Back in Haiti from the Dominican Republic.  While I was approaching landing at Port-Au-Prince, heard the call sign for the aircraft flying Sarah Palin.  We exchanged a few kind words.  Upon landing, and getting a fine lunch prepared by Lisa, it was off Samaritan’s Purse and bringing in a critical load of supplies for them.  They were all still “a-buzz” about the special visitor.  The main theme of her visit was “Don’t forget Haiti”.  This is certainly a dark and challenging hour for Haiti.

The word “on the street” has been that Monday (today) would be a very violent day.  Late yesterday evening the Provisional Haiti Election Council offered to re-open the election process to Appeal.  This action gives all of the candidates the opportunity to legally challenge the results of the election.  This may avert a major outbreak of violence.  We pray that the violence is averted.  So many suffer for so many reasons when violence breaks out.  Truly, Haiti is walking a “tight rope”.

We have been in touch with numerous missions who are seeking to evacuate their American / Foreign staff members from Haiti.  It is very difficult to move around the country.  One never knows when a violent protest will erupt.  The usual technique is to block the road with burning tires.  Then “anything” can happen.  

While all of this is going on, tens of thousand are languishing with cholera.  The tragedy is – critical supplies and medical personnel are unable to move.  This was demonstrated by the 10 member medical team that we had airlifted out of the isolated mountain community then flown to the Dominican Republic where they easily caught flights back to the U.S.  There were a few flights that “snuck” into Haiti yesterday, but regular service has yet to be restored.

I see from the weather reports that much of the U.S. is gripped by a terrible freeze, even down in “Sunny Florida”.  It’s even been a bit cool in the evenings here.  Barbara (Rambo in the Blue Dress) just pulled out a large stock of blankets.  We’ll be bringing those, along with food into the tent-cities that we’ve been helping.  Yesterday, while enroute to Samaritan’s Purse, we stopped in Caanan II.  Haven’t been able to get word on Daniel (the older gentleman that we have been helping).  Hope to get his status today.  But there is something else.

The last few visits to Caanan II, I have sensed a depression among the residents.  The strong leadership that we have been working with is breaking down.  The “tents”, once bright blue are now dirty and tattered.  The little gardens that were so beautiful and fruitful just a month ago, are dried and dying.  The people are tired, frustrated and hurting.  Cholera has been slowly creeping into this camp.  We are so thankful that Caanan II does have an excellent sources of water provided by ACF, the French relief organization.  Pastor Volny does have a Rescuer and has the ability to purify water as needed.

I just received these shots from my Cindy in chilly Florida.  Peter and Juliet sang in our church, Redeemer Presbyterian,  yesterday morning.  They did a wonderful job.  Then our little Ariana was one of the Christmas angels.  Sorry I missed the performance.  So glad we can capture the moment and text them.  Amazing and wonderful technology for staying in touch.

Today, we’ll be laying low and on stand-by to fly if needed.  I’ll be in our “refurbishment center” preparing Rescuers for service.  Kyle and the construction team have been making splendid progress on the village.  Metal stairs are being put into place.  We have one team member, Jake, who is an “artist” when it comes to metal work.  He believes in “functional art”.  He does great work along with the rest of the team.  We are so thankful again for how “our Lord deploys His troops”.  Have a blessed day, stay warm and thanks again for your faith prayer and love!!