The distance between Florida and Haiti is approximately 838 miles. Those 838 miles make all the difference in the world though. Having been back in the United States for just under a week, I’ve been really cognizant of this.  We are so close together yet so different.

My first day back I turned on the shower and was immediately aware of how much water pressure there is in my shower. I had nothing to complain about in our hotel in Cap Haitien, in fact I loved it. However, the water pressure in the shower was more of a sprinkle than a shower. It got the job done but it was not what we are used to.

Later as I drove around town, I became aware of how clean and empty the streets were. There was still traffic but there were no close calls. No pedestrians of motorcycles with misses that were literally inches from my vehicle. There was no trash covering the ground like an unwelcome blanket of snow on a very warm day. There might be an occasional newspaper or bottle here or there, but it definitely was not anything like what we saw in Haiti.

Then there was the harbor. Cap Haitien has a harbor that COULD be beautiful. Unfortunately, it isn’t. Instead it is harbor full of sunken boats, garbage, and unrealized potential. As I drove through Huntington Harbor the difference couldn’t have been more stark.

Haiti is an absolutely beautiful country. There are some absolutely beautiful scenes and locations that look like they are straight of a movie. Then right next to it are areas scattered with litter and debris. It is amazing to me at how much of a difference can be found just within the country. Then move less than a thousand miles away to the United States and things are even more different. Technology is different. Transportation is different. Lifestyles are completely different.

Haiti is a country that seems to not be able to catch a break. However, there are organizations like the Reliv Kalogris Foundation that continue to make a difference, one person at a time. As they help one person at a time, they are bringing hope and change to this country. I only hope that someday all of these little seeds of hope will grow into something that helps Haiti realize its potential and help the people of Haiti live happier and healthier lives.

About Post Author

Robert A. Laird

Robert A. Laird is an entrepreneur and also Executive Director - Creative for Shepherd's Grove Presbyterian Church/Hour of Power with Bobby Schuller where he oversees the television show of the same name. He also works with the Reliv Kalogris Foundation as it strives to feed starving children around the globe.

robert.laird@dapsmagic.com

http://robertlaird.me

Happy

0 0 %

Sad

0 0 %

Excited

0 0 %

Sleepy

0 0 %

Angry

0 0 %

Surprise

0 0 %

Today was the day that was devoted to Haiti. So many of our other days are devoted to Haitians but this day was devoted to Haiti as a nation. It has quite the history and once again we were privileged to have an incredible guide and his wife with us. His knowledge of Haiti and passion for his country really brings a whole new level of appreciation to this country. 

The day began as every other day has begun, breakfast at Le Picolet. It’s such a lovely hotel that is full of personality. Tonight at dinner it was described as a little oasis in Haiti and really that is completely true. The rooms are charming, the lobby is very comfortable and welcoming, and there is this lounge/garden/thing that is absolutely wonderful to spend an evening in. In fact, we have pretty much ended every evening sitting there chatting under the lights and the canopy of trees. Last night, it even started raining as the night was winding up. It is a wonderful location. Back to breakfast though, it was shared again on a long table where we could all eat together. By now, the entire group has a level of comfort and camaraderie that just adds to the richness of this experience. Annie, the new director of the Reliv Kalogris Foundation, was the first one to join me at the table this morning (I’m always there first posting these blogs) and was shocked that she was first and nobody was there yet… until I reminded her that breakfast was 15 minutes later than usual. We had a good chuckle about this and the day was off to a good start. 

After breakfast, we all piled into the van that has been our trusty mode of transportation all week. Cyril and Dominique were our guides for the day and climbed aboard and soon we were off towards the Citadelle and the town of Milot. The road out there is actually very pleasant compared to many of the other treks we had taken this week. For the most part, the potholes were minimal as were the speed bumps (I’m not saying they did not exist). It seemed like in no time we had arrived at Milot and started the climb up the mountain. 

As we left Milot to climb up the mountain it was time to turn off the air conditioning in the van and open the windows. This is a very steep hill to get up to the Citadelle. Just on the outskirts of Milot is the remnants of what was once a palace for King Henri I (better known as Henri Christophe) of Haiti. Heading to the Citadelle, we passed on by this once beautiful palace and continued up the very steep hill. Quite often it felt like if the driver made one little mistake we would find ourselves dropping off a cliff. Thankfully, this didn’t happen though and eventually we made it to the entrance to what is basically the Citadelle national park, to use an American reference. It was at this point we changed modes of transportation. 

Once we had reached the entrance to the Citadelle (but not the Citadelle), it was time to decide how to get up the mountain. There are basically three options: walking, horseback riding, or a Rhino (supercharged off-road golf cart). A couple of people chose walking, a couple went aboard the Rhino, and then still others of us chose the horses. I soon found myself on the back of a beautiful horse that seemed to be younger and in better condition than many of the others. It had lots of energy as we headed up the mountain. This was good because what seemed steep in the van before now paled in comparison. The trip up the mountain was really beautiful and various people appeared along the way playing music or selling the wares. Two guides helped lead the horse up the mountain as well. This was probably a good idea as the trail really wasn’t that wide. It was very steep and often was right on the edge of a cliff. It is a place you don’t want to make a mistake. 

Finally we reached the top of the mountain and the entrance to the Citadelle fortress itself. After a banana from Dominique, our guide Cyril took us in what felt like a back entrance and the tour began. As we toured the Citadelle, we learned about Henri Christophe. We also learned that the Citadelle wasn’t the only fortress built by the freed Haitians but instead one of 22. There were many other lessons and stories told throughout the tour but the biggest take away I had this time around was how connected the Haitian slave revolt was to the French Revolution. I did not realize how the action that happened in France really were directly correlated to what was happening in Haiti. It was also interesting to learn more about how Haiti fit in to the bigger picture of what was then viewed as global politics. I’m definitely going to be reading more about these things upon my return to the United States. 

The tour ended and we made our way back down the mountain. The ride on the horse going down was a bit more exciting than the one going up but it was no problem and it was still definitely a fun adventure. Once at the entrance again we were set upon by lots of vendors looking to grab our attention. We did make our way through the little outdoor shopping area and found a couple of things before heading to the van. Once in the van, the still were trying to sell us thing. I’m not entirely sure if it was amusing or a bit over the top but it all was at least understandable. There really weren’t a lot of tourists there and the vendors seemed almost desperate for just about anything. I have a feeling that it is a case where there is too much supply and little to no demand. One hopes that things will improve but this is definitely one of those things in Haiti that makes you a little bit sad. When you think that a lot of people just make one dollar a day and then think about how much we in America make on a given day… or month… it really makes you wish you could just go and give everyone there a dollar. That wouldn’t be a good idea though as that would most likely set off a riot or something. Shopping done and everyone back in the van, it was time to head down the hill and to stop by the Sans-Souci Palace. This is one of the most beautiful places I’ve been to in Haiti I think. It was built by Henri Christophe to basically be his center of government. He built the palace to be able to accommodate all those from his government he would need, even the military. Now it is just ruins and absolutely beautiful! Cyril shared about the history of this complex from above and then we made our way into it. After a brief explanation in front, we had time to explore the ruins before lunch. What is left is basically an instagram photographer’s dream. What is left of the architecture is beautiful and leaves incredible shadows. One could easily spend a LOT of time taking pictures there. However, there were other things to get into the day and we were already behind… I think. 

After enjoying the Sans-Souci Palace, it was time for lunch. We walked into the town of Milot and then through it. We ended up climbing up about a hundred steps into the heart of a cultural center. Throughout the climb, there were paintings and other artistic creations being sold. At the top of the staircase, a Haitian band welcomed us with music as we entered a patio area where our lunch was to be served. The host for this meal was a very charming old man with a beard. He welcomed us to lunch and explained that we would be eating a traditional Haitian meal and that he wanted us to feel at home and basically told us that because we were eating at his house we were now part of his family. It was very charming. 

After this warm welcome we soon found ourselves eating some wonderful Haitian cuisine. The meal included some vegetables, different types of sweet potato, beef, chicken, rice, and some other incredible Haitian things that we have come to enjoy. Following lunch, we were served coffee and some sort of a coconut candy. Both were delicious. The coffee beans for the coffee were grown in our hosts backyard before being roasted and served to us. It was pretty cool realizing we were drinking coffee that basically was from the same place we were drinking it. Oh, and it was absolutely delicious! I would have no problems drinking that coffee every day!

Once lunch was done, it was time to head back to Cap Haitien. There was still more to see and more to do. First sop was the Cathedral in Cap Haitien. This is a beautiful building in the middle of town. We were hoping to tour it but by the time we had arrived, this was no longer possible. So instead we learned about it from Cyril as we stood in the park across the street and admired it. 

Our visit to the Cathedral over, it was time to do some shopping. During previous trips we had stopped at a very small market, however this place was no longer open. Soon we found ourselves right next to the commercial docks in a complex built to be a tourist market. People were very kind there but also pretty insistent that you come and look at what they have to sell. That’s ok though, that’s what we were there for. We made our way through the various booths making it to just about every one of them. I did end up buying a few things but we haggled a bit and got a fair deal. Haggling is absolutely essential in Haiti if you want to get a fair price. The price listed is more than likely way above the actual value of whatever you are trying to buy. The whole haggling thing though is definitely an acquired taste. I now find it to be one of the more enjoyable things to do in Haiti as I continue to grow and get better at it. 

Finally, all our adventures for the day were over and it was time to head back to the hotel… or so we thought. On the way back we also ended up going to the market and getting some vanilla and other little things you can’t get in the USA. The trip was mostly uneventful until we got back into the van and a little old man and what looked like his wife started asking for money or something. We soon found some granola bars to give them. The moment the granola bars came out though… wow, so did everyone else. Suddenly that side of the van had quite a few people all reaching for the granola bars. Thankfully the old man did indeed get his granola bar and I hope it helps him a little bit. 

The rest of the evening was spent in Le Picolet. It was an absolutely wonderful evening. The hotel food is absolutely awesome and I could eat here every day. The company was even more awesome though as we all sat around the table and talked about this trip, future trips, past trips, and basically anything trip related. Scott Montgomery, the Chairman of the Reliv Kalogris Foundation asked an awesome question about what surprised people the most coming to Haiti. The answers were very interesting to hear. The discussion wandered other ways as well but it was all awesome and just a beautiful evening. 

The evening wrapped up as most have, sitting in the corner couch in the garden under the lights and trees. This trip has been an absolutely fantastic trip. While it isn’t quite over yet and we have more to do tomorrow, I do have to marvel at how things have changed so much since the first time I came. The biggest change has probably been my perspective. The Reliv Kalogris Foundation does a LOT of good for a lot of children. There is still a LOT more to do but if one person helps one other person, soon things begin to change as people keep helping people and things grow on each other. I sincerely hope that is what is in store for the Reliv Kologris Foundation. It does far too much good for it to stay at the size it is. In fact, if you’d like to support the Reliv Kalogris Foundation, please visit here: relivkalogrisfoundation.org. It is a most worthy cause and a most needed cause. 

If you have anything else you’d like to know about this trip or what the Reliv Kalogris Foundation does in Haiti and around the world, please feel free to leave me a comment underneath this post as well. 

Tomorrow, we are visiting the St. John the Baptist school in Petite Anse. It is right next to the children’s home that we visited on Sunday when we first arrived. This trip, coupled with Sunday’s, should make for fantastic book ends to the trip. It’s hard to believe that this trip is almost over but it is time to get back and get to work and also support the Reliv Kalogris Foundation. 

About Post Author

Robert A. Laird

Robert A. Laird is an entrepreneur and also Executive Director - Creative for Shepherd's Grove Presbyterian Church/Hour of Power with Bobby Schuller where he oversees the television show of the same name. He also works with the Reliv Kalogris Foundation as it strives to feed starving children around the globe.

robert.laird@dapsmagic.com

http://robertlaird.me

Happy

0 0 %

Sad

0 0 %

Excited

0 0 %

Sleepy

0 0 %

Angry

0 0 %

Surprise

0 0 %

Today marked our first full day in Haiti and it was a fantastic one! The day began with breakfast shortly after seven on a beautiful morning. Boats could be seen fishing in the harbor as the sun continued to rise. The temperature was wonderfully moderate as we enjoyed Haitian coffee and a buffet breakfast. A little cat that had befriended the group at dinner the night before returned and everyone was in just good spirits. 

After the enjoyable breakfast, everyone piled into the van for the hour long trip to Ouanaminthe where we would be painting a children’s home. We did have to return to the hotel to pick up a water filter so the trip actually started twice. While we waited for Kathy to pick up the water filter, Scott Montgomery grabbed a coconut so that we could try the juice inside. It was delicious. The best description was that it was kind of like watermelon water… almost. The drive over was absolutely beautiful as the sun shone through the scattered clouds. In Cap Haitien, the traffic was a bit more intense than the day before but it was still a lovely day for a drive. People were chattering away as we made our way across the Haitian countryside towards our destination. By my count, it took a bit longer than an hour but that was ok because it was a fun experience. 

We finally arrived at the children’s home and it was actually quite quiet. Most of the kids were at school. We got situated and started to figure out the plan for painting. It took a bit for the paint to arrive and then we had to get the paint cans open, which was an adventure in itself. Finally, the paint was open and in pans and we were ready to go! 
We painted what was basically the dining room next to the kitchen for this children’s home. The lower quarter had already been painted recently a dark brown so we were responsible for painting the upper parts a tan color. Everyone pitched in and the job was done fairly quickly. As we painted away, a couple of locals put together a table that would end up being where the kids ate lunch. They hammered away at the table while we painted away at the walls. 
When the walls inside were done, we moved outside and painted some of the exterior walls a bright yellow color. Once again, we were responsible for painting the higher levels and someone had painted the lower couple of feet a dark brown. Being outside it was easier to see where the paint was really needed and there was certainly a feeling of gratification as we saw our paint clean up the walls of this children’s home. 
Once the painting was done, it was play time. Jump ropes and frisbees appeared and fun ensued. Some people played with the jump ropes. Others played with the frisbees. Still others were completely content continuing to play with the iPhones and take pictures. I’m sure that a couple of phones have hundreds of pictures that the owner has no clue were taken at this point. All this to say though, a lot of fun was had and memories made. 
After awhile, Doctor Manno arrived with chicken and plantains. There were a couple different types of fried chicken and then also fried plantains. The food was distributed on the now-assembled table as the kids patiently waited. Reliv shakes were also mixed together and poured into cups for each child as well. Once everyone had received both a shake and chicken, it was time for grace. This included a song that seemed to have several verses followed by a group prayer that was said in unison. The amazing part about all of this was that everyone participated and nobody ate their food until after grace was said and they were told it was ok to eat. The kids’ behavior was absolutely amazing! 
After lunch, more photos were taken and memories were made and then it was time to head to Bois de Lance. Bois de Lance will always be special to me as it was the first feeding station I went to in Haiti, if memory serves. The road to Bois de Lance isn’t the easiest but it is worth it. As we drove there, we stopped briefly for some refreshments before continuing on. 

As we finally got close to Bois de Lance we found ourselves on a dirt road that had LOTS of pot holes. It was definitely an adventure for the driver has he navigated back and forth across this dirt road, attempting to save his tires… and suspension I suspect. This is a road that would be better traveled by horse but there were were in our van, making our way to this small school that also might be a church. As we got nearer, a gentleman pointed at the van and soon he was riding next to me in it. It turns out that he was the pastor of the church/school in Bois de Lance and he was the reason the Reliv Kalogris Foundation feeding center was there. He saw the work being done by the Reliv Kalogris Foundation in Liberale and wanted Bois de Lance to get similar help. 
Once we arrived at Bois de Lance there was a bit of a walk to the church/school and then the pastor let us in to look around. It was much like I remembered it, except for the lack of students as there had been before. Apparently they were already done for the day or something. However, this didn’t make this visit any less special. The original girl that was treated by Doctor Manno at Bois de Lance was there and a very touching reunion took place. She had tuberculosis when Doctor Manno met her and he spent a year of his life saving hers. She really impacted him and also how the Reliv Kalogris Foundation developed in this neighborhood. To say it was an emotional reunion would be an understatement. 
Finally, it was time to say goodbye to Bois de Lance. After saying our goodbyes, we gave the pastor a ride back to town and then made our way back to Cap Hatien. The day was an incredible day full of many incredible moments. The highlights had to all include the kids and the joy they carry with them, despite the conditions in which they live. Everyone on the trip had something memorable to share from their day. All in all, it was an absolutely fantastic day that I’m sure will be special to everyone who is on this trip. 
Tomorrow we are visiting Doctor Manno’s neighborhood, Haut Limbe. We will be visiting a local school, Doctor Manno’s Clinic, and then have lunch at Doctor Manno’s house. After lunch, we will be heading to the another children’s home for an ice cream party. I’m very excited to be seeing all of these things and look forward to sharing with them. 
Members of our group are posting on social media with the hashtag #rkfhaiti2017 if you would like to see what we are up to. Hopefully there will be as many memories made tomorrow as there were today. It has been absolutely amazing to see how the Reliv Kalogris Foundation makes a difference, I can’t wait to see what else is in store on this trip! 

About Post Author

Robert A. Laird

Robert A. Laird is an entrepreneur and also Executive Director - Creative for Shepherd's Grove Presbyterian Church/Hour of Power with Bobby Schuller where he oversees the television show of the same name. He also works with the Reliv Kalogris Foundation as it strives to feed starving children around the globe.

robert.laird@dapsmagic.com

http://robertlaird.me

Happy

0 0 %

Sad

0 0 %

Excited

0 0 %

Sleepy

0 0 %

Angry

0 0 %

Surprise

0 0 %

Today is the big day. It’s the day we all fly from Miami, Florida to Cap Haitien, Haiti. With this now being my third trip to Haiti I found that my feelings have changed as I return. Where the first time there was anxiety and anticipation over the unknown, this time I found myself wondering how things have changed and how I can help support positive change in this little country. I was myself looking forward to seeing familiar faces and experiencing familiar things. I also wondered how the hurricane and floods hit this poor country. 

It turned out that getting to Haiti was not much easier than getting to Miami. The check in and TSA process was uneventful. While waiting to board the plane we enjoyed some Starbucks. The boarding process was uneventful as well. Just as everyone was seated and ready to go though, everything changed. The flight attendant informed us that she didn’t know why but we had to all get off the plane and move to another gate and board a different plane. This we did. The second plane ended up being an hour and a half later. Finally in the air, we found ourselves winging over some beautiful islands as we made our way to Haiti. 
The descent into Haiti is perhaps one of my favorite landing approaches. The island is absolutely beautiful from above. However, as the plane gets closer to the ground details that aren’t so beautiful begin to emerge. This is the first opportunity to see the poverty of Cap Haitian. There are broken down buildings, garbage, dirt, rusted vehicles, and debris throughout the city as the plane lands. It is quite the difference from what we saw in Miami and hour and a half before…
It was a beautiful day as we landed in Cap Haitien. The sky was a lovely blue with a few clouds scattered around. As we disembarked from the airplane and climbed down the stairs, it was immediately apparent that we were in for a very lovely afternoon. The weather was absolutely perfect. Not too hot. Not too cold. Not to HUMID! We couldn’t have asked for a lovelier day. As we walked to the terminal a little band played what I presume to be Haitien music. Once inside, we quickly cleared customs and gathered our luggage. Outside, well that wasn’t quite as simple. There are always a LOT of people willing to help you with your luggage. To be completely honest, there is more help than one would ever want or need. However, we were very well taken care of and Doctor Manno was there to make sure that everyone was comfortable and taken care of. 

Once the luggage was loaded and our eager helpers all satisfied, we piled into a van and made our way to the Reliv Kalogris Foundation orphanage in Petite Anse. This children’s home I have visited before and every time I’m always struck at how it is a positive bastion of hope in the midst of a very desolate area. The last time I visited, a little over a year ago, it seemed like progress was being made in this area. This time, after the rain from earlier this winter, it appeared that things had digressed. Couple that with a transition government that isn’t paying the sanitation workers and a recipe for a mess is made. 
The children’s home is a beautiful building and is symbol of hope in the neighborhood. It is connected to a school and is known as a place where orphaned kids can get a future. By my observation, because of this children’s home it appears that the children who live there might have a brighter future than some of the kids with families in the neighborhood. After seeing the orphanage and school (and it’s new paint job!), it was time to make our way into the neighborhood of Petite Anse to the church/school where a Reliv Kalogris Feeding center was awaiting our arrival. 
The walk through Petite Anse is always an emotional journey. Walking through the dirt roads of the communities one is quickly reminded just how good everyone in the USA has it compared to people here. To say these people live in poverty just isn’t enough. Garbage is piled everywhere. Standing water with who knows what in it also is all over the place, especially after the rains earlier this winter. Building are built out of whatever happens to be available. Hodge podge is a good way to describe the neighborhood. It desperately needs help. 

In the middle of this neighborhood there is a church where a pastor runs a school. The students are recipients of the Reliv nutrition from the Reliv Kalogris Foundation. After a bit of a walk, we arrived at this little church and then continued on by it. For just a little further, Doctor Manno showed us a house that once had a roof that would be considered junk metal by most standards. For one hundred U.S. dollars, this house now had a new aluminum roof. The inhabitants also now lived a better life, thanks to the Reliv Kalogris Foundation. The little girl entered a drawing as part of a contest and won her way into the school and the Reliv Kalogris Foundation feeding program. Her mother received care from Doctor Manno and was recovering from tuberculosis. Doctor Manno assured us that she was no longer contagious. 
After seeing first hand what the Reliv Kalogris Foundation had done for this family, we returned to the church to see the children who were part of the feeding program get their daily shakes. As we entered the church, the kids happily sang to us. To say they were enthusiastic would be an understatement. They sang for quite some time and then some ladies started mixing together the Reliv shakes for these kids. They receive NOW for Kids, chocolate flavored. With all the smells we had experienced as we walked through the neighborhood, these shakes smelled amazing! After the shakes had been mixed together, they were passed out in little colorful plastic cups to the kids. Each kid received one cup of the NOW for Kids. After they had been served, we made our way back to the orphanage. 

As we wandered through the neighborhood we would say “bonsoir” to the people and they would always answer back, often with a smile. While before saying something they would often just watch us walk by, once we had said hi they would often smile. We finally arrived back at the orphanage and boarded our van for the trip back to the hotel, Le Picolet. This is a hotel that is probably one of my favorite places to stay anywhere. As we drove back, the entire city seemed to be celebrating and had traveling parties on the backs of big trucks. It was basically like a rolling DJ with their party surrounding the truck. The music was loud, the lights were bright and flashy, and it appeared everyone was having a good time… except our driver who was having a bit of a difficult time getting us back to the hotel. This was made even more difficult when we decided to go see everyone enjoying a Sunday afternoon in the park in front of the cathedral. 
Finally we made it back to Le Picolet and had some down time before dinner. Dinner was served as a buffet with local food that was absolutely delicious. Couple that with fantastic company and it made for a wonderful night of good food, good new friends, and happy new memories being made. 

Our first day in Haiti almost seemed like it might not happen as we kept running up against roadblocks on the way out here. However, once we arrived we were able to experience the ups and downs that are just a part of Haiti. It is an absolutely beautiful country that just seems to be married to tragedy. Despite all the tragedy though, organizations like the Reliv Kalogris Foundation bring hope to a country that might otherwise not have a lot of it. I think that is really what keeps me wanting to visit. Knowing I’m a part of something that is helping change the world in a place that probably couldn’t change itself is a humbling thing and I love the difference that is being made down here. 

Tomorrow we are going near the Dominican Republic border where there is an orphanage that needs painting. For me, this will be an interesting day as I visited this orphanage on the first day of my first trip to Haiti. I’m looking forward to seeing how it is now and how things have or haven’t changed. I’m also looking forward to helping make it look a bit better (if we are decent at painting I suppose)! For now, it’s time to call it a night and go to bed. It has been a very long day and this week will be full of them. Today started off an awesome trip to Haiti and I can’t wait to see what else happens while we are here!  

About Post Author

Robert A. Laird

Robert A. Laird is an entrepreneur and also Executive Director - Creative for Shepherd's Grove Presbyterian Church/Hour of Power with Bobby Schuller where he oversees the television show of the same name. He also works with the Reliv Kalogris Foundation as it strives to feed starving children around the globe.

robert.laird@dapsmagic.com

http://robertlaird.me

Happy

0 0 %

Sad

0 0 %

Excited

0 0 %

Sleepy

0 0 %

Angry

0 0 %

Surprise

0 0 %

Today begins my third trip to Cap Haitian, Haiti. The first day really is all about getting to Miami so that tomorrow morning we can fly into Haiti. The day began quite early with the goal of getting to Los Angeles International Airport by 7:30 for a 9:00 flight. Traffic was light until arriving at the airport. The rainstorm that hit Southern California yesterday and cancelled lots of flights apparently led to rescheduled travel today. Finally arriving at our terminal, the check in was smooth and so was security (even if it was a bit slow). 

Finally through security there was just enough time to stop by Starbucks and arrive at our gate just as it was boarding. The boarding process was quick enough and it seemed like this would be a fairly smooth flight to Miami… until I looked out the window and saw two mechanics working under the wing of our Boeing 777-300. No announcements had been made so I didn’t really take much notice of it. As time went by, nothing seemed to be happening and our departure time came and went. A brief announcement was made that there was a small issue that would be quickly fixed and we’d be on our way. Knowing that we would be leaving soon, I decided to play with the in-flight entertainment system. I was pleased to discover there was quite a large selection of movies to enjoy. Seeing that we’ve been watching The Lord of The Rings trilogy, when I found The Hobbit it seemed only appropriate to throw it on. Soon I was engrossed in the movie and time was going by but the ground underneath us was not. 

An hour later, we still found our plane sitting at the gate. An announcement was made that things might be a bit more serious than originally thought. More mechanics and trucks arrived. The pilot reassured the passengers that every effort was being made to get us off the ground shortly and he hoped to have information soon. 

The next announcement was made nearly a half hour later. This time, everyone was asked to disembark from the airplane as the gate was needed for another plane. We were instructed to grab all carry on items and go to another terminal where the plane would hopefully meet us… once they figured out what gate it would be meeting us at… assuming they could get the mechanical issue figured out. 

The plane quickly emptied and we all made our way towards what was presumed to be our new terminal. Halfway there, an announcement was heard instructing all on our flight to return to the original gate. Turning around, we made our way back to the gate where we found they were already re-boarding the plane. Once on board and back in our seats, we were told that a few passengers were being rounded up and that soon we would be under way. One of these passengers that was not on the plane was two seats over from me and had difficulty with English. Another half hour or so later my row-mate had arrived and the Captain was telling us that we would be under away soon…. again. 

Finally, the plane backed out and sat until two other planes were out of the way to allow us to leave. Then began the very long wait to actually get to the runway. As we waited, the Captain announced that there were just 10 planes in front of us and that it would take three to four minutes per plane. During this wait, The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey reached its conclusion. As we finally barreled down the runway, The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug began and we lifted off for Miami. 

We are now scheduled to get into Miami shortly before 8:00 PM tonight and tomorrow we will be flying to Cap Haitian, Haiti. As I’m writing this, we are flying over Oklahoma City and I am looking forward to being able to walk again (there has been some turbulence so the seatbelt sign is still on). By my calculations, we’ll have been sitting on this plane around 8 hours by the time we arrive in Miami. To say today has been an adventure would probably be quite the understatement. 

Once we arrive in Miami we will make our way to the hotel, get a bite to eat, celebrate National Wine Day, and I plan on shooting my first video of the trip. Throughout this trip I will attempt to shoot one video a day and post it on my YouTube page. I will probably also include them with the daily updates here on this website. We will also get to connect with all the people we will be traveling with, including Scott Montgomery who is the Chairman of the Reliv Kalogris Foundation and an all around awesome guy. 

If you would like to support the Reliv Kalogris Foundation and the work it does both in Haiti and around the globe, please feel free to share these reports from our trip and help raise awareness of what the Reliv Kalogris Foundation is doing. You can also follow along on my instagram (@roebearlaird) and the Reliv Kalogris Foundation instagram (@relivkalogrisfoundation). 

If you have any questions about the Reliv Kalogris Foundation and what it does, please feel free to ask them in the comments section below! Thank you for reading and for any support you might offer to the Reliv Kalogris Foundation! 

About Post Author

Robert A. Laird

Robert A. Laird is an entrepreneur and also Executive Director - Creative for Shepherd's Grove Presbyterian Church/Hour of Power with Bobby Schuller where he oversees the television show of the same name. He also works with the Reliv Kalogris Foundation as it strives to feed starving children around the globe.

robert.laird@dapsmagic.com

http://robertlaird.me

Happy

0 0 %

Sad

0 0 %

Excited

0 0 %

Sleepy

0 0 %

Angry

0 0 %

Surprise

0 0 %

Tomorrow begins my third trip to Haiti with the Reliv Kalogris Foundation. If I had been asked ten years ago if I would count Haiti as one of my most traveled international destinations, I probably would have just laughed. Now, it is almost becoming a yearly destination. And that is a good thing.

The Reliv Kalogris Foundation feeds around 40,000 people, mainly kids, every day around the globe. 13,000 of those kids can be found in Haiti. Haiti is a nation with great need. According to The World Factbook, 58.5% of the population lives under the poverty line. The unemployment rate as of 2010 was 40.5%, however more than 2/3rds of the labor force do not have formal jobs^[1]The World Factbook: Haiti https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/ha.html. Houses are often made of cinderblocks, rough wood, trees, and are crudely built by the standards we are used to in the United States. Common utilities aren’t quite as common there. Waste disposal especially appears to be a problem. Roads are often in disrepair, as are the vehicles that inhabit them. It should also come as no surprise that nutrition can be an issue. This is where the Reliv Kalogris Foundation comes in.

Every day 13,000 kids are fed through feeding stations throughout Haiti. The difference between those getting the nutrition supplied by the Reliv Kalogris Foundation. In the next few days I’ll get to once again experience what it is like to provide not only nutrition, but hope, to these kids. During this trip we’ll be feeding kids, painting walls, and getting a taste of what life is like in Haiti.

Haiti itself is a dichotomy. It has some of the most beautiful vistas I’ve ever seen anywhere, then turn and look another direction and see poverty and debris. Every trip I’ve been I’ve been able to observe the beauty of Haiti even more.

I have no doubt that this trip will be incredible full of high points and low points. I will be attempting to post daily a blog, photos, and video from the trip (if wifi allows). Follow along my journey on instagram (@roebearlaird) or the Reliv Kalogris Foundation on instagram (@relivkalogrisfoundation) as well!

If you have any questions about the Reliv Kalogris Foundation and/or Haiti, please feel free to ask in the comments section below. Please feel free to share this post and help us get the word out about the Reliv Kalogris Foundation and how it is feeding the kids of the world and Haiti!

Let’s go make a difference!

About Post Author

Robert A. Laird

Robert A. Laird is an entrepreneur and also Executive Director - Creative for Shepherd's Grove Presbyterian Church/Hour of Power with Bobby Schuller where he oversees the television show of the same name. He also works with the Reliv Kalogris Foundation as it strives to feed starving children around the globe.

robert.laird@dapsmagic.com

http://robertlaird.me

Happy

0 0 %

Sad

0 0 %

Excited

0 0 %

Sleepy

0 0 %

Angry

0 0 %

Surprise

0 0 %

Life’s too short to not make a difference. For several years not I’ve been supporting the Reliv Kalogris Foundation in its efforts to help feed thousands around the globe, mainly children, on a daily basis. As I’ve worked with them my eyes have been opened to just how great the needs are both nearby and further away. It also has brought me to Haiti now twice where I have met people who are changing the world and who I will never forget. I’ve also met the children who’s worlds are being changed due to the work of this non-profit organization. Because of that, my life has been changed as well.

We live in the United States of America, pretty much the most well-off nation to ever exist to date. We can sit in an air conditioned Starbucks and write a blog then post it via wifi, all while enjoying a fancy beverage that costs enough to feed a child in a third world country for the day… like Haiti. One of the lessons I’ve learned through the Reliv Kalogris Foundation is just how much we have to be thankful for. This realization has also led to conviction that I need to make a difference today.

So often in life we think, “I’m going to help out when I’m able.” I know there was a time that I thought this way. However, upon visiting Haiti and seeing the difference that is being made for those who are a part of the feeding programs there versus those who aren’t, I have changed my thinking. We need to help out in any way we can now, not later. While helping out when able might be a matter of convenience for those of us in the USA, it is a matter of life and death for those in Haiti. The same goes for other places around the world. An inconvenience for me today could literally create the possibility for a child to have a tomorrow.

According to the United Nations, approximately 21,000 people die of hunger or a hunger related cause on a daily basis. That is one person every four seconds dying because they didn’t have something to eat. The Reliv Kalogris Foundation exists to “nourish our world.” It exists to stop this exact problem and provide a tomorrow for those who otherwise wouldn’t have one. Life’s too short to not make a difference. Life’s also short to wait until tomorrow to decide to make a difference. So here is the challenge for you: How are you going to make a difference today?

About Post Author

Robert A. Laird

Robert A. Laird is an entrepreneur and also Executive Director - Creative for Shepherd's Grove Presbyterian Church/Hour of Power with Bobby Schuller where he oversees the television show of the same name. He also works with the Reliv Kalogris Foundation as it strives to feed starving children around the globe.

robert.laird@dapsmagic.com

http://robertlaird.me

Happy

0 0 %

Sad

0 0 %

Excited

0 0 %

Sleepy

0 0 %

Angry

0 0 %

Surprise

0 0 %