This post is from Monday. Since we arrived to Kingston, Jamaica, we have had some problems with the Internet. The good news is that it should be fixed now. This is no guarantee but it might happen. ;-)
Mark Twain once said: "Life is a book and those who don't travel only read one chapter".
I would say: "Life is a book and those who haven't been on a missionary trip have to try it once. Otherwise, their book will miss one of the chapters".
It was a fabulous start of the day! Lindsay and I were up at 5 AM. So, it gave us enough time to enjoy morning yoga and savor every moment of it!
After that all the team met in the common area for a light breakfast that included Jamaican coffee, Nutella, and some other snacks. Then Andrew reminded us about today's agenda and we were ready to kick off the daY!
It was around 6:30 AM when we left Jacob's Ladder (the place where we are staying). It was cool and peaceful outside. We got to the bus and Lorenzo (our driver on this trip) took us to the other part of the island. I was savoring my ride to our next distination.
Looking through the window, inhaling fresh air, listening to Caribbean music and being surrounded by the mountains was a part of our morning journey.
Then we arrived to Sophie's Place and children were just so ... loving! Even though most of them have a very severe disability, I was amazed how one simple touch can put a smile on their faces. That moment brought a radiant happiness to my life!
I was also surprised how quickly Lindsay, Britt, Jen, and Jess became PROs communicating with children! Their unconditional love for the Mustard Seed children, and their total acceptance and support of them, lit up my own soul!
Our veterans: Christina, Jordan, and Andrew were very happy when they came back to "their children". I can still see Christina making up a story on-the-fly about Zazu the rabbit and Jumpy the lamb for Donovan and Tiara. I was inspired by just sitting there and letting Tiara (a lovely three-year-old girl) brushing my hair while we both listened to Christina's story.
And it's not even the end of it, we have spent some time doing outside work as well. The whole process of moving rocks and painting walls under Andrew's and Jordan's supervision brought us even closer together as a team! And it was a good work out for all of us ... busy New Yorkers (yes, I'm going to include myself into this category as well). Haha
After Sophie's Place, we headed to Mary's Child to visit teen moms and play with their newborn babies. Chatting with young moms and soon-to-be moms was an experience itself! What I didn't expect is to hear from 13 year old pregnant Jamaican girl saying something like this: "I'm not sure what exactly I want to do in life but if I can choose any profession, I would love to be an architect and have a team who will help me to design skyscrapers. Also, I want to travel the world and see different places. In the meantime, I love to draw, play cricket, and soccer! And yes, I love to swim and I want to learn how to surf. Do you surf?" I was completely speechless and ask her how she feels about having a baby at such a young age. She said: "I'm not totally happy now but (she paused here) I will be for my baby!" I was very glad that I had a big bag of stuffed toys, some clothes, and souvenirs with me. Every girl had an opportunity to choose something for herself. During half an hour that we were in the living room of St. Mary's facility, girls kept us company and seemed very pleased with our presence. I have savored every single moment of that interaction.
On our way home, we stopped at Mega Mart (a supermarket similar to Costco in the U.S.) and bought dozens of Jamaican coffee, sauces, and spices. So, my dear friends, I can't wait to invite you for a cup of coffee or tea when I'm back to New York, and share with you even more stories about our Jamaican trip.
Love,
Iryna (2nd Year Veteran)
http://www.mustardseed.com/goto/NYC
Wednesday, November 4, 2015
Tuesday, November 3, 2015
Checking In!
Hi Everyone!
We are spending the week up at Jacob's Ladder--Mustard Seed's large facility in Ocho Rios. Unfortunately, being up in those fantastic mountains means very unpredictable internet--which is why our posts have been few so far!
We had Iryna's post good to go last night, and then I forgot my laptop this morning so that we could post hers. Look for that soon!
Everyone says hello to everyone they've ever loved (they all neglected to pitch in as they are exhausted and enjoying some morning coffee ha ha).
Andrea, we are thinking about you and wishing you a smooth recovery.
Riley: HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
Love you all!
Andrew
http://www.mustardseed.com/goto/NYC
We are spending the week up at Jacob's Ladder--Mustard Seed's large facility in Ocho Rios. Unfortunately, being up in those fantastic mountains means very unpredictable internet--which is why our posts have been few so far!
We had Iryna's post good to go last night, and then I forgot my laptop this morning so that we could post hers. Look for that soon!
Everyone says hello to everyone they've ever loved (they all neglected to pitch in as they are exhausted and enjoying some morning coffee ha ha).
Andrea, we are thinking about you and wishing you a smooth recovery.
Riley: HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
Love you all!
Andrew
http://www.mustardseed.com/goto/NYC
Sunday, November 1, 2015
Best Weekend Ever
Meeting at the airport was the first time our team finally met as a whole! With all the prep work and fundraising over the past several months, we couldn't belive we were finally ready to go! After a quiet, sleepy flight we made it to Kingston--and the heat was a bit of a shock to our bodies. Smooth sailing through customs and a long drive towards Jacobs Ladder brought us to a beef patty rest stop. Once getting to Jacob's Ladder we were instantly greeted with smiling faces from the residents here.
Our team is four vetrans (Andrew, Jordan, Christina, and Iryna) and four rookies (Jessika, Jen, Lindsay, and Britt). While the veterans know what to expect, the rookies are experiencing everything for the first time. The anticipation leading up to meeting the residents quickly vanished. As soon as we stepped out of our front door the residents were coming right up to us, giving hugs and being curious about who was staying at their home. Although like with any new situation there was a little hesitation at first, once a resident grabs your hand or gives you a hug and a laugh the fear of what you have not experienced before completely disappears.
After a tour of Jacobs Ladder, which is always expanding and growing in projects, we enjoyed some social time in the gazebo. Some friendly chat and sharing quickly turned into a dance party! Andrew's speakers and Christina's DJing skills got the residents very excited. Britt and Jordan were quickly wisked to the dance floor for a slow dance and a tango. Jen and Iryna were nearby, playing with the residents on the swing set. Lindsay and Jessika slowly acclimated to their new surroundings by chatting with a few residents over their hobbies and favorite activities. A new four-legged friend also joined the party with a little incentive from the resident--grabbing bread from the kitchen.
With a long day of travel behind us we all enjoyed some much needed sleep. Being renewed and restored we all woke to a wonderful breakfast made by Kevin. Kevin is our missions team representitve and is part of our MSC team, along with Bashy our security guard and Alonzo, our driver. We enjoyed some pancakes, eggs, sausage, bananas, and Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee. Sunday mass was in nearby Ocho Rios at Our Lady of Fatima Roman Catholic Church. The parish greeted our group with open arms. The view surrounding the church was complemented by the loving community inside. It was a wonderful experience felt by those who practice Catholicism and those who do not.
It was soon time for another long ride in the bus. We were on our way to Matthew 25:40 in which Lindsay took in all of the scenery of Jamaica while most others took a nap. The community of boys was highlighted by the veterans of the the group as one of the best days of the trip. When we arrived the boys were ready to start playing! Some veterans said hello to those they had made connections with in prior years while the newbies adapted to the high energy of the group. Andrew, Iryna, Jessika, Lindsay, and Jen quickly began playing some soccer and frisbee with the boys. Christina, Britt, and Jordan had a chance to chat with some of the boys and enjoy some coloring and balloon-blowing fun.
The visit to Matthew was shorter than usual because we are actually staying at Jacob's Ladder, instead of the usual Sophie's Place, because of renovations going on at Sophie's. This means a long hour-and-a-half drive home. After some quick showers we enjoyed another wonderful home-cooked meal. Andrew was especially happy with the "Jamaican chicken" that he looks forward to each year.
During some refleciton time the recurring theme was the simplicity of sharing love with people who were strangers to most of us. Our visit is short, but the impact is big. We all hope the simple pleasures we experienced today will stay with us long after this trip because today's lesson is one to remember.
The weekend has passed and initial meetings have been made, it is time to start the work week. We will be finding our way to Sophie's Place and Mary's Child on a bright and early Monday.
Christina (9-year Veteran)
Jessika (Rookie)
http://www.mustardseed.com/goto/NYC
Our team is four vetrans (Andrew, Jordan, Christina, and Iryna) and four rookies (Jessika, Jen, Lindsay, and Britt). While the veterans know what to expect, the rookies are experiencing everything for the first time. The anticipation leading up to meeting the residents quickly vanished. As soon as we stepped out of our front door the residents were coming right up to us, giving hugs and being curious about who was staying at their home. Although like with any new situation there was a little hesitation at first, once a resident grabs your hand or gives you a hug and a laugh the fear of what you have not experienced before completely disappears.
After a tour of Jacobs Ladder, which is always expanding and growing in projects, we enjoyed some social time in the gazebo. Some friendly chat and sharing quickly turned into a dance party! Andrew's speakers and Christina's DJing skills got the residents very excited. Britt and Jordan were quickly wisked to the dance floor for a slow dance and a tango. Jen and Iryna were nearby, playing with the residents on the swing set. Lindsay and Jessika slowly acclimated to their new surroundings by chatting with a few residents over their hobbies and favorite activities. A new four-legged friend also joined the party with a little incentive from the resident--grabbing bread from the kitchen.
With a long day of travel behind us we all enjoyed some much needed sleep. Being renewed and restored we all woke to a wonderful breakfast made by Kevin. Kevin is our missions team representitve and is part of our MSC team, along with Bashy our security guard and Alonzo, our driver. We enjoyed some pancakes, eggs, sausage, bananas, and Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee. Sunday mass was in nearby Ocho Rios at Our Lady of Fatima Roman Catholic Church. The parish greeted our group with open arms. The view surrounding the church was complemented by the loving community inside. It was a wonderful experience felt by those who practice Catholicism and those who do not.
It was soon time for another long ride in the bus. We were on our way to Matthew 25:40 in which Lindsay took in all of the scenery of Jamaica while most others took a nap. The community of boys was highlighted by the veterans of the the group as one of the best days of the trip. When we arrived the boys were ready to start playing! Some veterans said hello to those they had made connections with in prior years while the newbies adapted to the high energy of the group. Andrew, Iryna, Jessika, Lindsay, and Jen quickly began playing some soccer and frisbee with the boys. Christina, Britt, and Jordan had a chance to chat with some of the boys and enjoy some coloring and balloon-blowing fun.
The visit to Matthew was shorter than usual because we are actually staying at Jacob's Ladder, instead of the usual Sophie's Place, because of renovations going on at Sophie's. This means a long hour-and-a-half drive home. After some quick showers we enjoyed another wonderful home-cooked meal. Andrew was especially happy with the "Jamaican chicken" that he looks forward to each year.
During some refleciton time the recurring theme was the simplicity of sharing love with people who were strangers to most of us. Our visit is short, but the impact is big. We all hope the simple pleasures we experienced today will stay with us long after this trip because today's lesson is one to remember.
The weekend has passed and initial meetings have been made, it is time to start the work week. We will be finding our way to Sophie's Place and Mary's Child on a bright and early Monday.
Christina (9-year Veteran)
Jessika (Rookie)
http://www.mustardseed.com/goto/NYC
Friday, October 30, 2015
9...It's a Magic Number
...or I'll just keep telling myself that!
I sit here at my office making some final preparations for the trip and tidying up. This is my ninth year traveling to Jamaica to work for/with the kids, and the butterflies still creep in a little bit.
I think I now get more excited for my fellow volunteers--particularly the ones coming for their first time. We have Britt, who's in a networking group with me. There's Jessika, a colleague of Britt's and jumped on board just about as soon as the topic was floated out there. Then there's Lindsay, whom I met through Britt only about 8 weeks and dove right in. Sheesh, Britt just killed it this year with the recruiting!
And finally, there's Jen--we met at a Jamaica fundraiser 6 weeks ago. She expressed interest and then work commitments dictated otherwise. Then, two days she emails me out of the blue to see if she could come. Serendipity at it's finest.
Even after multiple meetings and conversations, they still do not quite know the joy they are about to experience, nor the sheer impact that will have on so many young lives. I cannot wait to relive that first experience vicariously through each of them.
The newbies are joined by three returning team members: Jordan, Christina, Iryna.
If you're counting along, that is indeed seven women and me. Pray for me! :)
We'll be entertaining you each evening with a new entry (working internet permitting) so more to come!
In the meantime, you can donate to this phenomenal organization by clicking here (or eventually in the upper right-hand corner once we get that link updated).
Andrew (9th Year)
aka Sweetie Mon
I sit here at my office making some final preparations for the trip and tidying up. This is my ninth year traveling to Jamaica to work for/with the kids, and the butterflies still creep in a little bit.
I think I now get more excited for my fellow volunteers--particularly the ones coming for their first time. We have Britt, who's in a networking group with me. There's Jessika, a colleague of Britt's and jumped on board just about as soon as the topic was floated out there. Then there's Lindsay, whom I met through Britt only about 8 weeks and dove right in. Sheesh, Britt just killed it this year with the recruiting!
And finally, there's Jen--we met at a Jamaica fundraiser 6 weeks ago. She expressed interest and then work commitments dictated otherwise. Then, two days she emails me out of the blue to see if she could come. Serendipity at it's finest.
Even after multiple meetings and conversations, they still do not quite know the joy they are about to experience, nor the sheer impact that will have on so many young lives. I cannot wait to relive that first experience vicariously through each of them.
The newbies are joined by three returning team members: Jordan, Christina, Iryna.
If you're counting along, that is indeed seven women and me. Pray for me! :)
We'll be entertaining you each evening with a new entry (working internet permitting) so more to come!
In the meantime, you can donate to this phenomenal organization by clicking here (or eventually in the upper right-hand corner once we get that link updated).
Andrew (9th Year)
aka Sweetie Mon
Sunday, November 16, 2014
The House You Build
I'll start with a story I shared one evening with the team as we reflected on the day's work at Jacob's Ladder in Ocho Rios, Jamaica:
====================
An elderly carpenter was ready to retire. He told his employer-contractor of his plans to leave the house-building business and live a more leisurely life with his wife enjoying his extended family. He would miss the paycheck, but he needed to retire. They could get by. The contractor was sorry to see his good worker go and asked if he could build just one more house as a personal favor.
The carpenter said yes, but in time it was easy to see that his heart was not in his work. He resorted to shoddy workmanship and used inferior materials. It was an unfortunate way to end a dedicated career.
When the carpenter finished his work, the employer came to inspect the house. He handed the front-door key to the carpenter. “This is your house,” he said, “my gift to you.” The carpenter was shocked! What a shame! If he had only known he was building his own house, he would have done it all so differently.
So it is with us. We build our lives, a day at a time, often putting less than our best into the building. Then with a shock we realize we have to live in the house we have built. If we could do it over, we’d do it much differently. But we cannot go back.
You are the carpenter. Each day you hammer a nail, place a board, or erect a wall. Life is a do-it-yourself -project: your attitudes and the choices you make today build the “house” you live in tomorrow.
Build wisely!
====================
These children and this organization provide me the right material to build a house that I'm proud to also call a home. Thank you for following us this week, your support in all of its forms, and the prayers and good thoughts you've sent our way.
Mustard Seed celebrates Thank You Thursday every week. Even though it's a Sunday, as we head into Thanksgiving I'm thankful to each and every one of you (even though we may have never met)--as well as all of my teammates this year. May God bless you and keep you all the days of your life.
Andrew aka Sweetie Mon (8th Year)
====================
An elderly carpenter was ready to retire. He told his employer-contractor of his plans to leave the house-building business and live a more leisurely life with his wife enjoying his extended family. He would miss the paycheck, but he needed to retire. They could get by. The contractor was sorry to see his good worker go and asked if he could build just one more house as a personal favor.
The carpenter said yes, but in time it was easy to see that his heart was not in his work. He resorted to shoddy workmanship and used inferior materials. It was an unfortunate way to end a dedicated career.
When the carpenter finished his work, the employer came to inspect the house. He handed the front-door key to the carpenter. “This is your house,” he said, “my gift to you.” The carpenter was shocked! What a shame! If he had only known he was building his own house, he would have done it all so differently.
So it is with us. We build our lives, a day at a time, often putting less than our best into the building. Then with a shock we realize we have to live in the house we have built. If we could do it over, we’d do it much differently. But we cannot go back.
You are the carpenter. Each day you hammer a nail, place a board, or erect a wall. Life is a do-it-yourself -project: your attitudes and the choices you make today build the “house” you live in tomorrow.
Build wisely!
====================
These children and this organization provide me the right material to build a house that I'm proud to also call a home. Thank you for following us this week, your support in all of its forms, and the prayers and good thoughts you've sent our way.
Mustard Seed celebrates Thank You Thursday every week. Even though it's a Sunday, as we head into Thanksgiving I'm thankful to each and every one of you (even though we may have never met)--as well as all of my teammates this year. May God bless you and keep you all the days of your life.
Andrew aka Sweetie Mon (8th Year)
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