Team Jamaica Day #1

The day started very well. The team was on time, parents we're present and Pastor Randy offered a prayer of blessing. Judy Brown and Matt Wood were our volunteer drivers and we headed to Boston. The day was sunny and the traffic was light. Departure: 8:45am

We arrived at Logan International about 1pm. With a quick unload, we were in line at American Airlines. After 45 minutes and no movement in the line, Nancy Luke made contact with a person of importance and we were whisked away to different counters. Praise God for Nancy! Even with the special service, we made it to the gate with no time to spare. The students probably learned the important lessons of arriving early and knowing who to talk to.

The flights were fine, even though the students were spread out over the plane's seating. That may have been a blessing in disguise, because given the color of our team shirts...and the message "Eyes for Eternity, Hope for Humanity"...the students were already able to share about our ministry.

We went through customs and immigration with only one problem. Meyer sneezed. Apparently when you sneeze in front of a Health Official, who happens to be on high alert for the swine flu, you get asked some very personal questions. He was able to convince them that he was merely dealing with hay fever.

We were met out side my our driver, Mr. McIntyre; our travel guide, Rajive; and a Jamaica Baptist Union representative. It was 9pm...I was very glad to see so many people who were ready to receive us. With the bus loaded, we departed for the Springburn House. The drive from the airport was about 45 min and it took us through some very depressed...poor; hmmm, some very scary places. The students were getting a good look at the area. I was glad it was from behind glass traveling at 30 mph.

At the Springburn House we were met by Ms. Redwood, my contact; and Ms. Gallimore, our itinerary coordinator. They briefly introduce themselves, met the team and went over our itinerary. After that meeting, dinner was served. Beef stew, mashed potatoes and vegtables. Yes, we're eating very balanced meals. After dinner, we went over room assignments and went to bed.