We’re starting to get into the groove of our life here at Sophie’s Place. It took four days to get used to the cold showers, dormitory living, and sharing kitchen responsibilities. Today started with an early morning breakfast, which was extended an extra half hour due to "Jamaica time." This resulted in enjoying a second cup of coffee, but it also meant sitting in Jamaican traffic for an hour and 15 minutes to get to Jerusalem!. We have now learned that Kingston is infamous for its frequent traffic jams.
Sitting in typical Jamaica traffic.
We had been to Jerusalem! the day before and upon returning continued our work project. We jumped back in and began refreshing the resident cottages, painting them bright teal, green, and yellow. The sun was hot but there was the occasional breeze which we attempted to “savor." This theme was salient in our minds from our reflection the evening before. Both the sheep and the residents were cautiously checking out our work. The chitter chatter of the neighborhood slowed as the residents made their way to circle time, for singing and socializing. The sound of their singing and musical instruments cheered us on as we sweat.
Team "before" shot
Steve painting from a homemade scaffold.
Katie & Eve showing off their work.
One of the homes we finished.
After a quick lunch, we got back to work to finish painting for the day. At 2:30, we headed over to Martha’s House, a facility in the Jerusalem! complex, to visit the children as they came home from school. Martha’s House is home to 35 children living with HIV/AIDS and other comorbid disabilities. Here we shared our time with the children playing games, coloring, blowing bubbles, and of course handing out sweeties, stickers, and balloons. While the children were ecstatic, we felt for the Aunties left to deal with the sugar high and shifting their focus to homework. After more Jamaica traffic, we headed back to Sophie’s Place for quick showers then off to dinner in Kingston at a restaurant called "100." For me, the highlight of the dinner was speaking in depth with Tashai, the mission group coordinator. Her passion for the Mustard Seed organization was only outdone by her commitment to the children they serve. The night served to further build the relationships in this quirky group we have come to know.
Katie & Steve
Halfway Through Their Rookie Season
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