Last night was gloriously cool on the rooftop, with winds coming from the north. The moon rose just before 9:00, so for hours we could see stars as far as the horizon in all directions. We saw so many shooting stars we lost count. The wind picked up and it became so cool that we were happy to have long sleeves and our new Haitian friends turned in early because they were too cold. I was tempted to sleep on the roof, but in the end, after hours of star gazing, we all descended the ladder to turn in for the night.

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This morning we learned that the north winds bring big waves between Ile a Vache and the port in Les Cayes and often the situation gets worse the next day, so Léon decided we needed to depart for the mainland today to avoid delays in the morning. So, we ate a good breakfast, packed our belongings, sorted supplies one last time for teams coming behind us and said our goodbyes before leaving our home away from home. We will miss the children and our friends Wilson, Paul Saint and Gilandré, who will remain on the island, but we will see them soon when we return in March. Léon, Johnny, and Boaz returned to Les Cayes with us, so we will save our goodbyes for them until later.

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Before we departed, Léon was able to get some neighbor children to get our patient from March, Wandales, to come to the beach so we could recheck him. His leg looks much better than it did in March, but there is still a small open wound that has not yet healed. The team before us provided him antibiotics to take for 6 weeks and he was reminded the importance of taking them. We will arrange for him to get definitive treatment at the hospital in Bon Fin as soon as possible.

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Once our last patient was seen, we all loaded on the boat for the “refreshing” boat ride to Les Cayes…and by refreshing, I mean drenching. In fact, I believe Chelsea and Jil washed their entire outfits, down to their underwear…while wearing them, on the 90 minute ride. It was good that Léon decided to do this today instead of in the morning…can’t imagine a soggy van ride for 4 hours, then boarding a plane for Miami. Once we offloaded in Les Cayes, we piled luggage and ourselves into the back of a taptap and rode to Léon’s home where we unloaded again and were treated to a running water shower, lunch and a breezy porch to unwind. And in case you are wondering, I did find the steps to the roof here too, where I imagine we will be found this evening.

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There is a stark difference here from Ile a Vache. The sounds of cars, trucks, motos, horns beeping, and music blaring is everywhere. There is a non stop hustle and bustle that resembles Port au Prince, only on a slightly smaller scale.  I don’t mind it, but I have already come to prefer the vibe on Ile a Vache. Regardless, we were able to spend the afternoon resting, reading, writing and relecting on our time here. I am reminded continually of all the blessings I have had in my life, both before Haiti and now since, not the least of which is the privelege to call this team my family (again, those here, including our Haitian friends, and those reading this from home). We may not always see eye to eye on all matters, but there is a genuine respect and love for one another, like any other family…and that is something very special!

We have now spent hours on the cool front porch and have enjoyed another fantastic meal. The sun has set and the city sounds seem to have increased in intensity. No telling if they will wane as the night progresses…it is a Friday night and today is the last day of campaigning for president in Haiti, which means trucks with loudspeakers blaring musical tributes to their preferred candidates, usually to a very danceable beat. Never know, might have our own Rave on the roof tonight or it may just serve as our goodnight lullaby.

We may all turn in early as the week has been long and full, but for now we will enjoy one last night in our adopted home. Please wish us good rest and safe travels tomorrow as we start our journey home to reunite with family and friends. We miss you very much and count the time until we will see you again!

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Good night and Love to All,

The Team