2009 Belize Mission Trips Begin

Team One 2009 has arrived safely in San Pedro. Arrival went smoothly in a Belize sort of way. Only one bag left behind in Phil's bus, but it is due to arrive by water taxi this afternoon. Barb Harris and Holly Hodges were able to sync up seamlessly from the Team One feeder cities of Philadelphia and Dallas (Holly being clever enough to arrive on the plane that continued on to Belize, so she knew her luggage would make it). Unlike years past, we were able to catch the 1:30 water taxi so, although a smaller boat than usual, had the advantage of not having to fight 136 school children for seats (if they would just attend Holy Cross Anglican School, they wouldn't have to make this trip)!

We thus arrived in San Pedro in plenty of time to relax before heading out to our first team dinner at Jambel (jerk fish = very good!). Caution to Team Next: water taxi no longer docks at the Tackle Box, but farther up the beach, so you will need to use taxis to shuttle your luggage. We've all settled into Ruby's just fine. We had a short time of reflection before dinner, then topped the evening off with a little ice cream and an early bed time as all had been up since before 4 in the morning. Terrie and Van met with the school's social worker, Kim, and she is eager for help with the children on a variety of real-life issues and dilemmas they face every day. There will be plenty to do!

Awoke Saturday to rain and cool weather so people are reading, wandering the town and "resting up" for the work ahead. Provided I do this right, you will see a photo of some of our group reading and chatting on Ruby's covered deck. If you would like to contact a team member, you can send an email to johnhc@mindspring.com as I will check this address each time I update the blog.

We will have a worship service and more relaxation time tomorrow before beginning work at the school on Monday. Include us and, more importantly, the children of Holy Cross in your prayers!