My last full day at HATS today ?

My last day was filled with all the last minute stuff to do before Keith and Joan arrive, checked their apartment to see everything was ready for them, changing light bulbs, unloading a tap tap full of food and supplies needed for the compound, fixed the basketball net, fixed some furniture, even straightened out the lights on the cross that’s mounted on the top of the roof (the community loves seeing the cross lit up at nights) … that never ending list of things that need doing doesn’t seem to get any shorter! Most times we don’t have the right pieces or parts to fix things properly so you end up “jury rigging” things together enough that they work until you do get the right part brought in.

I’ve had such an amazing time with these kids as I do every trip but this trip was extra special. They’ve grown so much, between teaching a few of them drums and even getting a few work outs in with Luc :), playing UNO, making puzzles, soccer and even hockey! It has been a blast.

Leaving is my least favorite thing to ever do on any trip, but this trip is even harder than normal … I’m doing what you’re never supposed to do when you’re part of a team and it’s been bothering me for a while now … I’m leaving my team member behind ? … and that’s something we never do.

Jocelyn, I know you’re called by God to be here and I’ve watched this entire week as you’ve blossomed into this incredible “missionary”, you do whatever is asked of you and step up and take leadership when you need to but it’s still awfully hard to leave you behind. I came this time to first of all make sure you got here safely but I also wanted to make sure you’d be ok on your own here … from everything I’ve witnessed this week you’re going to be just fine here ?. The kids absolutely adore you and I know mama Karen is especially thankful to have your help around here. Not many people are willing to step out and do what they are called to do, knowing it’s not going to be easy … you are a special young lady.

Blessings to all of you here at HATS. Mama Karen thank you so much for all you do here for everyone around you, you always put others needs in front of your own. As I shared in devotions this morning my heart is full because of my time spent here but it’s also heavy knowing that I’m leaving. Brian De loves you all and will miss you … until next time.

Brian