The group that organizes the details of our trip, Partners In Christ, always plans an outing on the final day to visit one of the popular Dominican beaches. I thought it would be a quick stop to simply see the the beautiful water....boy, was I surprised. They had planned a full day at a very nice all-inclusive resort where we could sit under the palm trees, swim in the crystal blue water or one of the 3 pools. It was an awesome day of fun with several of our Dominican friends with all the frozen drinks, sodas, and food the kids could take in. The buildings and grounds of the resort were amazing and our time there was invigorating and relaxing at the same time. Imagine a comfortable chaise lounge in the shade of the palm trees with a steady cool breeze. I'm typically not much of a beach person, but I could get used to this. The pictures don't do the scenery justice.
The bus ride was around 2 hours through some crazy Santo Domingo traffic. There is only one traffic rule here - the biggest and most aggressive wins. Lanes and right of ways are irrelevant. Luckily we had an awesome bus and driver who knew how to maneuver through the madness - he did a perfect job of keeping us safe.
We arrived back around 7:30 and after a light supper of soup and bread, we gathered with the Dominicans one last time to share the blessings we had received from our work, the people we encountered, and from each other. Kara played her guitar and we sang several songs. Since it was his final trip here, Billy Fisher was honored with a wonderful gift from the leaders of the school and church.
I can see a little sadness setting in from both groups as we all begin to realize the separation that is soon to come. Facebook and email addresses were shared and the relationships built here should insure continued interactions. As we go off to our bunks, I can see and hear the laughter and tears of true brothers and sisters in Christ - It solidifies everything I have seen, heard, and felt this week.
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