafood dinner.  Nice...

Next day...drove around the island finding another gorgeous beach...Prieta Beach (Secret Beach).  Again mostly deserted & picture perfect.  Spent hours there & when we got hot, the cool water was so refreshing.  Met a couple from NY there. They'd been coming to this island for years & were spending time each day cleaning the beach.  By the looks of the beach & huge pile of brush by the road, I'd say they'd done a fabulous job.  We talked about the fact that a beach like this would have huge high rises & restaurants galore on it if it were many place.  The NYers answer was so fitting:  "That's what we hate & love about PR.  Nothing gets done & that nothing gets done."  

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Fwd: Update 24

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Begin forwarded message:

From: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Date: February 22, 2018 at 8:14:40 PM AST
To: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Subject: Update 24

We moved down the coast a bit and ended up in Loquillo.  It's right on the ocean and where lots of surfers come...but not now as it's their winter and the ocean is a bit wild & there's lots of riptides.  It is fascinating to watch the waves crash so close to shore that they seem do dance across beach.  After spending several days going from PJ's to bathing suit to PJ's, I feel refreshed.  We've been to El Yunque National Park to see the only two things open...a drive to the waterfall & a hike down to the river.  El Yunque is a rainforest region...it was nice to see so much new growth since the hurricane.  The visitor center was pretty much destroyed.  

Our Airb&b is decorated with loud paintings & bright colors.  It feels very PRican.  

As we walk/drive around this area, we are struck by the incongruous mixture of modern high rise condos, dilapidated structures, cleverly painted homes, deserted buildings, mural paintings on walls, piles of trash, wide beautiful beach, junked cars, new tricked out cars, upscale architecturally designed businesses beside ramshackle food carts.  Some damage due to the hurricane but a lot is due to what appears to be neglect.  It is depressing to see.  Hard to wrap your head around.  A place that should be such a paradise is not...at least certainly not in most areas we've seen.  Tomorrow we leave for the island of Vieques...about an hour ferry ride from Fajardo.  Maybe there we'll see "paradise."

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Fwd: Update 23

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Begin forwarded message:

From: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Date: February 19, 2018 at 6:23:11 PM AST
To: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Subject: Update 23

Let the vacation begin!!  We've decided to spend our vacation money here in PR.  We found where the wealthier PRicans vacation!  We're in Loiza in an Airb&b at a multi-condo development:  2 pools, playground, meticulously clean grounds and a Pre Maria nice beach area.  Many PRicans are enjoying the good life here:  music blaring, kids dancing shaking every part of their bodies, grills smoking, birthday party with balloon & games and several tables with adults playing Dominoes.  It's a side of PR we hadn't seen yet and it is makes me smile. 

PRicans are such a mix of skin tones.  Original Taino tribe mixed with Spanish, then slaves & finally English.  We're told there's little discrimination between the skin tones.  We sure haven't seen any & here it's a true mix...except no English speaking Caucasians.  Perhaps someday that'll be way discrimination issue will disappear.  I can hope anyway!!

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Fwd: Update 22

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Begin forwarded message:

From: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Date: February 19, 2018 at 6:02:58 PM AST
To: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Subject: Update 22

We were headed to Old San Juan by 7:30 a.m and arrived just as the door to El Morro opened .  We walked the worn fort that has seen 3 major wars as I wondered why man always seems to be fighting each other.  Rog drove us to the perfect spot near the airport for lunch...ocean view with local cuisine.  Here the sand was like sawdust & a lagoon beckoned us in.  Juli reflected on her experience saying she found people kind, grateful and loving.  She was touched by the church service especially when they prayed over us.  She loved the almost daily rainbows...sometimes doubles...and especially the extremely vivid one we saw on our last day on our way to Old San Juan.  A nice thank you from above?!

After we dropped Juli off at the airport, we headed back for a long leisurely beach walk before Sarah needed to leave.  Then it was just the two of us...it'd been almost a month!

  we had to stop to renew our car rental & then stopped at a Wendy's to use their WiFi...and get a DCoke.  We'd try to set up a place for tonight yesterday but with spotty internet...nothing was confirmed yet.  Just as we sat down, I noticed a man with an All Hands shirt on sitting by the bus stop.  We went over to say hi.  Turns out he'd been waiting for 2 hours to catch a bus to the airport. His flight home to Tennessee was in less 1 1/2 hrs.  We grabbed our stuff, he jumped in the back seat and off to the airport we went again.  As he waved goodbye, my phone bonged indicating a new message...our reservations for tonight were confirmed.  A God wink as my sister, Beth would say!  

After Google map sent us on a goose chase, a local set us straight.  So I'm sitting here by a pool listening to the ocean waves and finally getting caught up on my writing.

  So much has happened this last month that it overwhelms me with gratitude and fills my soul.  Amen.  

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Fwd: Update 21

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Begin forwarded message:

From: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Date: February 19, 2018 at 12:37:42 PM AST
To: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Subject: Update 21

Earlier this month Johanna & Mariely asked Rog to teach them how to use the chainsaw.  He'd said no...too dangerous..but since tomorrow we are leaving, he figured the more they knew about the chainsaw, ultimately the more good the chainsaw could do.  So the 3 went off for a 3 hour lesson...Rog is thorough when it comes to teaching safety, maintenance & use.  They now call him Professor Roger.  

The Dream Team along with Alice to help translate jumped in Johanna's car loaded with cleaning supplies and with me at the wheel & headed to a retirement home.  We were asked to clean the room of a man with a broken arm & later one that was...to be blunt...stinky.  We arrived back home within minutes of Rog's team.  Another shower, couple loads of wash & some packing done, we were ready for 5ish prayer service.  Here's where I'm lost for words.  How to explain the depth of gratitude & love Johanna expressed to us.  Johanna told her parishioners how we had spurred them on to continue helping their hurting community...not only repairing & improving homes but also bringing much needed hope & TLC.  She recalled how she'd struggled with the decision to let us come & stay with her.  She now knew God sent us...to touch lives, clean homes, cut trees, clear yards and give her chainsaw & English lessons.  She challenged them to keep up the work in anyway they could.  

I felt humbled & truly grateful to have had the opportunity.  I am so blessed.  After church, many gathered in Johanna's carport where a table of food appeared.  It was a time to say goodby to many who'd become our amigo...many we'd worked next to and/or in their homes.  Pictures were taken and hugs & kisses abound.  My heart is heavy.  

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Fwd: Update 17

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Begin forwarded message:

From: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Date: February 15, 2018 at 11:07:26 PM AST
To: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Subject: Update 17

Ben, Rog & a chainsaw got down to business Monday morning at Angelo's house.  The downed & huge broken trees were no match for that trio.  Angelo had a cart to roll the logs on & haul to the curb which made that job easier.  My job was to keep spraying the red ant hills and ...yup, pick up trash.  7 more bags.  Angelo's wife called us in for dinner.  Their home was very fancy & full of Knick-knacks.  We were served a huge mound of the traditional foods...beans & rice, boiled potatoes & chicken and salad...on her china in the formal dining room.  As we ate, Angelo told us his hurricane story which almost brought him to tears:  he & his family huddled in their space spot for hours until the howling wind & crashing sounds ended.  They walked out  into complete silence & gasped as they looked around in disbelief for about 5 minutes...then a fierce wind began & he barely got back into the house.  After several more hours, they open the door & water was leaking in their living room.  They ran upstairs & discovered a broken water pipe.  Everyone grabbed brooms & mops and worked fast pushing the water out on a porch.  He shook his head & softly said,

"Oh Maria."

After lunch, Rog headed for the airport to pick up Juli Ripberger & Sarah Shugart...our fresh crew coming in from Michigan!!  Ben & I finished up the chainsaw work.  Angelo was so thankful & told us we could bring our families and stay with him anytime!! Then home for a cool shower.    After stopping for authentic PR food & shopping for more bedding donations, Juli & Sarah arrived excited and ready to work!

Tuesday -  Rog & Ben were again chainsawing at an older lady's house.  Her tree had fallen into the not-so-nice neighbor's house who wanted it removed...now.  Juli, Sarah & I went to a Senior Center where Lourdes met us as our trusty translator.  Juli & Sarah taught several ladies how to put a (rather simple) puzzle together...they'd never done one before.  One man came in to see what we were doing and was soon leaning over the puzzle totally engaged.  We left those puzzles & some harder ones for him which made his day and probably for many more!  Meanwhile I was struggling to play a 16 piece Memory game with 3 ladies...maybe should have reduced it to 6 piece.  Brought out the paints which was much less stressful.  At 10, many gathered for a church service.  Johanna's sermon was of course, on love.  Lourdes sat next to us & translated.  Johanna ask the crowd, what is love?  Many spoke up saying it was God, family and people who cared for them.  Then she said God told us to love everyone...even people we don't like or who are not kind to us...people we don't even know.  She said one day a stranger wrote to her on Messenger and asked if she could come help.  She looked at her Facebook post...no idea who she was or how she knew she needed help.  That stranger left her family, her home, her comforts and came to help strangers.  She brought friends to help too.  That's love.  Then she pointed to me...all applauded and I was humbled.  God should get the credit...not me.  Johanna had health kits & valentine cookies to pass out at the end.  Ben & Rog met us there as they were off to the airport.  Somehow Johanna had managed to get gifts for each person in Ben's family.  She thanked him sincerely while his eyes teared up.  Ben told us he was so glad he came and understood now why we do what we do. What a blessing to have had the opportunity to share something so meaningful to us with Ben.   

Girls next job was to clean the house of a 92 yr old lady caring for her 57 year old schizophrenic son.  She had another son with the same thing...he'd died.  She had 9 daughters...no help.  Many grandchildren...no help.  One caring Pastor...not even her own Pastor...willing to help.  When we got there after much discussion, we learned that one of her daughters told her not to let us clean.  You don't want to know what words I was saying under my breath.    Sarah noticed her garden & she was thrilled to tell us all about what was planted.  Of course it was in Spanish but we all just smiled, oohed & aahed and acted like we understood every word. The head waggle I learned in Indian came in very handy!! Next she took us in her home to show us where her brother was trying to repair the area her son had lived in before the hurricane and the water damaged caused by her leaky roof.  Again she talked non-stop with much expression as she pointed to various things.  We stayed about an hour giving her as much love as we could her.  When we hugged goodbye she clasp her arms around me and laid her head on my shoulder.  I could feel her tears.   I felt so helpless but knew Johanna now had her under her wing.   Next stop was the home of another elderly lady.   This one was neat & tidy and the lady was frying a donut type goodie when we got there.  Soon we were eating them.  Mmmm.  Then she offered us a coconut treat she'd made.  MMMMmmm.  Her son popped in & grabbed one too.  She had a family that cared for her and that made all the difference!!! 

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Fwd: Update 20

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Begin forwarded message:

From: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Date: February 18, 2018 at 7:46:28 PM AST
To: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Subject: Update 20

Sometime this week I asked Sarah her thoughts and she said: 

-amazed at the length of time many in PR have been living without electricity & some water  

-adaptability & flexibility of PRicans

-PR's dedication to keep working 

-the patience of PRicans

-PRicans seem satisfied with what they have

-how working together with the locals built trust quickly

-the willingness of Johanna & girls to let us invade their personal space so willingly & gladly.  

(Sorry Sarah if I this isn't exactly right...please feel free to correct me!!)

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Fwd: Update 19

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Begin forwarded message:

From: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Date: February 18, 2018 at 7:28:52 PM AST
To: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Subject: Update 19

Two men & another chainsaw joined Rog to try to finish cutting up what Juli called the 3 day tree...it's a massive tree Rog has worked on for 3 days.  The Dream Team as Johanna calls Juli, Sarah & me...sorted, organized & moved what was left of the donated items out of the church social hall & into an outbuilding.  Now they finally can use their social hall again!  Sarah went to Danny's market to buy lots of rice, beans, Carmella dogs & Saxon season with we bagged up with the rest of the donated food making 10 more food bags ready to pass out.  We had to marvel how God knew just who to send to do this project...3 well trained FIA workers.  After lunch girl power arrived to the site Rog was working at and we proved we weren't weaklings!  I think Rog was getting tired of chainsawing as each log seemed bigger than the last.  Thank goodness the chainsaw ran out of gas cause I was almost out too.  I threw a couple rags in the cooler water & we all washed our faces before we headed straight to the beach...took off our work shoes & waded in.  Aaahhh!  The  roaring waves crashed on the beach covered with rocks, dried coral and sea glass!  Juli was ecstatic & I could almost hear the jealous cries of my Lake Mi buddies.  After about an hour, we had to tell Juli it was time to end the hunt.  She had collected almost a sandwich bag full of multi colored sea glass.  

We showered up & enjoyed a ham, potato salad, rice & bean dinner provided by yet another church lady.  We made one more visit that night.  A young boy with multiple birth defects was headed for surgery the next a.m..  His Grandma cared for him providing a neat & nautical themed room with a huge bin of toys.  The boy was watching Barney & swaying with the beat of the music when we arrived.  He gladly took Rog & my hand smiling at us often while Johanna asked his Grandma about her needs.  Hospital bills, diapers & bed pads will strain her limited income for sure.  We formed a circle & prayed together...I added my own thanksgiving for my healthy grandchildren.  On our walk home, we stopped at a pharmacy & you can guess what we bought.  That evening we sat on the porch as Alice & Mariely sing and strum the guitar.  A much needed time of peace in this wounded world.  

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Fwd: Update 18

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Begin forwarded message:

From: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Date: February 18, 2018 at 7:02:39 PM AST
To: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Subject: Update 18

Who knew finding a nut for the chainsaw would mean driving around for almost 2 hours & stopping at 8 hardware/repair shops??  But seek and ye shall find...and it happened to be close to the only McD around :).  Johanna decided she wanted to attempt driving Rt. 3 home & Sarah, Juli & Mariely bravely got in the car with her.  Rog & I stopped at McD & then took the longer, safer Rt 901.  Our work sit was the home of a fisherman on the top of a mountain with a fabulous view of the ocean.  While Rog worked on the downed tree, the girls picked up trash, branches & hauled away the cut wood.  Lunch was another feast with fried fish caught last night...head to tail...lasagna, salad, rice & beans.  When Rog & the fisherman got back to work, the girls took off to clean up a 4-5 ft mound of branches the Ben & Rog had cut earlier.  Hot & sweaty but successful, we girls showered & were ready when 2 vans of a NGO Praying Pelicans group arrived.  The group is working close by with Johanna's parents.  Each van loaded food, solar lights, water, adult diapers & a Valentine can of cookies and headed to the homes of 8 shut ins.  It felt kinda like being with a tour as the Praying Pelican leader pointed things out as we drove along.  At each house, 12 people crowded into the house to chat & pray with the shut in.  In and out.  I missed that closeness I felt with people when we went with Johanna & stayed for a longer, more intimate visit.  

We met up with Rog, Johanna & girls at a local restaurant where we ate pastelilos, listened to blaring music which soon had Alice dancing.  Johanna picked up tres leche cake and I filled a bowl with M & M's.  A sweet ending to Valentine's Day!

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Fwd: Update 12. Pictures

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Begin forwarded message:

From: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Date: February 5, 2018 at 9:37:52 PM AST
To: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Subject: Update 12. Pictures

Fwd: Update 16

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Begin forwarded message:

From: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Date: February 13, 2018 at 11:04:24 PM AST
To: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Subject: Update 16

What a fabulous surprise we got on Friday night!  Ben arrived!!  He has always wanted to join us be of our mission trips and since he had a few days off, he did!  He joked that he was just checking up on us to see if we were laying  on a beach...or really working!  We'd spent the day working with members of another church scrubbing down another older man's home.  The man asked Rog to cut down the only healthy looking coconut tree around...fearing it would fall on his house during the next hurricane...so down it came in spite of what he thought.  There are SO many trees already down...  After church service, Johanna, her girls & us went to a Pizza Hut about 45 min away.  It was a treat for all and Johanna & her girls could act as crazy as they liked as no parishioners around.  Ben's flight came @ 11pm and it was such a treat to see him.  He said Someone must have really wanted him to come cause his flight was the only one not cancelled...and he got bumped to first class!

We filled him with stories all the way "home."  

Saturday morning we were off to what was left to of Nelly & Antonio's house...a bathroom hanging on the side of a mountain. Their family & friends were there mixing cement by hand & building walls.  They were in good spirits & seemed to be having a grand time.  Ben & Rog joined the cement bucket brigade while I picked up 7 bags of trash.  After about 3 hrs, Nelly came with lunch...actually I'd call it a feast:  chicken wrapped in bacon & stuffed with cheese, beans & rice with a cheese sauce & salad.  All sat around eating and enjoying the comradery ...and beer.  Work was officially ending...to let the cement dry and the men said it was now beer time.  First work site beer was passed around...first work site Ben was at!  Another little blessing from above.  Before we left, Nelly pulled her camera came out and many pictures were taken.   They were so very appreciative...told us that their brother lived next door (in a nice home) and would not even talk to them let alone help them!  

It was about 1 when we left home to shower.  Since Johanna & her girls was off shopping & couldn't line up another job...we took off to Yabucoa where we stopped at the All Hands base.  We went to the office & made sure they had Johanna's info. & let them know her phone service is spotty.  As always, they were happy to let us tour the base.  It was fun to show Ben around.  He said he could definitely see it was well organized & everyone we met was very friendly.  Next we went to Punta Santiago, an area we'd heard was "very nice."  Well, maybe before Maria.  So much damage...like the totaled Total gas station.  No pun intended.  When we got back, Johanna had a carload of items she'd purchased using money donated by our church & friends.  We hopped in her car & delivered them to two homes & some really thankful ladies!!  Bedding, kitchen supplies, and a bible.  The lady grabbed the Bible and hugged it tightly telling us of all the things she'd loss, she missed her bible the most.  

Sunday's sermon was based on Prov. 17:17- A friend loves at all times and a brother is born for a time of adversity.  Johanna preached an emotional sermon about the needs to love & connect with others...not just be friends on Facebook.  And the importance of being brothers to all especially in these tough times.  She used Rog & I as examples pointing out our example had encourage d Bob, Elsi, Ben, Sarah & Julie to come to help also.   It was humbling & brought tears to my eyes...& Rog & Ben's too.  Since it was our last Sunday, she asked us to speak.  Rog read what he'd written earlier:  Puerto Rico Proud.  I talked about the love we'd felt & the privilege it was to join them for a short time in their work to rebuild.  As always , joyful & heartfelt music filled the church throughout the service.  

Once again, lunch was delivered to us so we were well fed before taking off to put a bedroom set together for a young girl & her widowed mom.   Ben cleverly invited the young girl who was playing on her phone to help and soon she was happily using the screw driver & hammer.  Ben is the son of two teachers!  Next the boys pulled out the chain saw & fallen & broken trees were cut up & hauled away.  I again was picking up trash... how many trash bags have I filled???  I didn't mind filling them but I sure hated dragging them past their 8 dogs to get to the curb!    We had enough time to stop by a beach to pick up coral pieces before sundown & then stopped for dinner.  When we got back, the boys played a game of cribbage & I taught Alice how to play Bananagram.  She's hooked...played for two hours.  Guess I'll have to leave it here for her.  

I've been slowly emptying the extra suitcase that I brought full of games, art supplies, toys & books.  It's fun to see the smiles these gifts bring!

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Fwd: Update 15

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Begin forwarded message:

From: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Date: February 10, 2018 at 10:43:09 AM AST
To: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Subject: Update 15

Puerto Rico Strong

Roger again...
Many people that we have talked with say, "I am OK." 
They appear to be fine and only after talking with them and getting more information do we realize that there is much about their life now that challenges them every day. 
Luis goes to town every day to buy gasoline for his generator spending money on fuel so that he can run his refrigerator for a few hours and have some light in the evening.
Lourdes lost her job when her company relocated due to the lack of reliable internet service. Now she spends more time with her kids but is anxious to start earning money again. 
Alicia says that she doesn't even hear the noisy generators anymore...they have become part of her "normal" day.
Dodging power lines and poles in the street is normal.
Waiting in line for gas.
Negotiating busy intersections without working traffic signals.
Driving to several stores to find an item, then still not finding it.  
Internet service works ok... sometimes!
Cell phones might work...maybe will work better tomorrow?
Still...everyone says they are OK.  And they are OK. They have adjusted to a new "normal".
There are strong bonds here. Many have the love and emotional support of numerous family members living very close by (often several on the same street).
A common greeting consists of a hug along with a kiss on the cheek...even for someone who is being introduced for the first time as a friend of a friend.
The people are very proud of their ability to withstand Hurricane Maria and many are too proud to ask for any help. They see others with far greater needs than their own. Being Puerto Rican and choosing to live here appears to mean that you must do what needs to be done without complaint...even after a devastating Hurricane.

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Fwd: Update 14

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Begin forwarded message:

From: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Date: February 9, 2018 at 4:04:29 PM AST
To: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Subject: Update 14

PR has been another time when I planned and God laughed!  I thought that I'd be able to give the kids here some fun activities to do as I'd heard they were having shortened school days.  I packed an extra suitcase filled with paints, markers, crayons, games, etc.  But most of our days have been spent with elderly people.  Good thing they enjoy balloon volleyball, playing with slime and listening to PR folk tales!  Mariely plays keyboard & they sing with gusto.  Feels so good to make them smile.  We visited another nursing home and made a couple house calls to shut-ins.  In the evening, we took a cake & celebrated an older man's birthday.  He was so excited to have company.  

Next day it was back to house cleaning.  This one was a major challenge as two older men lived there...one had Alzheimer, Chao and the other was schizophrenic & stayed in his room most the time shouting at us occasionally.  Odors & filth.  Most days they don't have water...the toilet...can't describe...dirty dishes everywhere...chicken bones...bedding just disgusting...rat droppings... cockroaches.  Mariely, Rog & I put on gloves & did what we could.  I worked in Chao's bedroom.  He was a musician & spoke some English and was so happy and kept telling me so.  First I carried a garbage bag while asking him if I could throw away stuff.  He willingly did trash quite a bit but not after smiling & telling me about the item.  Only came across two pictures...both faded & water damaged.  His mother & siblings by his dying grandmother and the other his aunt & uncle...in case you were wondering.  Once I threw a rusty nail away before asking & he had me dig it out of the bag.  My bad.  After an hour or so of that, I swept down the huge cobwebs, moved furniture to clean behind, wiped down the aluminum shutters, put dirty dishes in a pail of bleach water & cleaned off all surfaces.  Finally, I bagged the dirty clothes he'd let me & all the bedding...and put on new bedding that we'd brought with us.  I've made many beds but never have felt as satisfied as when I finished making that bed.  Chao kept telling me I was doing such a good job & when I asked if I could take his picture, he put on his hat & sat on his bed with a huge grin.  The only dark colored bedspread we could find was kinda childish...rockets & airplanes...but he loved it and kept telling me the rockets were going to the moon.  While I was with Chao, Rog and Mariely were washing windows, screens & tackling the kitchen & bathroom and a room with a broken down couch & an old mattress.   Shower curtain & toilet seat they trashed promising a new one.  Johanna had arranged for a fire dept tanker to come...mainly because we didn't know if we'd have water.  The fireman brought in the hose and blasted away at the walls & floors in the kitchen, bathroom & living area.  Now that's how you clean a real mess!!  The other brother did come out of his room once...he headed down the steps and Chao went after him.  Chao told him he should let us clean his room...which was filled only with old mattresses...but he told him no.  I was kinda relieved.  We'd gotten to the house around 9 am and gathered up our cleaning supplies around 1:30 and sprayed the entire place with a disinfectant. Though I'd packed us a lunch...none of us even thought about eating it...just didn't have the stomach to eat.  I hadn't even wanted to drink my cold Diet Coke.  That tells you something about the conditions!  Outside, there were cages of fighting cocks, dogs & guinea hens all serenading us...especially when we dumped out our dirty water...which was often.  

Mariely again knew the perfect answer...when Chao asked her who was paying us to clean...she pointed up and said, "God."  We left not a clean house...just cleaner...after giving Chao two sandwiches & cold water and a promise to bring his clothes back tomorrow clean.  So the next day..back we came with his clean clothes, new shower curtain & toilet seat.  Since they were without water again, we had to get a pail of rain water to flush the toilet before we could think about replacing the seat.  Dishes of food were already sitting around & the bed looked like no one had slept in it...but Chao's grin was still ever so wide and his hug so sincere.  

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Fwd: Pictures

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Begin forwarded message:

From: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Date: February 3, 2018 at 9:31:33 AM AST
To: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Subject: Pictures

Fwd: Update 12

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Begin forwarded message:

From: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Date: February 5, 2018 at 9:33:56 PM AST
To: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Subject: Update 12

It's hard to take in all that fills our days...I'll try.  

Saturday morning we were up & dressed by 7:30...and outside our house people were already lining up as the news of a Red Cross truck coming spread quickly through the community.  The rain didn't keep them away.  At 9:30 in pulled a rough looking semi truck & the mad rush began.  About 10 of us unloaded the truck making piles with water & 4 food boxes each.  After we'd made about 200 of them, two Red Cross  workers starting distributing them and we continued building another 100 piles.    It became apparent that the line was longer than the piles so they closed the gate & no more were allowed to get in line.   We reduced the number of food boxes to 2...and in the end ran out of water & gave only one box to the last few.  I so wanted to run to the store for more food!  331 in all went away with something.  Many were too old to carry everything so we helped them.  Several came in the same car so they drove off with quite a load.  At 11:30, we closed the gate.  The next couple hours cars slowed down in front but had to drive away with nothing.  This will be the last Red Cross delivery in this area as they are pulling out of PR Feb 15.  FEMA has already stopped food & water distributions.  The locals, including me, have mixed feelings about ending the food & water.  Many people obviously could still use it...but the local economy needs customers.  But since many lost their jobs, money to support the economy is scarce.  No perfect solution!

  Later, we went to visit a neighbor with leukemia and then cleaned up another back yard.  About that time, we got a message from one of the All Hands Volunteers (the group we've worked with several times) leaders letting us know where there were located & inviting to stop by.  So off we went to find them.  Took a bit of tracking down but we found them in Yabucoa ...which is really less than 30 minutes from Maunabo.  The local community was welcoming them with a pig roast.  Great dinner!!  Lucky us!!  We were introduced to the girl who will arrange the work sites and she was very open to the idea of connecting with our Pastor Johanna to get possible names of those she knows in need.  Sure hope that works out.  We can only do a little but AHV could accomplish a huge amount of re-building!!  

  Sunday morning found us in a rousing church service.  After Johanna wrote her sermon, she painstakingly translated it into English bullet points so we were able to follow along.  She is just beginning to learn English!   The last several church services, there was a translator.  And we are the only ones in the church who don't know Spanish!  Talk about bending over backwards to make sure we feel welcomed!!  Johanna's sermon was so full of hope...something so many people here need to hear:  if God knows the names of each star...He surely knows and cares about you.  Amen.

  We hopped in our car and took off for the afternoon and ended up at a large shopping mall about an hour away.  Most of the mall was either closed or damaged but open.  Very few people around except at the cell phone store.  Probably people still trying to get internet. I was feeling like we were wasting time as we drove out...til we saw a girl in a ditch crying.  We rolled down our window and she cried out, "Please take me to a hospital...I'm pregnant & in such pain."  Accessing the situation, we quickly decided she was truly in need.  We got her in the back seat and she directed us to a hospital close by where attendants took over.  Guess that's why we stopped at that mall.  

Fwd: Update 11

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Begin forwarded message:

From: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Date: February 4, 2018 at 9:53:08 AM AST
To: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Subject: Update 11

From Roger

Puerto Rico Strong

I see strong comradarie here that is likely the result of enduring a traumatic event with others.  The hurricane was not the only traumatic event...poverty is also traumatic and a shared experience here. Certainly not all are suffering from poverty but everyone here is aware of those who have great needs and many share what they have with their neighbors. We have seen local volunteers who are going out daily to help others while their own home is still in need of repair. Their willingness to serve others is admirable.

There is great respect for and also some fear of the ocean 

which is just a short distance away. We have walked along the shore and have seldom seen anyone on the beach or even in boats on the water. 

Alissa, Marielli's neighbor, told us about fearing the water. She thought that she would die when Hurricane Maria roared in destroying a huge barrier of trees between her house and the sea.  When the eye of the hurricane arrived, she went outside during the brief calm and saw the great destruction and also the churning water. She ran for her life to a safer place in her Uncle's house nearby.

Evelyn, a lay leader preaching her first sermon, focused on Peace.  She said that we need to encourage peace in all those around us but peace must begin within our own hearts.  She was talking about the uncertainty of the future here because so many people have lost confidence that they will have what they need...water, food, fuel, shelter, communication, etc. They are walking a tightrope and are not feeling balanced.

Her words made me realize that the U.S. is also in need of peace. Our polarized political system and news media has driven a wedge between us that keeps us from reaching out to find peace with one another. This needs repair before it leads to further deterioration or destruction.   Will the repair begin in our hearts?

There is a necessary patience here that is evident when passing through a busy intersection that has non-functioning traffic lights. Cars proceed slowly across as approaching cars slow or stop to avoid a collision.  I don't recall hearing a horn sounded in anger or frustration. Road rage does not appear to exist now. 

In many ways the clock seems have been turned back...cars lined up for gas, slow or nonexistent internet service, power that works for awhile then goes dark....but along with the challenges there is also hope for the future as humanity shines through  and efforts for improvement are aided by neighbors and passersby.

Fwd: Update 10

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Begin forwarded message:

From: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Date: February 3, 2018 at 8:33:30 AM AST
To: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Subject: Update 10

Wow times flies when you are busy hopping from one project to the next!  Johanna, the pastor we are staying with, has been getting calls asking if they can get added to the list of places we will come to help.  No shortage of needs here.  

We spent two days at Marielly's.  It is only right that she finally was at the other end of the stick as she as been helping us at other sites since we got here!  Maria had stripped paint off her house so we help her repaint it.  She was so pleased.  Then Rog got the chainsaw going and we cleaned up fallen trees and overgrown bushes.  Picked up trash the had been sprewed about filling about 10 bulging garbage bags.  She said she'd been so depressed and though she'd cleared away a lot, she'd been overwhelmed.  She'd pick up a broken piece and say, "This was my porch chair...etc. etc...etc..". As Rog cut up a tree, she tell me that tree had the sweetest fruit.  Her shaded home was now in full sun.  She said many people had committed suicide.  She got her strength from God and had the church as a refuge.  I was drenched in sweat and thankful we were there.

Another day was spent at Claudia's.  She had a gorgeous home high in the mountain.  Very artsy.  She'd had been married less than a year when Maria tore off much of the roof and ruined most everything inside...all the wood doors, staircase, furniture, clothes and so many of her wedding presents.  But what hurt the most...were the books.  Her husband is a principal and she's studying to be a pastor.  You can see the pain in her eyes as we bagged up the book and added them to the heaping pile of junk. She and her husband had not been able to do much cleaning as they were waiting for the insurance adjuster while living with her Mom over an hour away.    They just found out how much they'd get...$9000.  Hardly enough to cover the cost of the materials to fix the roof.  

We got home in time for me to bake a cake...something Naomi & Alice asked for when I told them I would make a treat for them.  I couldn't believe how excited they were.  Took pictures of it, called friends to come over for a piece and passed some out after church.  Simple joys.  

  Somehow it was Friday night...and we suggested going out for pizza.  Didn't take much encouragement.  The girls had a birthday party (about 1 away) so we rode along and walked the town plaza, listened to a live band & ate ice cream while we waited for the girls.  Johanna's English is improving daily so we enjoyed hearing her tell us about how there is a dress code and even hair code for female pastors.  She has curly hair and has been given a hair dryer by an elder in her church so she can straighten hair...she & her girls have resisted the trend and proudly wear their curly hair.  She tells a story with such vigor, passion and expression...both her voice and hands! We hit the jackpot finding her!!

Fwd: Update 9

Sent from my iPhone

Begin forwarded message:

From: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Date: January 30, 2018 at 9:40:18 PM AST
To: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Subject: Update 9

Catch up time...

Sunday we went to church...And there was no one going to fall asleep during this service.  Besides the praise band's lively playing...especially the trumpet player..there were 4 people in the pews around us playing various percussion instruments.  We had been told we'd be ask to talk...we told them how much we appreciate their warm welcome, how their faith inspired us, how impressed we were that they were helping others even while their own home needed repair.  We told their burden was a bit lighter knowing that we & DUMC cared & prayed for them.  Elsi then played ...as only she can...What a Friend We Have in Jesus.  The church was rock'in.  The closing song was Let it Rain Down Blessings from Heaven.  We couldn't imagine how they could sing that after Maria even if the song referred to blessings raining down..not water.  Such faith.

Lunch was delivered again by a church lady & then we took off to explore.  Headed to Ponce taking the back roads.  Ended up enjoying an ocean front area with small shops & places to eat.  Then we searched for a restaurant someone recommended.  It was tricky but we found it & had a delicious fish dinner..though the "fish water" wasn't a hit.  

Monday at 8 we were in a Kindergarten singing, reading aloud, doing puzzles & playing Doggie, Doggie Where's Your Bone....my legacy!  Guys stayed home & put up lights for the parking lot.  All four & Mariely* emptied out the church nursery that had flooded & been used for various donation.  We scrubbed it and everything in it with bleach & soap then sprayed it down with the hose.  Washed windows, screens, curtains, crib bedding, and toys.  Boys fixed broken window cranks & drawers.  It felt so good to put it all back together...shiny & clean!  

  *Mariely...she's everywhere and does everything:  plays & sings in band, church secretary, designed & painted nursery room mural, translates for us & seems to be at 80% of the work sites with us.  She's one energized woman!

  And finally, today...after a quick hour in another Kindergarten room, we had to take our comrades in arms...or should I say the helping arms of our comrades...to the airport.  We'll sure miss them and their help but so glad to have shared this unique experience with them!  While in San Juan, we hunted down new mattresses for the baby cribs, glass for front door & a few other items not found in Manaubo.  Since last time we were in SJ, several traffic lights had been replaced..not all so it still is a bit like driving in a twilight zone.  We took the east coast road home and passed by a huge field of totally smashed solar panels and about 20 wind mills missing at least one of their blades...several missing all of them.  We heard inside Maria were at least 4 tornadoes & there'd been an earthquake also.  It seems PR had taken one step forward...now two steps backwards.  Such a humongous mess to clean up before they can begin again.  But we also saw ABIERTO (OPEN) signs on many businesses..even if they were in disrepair.  Also proudly posted are signs reading:  Puerto Rico Strong.  I strongly agree.

Fwd: Update 8

Sent from my iPhone

Begin forwarded message:

From: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Date: January 30, 2018 at 8:20:54 PM AST
To: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Subject: Update 8

A few tidbits that I keep forgetting to write down:

-Though man-made things lay in shambles...nature has quickly repaired itself!  Leaves are fresh & bright green.  Leaning utility poles have creeping vines climbing on them.  Though some palm trees are tipped & big trees have a few bare branches...nature is far ahead of man!!

-Weather includes sunny, cloudy & rainy most everyday with temperatures between 70 - 90.  Love it!

-The coqui frog sings to us at sundown and the pigeon coos as sunrise.  Such a musical country.

Saturday was a special prayer day so we joined others for about an hour...then slipped out and called Lourdes to see if we could help her.  She jumped in her car & in 15 minutes, we were following her up the mountain to her home.  As we were assessing the situation, she came over laughing.  Her 15 year old son had seen us drive in...noticed our gray hair..and questioned how much we could do.  She told him, "Don't judge a book by its cover...these people know how to work!"  And we did.  Boys helped put in 3 windows & a door while the girls moved cement blocks, cement bags & cleaned up after the boys had chiseled the holes for the windows.  Elsi and I also took time to visit with Lourdes' mother who'd recently lost her husband.  She was very grateful.  And so was Lourdes...her tears of gratitude were proof.  

 Someone had given Johanna fresh lobster so that's what she had waiting for ours when we got home.  Who'd a thunk?  I dug out our cards & tangram game & soon everyone was playing something.  We not only know how to work...we know how to play too!!

Fwd: Update 7

Sent from my iPhone

Begin forwarded message:

From: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Date: January 27, 2018 at 11:15:04 PM AST
To: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Subject: Update 7

Today we loaded the van with snack bags, personal cleaning bags, insect repellent, water filter pails & solar lights...all donated from various sources.  We also put in a key board & I filled my bag with possible entertainment toys & games and then 3 church ladies, Johanna & us headed to an elderly care home where Johanna's grandmother(with Alzheimers) & great aunt live.  About 15 patients live there without water or electricity.  Elsi played some lively music which seemed to energize many.  Some sang & some tried to sing.  I was asked to do a reading & short talk, so when I opened my bible, out fell a Mother Teresa's prayer based on Rev 3:20.  Perfect!  Sure couldn't do better than her!  Looking around, I knew most of the toys & games would not work...but balloon volleyball was a hit. Even the staff seemed to have fun.   A few with less mobility liked playing with slime.  All got a hug or gently arm caress.  We left knowing we'd added a bit of joy to their day.  

Lourdes, one of the church ladies, had worked as a translator for a big company...before Maria closed it down...so she was a well of information. She was also barely holding it together as she had not only lost her job to Maria, she'd lost two walls of a new addition she was building...and her Dad.  He had been on oxygen which they hooked up to a generator but it ran out of gas & the stress caused a heart attack.  He died as she struggled to fill it up & get the oxygen mask on.  In spite of this...she said good will come out of Maria.  She explained that the gov't had been in control of the island's electricity & water and had been using band aides to keep it going for years.  Since the gov't was bankrupted, they had to let in other companies who were rebuilding it much stronger.  Maria had blown open their closets and exposed the skeletons.   

Though I could understand her point, how she could ever use the word good when talking about Maria...who had torn so much away from her...amazed me.  She was firm in her belief that God will give her the strength she needs to go on.  

After we got back, Elsi & I walked to the grocery store & then fixed a Taco Salad for later.  Then we went to the 5 o'clock church service.  Boy do they put their hearts into playing their music & singing..which was most the service.  The music surrounded you as in one front corner was the keyboard & drums, another front corner, a singer, up front another singer, in the first pew was a tambourine  player & four rows back was the trumpet player.  Add the hand clapping congregation singing with gusto...now that's music that can be heard in heaven!

Several joined us for dinner after and most of the taco salad disappeared as we visited & lined up more jobs.  We sleep well.