day 1 - miami, here we come

Day 1 - what a relief! we were finally on our way to destination Haiti after many questions, concerns ... and opportunities to turn our worries into prayers. we began the day pretty early - left at about 5 am or so for the airport, to take our stop-over flight to miami. it was an adventure right from the start ... with challenges from an airport official about the medical packs that we were bringing into miami overnight. 'how do we know that you are not going to sell the items in these packs on the black market in miami?', was one of the questions asked. since the miami lay-over was a last minute change by the airline, i was unprepared for the effect that would have on us with regard to our luggage. the airport was not willing to store our stuff (siting a change in policy about such things since 911). this was a new one for me ... so i gave the official all of my paperwork and my civilian i.d. from where i work, which helped! after a few questions, now based on sincere interest in our trip, the official said that he thought we were doing a great thing and wished us well. i was pleasantly surprised at the turn in attitude of this guy. other staff ensured that our medicines were transported in a special way so that the items would not be crushed or damaged. i chuckled at the unexpected favour and joined my group, who waited for me in the sidelines. after a yummy breakfast and a few laughs, we boarded our flight for miami.

we arrived in miami with a bit of trouble with regard to our reservations; but i want to give laurie and the other gals an opportunity to tell about that.

at the end of our day, our reflections included reading:
Ephesians 3:17-19 paraphrased ... that Christ will be more and more at home in your hearts as you trust in Him. may your roots go down deep into the soil of God's marvelous love. the message

James1:2-4
... whenever trouble comes your way let it be an opportunity for joy. for when your faith is tested your endurance has a chance to grow, so let it grow. for when your endurance is fully developed you will be strong in character and ready for anything.

Celtic Blessing: may the peace of Christ go with you wherever He may send you. may He guide you through the wilderness and protect you throught the storm. may He bring you home rejoicing a the wonders He has shown us. may He bring us home rejoicing once again unto our door.

our photos include waiting at the airport; hanging out pool-side at the hotel in miami; joyce sleeping in a cot provided by the hotel. today's slide show begins looking at today's weather ... and ends, again, in the cot.