Fwd: Update 7

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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.

Fwd: Update 5 photos

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Begin forwarded message:

From: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Date: January 25, 2018 at 10:48:03 PM AST
To: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Subject: Update 5 photos

Fwd: Update 6 - Three Little Pigs

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Begin forwarded message:

From: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Date: January 27, 2018 at 10:09:21 PM AST
To: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Subject: Update 6 - Three Little Pigs

Remember the story of the three little pigs???  As we drove around, it hit me.  This is just like that story!!

First little pig (the poorest of course) built his house out of sticks & whatever he could find.  When big, bad Hurricane Maria huffed and puffed, she blew that house right down!  And since he had not much to begin with, he can't afford new materials or pay contractors, so his house is still lying in a heap.  The Second little pig, had a bit more money and build his house out of 2 x 4's and plywood.  Big, bad Maria blew the roof off and lots of the walls too.  He had a bit of money & is slowly rebuilding it himself & with family & friends.  Now the Third little pig...he had money and built his house out of cement.  Big, bad Maria blew out his windows & doors.  He had the cash to buy replacements & pay contractors so now his house is repaired & with a fresh coat of paint.  That third pig might even have let some of the other two pigs move in with him.  

Now if only they could all live happily ever after!!!

Fwd: Update 5

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Begin forwarded message:

From: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Date: January 25, 2018 at 10:46:41 PM AST
To: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Subject: Update 5

Elsi and I came up with a Tourist Brochure ad for our experience last night:  After a scenic van tour of the southern Puerto Rico coast & Hurricane Maria devastation, experience an authentic Puerto Rican birthday party which includes a home cooked turkey dinner.  And  we even throw in an unique and added bonus—a church choir practice!!  All for the low, low price of $0!!!

Sound too good to be true??  Nope, we did it!!

Today we loaded the church van with cleaning supplies, hose, water, sandwiches, 4 church ladies, us & Johanna drove us to the home we'd lined up to work in.  Unfortunately, mostly for them, they had no water.  Yesterday, yes and they didn't know when they'd have it again.  So off we went to another home...an elderly lady again.  Elsi & I volunteered to clean the kitchen, the boys outside, and the other ladies took the bathroom & bedroom.  Let's just say she was a big time saver and we thought most of the mess was probably pre-Maria.  After we dragged out about 10 huge garbage bags, did a bit of cement work on her kitchen counter, built a make-shift shelf for food that was in boxes on the floor, used bottles of cleaning supplies....the place looked & smelled much better!  We got done before 2, so we showered, rested a bit and then headed to an area we'd not been in and stopped at a restaurant on a cliff overlooking the ocean.  Came home to play a few hands of Euchre.  When Alice got here, she was happy to tell us all about her science project where she took water samples to test for E. coli in her home tap water & the river nearby where many people get their water.  Lucky for us, her tap water is fine.  Unlucky for many others, that river water if not.  What a timely & important science project!  We gave her an A+.  

Fwd: Update 4 pictures

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Begin forwarded message:

From: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Date: January 24, 2018 at 11:14:43 PM AST
To: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Subject: Update 4 pictures

Fwd: Update 4

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Begin forwarded message:

From: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Date: January 24, 2018 at 10:52:04 PM AST
To: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Subject: Update 4

It always amazes me how much gets crammed into our days.  After a quick breakfast, we packed some sandwiches & as soon as they jumped the battery in the van, we were off to Ruby's.  A couple church guys were already there buzzing down the tree that was leaning on her house.   Rog & Bob joined that team while Elsli & I starting scrubbing the bathroom.  Johanna & Mariella worked on cleaning screens & storm shutters.  About two hours later, the bathroom was sparkling clean and most of the tree was loaded into a pickup.  After a lunch break, Elsi & I tackled the kitchen area Johanna & Mariella cleaned the dining/living room while the guys started up the chain saw to removed a down tree in her back yard.  The neighbor came over with a ladder and it took several guys to get the solar panel on the roof & wires secured.  Ruby is one happy and grateful lady!  

  We all needed a cold shower to cool down & clean up and a bit of a rest when we got home.  But it wasn't long before we were back in the van headed for Johanna's parents' home to celebrate her dad's birthday...and mine again.  Her mom had cooked a turkey & served it with rice & a pasta salad which she immediately offered us after we were introduced.  It was delicious.  More relatives came and took our spot at the table as soon as we got up.  We sat on the porch and were serenaded by Johanna's dad on a guitar & her mom singing along.  Soon 6 men showed up for a choir practice but first all sang with much enthusiasm to Johanna's dad & I.  Cake & ice cream came next and then the men's choir started practicing...though it sure didn't sound like they needed much practice to me.  Later we found out that Johanna's dad was trying to think of a way to get more men involved in church...and the choir idea popped in his head.  Now these men who never sang before have become the voice of Jesus.  One of the men told us the roof & windows in his house were destroyed, he had no electricity & his water supply was not consistent...yet there he was, singing & praising God.  I am constantly amazed.

Fwd: Update 3

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Begin forwarded message:

From: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Date: January 24, 2018 at 10:51:16 PM AST
To: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Subject: Update 3

My birthday!  Another year...another part of the world!   Rog, Bob & Elsi went in search of breakfast after they dropped me off at the grocery store...I really don't like to eat breakfast.  I shopped for food to feed us & Johanna & girls and also food for the food pantry at the church.  Johanna and I had made a list so I filled my cart.  Next, I went to a store that had bedding & shopped for stuff we'll want when we clean at the two brother's house on Thursday.  Elsi finished that job & Rog and I loaded the car with the food.  After loading the food, sheets, pillows, comforters & luggage,  we were packed to the gills when we headed back to Maunabo.  Made one more stop at the last big grocery store before Maunabo to get meat, veges  & a key lime pie and pulled into town around 1 pm.  We downed some p & j sandwiches and then headed over to the parish hall that has been turned into a storage room for lots of donated items.  We added our food donations and then made up about 50 bags filled with food ready to give out as needed.  Next we had to re-bag about 200 donated bags filled with snacks, school supplies...and insect repellent which unfortunately had leaked in several bags.  Good idea that went bad.  They are ready now to give to a school.  

 I spent much of the next hour getting phone calls from my kids & grandkids and reading emails & facebook post all wishing me a happy birthday.  Loved it!!  Rog & Elsi took over the kitchen preparing fajitas & rice.  Johanna decorated the dining room...the formal one...and we (plus Marietta) had a delicious & enjoyable dinner topped off with singing, presents & key lime pie.  We sat around the table for a very long time hearing stories about Hurricane Maria.  The fear...the devastation...the depression...the lack of communication...the uphill battle to try to pick up the pieces.  We listened as they let some of the hurt seep out.  So much pain.

Fwd: Update 2

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Begin forwarded message:

From: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Date: January 22, 2018 at 11:33:20 PM AST
To: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Subject: Update 2

First, internet is very limited and there is none in the town of Maunabo where we are staying so if you don't hear from me...don't worry!  We do have phone service so you can call us...

We are back in San Juan as we picked up Bob & Elsi today.  We toured Old Town & El Morro with them & had a delightful dinner on the cobblestone court filling them in on what we'll be doing & catching up on Dexter news.

The last couple days have been so full I don't know where to begin....

We left San Juan on Sunday morning, stopped for some groceries and headed to Maunabo.  Easy drive until we got to the mountain.  Hurricane Maria wicked winds had knocked down most every utility pole & so many trees and they hung over the road.  We tried to hug the inside lane as many areas on the cliff side were washed out...and it was a looooong way down.  So many homes were damaged ...or entirely smashed.  Trash piles were everywhere.  We crept into town just as the church bells were ringing.  We found the church we were looking for and slipped in during the first song.  Pastor Johanna Gonzales, our contact, waved at us and soon introduced us to the congregation.  Clapping and cheering followed.  During their greeting time, it seemed half the church came over to welcome us.  Johanna asked a young girl to come and translate her sermon in English for us so we were able to hear her message which was the importance of asking God to be our refuge in all times and especially in hard times to show others your faith by our kind acts.  She reminded us that if we can trust God in hard times and be His hands during those times, our faith will become stronger.  I wholeheartedly agree.  I had to think that since my life is so good, perhaps that's why I crave helping others...it's a chance to strengthen my faith and to witness others who have so much faith.  After church, we settled into Johanna's home taking over Naomi,  her daughter's room.  A church member brought rice, beans & pork & several people joined us for dinner.  Alice, Johanna's other daughter, speaks perfect English so we learned much about the hurricane, the months of no electricity (just got last week), no clean water, no mail, no phone.  The depression that set in deep down looking at all the devastation.  They too talked of how neighbors were helping each other...how several volunteer groups came to help and others trucked in supplies.  That's what kept them hoping that things would and could get better.  Looking around, I was overwhelmed...and I can't imagine what it looked like 4 months ago!  

  Our first job was to find someone who really needed the solar generator we had brought with us.  Johanna closed her eyes, thought for a few minutes and then said, Ruby.  Ruby is an 89 year old widow who still did not have electricity.  She scurried to open her gate when we arrived and hugged us heartily saying welcome to her home of love, love, love.  She offered us cold juice that she had in a cooler.  She was so excited to show us her wedding pictures...about 45 years old.  After much visiting, we hooked up the solar generator and turned on the light....tears ran down her cheeks and she wrapped her thin arms tightly around me.   Alice translated her words:  Now I will be able to sleep at night with out fear.  She walked us to her gate holding Roger's hand the whole way.  

  We made a couple more stops as we passed cars and stopped to talk.  One carload of new volunteers asked Johanna to direct them to someone with great needs.  So she stopped in front of the home of one of her church members and she jumped in the car with them & drove off.  We stayed there and visited until she came back about an hour later.   Luckily Alice was with us to translate and of course, we were offered cold drinks & snacks.  We finally got back to the house around 8:30 & Johanna insisted on cooking a meal.  Fried chicken & hot mashed potato salad.  We headed to bed but Johanna had to go pick up Naomi from a friend's.  It'll be a short night for them as they get up at 5 a.m. to get off to school...a car ride to the next town where they catch a bus to school.  The school in town here is poor...Alice said last year for her final English exam, she had to do a crossword puzzle.  She wants to be challenged.

  Monday morning after we passed out UMCOR supplies & water to 3 people who stopped in, we headed to Ruby's to see if all was well & ask if she'd like help to clear a tree on Wednesday. Then we went to a home where two brothers live in a terrible situation & asked if we could come Thursday to help them.  So with plans made, we headed to the airport to get Bob & Elsi,   I'm ready to put on my work clothes & boots!

Fwd: Update 1

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Begin forwarded message:

From: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Date: January 20, 2018 at 8:35:45 PM AST
To: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Subject: Update 1

Update 1

Our plane was full of Puerto Ricans who cheered and clapped as we landed in San Juan.  They were so delighted to be home!  The city looked and felt much like it was last year when we were here  except that most the traffic lights were not functioning so all the intersections were like a round about without the circle. Glad Rog was driving!  Fresh paint & new awnings were everywhere on the beach strip.  Things looked a bit worse when you drove down a little ways out and down the side streets.  A couple miles out of town, that's where the electric poles are laying sideways and the rubbish piles line the road.  

We had great conversations with several people...they are so upbeat & grateful for all the support they are getting...mostly from their neighbors but also from the mainland. Here's a few tidbits we heard:

-We feel hugged by the mainland.

-The hurricane brought out the humanitarian heart .

-We didn't wait for the gov't...we cleared our streets, shared our food & ice.  

 -PR showed strength, unity & compassion.

-If we had any extra, we knew there was someone who could use it so we gave it to them.

-Yes it was very hard but we will go forward.

Not once did we hear anyone complain...just great positive attitudes! 

We were successful in getting the solar generator that Faith Fowler from Cass Community Services in Detroit left for us.  It was built by homeless people there...how cool is it that they are helping those in need in PR!  The storage unit we thought we'd lined up, fell through (no big shock) but Faith's friend, Maria Teresa stored it for us.  That turned out to be a great experience as we spent a good hour visiting her.  She'd met Faith at a Church & Society board meeting in Washington years ago.  She said that's where they fought for justice & truth for all.  Our Church & Society class at home always begins class by reciting Micah 6:8:  What does the Lord require of us: to do what is right & love mercy.  It's a small world!

Update 26

How to describe Vieques??  An island with gorgeous deserted beaches hidden behind overgrown bushes & vine-covered trees with a one lane sometime paved & sometimes barely passable road weaving through it.    And horses!  Everywhere!  Roaming wherever they want.  Here we don't say "Deer in the road!" You say, "Horse in the road!"  Some are branded.  Some wild.  

But also hiding is the past.  My friend, Mary told me to duck when she heard I was coming here.  After a couple days here, I had to call her and find out what she was talking about.  She said, "Duck when the bombs go off!"  I did some research.  How did I not know that the US Navy was using this island as target practice until just 15 years ago??  How did the US justify bombing, using napalm & leaving the island loaded with radio active particles which are causing cancer & other health issues?  How did US justify giving them 10 days to leave their homes and either move to the middle arid land or leave the island?  I realize the Navy needed to practice somewhere...but was it fair to use an inhabited island that has no voice in the US govt?    Is it better that I know now??  What would I'd done if I'd known??  And what else don't I know???  Living in my little blissful bubble of ignorance is nice...but traveling does make pinholes in it at the same time as it fills it with a deep love of other cultures & places.  

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Jane's 2017 Updates

So much for counting on email...once I got to China, my email messed up and from then on, I could only send a few emails to one person at a time.  So my updates just sat in my folder.  Not even sure which ones got sent so I am forwarding all of them to you just in case you are still interested.  Remember I did not do any editing...so there's lots of errors.  Either you'll have lots to read or lots to trash.  I'm home now.   The wash machine is running & we're sorting the mail as we settle back into our real life.

Hope to see or hear from you soon and catch up with your life!

Jane

#38 Painful Thought. #39 Cutting the Cord & Heading to Costa Rica. #40 The Girl on the Bus

#38. Painful Thought
As I watched MM charm his way deeper into the hearts of Chan, his YaYa, Rog, Chan's neighbors & friends, a painful thought erupted: there's a woman in China who carried and delivered MM--and then, more than likely, she abandoned him at the hospital. I wondered if she had any other choice?? MM could hardly breathe. Did she have the $$ she'd need for his medical bills?? Was it possible for him to grow up healthy & someday support his parents?? What an excruciating, painful decision she had to make! And then I thought of the thousands of new Moms who had and would have to make that same decision. It became overwhelming to me--all that heartache--the helplessness of their situation--the gut wrenching pain.
MM's shrieks of laughter brought me back to the joy that surrounded me. That night I prayed for peace & healing for those Moms and thanked MM's mom. He is such a gift!!

#39 Cutting the Cord & Heading to Costa Rica
It was time to cut the cord. The frig was stocked, wash done, bags unpacked and all the safety gadgets mounted. Chan's safety net of friends were in top gear. Though I had loved being in the middle of it all...it was time to move on...and after discussing the pros & cons...Chan booked us a flight to Costa Rica. We landed in San Juan but took the first bus out to Turriaba. There we hiked through the jungle to Gustavo--the oldest archeological site in CR. Saw the many mounds where houses had been built & the aqueduct system used from 1000AD to 1400 BC still somewhat functioning. Biggest thrill was spotting a lots in a tall tree. Actually a guide pointed him out as we'd never had been able to spot it's dark body clinging to a branch so still among thick leaves...I know Sarah, you are jealous. Also saw a tayra, variety of insects & butterflies. The 150+ in of rainfall here feeds a thick jungle. Tomorrow we hope to wake up early enough to see Turriaba Volcano smoking & venting from the upstairs of the hostel we are in. Not sure where next, that's what Rog is working on now!

#40. The Girl on the Bus
That's be me. I love getting a peek into lives & hearing people chatter as we travel via local bus. Well dressed women with babies & groceries, men in work clothes or suits and students in uniforms. We pass neat, colorful small homes in the midst of a medley of flowers. Each small village boast a church & soccer field. The bus stops often as it climbs & descends the mountains..and people hop on & off greeting each other warmly. I love this "buseye" view!
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Why You Shouldn't Raid Your Retirement Fund for a Child’s College Education | Investing | US News

http://money.usnews.com/investing/articles/2017-02-24/why-you-shouldnt-raid-your-retirement-fund-for-a-childs-college-education


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Happy Birthday

Happy Birthday, Reagan! Hope to talk to you later today.
Love, Gpa and Grace

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Costa Rica!

Leaving here on Wed. For Costa Rica and Panama. Love, Mom and Dad

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The guys

#35 Safari. #36. The Long Haul Home #37 Next Few Days

#35 Safari
What better way to kill the last waiting day than at the Safari Park! I rate it a 5*. Huge variety of animals and lots of each. MM & Chan loved the monkeys best and Pandas were my favorite. Sun was shining and all three of us were loving it. What could be better??

#36 The Long Haul Home
It was a long haul--3+ hours to Beijing--6 hour layover--13+ hours to Dallas--2+ hour layover--2+ hour to Orlando. That's the long. The haul was the stuff you need for 30+ hours of traveling with a 2 year old and tons of adoption papers. We dragged into Orlando @ 5:30 pm (5:30 am China time)...and SURPRISE!! There was YaYa--Ed--holding a stuffed tiger & sucker. MM quickly realized that guys was the one he'd seen on the phone! The whole bunched hugged & then the sucker game began. MM licked the sucker then Yaya either got a lick or some smeared on his face...pure fun for MM. Pure joy for Ed, Chan & me.
We managed to stay up about 4 hours letting MM explore his home...then crashed.

#37 Next few days...
Rog's phone call the next morning asking me to open the front door, woke me up. He'd flown in from visiting his brother's family in Calif. He'd been in Puerto Vallarta with Bob & Elsi since leaving Louisiana. So we'd sure been on two different trips these last almost 3 weeks!
The next couple days were spent unpacking, meeting neighbors & laughing at MM. Ed is staying in the Navy base campground less than a mile away. He'd had a toy Kubota tractor shipped so Rog & Ed quickly pulled out the tools to put it together...then repair the stairway gate...then add another lock on the back door...than a wagon. Chan's cute chic home is now a kid's zone with toys & lots of not really toys sprewed all over!
Rog & I still haven't decided on our next move....maybe tomorrow we'll figure that out.

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Matthew

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#33 Unwanted Babies & Old Folks. #34 Count Down

#33. Unwanted Babies & Old Folks
So how did so many couples avoid having more than one baby from 1979 to 2015?? Our CCAI rep answered that question with one word--abortion. And since only sons were expected to care for their elderly parents ...how did parents assure they'd have a healthy son to care for them--orphanages filled with girls & boys with special needs. Our rep also explained that today that picture has hardly changed as many couples are deciding to only have one child due to the stress to succeed economically. In the meantime, the older population is growing. Here the retirement is truly your children. The court will step in if a child is not supporting their parents & require parent support payments. If a couple does not have kids, they'll get gov't $$. All this seems to be verified by the huge number of orphans & the relatively rare times we've seen couples with even one child & the multitude of elders we've seen exercising & playing in the parks! Wonder how much our parent support check will be??? And when will it come in the mail????
(Ben, Bek, Jake???)

#34 Count Down to Home Sweet Home...for Chan & MM anyways. Finally...the last hoop...the US Constable who told Chan--I hope to issue MM's VIsa by tomorrow. Well let's hope so cause we're leaving early the next day and we're NOT leaving with out MM!! We're really not worried as CCAI is a well oiled machine. It has adopted over 12,000 children. Our rep has helped over 1000 families...that's 1000 less orphans in China. Reminds me of a Japanese legend that anyone who creates 1000 organizations cranes will be granted a wish. (Sadako & the Paper Cranes). In this case...1000 wishes HAVE been granted!! Who knew the 1000 cranes could be mechanical instead!
Today we strolled through a beautiful park with manicured bushes & gorgeous gardens of provinces, begonias, canvas, impatients, , poppies, salvia--boasting every color of the rainbow. The apple & cherry trees were loaded with blooms. I noticed all the blooms...but Chan seemed only to notice MM. She laughed continually as he performed antic after antic encouraging her delighted response. He'd run ahead only to turn around & run as fast as his chubby legs could go to her. She beamed with pride as many Chinese stopped to talk to him. We could have been in a sand pit and as long as MM was there she'd loved it...and I was so glad I was with them...in this very special time and in this beautiful park!
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Fwd: #32 Blooming in Guangzhou

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Begin forwarded message:

From: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Date: March 5, 2017 at 2:01:13 PM EST
To: Jane boyce <janeboyce@live.com>
Subject: #32 Blooming in Guangzhou

#32 Blooming in Guangzhou
It was a 2 houcr flight to the much warmer Guangzhou, the Flower City.  Here bright pink bougainvillea hang form the bridges, an abundance of trees are deep green, birds sing...and Chan & MM 's bonding is blooming!   I love spring in Michigan because little by little, it reveals itself.  Watching Chan & MM reminds me of spring.  The first major thaw, when MM laid his head on Chan's shoulder, then the slow but sure signs:  removing layers of clothing, diaper change without tears, sleeping without shoes, quick bath to laughing in the tub and running to Chan with out stretched arms.  Of course, a lot of snacks were embedded in each step.  This morning, Chan had to go get some papers from our room, so I loaded the bus with MM...his little brow wrinkled and he looked so scared while pointing to the hotel saying, "Mama?"  I had our rep explain to him that Chan was coming in a minute.  But it wasn't until he saw her that the the fear turned to joy.  Spring in full bloom!!  
The last couple days included:  paper work; trip to Chen Clan Ancestral Hall/Folk Art museum where we witnessed a Buddhist ceremony where over 100 tubs of live fish, squid & eels were blessed & soon to be purchased to later be set free in the nearby Pearl River; paper work;  shopping in high end stores & side street markets; paper work;  health check up & yup more paper work.  Today we wee at the crowded Chinese Embassy where over 2000 visits are granted each day.  
MM keeps us busy and laughing.  He has an arsenal of facial expressions...and would do well as a beggar on the streets.  He likes wandering checking to make sure we are in tow.  We spend lots of time visiting with the other families we've been with since Beijing.  Our hotel is the last stop to many other adopting families as well.  It's hard to wrap your head around how many special needs Chinese orphans have won the lottery and are now part of a loving family!!  Have seen downs, cleft palates, blind...and know many have internal issues...but all have bright smiles...it's like they already know their future will be brighter.  Say nothing of how much joy they'll bring to their new families!   What an unique and blessed role I get to play in this joyful happening!!  

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#20 Plantations

Noticed I'd forgotten to get this into my blog...better late than never!

#20 Plantations.
We were deep in plantation land so head to The Whitney Planation--the only one that focuses on the slaves-side of the story. Our guide's ancestors had probably been slaves on this or a close by plantation. She spoke from her heart feeling the strong need to inform people about slavery...since many schools only briefly discuss it. She emphasized how the north as well as the south benefitted from the slave trade...especially after international trade was outlawed & domestic trade gave rise to breeding houses in the north. Biggest was in Richmond. We walked through a memorial where names & stories where etched in stone wall. Stories told & recorded during FDR's Federal Writing Project. You could feel the heart tugs. Stories of working from "can't see em to can't see em." Inhuman torture --similar to what the Jews experienced under Hitler who studied slave punishment--and how the dead were tossed into the swamps. There was also an Angels Garden dedicated to the over 2000 kids who died in this parish. Clay life size statues of these children were placed all over the grounds. A rusted metal jail which sat next to the auction block screamed of the injustice done. As we left the Whitney Plantation, I thought of the opulent Whitney Inn in Detroit where my sisters & I savored elegant desserts. What contrast!! We headed down the road to Oak Valley Plantation--passing lots of worn down house trailers--made me thing that things haven't improved enough for the manual laborers. The Big House was highlight at the Oak Valley Plantation. Certainly the other side of the coin. A 1/4 mile driveway was lined with twenty-eight 300 yr old Virginia Oak trees and blooming azalea bushes surround the twenty-eight pillared mansion. The gigantic dining table was set with fine china and a large decorative hand pulled fan hun from the ceiling ready to stir up a breeze & keep the flies away. Sugar cane made the family rich & still today is the main crop. Shortly after the Civil War--the house was deserted and later cows bedded down inside. About 100 yrs ago, a Texas couple bought it & returned it to it's glorious state then will it to a foundation after their death.
It was a a day of stepping back in history!

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#29 Hello Family. #30 Orphanage/ Luoyang #31 Tidbits

#29 Hello Family
This a.m., my phone's weather report read: 27F/unhealthy. Looking out the window at the snow & smog confirmed both. Our trip to the orphanage was postponed...which left no plans for the day. Spent our 1st "free" morning (evening in USA) meeting some of MM's family thanks to FaceTime & Skype. Many had been waiting to see the little man "Live From ZhengZhou." Chan beamed as each fell instantly in love with MM. His humongous new family is ready to give him humongous love!! Ate brunch @ 10 then napped, played in the hall with other families, a Walmart run, fitted out clothes for MM pass out extras and/or packing them for orphanage. Five families went to dinner together--chaotic & fun time. MM fought sleep but Chan & I welcomed it!

# 30 Orphanage/Luoyang
Chan wanted to learn everything she possible could about her son so off we went on an over 2 hour drive to the two orphanages MM spent his first two years. She found a wealth of info!! First the Welfare Institute run by the gov't housing @600 kids with a 10 to 1 nanny ratio. Though very clean & decorated, it was not heated. MM lived here the last 6 months. Adjacent to that one was Maria's House...a branch of New Hope run & funded by US Christian NGO. Here MM lived for 1 & half yr & got lots of tender care right after his initial operation. Chan cried when she meet MM's main sweet nanny & the American doctor who'd given him such good care. Chan knew MM's intestines were pushed up into his lung which is why he has a big zipper strip on his abdomen --but can you imagine the shock to find out his heart is on the other side & flipped around! Dr. Said it seems to be no problem--how can that be??? His Dr. and the director (whose husband was super attached to MM) walked Chan out to the van where I was entertaining & being entertained by MM. They we so thrilled to see him. Feeling was mutual. Hugs & Pictures galore. Contact info & stories were exchanged. Both Chan & Dr. had a heartfelt appreciation for each other: Chan for the Dr. who cared for & nurtured young, sickly MM and the Dr for Chan for giving him a new life in a loving home!! We rode past the hospital where MM had been abandoned--his finding spot. Then headed back to his new life!!!

#31 Tidbits
Our ride to Luoyang gave me the opportunity to pepper our CCAI rep, Tina with lots of questions:
-Apartment cost $2300 per sq meter
-Most apartments are shared by 2 generations
-Few retirement homes as it is frowned on to have parents there
-the hundreds of apartment building going up (Counted 35 in @ 5 min drive) are private investors & will most likely not be occupied for a while. (Same story we heard 4 yrs ago.)
-Cars cost between $3300 & $17,000
-Average wage is $400-500 per month
-As far as TIna knew:
No Chinese have adopted American kids.
Most kids in orphanages had special needs.
Chinese can adopt from orphanage at no cost but few do.
Chinese can adopt from other Chinese families at a cost but few do.
-Crops in field now are wheat & the same field will be planted to corn with both harvested in the same year.
-Drove by several homes build into the side of clay hills.
-Also drove by several men sweeping with bamboo brooms along the expressway--what an endless job!
-And a bit of humor: When MM spits food out, Chan tells him, "No, No--Don't you know there's starving children in China!!"

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# 26 Being a Mom. #27 Meeting Yaya (Gpa) #28 Shopping

#26 Being a Mom
Mathew Ming's (MM) first night went pretty good--especially for me cause I just rolled over and went back to sleep when MM woke up at 11 pm & Chan comforted him & let him lie next to her until he was vast asleep an hour or so later. Chan woke up early, got herself & the diaper bag ready so when MM woke up, she could just cuddle him while he drank his bottle, change diapers, dress him & feed him a banana. She's loving being a Mommy & MM melts in her arms. We were at breakfast buffet by 8. It was a great place to see what he likes to eat--hard boiled eggs, toast & yogurt...and most everything else except some Chinese! Chan & MM went off to do more paperwork but I stayed with Malaya--the 10 year old daughter of one of the families here--who was sick & both parents had to to to sign papers. I used the down time to catch up on my writing & typing. They got back around noon & we ate in our room & were entertained by MM till 1:30 when it was time to go fill out passport papers. I again stayed with Malaya. Chan had helped me get the app that rerouted internet so I could read Facebook again...my connection to home & friends!

#27 Meeting YaYa (Gpa)
A world away but thanks to skype--MM met his YaYa (Gpa--my big brother). Staring at the happy, laughing image while Chan repeated "YaYa, Gpa"--MM put his face right up to the screen making his Gpa laugh harder. Next day, scene was repeated but MM was catching on & to his Gpa's delight said, "YaYa". Gpa's grin filled the screen! Next day scene, MM added a dance, lots more babbling, smacking the phone & several loud "YaYa!" Gpa was belly laughing. What a treat for Chan, Gpa & MM...and me.

#28 Shopping
Since MM is accustomed to wearing 3 layers of warm clothing--we headed to the mall with Dennis, Elizabeth & Benny (their new son). The walk to the mall was down right dangerous--it was snowing, the walk was slippery & motorcycles & bikes buzzed by almost running us over. As we tried to walk slowly & carefully, crowds of people almost bowled us over. The mall was NOT a welcome relief as it was cold there too. We did find some more layers & shoes for MM--thanks to Dennis who is Amer-Chinese & speaks some Chinese. Our trip back to the hotel was better but we were all chilled to the bone before we got into our warm hotel. Leaving the hotel for dinner was not an option so we all ate at the fancy hotel. Dennis ordered for us. It was way past bedtime but Chan wanted to give MM a bath--which he wasn't sure he wanted, but got. Then she put on 2 sets of PJ's & he strutted around the room so happy. Think he's realizing how great his life now is!!


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#21.5. Roger's AHV Thoughts

#21.5. Roger's AHV Thoughts

To have a friend, it is necessary to be a friend. It is just common sense, but something that I recall reminding my students about each year. I am happy to say that this idea appears to be alive in the volunteers that are making friends in Louisiana as they rebuild some of the 200,000 homes devastated by the flooding last August..
The All Hands volunteers plan, gather supplies and tools, pack their lunch, then travel to their assigned site to spend their energy and their time being a friend to someone they might not even know. Just like a good friend who will drop anything to help...they put their lives on hold for a period of time to use their talents in service of others. Some work for a day...or three! Some arrive thinking they will stay for a short time and decide to stay for months. Many move from project to project...traveling from Detroit to Tennessee to Louisiana to Nepal...working with
All Hands for years! Everyone we worked with seemed to be energized by the project. They even cheered and celebrated when the project in Louisiana was extended .

Some of my best memories of feeling that I had done the right thing have often involved helping a neighbor or a relative in need. Helping someone move or fix something or just helping with a small chore has always put a smile on my face and a spring in my step. I like to think that being there for your neighbor is what we all should do.
Our family has always been blessed with good neighbors who stopped by to visit and they have often pitched in to help. The volunteers at All Hands are like good neighbors who have put their own plans on hold so they can reach out to distant neighbors in time of need. I never heard a volunteer complain about the work or the fact that there was no pay for the work. The satisfaction of knowing they helped was sufficient payment to buoy their spirits and lift them to do the next job. I hope to again be a good neighbor with All Hands as they do the work of reaching out to those in great need.

Matthew

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#25 Ming Kun Xi--Matthew

#25. Ming Kun Xi--Matthew
When Chan woke today, Feb 20, she was a single lady..tonight she rocked her new son to sleep, kissed his forehead & laid him down in a crib next to her bed. A day and a son she'll treasure forever!!!...and I got to watch it from a front row seat and/or behind the camera lens. This morning we were bussed to a gov't building where we sat in a large, well decorated room with lots of toys & 6 other anxious families. The first 2 kids delivered by their orphanages were not Chan's..but we were thrilled to watch each be put in their new parents arms. The loud crying soon subsided & we snapped pictures & felt their joy. Then we saw Matthew walking slowly down the hall. His many layers were topped with a furry tiger outfit. His nanny led him to Chan's open arms and pointed to her saying "Mama." He cried, turned back to his nanny. Chan's face glowed with love as she softly repeated, "Mama, Buyao you gulu (Don't be afraid) Wo Ai Ni." (I love you)." And with a sucker in her outstretched arms...in a few long minutes, Matthew was in her lap & she was his Mama!! Papers were signed, official pictures taken and the nannies answered Chan's questions finding out all she could about his past. Back on the bus, he sat quietly on her lap sucking on his 3rd sucker and watching out the window at his new world. Did he have any idea how drastically his life had changed?? From orphanage to 5 star hotel to soon a Florida home?? We ordered congee, his preferred orphanage food, as soon as we returned to the hotel. I ran out to get Subway for Chan & I. Somehow he'd already become American as he refused the congee & garfed down handfuls of Cheerios & parts of our Subways...and another sucker. When he spotted a bag of a familiar treat (small sweet cookie-like circles) he ate the orphanage and grabbed the bag and snacked on a few but then just used them to play with putting them in Chan's hand & then back in the bag. Soon it was time to meet up with Rita & Tina to do more paper signing...he took the bag with him and it kept him entertained the whole hour as he and I played the game. He got more and more sloppy as time passed dropping them...but always picking each and ever one up...even the crumbs. He was getting tired & acted drunk on goodies. Back in our room, we were surprised by a knock on our door--Tina & Rita with a birthday cake for Chan & Matthew. Since yesterday was Chan's BD in China--it's today in US. And it's Matthew's birthday today! How ironic is that! The birthday cake was not a bit hit to Matthew but several families came down to help eat it up with pleasure! We ate dinner in the hotel restaurant...Matthew's true colors started coming out as he banged on his tray, threw things on floor as said "Na" (Pick up) and spit out food. Chan hid her smile & delight...and scowled and said, "Ba" (No) and made mental notes about what she needed to bring to meals in the future. Back in the room, Chan tried to coax Matthew to let her take off his tiger suit which was only the top layer with two more under it. He screamed...so she only partially removed it, changed his pants & put it back on. Then she rocked him till he fell asleep. What a day...watching Chan & 6 other families' dreams come true!!!

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RE: #22. Beijing At Last

Mexico City does the same thing. One day a week you can't drive your car.
So people bought two. I guess it fits since Mexico City and Beijing are in
the top 10 for being the most populous metropolitan areas in the world
(though Tokyo, Shanghai and Jakarta are WAY out in front.

-----Original Message-----
From: Jane boyce [mailto:janeboyce@live.com]
Sent: Monday, February 20, 2017 8:13 PM
To: Jane boyce
Cc: bekah_boyce.emailpost@blogger.com
Subject: #22. Beijing At Last

Two hours to Dallas--met Chan--then 14 hours to Beijing where we stepped off
the plane so Chan's dream of becoming a Mom finally would become real! We
were met at the airport by George, our Chinese Children Adoption
International (CCAI) rep. Seven other excited facility boarded the
bus--strangers who quickly became friends. We headed straight for our hotel
room--spacious & luxurious. Took us 1/2 hour just to check it our and
figure out the lights! Far cry from the places we slept in last time we
were in China helping at the leprosy colonies. After long showers, we
decided to buzz into a nearby convenience store...bought Ramon noodles &
bread then opened my PJ and had a relaxing dinner our style...in our elegant
dining room. The comfy beds welcomed our heavy eyelids & aching bodies.

Day 2--After an endless selection of choices for breakfast, we met with
George & the group to head out for our Beijing tour. CCAI wants families to
get a chance to experience some of the Chinese culture...and get over jet
lag before Gotcha Day. Tiananmen Square & then Forbidden City before riding
a rickshaw through old Peking that dropped us at one of the local's homes
for dinner. Looking around, it was apparent this was the real deal. Two
round tables filled the main room & all 24 of us squeezed in. In the 4'x8'
kitchen, they prepared an amazing amount & variety of food that included
quail eggs, shrimp, chicken, cucumbers, bok choy, garlic shoots,
broccoli...all combined with various sauces & other veges. Poor rickshaw
drivers had more weight to pull back to our bus. Chan's enjoyed a massage
while I did some writing and then both napped till it was time to meet up
with the group again for a Peking duck dinner...which again was bountiful.
We needed to walk of at least part of today's meals, so we walked & browsed
street vendors ware ending up in a alley loaded with what the locals love:
deep fried baby ducks, starfish, snake, octopus, grubs, chicken feet and
scorpions still wiggling about. Rog & I had discovered a street like this 4
yrs ago...yet it was still a shock to see. Two tired gals fell into bed at
9 p.m.

Day 3
Though we longed to sleep in, we were up, dressed, choosing a slightly
smaller breakfast and on the bus by 8:30 headed for the Great Wall. The
climb up is not an easy one thanks to higher altitude & uneven steps--but
the view makes up for it! Though it was not as magnificent as the one Rog &
I saw from a different part of the wall, it was a thrill. Next we headed
for a Jade Factory. Jade here is like diamonds in US. A jade bangle
equates to our diamond ring is is often passed down through generations. A
nice bangle was $2500. We didn't buy one--or any thing else. We did eat
dinner there--another feast. Just when you think I can't eat another
bite...they bring out another new dish & gash, you gotta try it. Our bus
dropped us off just in time to catch the opening act of the Wonderful Hun,
an acrobatic performance. In awe we watched balancing, tumbling & bicycle
acts. The grand finale was 5 motorcycles racing around inside a huge metal
ball. Crazy!! We got back to our room around 6--totally exhausted. Packed
up our bags for our 6:45 PU tomorrow, ate up our left over Ramon noodles &
PJ sandwich then crashed.

Beijing info:
Beijing is home to 23 million people, hundreds of sky scrapers, a few trees
and kept clean by busy street sweepers everywhere. It's cold--about 35F and
we got lucky to have two daily clear days but third day were were enclosed
by smog...common here. Beijing is also home to 5.5 million cars. To curb
the #'s, gov't only allows driving your car 4 out of 5 business days. That
helped the car sales as people then bought 2 cars. Since days allowed are
determined by your license plate #...cost of plates is extremely high...in
Shanghai, people pay up to $15,000 for one plate! Cameras catch offenders.
Most roads have a side lane for the multitude of motorcycles, scooters,
bicycles, (most with blanket & hand covers) rickshaws, 3 wheeled mini cars &
wheel chairs. In spite of all this, traffic doesn't seem very congested and
moves at a slow pace--even expressway traffic appears under 60 MPH. People
are well dressed & all in a rush. Personal space is a foreign concept--just
as no Facebook & limited Google search is foreign to us!!

(Chan had downloaded a re-routing app which is how she can be on Facebook.
Me--well, I'm living without it.)

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#23. Bullet Train to Zheng Zhou. #24 Preperations

#23 Bullet Train to Zheng Zhou
Boarded the bullet train & headed to Zheng Zhou going 180 mph for 3 hrs 10 min. We sped past many villages--most looked so much alike..gray bricked red roofed homes connected to outer wall that surrounded the entire village. We also saw large towns most of which had multiple high rise apartment buildings & more being built. Since we saw so much building 4 yrs ago, guess there either didn't finish or are building more!! Between towns were flat green fields--not sure what the crops were but probably veges. Our ride was as smooth as butter with each mile taking us closer to Ming Kun Xi--Matthew.

#24 Preparations
Chan had a long list of things that needed to be ready for tomorrow , GOTCHA DAY! We did some shopping at Walmart for food to cover the next 2-3 days buying several snacks Matthew is familiar with according to our CCAI reps here, Rita & Tina. Six presents needed wrapping (for nannies & directors & 7 envelopes of $$ counted & sealed (for passport, pictures, TB test, notary, registration & nannies). As Chan counted the piles of yuan currencies, she laughed saying she felt like she was playing monopoly. Since the exchange rate is 6 yuan to $1...it was a pile! She said she was glad it was yuans cause it didn't feel like real $$! Next the diaper bag needed to be packed with lots of snacks, official papers organized, camera & phones charged & ready...and finally a good night sleep!!

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#22. Beijing At Last

Two hours to Dallas--met Chan--then 14 hours to Beijing where we stepped off the plane so Chan's dream of becoming a Mom finally would become real! We were met at the airport by George, our Chinese Children Adoption International (CCAI) rep. Seven other excited facility boarded the bus--strangers who quickly became friends. We headed straight for our hotel room--spacious & luxurious. Took us 1/2 hour just to check it our and figure out the lights! Far cry from the places we slept in last time we were in China helping at the leprosy colonies. After long showers, we decided to buzz into a nearby convenience store...bought Ramon noodles & bread then opened my PJ and had a relaxing dinner our style...in our elegant dining room. The comfy beds welcomed our heavy eyelids & aching bodies.

Day 2--After an endless selection of choices for breakfast, we met with George & the group to head out for our Beijing tour. CCAI wants families to get a chance to experience some of the Chinese culture...and get over jet lag before Gotcha Day. Tiananmen Square & then Forbidden City before riding a rickshaw through old Peking that dropped us at one of the local's homes for dinner. Looking around, it was apparent this was the real deal. Two round tables filled the main room & all 24 of us squeezed in. In the 4'x8' kitchen, they prepared an amazing amount & variety of food that included quail eggs, shrimp, chicken, cucumbers, bok choy, garlic shoots, broccoli...all combined with various sauces & other veges. Poor rickshaw drivers had more weight to pull back to our bus. Chan's enjoyed a massage while I did some writing and then both napped till it was time to meet up with the group again for a Peking duck dinner...which again was bountiful. We needed to walk of at least part of today's meals, so we walked & browsed street vendors ware ending up in a alley loaded with what the locals love: deep fried baby ducks, starfish, snake, octopus, grubs, chicken feet and scorpions still wiggling about. Rog & I had discovered a street like this 4 yrs ago...yet it was still a shock to see. Two tired gals fell into bed at 9 p.m.

Day 3
Though we longed to sleep in, we were up, dressed, choosing a slightly smaller breakfast and on the bus by 8:30 headed for the Great Wall. The climb up is not an easy one thanks to higher altitude & uneven steps--but the view makes up for it! Though it was not as magnificent as the one Rog & I saw from a different part of the wall, it was a thrill. Next we headed for a Jade Factory. Jade here is like diamonds in US. A jade bangle equates to our diamond ring is is often passed down through generations. A nice bangle was $2500. We didn't buy one--or any thing else. We did eat dinner there--another feast. Just when you think I can't eat another bite...they bring out another new dish & gash, you gotta try it. Our bus dropped us off just in time to catch the opening act of the Wonderful Hun, an acrobatic performance. In awe we watched balancing, tumbling & bicycle acts. The grand finale was 5 motorcycles racing around inside a huge metal ball. Crazy!! We got back to our room around 6--totally exhausted. Packed up our bags for our 6:45 PU tomorrow, ate up our left over Ramon noodles & PJ sandwich then crashed.

Beijing info:
Beijing is home to 23 million people, hundreds of sky scrapers, a few trees and kept clean by busy street sweepers everywhere. It's cold--about 35F and we got lucky to have two daily clear days but third day were were enclosed by smog...common here. Beijing is also home to 5.5 million cars. To curb the #'s, gov't only allows driving your car 4 out of 5 business days. That helped the car sales as people then bought 2 cars. Since days allowed are determined by your license plate #...cost of plates is extremely high...in Shanghai, people pay up to $15,000 for one plate! Cameras catch offenders. Most roads have a side lane for the multitude of motorcycles, scooters, bicycles, (most with blanket & hand covers) rickshaws, 3 wheeled mini cars & wheel chairs. In spite of all this, traffic doesn't seem very congested and moves at a slow pace--even expressway traffic appears under 60 MPH. People are well dressed & all in a rush. Personal space is a foreign concept--just as no Facebook & limited Google search is foreign to us!!

(Chan had downloaded a re-routing app which is how she can be on Facebook. Me--well, I'm living without it.)

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#21. Saying Goodbye to AHV Louisiana Flood Response

#21 Saying Goodbye to AHV Louisiana Flood Response

How can a simple room with an air mattress, outdoor furniture and a clothes line feel like home and a group of people feel like family in just one month?? I truly had to hold back tears as I vacuumed the room, picked my bag and then got warmly hugged by each volunteer & staff. I felt like their pseudo mom. I'd totem up early and made pancakes for all as a Valentine treat and a Thank You. As is the tradition, at the last meeting anyone leaving is asked to speak. Gorky from Turkey was leaving too. He got dressed up to give his speech. It was, "Thanks." Of course mine was a bit longer. I told them I was proud to have been one of them & admired each & hoped to see them again. I thanked them for being patient with me at the work sites. Prayed they'd have a good future but knew they'd make the best of whatever happened. Many said to me they looked forward to seeing me again at another AHV site and we'll keep in touch. But I know that may not happen, so I Facebooked many & take a part of them, my notes and memories with me.
Good by Michele, Rob, Aline, Lance, Turku, Dan, Mitch, Geoff, Dottie, Andrianna, David, John, Janene, Janene, Jimmy, Bob, Gorky, Ryan, Emma, Brett, Brandon (Bubba), Charlie, Jodi, Alyse, Julie, Drew, Mark, Sarah, Kaitlyn...
I'll probably forget most names...but not their caring spirit!!

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RE: #18. Mardi Gras #19 NoLa's Lower 9th

What did you do for each other for valentines day?

-----Original Message-----
From: Jane boyce [mailto:janeboyce@live.com]
Sent: Tuesday, February 14, 2017 3:13 PM
To: Jane boyce
Cc: bekah_boyce.emailpost@blogger.com
Subject: #18. Mardi Gras #19 NoLa's Lower 9th

# 18 Mardi Gras
Started work early Sat a.m. So we could quit early & get to the Krewe Du
Vieux Mardi Gras parade!! It's known as the wild one...satire, adult theme
& politics. It sure matched that bill & more! The parade route was jam
packed with a rowdy, loud, partying crowd...including several AHV not
wearing our AHV tshirts. Floats depicting Trump in less than flattering
themes added fuel to the party. As we walked down the street, people in the
above balconies tossed beads below...course you know what they wanted to
see...guess they felt sorry for the old gray-haired lady who refused &
tossed me beads anyways. We left the AHV kids to enjoy Bourbon St. without
us & met David (another AHV elder) for dinner, then headed for a hotel. And
to think this was just the beginning of lots more parades before the really
big one!

#19. NoLa's Lower 9th
What an unlucky place to live! Since we were allowed to have an AHV 12
passenger van, we were free to wander where we pleased today...so we headed
to New Orlean's (NoLa's) Lower 9th. We slowly drove through the area that
Katrina had hit the hardest...and a few months later, Rita hit...and last
week a tornado touched down there. And they hadn't even recovered from
Katrina. We drove by newly constructed Post Office, schools, fire & police
departments, ball fields & play structures and homes...and skeletons of
homes...and cleared lots which only cement slaps left. Three stages of
rebuilding. Thought we didn't go by the tornado site, we've seen pictures &
knew first hand what it would look like. And who lives in this lower 9th???
The poorest of NoLa. I can only say. Why??? Why did they get another kick
in the behind???
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#18. Mardi Gras #19 NoLa's Lower 9th

# 18 Mardi Gras
Started work early Sat a.m. So we could quit early & get to the Krewe Du Vieux Mardi Gras parade!! It's known as the wild one...satire, adult theme & politics. It sure matched that bill & more! The parade route was jam packed with a rowdy, loud, partying crowd...including several AHV not wearing our AHV tshirts. Floats depicting Trump in less than flattering themes added fuel to the party. As we walked down the street, people in the above balconies tossed beads below...course you know what they wanted to see...guess they felt sorry for the old gray-haired lady who refused & tossed me beads anyways. We left the AHV kids to enjoy Bourbon St. without us & met David (another AHV elder) for dinner, then headed for a hotel. And to think this was just the beginning of lots more parades before the really big one!

#19. NoLa's Lower 9th
What an unlucky place to live! Since we were allowed to have an AHV 12 passenger van, we were free to wander where we pleased today...so we headed to New Orlean's (NoLa's) Lower 9th. We slowly drove through the area that Katrina had hit the hardest...and a few months later, Rita hit...and last week a tornado touched down there. And they hadn't even recovered from Katrina. We drove by newly constructed Post Office, schools, fire & police departments, ball fields & play structures and homes...and skeletons of homes...and cleared lots which only cement slaps left. Three stages of rebuilding. Thought we didn't go by the tornado site, we've seen pictures & knew first hand what it would look like. And who lives in this lower 9th??? The poorest of NoLa. I can only say. Why??? Why did they get another kick in the behind???
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#15. Josephine #16. $29,000 Savings. #17 The Wait is Over

Another house flooded. Another life upside down. Josephine's. She is in her late 70's...raised two kids...husband & son both dead...daughter walks with a limp-not sure why...several grand & great-grand kids. In August flood waters invaded her home. In January, she buried her granddaughter...shot...Josephine thinks by her X. For months contractors had advised her to get ride of her appliances, cupboards, doors, paneling, flooring etc. So she did. Slowly. Contractors and groups came & went always leaving before the project was done. Then she called AHV & we're committed to finishing what others started. A FEMA inspector came by while I was there. She shook her head & asked, "Why did you tear down so much??" When Josephine said that's what the contractors told her to do...the FEMA lady just shook her head and I could tell by her facial expression...it was bad advise. Later when the FEMA lady & I were visiting, I asked her if she'd seen cases where people got bad advice. She said without hesitation...Oh yes! About half the time!" I already felt bad for Josephine...but now even worse! In spite of it all, Josephine was delightful and during my lunch, I sat in the sun soaking up the heat and her stories. She said any day she could wake up to a bright sunny morning was a good day. She told me lots of men over the years have wanted to take her out for chicken dinner but she refused cause she knew next they'd want to move in & soon wanta know where her purse was. Josephine struggled with keeping her stuff she needed in her car & hated taking up space in her daughter's tiny apartment. She'd always had lots of room in her 3 bedroom house & she couldn't remember ever living there alone...usually even both couches were beds for someone...siblings, gkids, ggkids, nieces, nephews..whoever needed a bed. I think one of the things that bothered her most was...as she said, "Where they all be now? Got maybe one grandson & one ggrandson showing up once in a while to help." Then she just pursed her lips and said, "I ain't complaining...just a talking. Could be a whole lotta worse." And what do I have to complain about?? While working at her house, I was on my knees a lot scrapping up old flooring...and praying that Josephine's life would improve & she'd keep your wonderful attitude!

#16 $29,000 Savings
So what does AHV save a homeowner?? That figure for shelter-based construction was announced at our meeting tonight...$29,000!1! Now that makes me feel REAL good about being a small part of this big $$$saving project!!

#17. The Wait is Over
I got THE phone call that the wait to fly to China & pick up my niece, Chan's adopted son, Matthew is over! Next week--Valentine's Day--I fly to meet her in Dallas & then we're off to Beijing. She's been on pins & needles for months waiting...and since I'm her travel partner...I've been on hold. Now the flights are booked & her plans made. My plan to meet Slys in Puerto Vallarta isn't happening--though Rog will meet up with them. I'm scheduled to be back in USA early March so Rog & I'll meet up somewhere then...probably Costa Rica...but who knows.. plans change...especially ours as they are pretty open & flexible as a rule!

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#14 Tornado Left-Overs

> I never met them...know very little about them...but today I rummage through the huge ruble pile that was their home. That they survived is simply amazing. Their trailer was ripped off the twisted frame, then rolled 3 times before landing in a heap of shattered pieces. Adrenaline must have helped her lift the tub she was under about 5 ft from the pile. Neighbors found him sitting in a stuffed chair nearby...white as a ghost & in tremendous pain. x-rays found several broken vertebrae. Their dog was missing for 2 days but finally wandered back. That dog was our constant companion as we sifted through the pile salvaging whatever we could. It's so strange what survived: coffee cup, a goblet, plastic toothpick container, 2 fishing poles & half the tackle box, rolls of TP, random forks & spoons, various tools and 4 four ceramic dinner plates...each found in a different area. We found one dresser drawer with folded clothes in it...and lots of wet, mud covered clothes strewed all over...some caught in fences & others in trees. Deciding what food to keep was trickle. Cans with dents?? Smashed dirty boxed food with sealed insides?? Jars with lids on but 1/2 gone?? Mostly the stench made the decision easy.
> With each find, I felt I got a glimpse of their lives and a great sense of satisfaction knowing I'd rescued a piece of their life for them. Three other trailers laid in heaps nearby. One had been rented by a handicap man who they found caught in a fence. An older home in the back had lost it's roof. The gray haired owner of that was the owner of all the demolished trailers...rental income he relied on.
> We were at one site. There were many others. And have been--as Dexter knows--and will be many more. Random, sporadic, devastating. I can't help them all...but it's the starfish story that brings me peace.
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Lunch break at work site

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#11 FEMA Trailers. #12 Great Break Fun #13 Tornado Hits

> #11 FEMA Trailers
> Did I tell ya'll about FEMA trailers?? They are not much to talk about in size but man does the government pay lots for them! Between $120,000 and $170,000 for a 3 bedroom! Then there's the hauling and set up cost...and in less than 18 months....there's the take down and hauling cost. It'll be hauled to usually a farm field where they pay the farmer for storage. We've been told hundreds of these are stored not too far from here in fields & the farmer is making lots more money than they ever made on crops...so at least they are happy! No one knows why the stored ones aren't being used--certainly lots of people around here are in need--guess the qualifying & paper work is just too tough. How ridiculous is that???
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> #12. Great Break Fun
> After putting up drywall all week, we were ready for a fun break. Sunday eight of us headed down to New Orleans to watch AHV David cross the finish line in the Fun Mardi Gras Half Marathon. He wore a crazy purple/green/gold crown & tie the whole race which earned him the name "Mardi Gras Guy." After enjoying the after party for a bit, we found a Mexican restaurant & then headed back in time to watch the Super Bowl. Next day, Rog & I hit the grocery store to buy picnic food to treat the kids. When they tried to pitch in some $$, Rog said, "Hey we do this for our kids & kids --so we can do it for you too!" We threw the cooler & grill in the van & headed to a beautiful park. Rog & others played some disc golf and then we all gorged on hamburgers & hotdogs, fruit, chips & brownies. Got home around 7. We vegged out in our room while others watch The Lion King...they may be big & strong...but they are kids at heart!
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> #13. Tornado Hits
> Ten miles away today, more homes were devastated by a tornado and three more hit down between here and New Orleans. Some of the same ones already trying to crawl back from the August, 2016 flood & even some from Katrina. Can they not get a break?? Locals are saying tornadoes are extremely rare here till recently. Fortunately no deaths & few injuries reported. This morning we were on our way to our worksite when we got the call to hunker down somewhere--so pulled into closest place, McD. I was happy till they told me they were out of D.Coke! We hung out there about an hour & half till we got a call to return to base. So spent the afternoon watching the local channel covering the weather & reports of damages & doing odd cleaning jobs. Everyone was feeling the pain of knowing how much hurting was going on

Tornado pictures

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Photo of us

#8 Francis' Day Care Center, #9 Local Support, #10 Cookies

#8. Francis' Day Care Center
Met Francis this week. She ran a day care center in the downstairs of her home...until it flooded. Now she is in a FEMA trailer with no income & a ruined home. Dry walling her house is a trick as it has had lots of add ons over the years. AHV has been working on it for 2 weeks and I got in on the last 2 days so I was treated to her shouts of "Alleluia! Thought I'd never see walls in my house again! This is the first time I came in here and didn't get depressed." How's that for a job well done!

#9. Local Support
Besides the many heartfelt thank you's & hugs from the homeowners, I can't tell you how many locals have come up to me in my AHV shirt and thank me for being here...in stores, on the street or on base. As a Thank You Pastor Todd took us all out to dinner at an Indian restaurant. We were like one big happy family passing our plates to share and taste testing with everyone. The church's custodian got us tickets for a LSU gymnastic meet the same night. A grateful homeowner brought us a great big pot of gumbo. We've been told that a whole wave of help arrived but soon just a trickle was left. Seeing AHV shirts keep the flickering flame of hope alive for the hundreds still not in their homes.

#10 Cookies
We're losing volunteers daily as the base was suppose to be shut down on 1/31 so they had made other plans & many are going to Nepal AHV sites. The AmeriCore team of 7 also left on 1/31. Recently they got funding for 3 more months for rebuilding here. A few day before the mass exodus, Rog & I made 10 dozen chocolate chip cookies serving them right from the oven still on the cookies sheets. Every 8 minutes, more hot ones. You would have thought we were passing out gold!

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#8. Francis' Day Care Center
Met Francis this week. She ran a day care center in the downstairs of her home...until it flooded. Now she is in a FEMA trailer with no income & a ruined home. Dry walling her house is a trick as it has had lots of add ons over the years. AHV has been working on it for 2 weeks and I got in on the last 2 days so I was treated to her shouts of "Alleluia! Thought I'd never see walls in my house again! This is the first time I came in here and didn't get depressed." How's that for a job well done!

#9. Local Support
Besides the many heartfelt thank you's & hugs from the homeowners, I can't tell you how many locals have come up to me in my AHV shirt and thank me for being here...in stores, on the street or on base. As a Thank You Pastor Todd took us all out to dinner at an Indian restaurant. We were like one big happy family passing our plates to share and taste testing with everyone. The church's custodian got us tickets for a LSU gymnastic meet the same night. A grateful homeowner brought us a great big pot of gumbo. We've been told that a whole wave of help arrived but soon just a trickle was left. Seeing AHV shirts keep the flickering flame of hope alive for the hundreds still not in their homes.

#10 Cookies
We're losing volunteers daily as the base was suppose to be shut down on 1/31 so they had made other plans & many are going to Nepal AHV sites. The AmeriCore team of 7 also left on 1/31. Recently they got funding for 3 more months for rebuilding here. A few day before the mass exodus, Rog & I made 10 dozen chocolate chip cookies serving them right from the oven still on the cookies sheets. Every 8 minutes, more hot ones. You would have thought we were passing out gold!

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#5 David Campbell, #6 Pastor Todd, #7 New Orleans

#5 David Campbell
David is the founder of All Hands Volunteers (AHV). Many years ago, David worked for the company that was at the fore front of the internet social media. He had a gut feeling that somehow it could be used to help in many situations where people were in desperate need but nothing clicked until 3 days after the devastating Dec 28 tsunami. He was eating lunch with a friend who told him, "A week ago, I had been eating on the same terrace where all 78 tourist were washed into the ocean along with everything & one around there." David went home, googled it and noted that the internet was not down there. So his old idea popped into his head and he got a plane ticket and soon was in Thailand setting up a website to help organize the massive influx of volunteers and donations. Since then, AHV has come early and stayed late for over 60 domestic & another 60 international disasters. David came here today to give us a pep talk, ask for suggestions, answer questions and meet with the Louisiana politicians to ask them how AHV can help & how much $$ they can supply for building supplies. He also met with St. Bernard Parish volunteer organization that he admires. They have been in New Orleans since Katrina rebuilding many homes. David sat at our table for dinner sharing what he calls "Serendipity Stories" or what I call "God Inspired" stories. Either way, I thank God for David and the AHV board & staff and all the young volunteers. At the 5 pm meeting tonight, I told those young volunteers that they amaze me and give me hope for a good and promising future.

#6 Pastor Todd
Pastor Todd is the pastor of the New Covenant Baptist Church that is housing AHV for free. As we worked along side him today, we heard his flood story and how it turned his church into a truly serving church. The youth generously gave up their entire rec hall to AHV. We use their kitchen daily. Another Sunday School room became a tool shed. Another SS room became our bedroom. The church van is now a work van. And also this church housed serveral families after the flood. While most members are working on their own mess, the others go through neighborhoods locating seniors and disabled that have no help. Pastor Todd & his church's actions speak the teaching of the Bible LOUD & CLEAR.

#7. New Orleans
We spent our two day break in New Orleans. The city of jazz, blues, beignets and endless bars. One volunteer, David took us to car rental, where another volunteer, Janine rented a car & drove us to New Orleans. We treated her and us to shrimp & oyster Poor Boys at Johnny's in the French Quarter and then parted ways. We hopped on a paddle boat to see New Orleans from the Mississippi River. It dropped us at a battlefield where in 1815 over 2000 British soldiers died while fewer than 20 Americans were killed. Andrew Jackson's troops united with some pirates and used the canals for protections to defeat the British. We caught a street car and rode it around the Garden District (40 cents). Rog ate alligator hot dog for supper then we strolled down Frenchman St. stopping in the bars to listen to live bands...ok...Rog had a beer too. Cheesecake & bread pudding topped with praline sauce was the sweet ending for our day in New Orleans. We spent the night in an Airb& b just one block from the street car. We had the whole house to ourselves. The gaudy, artsy decor was appropriate. The next morning, we headed to the Mardi Grau World for a tour. The humongous building was jam packed with floats ready to roll out, all types & sizes of figures, & flowers. Other props were in the process of being built out of styrofoam, paper mache, & painted in vibrant colors. The first Mardi Grau parade is less than 2 weeks away. They will have almost 50 parades in all with the BIG one on Fat Tuesday. Amazing amount of time and $$$$! After lunch, we strolled Jackson Square enjoying live music, mime characters & artist. We had to stop by Cafe du Monde to get covered by powdered sugar while eating beignets. About the time we thought we'd better head for the bus station, another AHV, Dottie texted to let us know she could pick us up. So we went back to our b&b to grab our bags and waited on the front porch rocking chairs until she came along. We got back in time to go bowling with the whole AHV group...it was a treat from one of the AHV board members who visited here a couple days ago. How's that for a weekend???