Liz, Joanne and Sue's Run-ln with the Law

Greetings from San Vicente,

It’s almost midnight, some finally getting a shower. Just back from the Piedro Viva, time singing and devotions. Our day was full, with rebar and brick work, afternoon time at a migrant camp with drama and singing with the children, along with feeding (with new bowls and cups). Then the long ride back to town in time for dinner, then to Thursday night church, then to Piedro Viva.

Liz, Sue and I had a very crazy experience two days ago while going into Ensenada to shop for the Fiesta. Just before we arrived at the check point near town Liz realized she forgot her ID and drivers license. We had a large amount of money with us for shopping, etc. so she told me to put one envelope in my backpack (we noticed they were stopping all cars). We had to get out of car, and of course, they checked my backpack and what do you think they found first……an envelope full of money still in bundles. We were asked to pull over and a few other officers with rifles arrived. We had a very difficult time explaining with the amount of Spanish we knew. Our saving grace was the Mexican officer had lived in Vancouver/Kelso area for 6 years and he knew of our area and we had some conversation. We finally were allowed to go through but with hesitation. Lesson #1: always have ID on you. Lesson #2: Never carry large amounts of money on you. Lesson #3: have paperwork explaining mission with names and numbers. By the way, they did not check Liz’s pack; she had more money than I did. Thank You God.

The Fiesta was a success and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. The moms appreciate an evening out without cooking. We also celebrate birthdays for the children from the Casa (May, June and July), each sang to and a candle blown out. Of course, they all get a gift. We have a chance to rub shoulders with our friends here and share with each other. It’s an exciting time and fun for all.

Before I fall asleep sitting here, a note of thanks to all who donated bowls/glasses and hygiene items. Watching the children’s faces today when they were fed in new bowls and drank juice from a real glass was priceless. The children were very excited to get a bag of items (soap, comb, toothpaste/brush, floss) also. Again, thank you.

Dennis, we haven’t decided on a verse yet but we hope to get verses written in bus tomorrow. We have three in mind for the dash. The bus has been great.

Joanne Chaplin