iam1ru

Meeting Place

2012-01-29T07:22:00.000-08:00

Yes. An impromptu meeting outside the Starbucks in Monterrey just before boarding our plane to El Salvador. Rick & Lisa Bursey are doing an awesome job in Mexico and Casa Possibilidades is going to be awesome once it gets up and running. The property is awesome. We are patiently waiting for few other government approvals. Should not be long before we start adding children. I cannot wait. Until then there are lots of things to do to get the property in shape. The front wall was replaced last week by three hulking men from KW area and it looks great!

Judgement Call - Part 2

2012-01-27T12:34:00.001-08:00

Okay. So I left out the part about this family being helped before. They have been helped by our Dream Agents and were visited by a nurse to explain hygiene procedures and such. So...they have not done one thing themselves to clean up. It is the same as always. Can you see the dilemma?
Sent from my iPhone

Judgement Calls

2012-01-26T06:27:00.001-08:00

Yesterday we visited a house by the river that had been impacted by the hurricane. The mattresses they were using they had found in the riverbed after the flood. As I stood there I was dealing with so much inner conflict. You see, on one hand I wanted to get a dream together and get mattresses sponsored, but then I looked around and saw the garbage laying everywhere. I mean everywhere. I did not even take pictures it was that nasty. How much energy does it take to clean garbage in and around your own home? You see my dilemma? Can you sense my conflict? I wanted to help but they were not even interested in helping themselves. So I am interested....what would you do? I am truly interested. Why not make a comment.

Training for Road2Hope 2012...and more

2012-01-25T07:23:00.000-08:00

I have officially started my training for Road2Hope 2012…woohooo!

4am- I lie awake with anticipation of going for a run on the beach. I am looking forward to the run, but also the peacefulness of the ocean, the quietness, the boats and just the smell of the salt water. PEACE yea

6:20 am- I have taken a 40 minute taxi ride to go pick up Mike and walk to the beach.

7:00 am- I put on my ZEMS (www.zemgear.ca) ready to go for a walk/run...not thinking about anything in particular as I go about my daily work and activities. I just want to do what I have to do and get my day going.

It’s funny sometimes how consumed we get with our personal things -- work, church, and for me...dreams. I can look and look for dreams...and yet the simplest dreams are right in front of me.
This particular morning, I didn’t have to look at all! There he was, a young boy maybe 7 years old, running along the beach with his father, kicking empty coconuts...practising their football (soccer) moves. I watched with interest as the two played together. I listened as George’s father Kofi, (I learned their names after) cheered on George and encouraged him to try a little harder. I was amazed and just stood watching as Mike was taking fotos. I saw something in this picture unfolding before me that gave me a new heart, or new passion to help these children.

I told you before when I was writing Kwame’s dream, that for most of these young Ghanaian boys; football is the ONLY escape from their poverty cycle. Not only for themselves personally but for their families as well. Unlike Kwame, most of these children will never get sponsored to go to an amazing football camp, but I still believe they deserve opportunities and I would love to show them that someone believes in them.

I would like to buy at least 10 footballs for my next beach run on Saturday ($15 each) and hand them out to the children and teenagers that are out practising their football moves by kicking empty coconuts, balled up plastic bags and little rocks.

We may never see the results of how a fifteen dollar football could encourage or change these lives, but we can certainly invest in changing their outlook in their poverty-minded present.
I have said a hundred times before that in Accra you cannot go where there are no people… and what I am quickly learning is that I cannot go where I cannot find a dream!!! I am so blessed!

Sherry Peters, Dream Agent in Ghana

Rick and Lisa Bursey

2012-01-23T06:32:00.000-08:00

This is a video of Rick & Lisa Bursey and the three kids that will be the first brought into our new orphanage.

Concerned

2012-01-22T15:42:00.000-08:00

Vee and I have arrived safely in Linares Mexico. However, we are both concerned with the possible effects of the sun on Rick Bursey's skin.

Connected Monkey!!

2012-01-22T02:29:00.000-08:00

Phil checking the news as he waits for the flight to Dallas. He cannot wait to hang with Alex and Jackson Bursey. Final stop on this leg is Linares, Mexico.

Test

2012-01-20T16:06:00.001-08:00

This is a test to be sure I can update from Mexico and El Salvador.
Hope you enjoy the pic!
Vee and I will be in Mexico with Burseys from Sunday, January 22nd to Saturday, January 28th. Then we move onto El Salvador from Saturday, January 28th to Monday, February 6th. We will send some great reports and pics. Be sure to check back often.

A local dream fulfilled - A Christmas Party for immigrants

2012-01-09T13:09:00.000-08:00

Several weeks ago, we posted a dream to have a Christmas party for some wonderful ladies that live "right in our own backyard" so to speak. Well, that dream was fully sponsored and we were able to share a fun and festive party with these women and their children...
We had posted this dream on the website:

From our Dream Agents in KW

We are sometimes more aware of needs around the globe than those in our own backyard.
Well, we have had the opportunity to get to know some wonderful ladies right here in KW that
need our help and support - immigrants...most of whom are single moms. Over the past year,
we've had the opportunity to show our love and support to them in a tangible way via birthday
parties, an Easter Party and a Mother's Day party. (You might remember us telling you that
some of these moms had NEVER been acknowledged or celebrated on Mother's Day prior to
the party we threw for them!)
Celebrations are a great way to show our love to these ladies - to let them know that they are
not alone and that they are valued. We see on their faces how much joy it brings to be welcomed
and wanted.

We try to choose a menu that features foods they might not otherwise be able to afford - as an
extra treat. (and, there are often leftovers they are able to take home...to help with the burden of
grocery costs).And what an added bonus to watch all the children playing together and speaking
their own language with each other.

Christmas is right around the corner...and we would love to celebrate these ladies and their children
through a Christmas party for our KW friends.

$10 per person would provide a festive meal, decorations, and a small gift for each.

AND IT DID!!!! There were 27 in attendance at this Christmas party. We enjoyed a great meal, games and were able to give LOTS of gifts to people who often go without (thanks to generous donations!)

A BIG thank you to the Everyday Philanthropists who made this possible!

Enjoy the photos of the party. (Faces are covered to respect their privacy due to the fact that they live in our community)

Everyday is a journey - update from Sherry Peters

2012-01-09T12:31:00.000-08:00

Every day is a mission or a journey…. Whether I am haggling over the prices for food or for beds it doesn’t matter.. I am still a white girl who they think is a millionaire.

It really makes me appreciate the people that God has put in my path. My driver Emmanuel, Missionaries Jijom and Della, Football coach and friend - Miq, Frank (jack-of-all-trades), Mary the house-help, or Alejah the guard. They all play a very important role in my life, but most importanly... they do not allow people to rip me off!! I love it.

I wonder how many of the market venders think I am asking them a trick question when I ask “Do I look white to you?”

But to give an update on Sponsored Dreams (with reports to follow shortly):

Patience has started her business… woot woot
Kwame registered last week for Football came and starts training tomorrow…. When I asked him what he was going to do when he becomes the next rich and famous “Black Star” Footballer, he look at me and said, “I am going to help other poor children, the same way that you helped me.” I cried (no surprise there!) And so did they when I told them his dream was sponsored
The preparations for the Leprosy Village Party are coming along… Hopefully early next week that will be fulfilled...
We are now having Uniforms made for the Children of Koforidua, the wheelchair is ordered, the school supplies are purchased…
The “Back to School Bash” was a great success for the Assurance of Hope Children's Home and we were able to do even MORE than we had planned (details below)...

The pizza was amazing for the "Back-to-school Bash" AND there is another story here as well… When I went to Eddy’s Pizza to order the pizzas the day before the party, I was telling Eddy the owner what I was doing and why, and he asked how he could help… I was stunned… So I told him to do whatever felt like doing. He said he would donate wings for all the Children. Woohoo! Wings and pizza! Imagine how happy the children were going to be! Well, something even better happened. The next day when I went to pick up the pizzas, not only did Eddy’s have the wings prepared, but two trays of pastries. He said he just wanted to make the children happy. I was so touched and blessed. I LOVE MY WORK… and the people that are brought into my life!!! AWESOME. (for more photos and info about the Back-to-School Bash dream fulfilled, click HERE)

As you can well see, great things are in progress here in Ghana, unfortunately they are progressing at African speed… I hope you all feel as blessed as I do today!! Have a great one!

A dream come true in Teshie, Africa - The "Back-to-School Bash"

2012-01-09T11:59:00.000-08:00

The “Back-to-School Bash” was a great success for the Assurance of Hope Children's Home in Teshie. While the initial plan was for pizza and pop, we were able to bring even MORE!!

Thanks to the generosity of the restaurant owner, we were able to bring wings and pastries too!

We played games like past the parcel, musical chairs, Miq (Mike) Tamakloe played football with the older boys while Frank Effah and I played past the parcel and musical chairs with the younger children..

Before we ate the children sang, danced and recited poems!
The children were so happy that we came. They had an amazing time. When I asked what their favorite food was, some of the children answered, "pizza", while some said, "chicken", and others said, "the pastries". (good thing we had a variety!)

I am sure that that was probably the most food they have eaten in one sitting in a long while. Rhoda and her parents were overjoyed. In fact, at times they were speechless. The guys, Miq and Frank (my iam1ru misson team members) were so happy with all that happened that day. My other friends were all busy on Saturday.. I am so happy that Miq and Frank were able to come and help. If not I would have had to do it all alone!!! We were there for over 5 hours… but not one moment was wasted. It was awesome.

The pizza was amazing.. But there is another story here as well… When I went to the Eddy’s Pizza to order the pizzas the day before the party, I was telling Eddy the owner what I was doing and why and he asked how he could help… I was stunned… So I told him to do whatever felt like doing… He said he would donate wings for all the Children.. woohooo wings and pizza.. Imagine how happy the children were going to be… Well, something better happened. The next day when I went to pick up the pizzas, not only did Eddy’s have the wings prepared but two trays of pastries… He said he just wanted to make the children happy.. I was so touched and blessed…
Please give a big shout out on our next newsletter to him… I told him we would blog and then give him the link… I LOVE MY WORK… and the people that are brought into my life!!! AWESOME..
A GREAT DAY WAS HAD BY ALL!!!
Thanks so much Canada for all of your support… We can do far more together than I could ever do alone

Musical Chairs

Acting like a monkey while playing "pass the parcel"

Nii won the "pass the parcel" game prize!

Frank, playing with the children

Some of the older boys at the home

Explaining the significance of the candy cane (before handing them out!)

Miq helping pass out the pencils

Bless proudly wearing his maple leaf head band

Sherry with Miq, Frank, Rhoda and Rhoda's parents

Sherry with Miq, Frank and Phil Anthropist (our monkey mascot)

A BIG surprise for Katie this Christmas

2011-12-26T04:57:00.000-08:00

A few months ago, we posted a dream on the website that read, "Help fulfill 11 yr old Katie's dream to make PJ's for Guatemalan children - $20 for 3 sets." Katie's grandparents live in Guatemala, and Katie is well aware of the vast needs there. Well, little did Katie know, there was a surprise in store for her...
Katie's dream was to sew PJ's for the children in Guatemala who just don't have PJ's. It's turned into a family affair, her Mom and her brother (Jacob) have been helping her every step of the way. On December 22nd Katie's PJ Dream, posted on the PI site, got fully sponsored!! Think that's amazing...just wait!!! On Christmas morning Katie and Jacob found out that they aren't just sewing PJ's to send with the Guatemala 2012 team but they are part of the team and they will get to hand deliver the PJ's when they go to Guatemala in March 2012!!

Blind Seniors in Central Asia Pay it Forward

2011-12-24T08:10:00.000-08:00

This is a GREAT update from our Dream Agents in Central Asia. A dream to have a Christmas party for Blind seniors was sponsored...and it sparked a desire for them to share with others.

Here's the update we received:

We had an amazing Christmas this year!!!

I was excited to announce to my blind friends about the blessings that came from Canada
to have a Christmas party this year. My friends were so happy to get together and celebrate
the Birthday of Jesus. I also shared with my friends about another dream that was sponsored
-- an orphanage with 120 orphans received money for a Christmas party too and they decided
to have a "Cookie baking party" (The kids were so excited to eat different kind of cookies).
This gave my blind friends an idea--"Let’s make cookies and not eat all of them but make them
and share them with baby orphans." (another orphanage in our area). It was so much fun to
spend all day making cookies for orphans. It was their first time to make cookies! Can you
imagine...never in their life have they made cookies themselves. They even decorated the
cookies themselves. Blind people felt so happy to be able to bless babies. In the pictures
you can see how much fun they had going to the orphanage and sharing cookies with babies.

After all the baking and sharing, the blind people had their own Christmas party. We sang lots
of songs, and ate delicious homemade food. They said that they dreamed about these kinds
of meals.

To see more photos and read the original dream. click HERE

Abigails Christmas Shoes - update from Sherry Peters, Ghana

2011-12-24T08:05:00.000-08:00

DEC 16th 2011 - Today at the local market in Ho, Volta Region, Ghana, Africa as I was walking a young girl around the age of twelve, so they tell me (more like 8 to me), stumbled in front of me. As I almost tripped into her myself I looked down and very quickly saw the reason for her fall was a broken flip flop… so I asked Delali, one of the ladies that were shopping with me if we could buy her a pair of shoes… I just wanted to do it very quietly, not to make a scene or make the young girl feel embarrassed but unfortunately like everything you try to do in Ghana it becomes a public issue, especially if a “white lady” has anything to do with it.
So we pick her out a little black pair of school shoes… She was so nervous as she tried to put them on. So much so the salesman impatiently told her to “fit them well” and finally when she realized they fit (kinda), a smile came across her face. MISSION ACCOMPLISHED….. Or so I thought!!

Before she left Abigail, the young girl, graciously permitted me to take a foto with her but as she went to walk away she put on her old flip flops, so I called her back thinking that this were her school shoes so she wasn’t going to wear them all the time.….so I thought well, what about every day, she will continue to walk and trip and eventually hurt herself from the fall… so I turned back to the shoe salesman and told him to give her a pair of everyday flip flops and with that everyone started to haggle over the price, I just wanted to pay and stop the public show, so finally I convinced the girl to put on her new shoes and go on..

However when I met Abigail in the market walking a short time later with her younger brother Foster and she was wearing her old shoes again but proudly carrying her new shoes in the black plastic bag she had given her to take her new shoes home.

Sometimes I really don’t understand the mentality of poverty… why would she not just throw away her old shoes and wear the new ones? Why place the old shoes very gently into the bag as she put on her new shoes? The gesture was like she was lovingly taking care of her old shoes.

I couldn’t sleep thinking about this young girl this evening, so I went downstairs to talk to the ladies (as they are still cooking at midnight for the lepers) to try and bring understanding as to why she didn’t wear the new shoes or why she wanted them to be a little too big for her and the girls had a couple theories… So before I close for this story at 2:10 am, I am going to share a couple of them….

1st- Delali figures that she is keeping them for her new “CHRISTMAS SHOES” that her parents would probably not be able to afford to buy her. And once the Christmas season is over, like church and so on, she will then wear them to school.

2nd- Roma thinks that she’s actually sleeping and holding her shoes close to her chest tonight because that will be all that she receives for Christmas and she wanted to keep them new.

3rd- Felicity and Dela says the reason she got them a little big was so that she can grow into them so then she can wear them year after year until her mother could afford to buy new another pair for her.

So maybe it’s not really the poverty mindset after all…. Maybe it’s a different kind of appreciation… or maybe... just maybe, it’s in this opportunity to share the true meaning of Christmas with a little girl called Abigail, in a local market that I truly discover, once again, the reason for the season!!! I FEEL SO BLESSED

~MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL, AND TO ALL A GOOD NIGHT~

Christmas is a time of giving - Update from the Burseys

2011-12-20T12:02:00.000-08:00

Christmas is a time of giving, sharing and loving. It is easy to give, share and love with the people that mean the most to us. It is kind of our obligation really isn’t it? True love does not confine itself to just family and close friends though… true love reaches out to all those in need, neighbours and strangers alike. Where there is need, there should be love. A wise man once said that we should love these people as much as we love ourselves!

This week we were walking through a local supermarket when we were approached by one of the people that we were blessed to help this year. It was the grandmother of Jackline. Some of you will remember that we got them a fridge and stove a few months back. These people are now an ongoing part of our lives. We have contributed to making things better but we have not turned their situation around completely. With her was Carla, the oldest sister of Jackline… SHOELESS! My heart broke a little for them because I realize how much more need there is, not just for this family but for so many like them as well. Sometimes the need is overwhelming to me. Sometimes I wonder if it is even worth the effort. Then I give my head a good shake! Of course it’s worth it!
This week I got a call from Brooklyn Village Church in Ontario Canada. A young lady named Miranda Parker heard our story of purchasing some shoes for a family, and started a campaign there to collect shoes for kids like Carla. To date she has collected 850 pairs and counting!! Merry Christmas Carla! Somebody cares! Sure the need is overwhelming… but sometimes… so is the generosity of strangers!
The truth is there is plenty to go around… plenty of food, plenty of money, plenty of clothes, plenty of shoes and plenty of love. It just needs to be shared! Just a thought. If you are unsure of how to direct your love and generosity… go to www.iam1ru.com. The opportunities are endless!
Merry Christmas everyone and Happy New Year!

Day one back in Ghana...

2011-12-14T07:45:00.000-08:00

I must have seen Accra, Ghana last time through rose coloured glasses...
for today as I wind through the streets in the back of a taxi for well over four hours just to get to my bank, run to market, and look for converter plugs (in 3 different storage containers converted to stores, I might add) inhaling the fumes from the big trucks and their diesel engines, feeling the immense heat, dealing with a headache, seeing people EVERYWHERE yelling, laughing, arguing and yet living socially together…. I wondered... with all of this noise and pollution how I can I possibly feel such a peace about being here again?

Just thought I’d share a little of my life today and remind you how good we really have it in Canada -- NOT to emphasize the craziness in Ghana, but to recognize how peaceful it is to be where you are called to be…
Through all of this madness we call life, isn’t it great when you feel peace?

Bloggin it up - with Lauren Pauls

2011-11-24T05:00:00.000-08:00

Chao,
I have been given the task of helping prepare some of the musical/drama programs for the upcoming orphanage. If you know me at all, you know that I am practically a walking, talking Broadway Show! haha So this is a task I am more than willing to attack. Luckily, Rick and Lisa want these songs and activities to be in English to help teach the children, so it shouldn't be too hard. I already have 20 games ready for action, with rules and equipment and everything prepared.
I have chosen over 10 songs already, including the classic 'Old McDonald had a Farm'!!! I am also looking for a few little dramas to teach the children so they can have little shows to present when we have teams come down. Its all very exciting! This is also a good reminder, for me at least, of the purpose for all of this work. This reminds me that its about the kids. And even though we dont have the home ready yet, the time will come. And when it does, we will be ready put some serious love into these kids. I cant wait!

Lauren

Time Unwasted

2011-11-23T08:03:00.000-08:00

I had the awesome privilege yesterday of watching hurting lives being changed for the better. Not through tangible or financial means, but an extension of love through the sharing of someone’s TIME.
We often see our ability to meet a need in direct relation to our ability to write a cheque. But the definition of a true everyday philanthropist is someone that gives daily of their time, energy, passion, and resources.   How many great intentions would we meet if we only had the time?   Let me rephrase that… if we only took the time.

Yesterday was a national holiday here in Mexico, and our friend Karen and her family dropped by to visit for the day. We watched a parade together, ate together, and drove to the river so Karen’s family could meet the family whose dream “Nurse Karen” recently helped us fulfill.
And it was during this meeting of strangers… that something incredible happened.   Karen’s mom, Ana Luisa, greeted this family with a warm hug. She stood in the tiny shack amongst the smell and the flies and listened as Jackline’s grandma poured out her pain through the telling of her story.   We stood and watched as Ana Luisa cried with them, held them, and spoke hope and encouragement into their lives.     A complete stranger, yet she made time in her busy day… to love.
In all the busyness we allow into our week, all the social media, all the entertainment, all the meaningless and mundane, it’s shameful to think of what our neighbourhoods could be… if only we’d all be willing to stop hiding behind the schedules and take time to reach out to somebody that’s hurting, helpless, or hopeless. Even if just for one hour a week.

Lisa Bursey

Hair today...Ghana tomorrow - a big success!

2011-11-23T07:55:00.000-08:00

We enjoyed an amazing day at the Spa Fundraiser on November 12th - Hair Today...Ghana Tomorrow. We had a full range of services: everything from haircutting by moi, massages with Heidi, Nutritional Counseling with Melissa, manicures with Colleen and Katie, pedicures with Angie and Katie, and a Café run by Dilya and Nargiza. (The crepes were amazing for those of you that missed out…so sad for you)
We also had a Silent Auction and a New and Newly New Boutique. Thank you to Shirley, Louise, and Bev for the GREAT donations! And I can’t forget our helpers, Sarah, Megan, Brenda and Chrissy.
We raised nearly $1400 towards my support for Ghana.

I am so grateful for the kindness of the workers who volunteered their time, energy and passion and from the participants. I goes to show that WE CAN do far more together than we ever could alone.. Thanks everyone!

Sherry Peters

Good news from Central Asia

2011-11-16T12:02:00.000-08:00

An update from our Dream Agents in Central Asia: We continue get excited about our “graduates “ (orphans who start living on their own) . This is Rustam and he just got a job in a store.
This might not seem very exciting for us, but for the kids growing up in the orphanages -- it is a big deal!! In the past, our children were never accepted in places like this. People were so "afraid" of orphans and thought that they will steal and cheat. Typically, business owners would say "no" to job opportunities for our kids and wouldn’t even give them a chance.
We are so happy that more and more of our children are starting to get these trustworthy jobs. We shared recently that two of our girls got jobs in the hotel...and now, we are excited to announce that Rustam is working as a cashier.

Life in Mexico - Update from Special Agent, Lauren Pauls

2011-11-16T08:55:00.000-08:00

Hola amigos.

Realization of the day: There is so much more to this 'dream agent thing' than the actual fulfilling of the dreams. Living here in Mexico with the Burseys has opened my eyes to what living a life like this actually entails. As wonderful as fulfilling the dreams is, that's just not the reality of everyday life here. Being a dream agent is so much more!
Everyday something new arises. From people coming to us with new dreams, to household chores, from getting the boys ready for their test the next day, to visiting and checking up with the families we have already fulfilled a dream with... Not one day is the same as the other. It sure keeps this interesting!

We were heading into Monterrey the other day for a meeting, and thought it might be a good idea to bring along this one family we know. You see, there is this young lady named Alondra, and she has had a rough life so far... With three kids (ages 8, 5, and 4), being a single mom, having no job and being stuck in this poverty cycle, things aren't exactly looking up for her. She wants what's best for her kids, but being so young and unsure of how to make things better, she doesn't have her kids as a priority. (And the kids are suffering for it). Rick and Lisa love these kids dearly and have been trying to get them into their orphanage, but with things being slow in that area, it's been difficult to have to wait. After some discussion with Alondra, she agreed to come with us to Monterrey and check out an orphanage there in which her kids could go until we were ready to receive them.
The day turned out better than we could have imagined! First of all it was super cool for me when Rick and Lisa had a meeting and I was just hanging out with Alondra and her kids. You see she doesn't speak any English and you can probably guess that I am nowhere near fluent in Spanish. So the hour or so when we were alone was frustrating, and amazing all at once. Haha
Using my little known Spanish, some hand signals, my iPad, and the help of a few passing strangers, we were able to communicate just enough to make us laugh. There was a weird sense of closeness...like we were comfortable with each other even though we couldn't understand each other. It was very cool. And, by the end of the day, the kids had met and joined their new temporary family and were off to get cleaned up for dinner. Alondra joined us for dinner feeling sad but glad that she had done the right thing -- we all had a feeling of relief and success. The kids are doing well so far, Alondra has found a job and we're just hoping and praying that things continue to look up for this family!
This is just one of the many stories that I could share with you. People are always looking for a smile and a helping hand around here.
Look out for some new dreams coming soon. And remember that your donations go far beyond the need themselves.

Keep Mexico in your prayers.
Hasta luego!

Alondra - a young mom

Zulenka - the middle child

Fernanda - the youngest

Rick with the oldest child - Eminem

Walk the Rock - a big success in more ways than one...

2011-11-02T08:38:00.000-07:00

It's been a little over a week since the completion of “Walk The Rock” and I am still filled with a mixture of emotions. Hiking Gros Morne Mountain has been a dream of mine for quite some time. So, while it was planned as a fundraising event... it was also the fulfillment of a personal dream. For the eleven people that joined me, it may have represented different things. However, we had one basic goal in common as we hiked and talked -- the fulfillment of dreams and the lives that were going to be changed because of the money that we all worked together to raise!

What started out as a simple hike for me and Wendy Pauls (Director of Communication and Development for PI), grew into a team of twelve (plus a monkey). As the twelve of us reached the 2644 foot summit, there were shouts of jubilation from everyone, amazement from some, and for me, the realization of dreams fulfilled...and NOT just my own. As I walked across the top of the mountain, tears filled my eyes, relief filled my face and pure pride filled my chest. All the dreams that had already been fulfilled in Ghana, Africa flashed through my mind only to be followed by visions of the dreams that were yet to be fulfilled: Dreams of children like Isaac, who desperately needs a wheel chair; James and Patricia, who need one dollar a day to eat at their school’s feeding program; or Linda, who dreams of seeing an eye specialist and receiving glasses; and the many other dreams of the children and elderly in the cured leprosy village. I can honestly say that I was overwhelmed. For some this hike may not have been difficult, and for others it was truly a challenge both physically and emotionally. But looking back at it just over a week later, the sense of accomplishment is amazing! I am so proud to have been part of the “WALK THE ROCK” Team 2011 that raised over $5300.00 dollars for the hurting, helpless and hopeless of Ghana Africa!

I say a BIG thank you to ALL of our hikers and supporters. We can do far more together than we could ever do alone….

Sherry Peters

Oct 29 Update from Guatemala - Special Agents Bos & May

2011-10-30T05:55:00.000-07:00

This afternoon we made one last house call to our two small patients. The little baby with the burn is much happier and is healing very nicely. We were thrilled with the second baby's progress, his eye has returned to normal, his breathing has improved and we were even greeted with a smile today.
Tonight we celebrated a successful week of clinics with a lovely dinner out with the Kings. We were able to see approximately 60 patients per day at our clinics and not a single patient walked out of the clinic without expressing their gratitude with a “Dios los bendigos (God Bless)”, a hand shake, or a hug. I'm not sure that they realize that we benefit equally from the opportunity to help them and are so grateful that they allow us into their communities and homes. We also need to thank those of you who contributed to this trip though your donations. The funds that we received enabled us to buy the medications that we needed as well as provide emergency investigations for several patients this week. Hopefully you will hear from the Bos/May team again!

Oct 28 Update from Guatemala - Special Agents Bos & May

2011-10-29T13:12:00.000-07:00

Another eventful day of clinic. Fortunately the woman that we sent for an ultrasound yesterday is doing well and the ultrasound was negative. We examined a woman today who has been suffering with large skin growths on her chest, back and chin. We were unable to determine what these growths were caused by so we have taken pictures and will forward the photos and her history to a colleague in Canada who will hopefully be able to help us determine a diagnosis.
Laurie will follow up with this patient to ensure she receives the treatment that she needs. It is reassuring for us to know as health care professionals that these patients will be followed even after our time here is done thanks to the hard work and dedication of Laurie and John King. Tomorrow we will be making one last house visit to our two babies to check on them before our time here comes to an end. Our last day of clinic today ended on a very special note. We had returned to the same location for a second day of clinic and a patient that we saw yesterday needed to come back today for some additional supplies. She brought us each a butterfly that she had made with "Benedictiones" written on the back along with our names, (Laurie, Ines, and Dug). We will all treasure these as a reminder of how gracious and appreciative all our patients have been this week.

Another busy day at El Teljar - Special Agents Bos & May

2011-10-27T19:13:00.000-07:00

Another busy day at clinic in El Teljar. Just a short note to update the condition of our burn patient.
He is much more comfortable and allowed Dr. Doug to change his dressing today without a tear. The little baby with the pneumonia, although still very ill, apears to be out of danger for now. We will check in on them tomorrow after our clinic. In the morning we will followup with a woman we sent for an ultrasound because of a mass in her abdomen. It is hard to believe it is our last day of clinic tomorrow.

Special Agent Pauls helps fulfill a dream in Mexico!

2011-10-26T20:26:00.000-07:00

Hola!!!

I helped fulfill my first dream!!! Now I feel like I am officially a "Special Agent".
Last weekend the team (Dream agents: Desiree and Juan, Rick and Lisa and their boys Jackson and Alex, also accompanied by friend and nurse Karen) got together and headed out to bring a fridge, and stove top to Jackline's family - this will be their first time owning a fridge.
When we arrived, the family had cleaned up the area where the fridge would be placed and you could tell they were getting pretty excited! We spent the morning tidying up, setting up the fridge and stove and just talking with the family. Our friend Karen spent some time explaining the importance of cleaning and putting food away. This family has never had a place to put their food, and would leave it out to rot. Before we bought them this fridge, they had flies like you wouldn't believe!!! And the children there (I think there are 7 kids in total living there) would just eat the food that they saw, even if it had been sitting there in the hot sun all day...
Our team of agents here are pretty thrifty, and they found some good deals on the fridge and stove, SOOO we had some extra money for the family. So along with the hygiene talk/lesson, we asked what else they really needed.
The kids needed school shoes.
The schools here require the kids to wear black dress shoes, and these kids were getting in trouble at school because they did not have dress shoes. So guess what?! We went shopping!! The team and all 7 kids hopped in the van and headed off to buy some school shoes. It was so cool. It was a little crazy, trying to find the right size for each child but we did it!
Overall a very successful day!!! And a HUGE thank you to those who helped sponsor this dream! This family is forever grateful.

Adios.
Hasta luego!!

Karen (nurse) explaining hygiene

Taking the kids shopping for school shoes

The new fridge and stove top

Guatemala update - from Special Agents Bos & May

2011-10-26T20:14:00.000-07:00

San Miguel Chimaltenango
The past two days we have seen approximately sixty patients per day in our medical clinics. Many people suffer from respiratory aliments because they cook over an open fire in the same room that they live in. They use green wood and the smoke makes them prone to bronchitis and asthma.
Today we examined a 16 year old married girl who was pregnant with her first child. We were concerned during our exam for the baby's health and were able to purchase an urgent ultrasound for her. Unfortunately the ultrasound was not good and she was sent to hospital. We were touched by the support and concern that was shown to her by members of the small close knit community. We have also been making daily home visits to the child with the burn we mentioned in the last entry. He is doing much better and should have minimal scaring. While we were there a mother brought her four month old to us. He was a very sick little baby, his right eye was swollen shut with a severe infection and you could hear him wheeze with every strained breath suffering from a severe respiratory infection. With no medical care he may have died and would have likely lost his sight in the affected eye. Fortunately we were returning from clinic and our trunk was packed with medications and supplies and we were able to start him on antibiotics immediately. We will be returning to check on him tomorrow to monitor his condition. It was a busy and eventful day made longer by running out of gas on the way home. Could someone send a gas card to Dream Agent Laurie!!

Update from Special Agents Pilon & Deschamps in Kyrgyzstan

2011-10-25T12:26:00.000-07:00

Monday

We arrived in our apartment at about 6:00 AM - had coffee and oatmeal with Jengish and Sergey. By 9:00 we were hard at it delivering rice around Tokmok with Ruby. We met with the director of the baby orphanage who we will take shopping for supplies before we leave.

Tuesday

Tuesday morning we met up with Ed and Sergey and went on a road trip. Sergey told us that Gulnara called 3 days prior to say that she was running out of food and hand no hydro. We did a little shop and bought food that will probably last about a week.

Next we visited Pastor Vera in Orlovka - she has opened 2 houses as rehab houses for those recovering from alcohol & drugs. They are set up and raising chickens and had beautiful gardens of produce.

Next we went to the seniors home in Kemin to see Tanya and all the seniors - this was just a quick visit to say hello. Gabriela and I had $1000.00 to take her shopping so we made arangements for a shopping date. We had dinner with Ed and his 2 pastors at Sergey & Anyas house.

Wednesday

Wednesday we went up to Seraphym to Teen Challenge to pick up the men to go to the market in Kent. The men needed winter shoes - they have been wondering for a long time how they would be able to afford to buy shoes. When we arrived to pick them up we hear one man yelling to the others - "dress nice we're going shopping". After shopping the men prepared plov for us for lunch - they sang and we had a wonderful afternoon together. It was a great relief for them to have winter shoes.

Wednesday evening I went to Acel's house to learn how to make bersolk.

Thursday

Thursday morning we went to the market and then out to the seniors house to make and serve them lunch. Ruby bought 15 chickens and we served vegetables, bread and rice & noodles. Lynn gave the blessing and at one point said 'thank you for the food' and I realized how often we eat our meals at home and say those words and how empty they seemed in that moment. The seniors love it when Ruby cooks because they get a lot of meat. After everything was all cleaned up we took Tanya (the director) to the Tokmok bazar to shop for supplies - she is a machine. She had her list and we had 3 different tatchki drivers delivering suppies to Eshars bus. She had $1000.00 to spend - flour, rice, sugar, kasha, tea, potatoes, carrots, onions, chicken, sausage, cookies, candies, soap & spices (and there is still money left over so we will be making a plan on how to do something more for the seniors).

Friday

Today was amazing - we went to the market and picked up supplies to make 25 food packets for the dump families along with banans. We purchased 400 large lemonade for each man at the home in Iskra as well. Then to the market to pick up 400 samsas that were ordered for the party - then to get 300 ice cream. When we arrived at the mens home we had just missed a big band celebration with men in uniforms (that was disappointing) but I can imagine it was quite something for the men. Larissa had arranged an entertainer to sing and play the key board. Jengish and the men from Teen Challenge came and sang a few songs as well. The men had a blast - it wasn't 3 minutes and they were up dancing - Gabriela and I joined in and danced with them for AT LEAST 45 minutes! One older Kyrgyz man was wearing a suit jacket and he was dancing and grinning from ear to ear. It was such a pleasure to dance with him. After dancing we had tea with the director and talked about plans for the future. Larissa showed us around and told us about her dreams for the home as well.

Then on to the dump - we visited with the people at the dump and the men from Teen Challenge provided an impromptu concert for them. We handed out samsas & lemonade. Each person received a food packet that had tea, rice, split peas, kasha, sugar, oil and 2 bananas. (bananas are imported from Equador and cost about 50 cents each, a far reach for most here - so the bananas were a big BIG treat)

over and out
Jody & Gabriella

Update from Special Agents Bos & May in Guatemala

2011-10-25T12:08:00.000-07:00

Yesterday morning was spent with Dream Agent John King scouting out potential sites for medical clinics for the March 2012 PI Trip. The most important item on the checklist being at least one clean and working toilet. In the afternoon we shopped for medicines at the local pharmacy with Dream Agent Laurie King. We concentrated on treatment for water born intestinal infections since the rainy season is just ending and there has been a lot of flooding.
In the evening we counted pills into lots for easy dispensing. Thanks to everyone who donated so that we could make these purchases.
We also saw our first patient. A toddler who pulled a cup of hot tea on to their chin and upper chest causing a large second degree burn. Agnes, Laurie and I cleaned and dressed the wound and we will check back today.

Now, we are off to the first of our daily medical clinics.

Agnes scouting a medical site

Laurie & Dr. Doug getting medical supplies

An impromptu fiesta

2011-10-19T14:01:00.000-07:00

Gordo, the birthday boy

So the coolest thing happened today...it started out like any other day here in Linares, until Rosa and her three children dropped by the house. You see, today the kids were supposed to have a little party at school, and everyone was supposed to bring in some food. But Rosa had no food for her kids to bring in... so they didn't go to school. Her little boy, Gordo, suggested they drop by the Bursey's house!
So they came over and we played for a bit until we found out that they had no food, and then Rick decided we should get them some groceries. On our little grocery adventure, we also found out that it was Gordo's birthday and so we bought him a little cake. Afterward, we took the family home and it ended up turning in to a little neighborhood birthday party! The kids had a blast eating their cake and learning how to sing "happy birthday" in English. It was a wonderful afternoon, and we are so glad Rosa stopped by. Those are some of the sweetest kids I've ever seen. :)

You've heard of a milk mustache...this is an icing mustache

Gordo enjoying his cake!

Rick always has as much fun as the kids do!

A Canadian Thanksgiving...in Mexico

2011-10-11T12:42:00.000-07:00

Lauren with Jackson Bursey

Hi there blog followers!

Hope the weather isn't getting too cold up there. It's still high 20's here at night. ;)

So this past weekend was Thanksgiving (in Canada), and being that we ARE Canadian, we put together a lovely thanksgiving feast with some of our Canadian friends here. It was so nice to have some traditional "comfort" food and remember how blessed we are being able to work here in Mexico.

Desiree showing off the new computer that was donated for the orphanage

As we continue to wait on some of the legal stuff, we do not lose spirit! A few days ago, we got a playground for the orphanage!! And shortly after, a youth group came by and helped us start preparing the area for the playground to be set up. It's exciting stuff, and I'll be sure to send a picture your way when we finish putting it together.

Lisa & Desiree sitting on the recently donated playground

This youth group also assisted us with getting all of our mattresses set up. It's so cool seeing everything fall into place. We're definitely getting excited and anxious!

I'm fitting in quite well here. I even got invited out for tacos the other night! I felt so... Mexican. Haha

Special Agent Lauren Pauls with Dream Agent Lisa Bursey...keeping the FUN in philanthropy!

Well thanks for reading. I'll keep in touch.

Adios!
Lauren

A Broken Dream...but we CAN help!

2011-09-30T12:27:00.000-07:00

An update from our Dream Agents in Mexico - Rick & Lisa Bursey:

As many of you Everyday Philanthropists know, we have been involved for quite awhile with the family of a little girl named Jackline. She is almost 5 and cute as a button. The living conditions she is subject to are atrocious to say the least. We posted a dream awhile back to help purchase a fridge and stove for Jackline's family because they have no place to store food and the children are often fed food that is very questionable. (see the original dream here)
The dream was fulfilled and we bought the fridge and stove... but before we could deliver them to the family they were stolen from a garage that we had placed them in for a few days. So we have posted that dream again. (Current dream details here) In the mean time, our worst fears have come to pass. Little Jackline has come down with an infection in her digestive system that had to be operated on. She has been sitting in the hospital with an open stomach (held together by only 3 staples) that the doctors wouldn’t close until they know the infection has completely cleared. The doctors are afraid they will have to operate again if the infection doesn’t completely heal, and they do not want to open her up twice. It would be just too much for her. As of yesterday she has received the antibiotics needed to try to combat the infection, but will have to survive for the next 4 months on a powder meal supplement because she cannot eat solid food.
We need to understand... this problem is most-likely a direct result of the very same poor living conditions we are trying to alleviate. Sometime this work is just too much. Watching a little girl like Jackline suffer because she was born into a situation she has no control over is just sad. This dream is still posted... we need some help here and the sooner the better. Thanks for listening... Jackline is not out of the water yet... keep her in your thoughts and prayers.
Much love!
Rick and Lisa Bursey, Dream Agents to Mexico

NOTE: as of today - Friday, September 30, there is only $120 needed to fulfill this dream to buy a fridge, stove and electrical box for this family. To donate, click HERE

Update from Special Agent Pauls

2011-09-27T20:05:00.000-07:00

Lauren left for Mexico on Monday, Sept 19th. Her first week was primarily focused on getting settled into her new surroundings and meeting some of the amazing people the Burseys are involved with. We've asked her to share regular brief updates...

Hola!

Lauren here, reporting all the way from Linares Mexico.
These last couple of days, while we continue to wait to open Casa Posibilidades (the new orphanage) officially, we have been partying it up! The festivities began with a farewell fiesta for a fellow volunteer worker - he is heading back north for school. Next, we were invited to celebrate a little girls 1st birthday with her and her family! After a weekend full of new faces, good-byes, my first Mexican church service, and a birthday fiesta, we finished off with a surprise birthday party for me!! The Burseys totally surprised me with a party Sunday night, complete with ice-cream cake, Nacho Libre (the movie), and a HUGE Tinkerbell piñata! It was a night to remember.


Special Agent Pauls completing her "self-defense" training! She's now safe from potentially dangerous fairies!

So, if the celebrating and struggling with Spanish wasn't enough I also got a little greeting from the biggest moth I've ever seen! It was just sitting on my wall as I walked into my room one night. I swear the thing was a bird, or a plane or something. It was CRAZY!

It's a bird...it's a plane...no, it's a Mexican moth!

Well, that's what's been happening here... We're growing impatient, just waiting to finalize everything so we can get some kids in here! But in the mean time I'm working on my Spanish, we're doing everything we can to prepare, and we're just praying it will all work out soon.

Talk to y'all soon. Don't forget to keep sponsoring those dreams!!

SpecialAgentPauls :)

Special Agent Pauls begins her assignment in Mexico

2011-09-21T04:35:00.000-07:00

Lauren Pauls is on assignment with PI from September 2011 until May 2012. She is working alongside our Dream Agents, Rick & Lisa Bursey - helping them prepare Casa Posibilidades for opening it's doors and helping identify and fulfill needs and dreams for the beautiful people of Mexico.

We asked Lauren to share a brief update.

I made it to Mexico!!! Wewt, wewt! It's so beautiful here. Hot. But beautiful.
So glad to be here with the Burseys, they're awesome.
After recovering from the long day of travel on Monday, I got to see Casa Posibilidades. And let me tell you folks, it's gonna be SWEET!!! I can't wait to see how it grows and transforms in these next few months. The possibilities are endless!
Other than my lack of Spanish, there is not much to report on yet, but I'll be sure to keep everyone updated. Thanks again for all your support, it's going to be a great 8 months!

Lauren

Parties with the blind seniors.

2011-06-23T12:14:00.000-07:00

From Dream Agents in Central Asia-
We continue to have parties with our blind seniors. They love these parties very much. .
First of all they love to get together and enjoy the fellowship with each other.
Secondly they love the food we make for them.

Blind people cannot have jobs and they live on the very small pension.
We are so thankful to you -our Everyday Philanthropists for giving us the money
to be able to bless our dear blind families.

A note from Sam Welten,Executive Director.

2011-06-23T11:54:00.000-07:00

Living the dream!!!
Wow! This nation of "everyday philanthropists" we are building is totally crazy - over the top generous!
On Monday morning, we sent out a special message about our Dream Agent, Sherry Peters, in Ghana.

We put out a call for help as we needed to raise some support for her living expenses until she comes back to Canada in late August or early September. The goal was $1,500. In less than 24 hours, we had just over $2,000! Go ahead...run outside of your house and jump and yell and celebrate! You guys are "out of this world"! Now, that is what I am talking about. And, while that was going on, other dreams were being sponsored on the iam1ru website.
It is watching things like this happen that spur me on to continue to chase the dream of building a huge group of people, a nation, just like you.
Thanks for the part you play in making this "the best gig on the planet"!
Living the dream,
Sam

Florence can go to trade-school!

2011-06-23T11:48:00.000-07:00

Florence is the oldest of 4 children in her family. She lives in Attico, Ghana, and works to help her mother (a single mom) provide for the family.

We recently posted a dream for $500 to pay for Florence's tuition to attend a trade-school. Well, that dream has been fully sponsored and fulfilled! Thank you Everyday Philanthropists!

Exciting news from Central Asia!

2011-06-15T16:00:00.001-07:00

Philanthropy is "spreading"
One of our projects in Central Asia is working with the orphans in the college. When orphans turn 16, they have to leave the orphanage - their "home" - and go live on their own.

Typically, they do not have families to turn to, jobs to go to, or places to live. Fortunately, we worked out an agreement with two colleges who agreed to receive children from the orphanage when they turn 16 years old. This allows the young teens to live in dormitories (free of charge) for an additional two years - working on their skills and education to help them move into a profession. We currently have two PI ladies working with in the college with these teens.

Three years ago, we started a new tradition - a graduation party for the 18 years old's. This year, one of the local ladies heard about this tradition and was moved to sponsor the party. She gave about $200 towards this party. You can see from the photos that the teens thoroughly enjoyed having a real graduation party.

Another dream fulfilled!!!

2011-06-02T07:10:00.000-07:00

Samuel got a bed, covering and MORE!!

From Ken and Michelle Desaulniers (Dream Agents in El Salvador):

We had the pleasure of delivering all of his birthday presents on Monday. With the money you gave, we were able to purchase a matrimonial size bed, all the bedding (including a 2nd set of sheets), pillows, a mirror, a clock, bath mats

(the boys at the orphanage had no idea what these were - they had never seen a toilet cozy nor bath mats before - which by the way we got for free), shampoo and hand soap.

Samuel was overwhelmed with emotion - nobody had ever given him this
many gifts in all of his life. Samuel is the sweetest boy and he truly made
our day. Kids like Samuel are why we do what we do and love it.

Thanks to all you who helped make this dream come true!

Here's the video of Samuel's Dream fulfilled!

Little boy Sasha got a desk!!!

2011-04-18T07:34:00.000-07:00

We had posted this Dream on the Website

This is Sasha. He has cerebral palsy and because
of that he cannot go to school. But our PI ladies
want to teach him. He lives with his grandmother. His dad died and his mom left them a long time ago and is never coming back. Our PI lady is asking us to help her start lessons by getting Sasha a desk. She found some old metal bars that she can make into a new table. She needs $40 to do so. Please help our little Sasha have his lessons.

This Dream was sponsored right away and we were
so excited to send the money to our Dream Agents.
Our PI ladies found a man who could immediately fix
the table. He did a great job! Right now Sasha has started
his lessons with one of our PI ladies. He is making great
progress. His grandmother said that it is so helpful for her
because everything he learns is useful. She also said that
it is so much easier to understand Sasha now and know
exactly what he wants. The desk and lessons have changed
Sasha’s life. Thank you so much for helping us help Sasha!!!

Baby orphanage got diaper rush cream!!!

2011-04-18T07:21:00.000-07:00

Thank you Everyday Philanthropists for donating $270 for diaper cream

The babies are much happier and the workers are too!

We had received this request from our Dream Agents-

We work in two Baby Orphanages and each orphanage
has about 100 babies. As you can see in the picture the
biggest need we have is for diaper rash cream.
Actually we have never been able to purchase it. We
searched everywhere and couldn’t find it. But recently
we found the cream in one of the pharmacies. We were
so happy about our discovery. We have already spoken
with the people at the pharmacy and they will give us
a discount. One small bottle costs $4 but they will give
it to us for $3. We need at least 100 bottles of this diaper
rash cream ($300) for our two Baby Orphanages. Would
you please help us? This is an emergency!!! Please help
us purchase 10 bottles for $30, or even more bottles

PI Dream Agents were so happy to purchase the diaper
rash cream. It took them to travel around all city in order
to get the all amount. They were in 11 pharmacies because
none of them had many diaper rush creams, they had to buy
by little bit from each pharmacy. But they said that each
pharmacy gave them discount after they heard it is from
baby orphanage. So every time they got discount they realized
they can get more. Our PI ladies said that they are so
happy now knowing that kid’s bumps are in good condition
and babies do not cry anymore like crazy from the pain...All
the workers said "We are as happy as if we found gold today!!!”
Thank you so much for helping our little babies have clear skin
on their bottoms!!!

Little boy Vadim got a bike!!!

2011-04-18T07:16:00.000-07:00

We had this Dream posted-

From our Dream Agents :
This boy's name is Vadim. He only has his grandmother.
His dad left him a long time ago, and his mother left him
recently.

They are living on the grandmother's small pension which
provides them with just some basic food. Vadim dreams
about a bike. He saw his neighbors on a bike and really,
really wants to have one.The bike costs $80. Would you
please help us with $20 or more!
The Dream was sponsored and we sent money to our
Dream Agents in Central Asia. They said it was so
much fun looking for a good bike for Vadim. Vadim
wanted the bike so much. Out PI Dream Agent said
when she brought the bike to Vadim it was raining.
Vadim had his coat on and was waiting for half an hour
by the door sitting on the bike until the rain finished.
When rain stopped he ran outside. It took him only 10
minutes to learn how to ride the bike. He was so proud
of himself. His face was shining with happiness. Our
PI lady said that it was so cute that he was trying not to
smile and look cool like a man. Thank you so much for
helping Vadim’s Dream come true.

Little Nargiza got a new bathtub!!!

2011-04-18T06:19:00.000-07:00

We posted this Dream on our Website-

This is our little girl Nargiza who has special needs.
Nargiza has cerebral palsy. But with the help of
our PI ladies she is doing really well. Our PI lady
does special massage and physiotherapy with her.
Nargiza has a special request -- she
would like to have a very nice bathtub.

Could you please help
Nargiza by providing the special paint required to coat the
bathtub? Itwill cost $105.

This Dream was sponsored and we were able to help Nargiza's
dream come true. Nargiza is trying to walk now and she is doing
a good job with assistance. Her mom said that Nargiza made a
special way to go to the bathroom. You can see where she hangs
on to the wall. Her mother said the paintis almost chipping off the
wall because Nargiza runs to the bathroom all day long and looks
at her beautiful bathtub.
Thank you so much for making Nargiza's life beautiful!!!

Senior lady Tanya got medical checkup.

2011-04-16T10:52:00.000-07:00

We had this Dream posted on our Website.
This letter is from our PI Dream Agent in
Central Asia.
Our dear blind lady Tanya has some medical
problems - her stomach is getting bigger and
bigger every day.

We took her to the doctor for a consultation. The doctor said that
she has to do an analysis of everything inside – an ultrasound of
the kidneys and liver, bloodwork and many other medical tests.
All together it will cost $125. Could you please help our blind
senior Tanya find out what is wrong with her? Please help us
with a donation of $25 or more
This Dream was sponsored and we even received an extra $25.
Our ladies took Tanya to the hospital and ensured all the tests
were completed. We found out that she has a problem with her
liver. The doctors wrote out a long prescription. Our PI ladies
had to go to seven or eight Pharmacies to find all the medication.
But Tanya now has all the medications she needs to take. The
extra $25 was spent on vitamins and nutritious food. Thank you
so much for helping our Tanya!!! She was so happy to receive the
help and she said –“Finally I won’t have any pain anymore.”
April 2011

PI News!

2011-04-14T07:23:00.001-07:00

You can check out the newest PI Newsletter here.

iam1ru BCS Guatemala

2011-03-28T08:44:00.000-07:00

The team is doing great. Visited Papaya Volcano yesterday and headed to Pana today for some R&R. Here are a few more pics.

Teacher Bev Farrow "sneaking" internet from a local house. :)

The team internet cafe.

Handing out some toothbrushes in a local village.

All smiles.

She got her new toothbrush.

The team playing with some kids before the food distribution.

A family overwhelmed with their new home.

Wendy handing out toothbrushes.

The team on Papaya Volcano.

Girls on the horses ready to ride up the volcano.

Volcanic Smores! Yummy!

The team built two houses...did a block party...did a food distribution...they were kept busy for the work days. They are now on some "down time" until they come home Wednesday.

Latest Report From iam1ru BCS

2011-03-25T07:13:00.000-07:00

The team is doing great!
Health is holding up and today they are just finishing up their second house! This afternoon they will be doing a block party. I am told the students are pumped about today. Internet at the Guest House is an issue. Last night Wendy had to walk a bit down the road to find an unsecure wireless connection that she could jump on to send me these few pics. I will keep you updated as much as I can.

Here is a pic of the team waiting at the airport to board the plane.

Bev Farrow showing the proper technique to use a non-motorized post hole digger.

The team going over instructions for the second house build.

Go team!

Update on iam1ru BCS Team!

2011-03-23T06:34:00.001-07:00

Just heard from Wendy...
The team made it okay...everyone is doing fine and they are headed out today to build a house!
No rest for them baby!
Will keep you updated as I am update.

A few pictures of the Medical Team in Guatemala March 03-13,2011

2011-03-21T17:57:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures taken by Colleen Lipskie.

Heading to see more patients!

Jolyanne Marcotte giving out prescribed medicine! It's like a "gold" in Guatemala...

Joanne Stever is checking a little boy. People were lined up from early morning to see a doctor.

Angie Morris loves playing and entertaining the kids that are waiting to see a doctor! Every child got a soft toy! Thank you to all who donated their toys!

Liam Frape giving out reading glasses. A lot of people in Guatemala can not afford to buy them...

Agnes Bos is helping a family with a little baby!

Doctor Doug is having a special patient, what a Freak!

Nori Frape is doing some serious checkups!

Holly Rietveld is writing the prescription for this young lady!

Dr.Doug : "Rose, that didn't come to my mind!"

Kieran May is checking a blood pressure! There is no Walmart in Guatemala to check the blood pressure for free.

Thank you all for donating towards the Medical Clinic!

Ladies in the prison got goodies!!!

2011-03-16T09:55:00.000-07:00

With the help of a donation of $100 from Iam1ru Philanthropists we were able to get goodies for the ladies in the prison.
This is an update from PI Dream Agents in Central Asia-
We continue to work with women who are in prison as well as those
who have been released. Recently these women received a pack of little
goodies for Woman’s Day.They were so happy! These little gifts made
these ladies feel that they are loved. They want to continue to change and
become better people. They said that they feel so special.
Here are pictures of some of the ladies-

March 2011.

Many Dreams were fulfilled in Central Asia!!!

2011-03-16T08:52:00.000-07:00

With the donation of $150 from our iam1ru Philanthropists we
were able to fulfill so many Dreams!!!
Here is an update from Pi Dream Agents in Central Asia-
One of our PI projects is helping single parents with handicapped
children. We noticed how many of them did not have any blankets.
We put this Dream on the Website. But after this Dream was
sponsored, we found more families with the same need for blankets
and mattresses.

Our blind lady Gala did not have a blanket and mattress.
On March 8 we have a huge celebration in our country as it's
International Woman’s Day. With your help we were able to throw
a little party for our blind ladies. The blind ladies feel very special on
that day.

Our senior lady Tanya had no where to put her groceries. They were just
sitting on the floor. How happy she was on the day when she got these
shelves. She keeps thanking us with tears in her eyes.

We (workers of the Baby orphanage) go to the local markets from time to
time and ask the vendors for donations of fruit, vegetables and different
types of goodies. But when we bring all the donated goods to the orphanage,
we always had a problem as we did not have proper dishes to store everything.
We were so happy to get these three big containers.
March 2011.

Birthday party for 16 years old orphans.

2011-03-16T08:29:00.000-07:00

With the donation of iam1ru Philanthropist we were able to have a
Birthday party for the orphans in the college.
We got this report from our Dream Agents in Central Asia-
Birthday parties are something we always had as children. Our
parents did their best to make us feel that we were important on
that day. But for orphanages with 150 or 200 kids it is impossible
to have Birthday parties. We decided to help with the parties in each
of the projects we are involved in. And what a Bomb!!! The kids
are so happy. Most importantly they feel very special themselves.
Everyone who was born in February and March had a special gift
and they shared cake, fruit and meal with their friends. We had about
50 kids at the party and everybody had so much fun!!! We spend
$100 for the party

March 2011

Sam's Fav Pics from iam1ru Guatemala

2011-03-15T07:46:00.000-07:00

There are lots of great pics that I have seen and I have heard some great reports. We already have people telling us they are in for next year! Here are some of my favourite pictures from this trip...with a few of my comments. :) By the way....I will post pics from medical team when I get some from Colleen.

Kathy Mizen getting reading for the Game Show "Find me a Cowboy"! Booyah!

Barbara Wright modelling her new apron!

The team brought tons of supplies for the volunteer EMS crew and firefighters.

This is the Guest House where the team stayed. Very nice.

Not only nice on the outside but nice on the inside.

I am thinking if you can fit into a hockey bag you should be able to go for free. lol.

Rachel Ray has nothing on these three!

Jesse & Tabitha with Phil.

Enjoying the Volcanic Smores! Also keeping an eye out for a Guatemalan Cowboy!

Okay....this pictures screams out one word to me...."Trouble"!

Speaking of trouble....lol....what a Freak!

Dancing with the Stars - Pana Style!

Cathy Hughes and Kathy Mizen getting the gifts ready for each house they were about to have a party at as they dedicated the homes and presented each owner with keys!

House #1

All six houses were built in the same village. In this village a few years back a man came and offered to build new homes for people for $500US. He took many peoples life savings and never returned. A few years later, a team shows up and builds six houses that "everyday philanthropists" in Canada paid for. The people in the village were a bit untrusting at first but by the end of the week they were warming up to the idea of homes maybe being built for them in coming years. Thanks to all who donated. This is what I am talking about baby!

House #2

House #3

House #4

House #5

House #6

To Canadians these houses do not look like much. When you have a house with cornstalk walls and old beat up tin for a roof....and a dirt floor....imagine what it is like in the rainy season. Again, thanks to all who support PI and those who gave specifically to these dreams. You have changed lives! You have brought hope!

Want to know more about what we do and the dreams that are available now to sponsor, visit our website www.iam1ru.com

A couple days of relaxing...

2011-03-12T08:50:00.000-08:00

A few of the crew with their new hats they purchased in Pana.

All smiles after a ride in a TukTuk...must have been a good driver!

The sunset in Pana. Now that is what I am talking about.

The team arrives back in Toronto Sunday night at about 9:30.

I am looking forward to hearing all the reports.

House Dedications & Block Party

2011-03-10T11:38:00.000-08:00

On the way to a "house dedication" these three ladies were spotted.

Getting out of the truck and van and heading to a house dedication.

This team was the group that built this house. Here they are posing with the mom.

Another building team with the house they built.

At every dedication a local pastor would present the family with a Bible and a house warming gift. They would then be presented the keys to their new home by the team.

Wendy Pauls chatting it up with some folks that are gathered around the team van.

Some kids enjoying the bouncy castle at the Block Party.

Not sure if this little guy is enjoying the castle or if he wants out.

Fun games were for all the kids that showed up. John Teskey reports that by the end of the time he had over 70 kids lined up waiting to try out the bouncy castle.

And of course what is a Block Party without candy floss. It was a big lineup!

More Pics & Update - iam1ru Guatemala

2011-03-09T06:16:00.000-08:00

A pic from volcano trip.

The lava flow is huge.

Looks like Dave is apologizing to his wife Barbara...

"I am sorry that I forgot the hot dogs...no barbecue until we get down off the volcano dear"

The team took lots of teddy bears to give away to children.

Waiting for Team Canada.

There is always time for a siesta!

Al Primmer & Don Welten doing some reno work at a local orphanage for children with special needs.

Jesse Wright having a siesta of his own with "old yeller".

Some of the team playing soccer with local children. It looks like the game got a bit rough....lol.

Getting ready for Food Distribution #2!

Food Distribution #2 - Tuesday, March 8th....in full swing.

I am going to include a post that John Teskey made on FB. It describes the day pretty well.

So since there’s no houses ready to build we visited a local special needs orphanage to help with some their maintenance that needed to be done. There was some grass cutting to be done, Painting to be updated, concrete removal and some pluming work. The team split off and I headed to concrete (it was the furthest from painting). Unfortunately we needed more painters so I grabbed a roller and jumped in. When Don and Al spelled me off I went back to the hammer verses concrete. Some of the girls help with painting (Pastor Kathy on a ladder makes me nervous) and the others helped out and played with the children while the remainder were cleaning machines. We also see a need of their garbage box needing some TLC. So we restructured for strength and put a new steel roof on it. Then once again off to a food blessing at another community. John King the local missionary informed us that this would be a much different group of people. He explained that they would be dressed much like us and you might wonder why they are there. He informed us that this is just a façade they will do everything to appear normal and there nothing behind it. He explained that pride is very import thing in Guatemala and appearance is very much part of this. It was a different experience because of this. It was a good fun feeling giving to these people. They we very open to handshakes and smiles. I was standing waiting while they were arranging the line and there was a cute little girl kind of looking at me so looked at her and gave her a big smile. She then hid behind her mother and whispered in her ear and cam running over. I kneeled now to say hi and she came right up and kissed me on the cheek. Unfortunately nobody caught it on camera for me to share it with you. For me there is no photo necessary I don’t think I’ll ever forget that little girl running up and kissing this stranger just to say thank you.

I can’t wait for today. We are going to have ceremony giving the keys to each of the homes in the morning. In the afternoon it’s block party time. We have arranged a cotton candy machine and bouncy house. If you see this community I can pretty much guarantee they have never had a bouncy house. I'll make sure to get lots of pictures.

A few pics from last few days....

2011-03-08T09:32:00.000-08:00

Pic of the team with the Volunteer Firefighters (Bomberos) and the EMS folks. They were pumped about the dinner and all the supplies.

Liam Frape sliding down the pole and giving Phil a ride on his shoulder.

John King (in red....our leader from Guatemala) stood up and hit his head on something and needed our medical team to attend to his head wound. Dr. Doug May (Guelph) is treating the wound.

This is the van full of the Medical Team. Oh my. Quite a crew. Here is a cool story about the medical team that happened yesterday. Remember that most of the clinics are held in a local church as it is a meeting point that many in the villages know about. Here is the story...

Last night John rec'd a phone call that the church that was supposed to hold the clinic today cancelled the event. (tension in the church)
So, John made a call to another local pastor to ask if we could set up a clinic in their village - he agreed but said that no one would know, so it wouldn't be very busy.

This morning(Monday), on the way to the clinic a man came up to the van desperate to find out when there would be a doctor nearby. When they told him "today"...he couldn't believe it. He said I'm going home first to tell my family and neighbours.

So, the medical team thought they would be having a slow day today - but instead, saw over 250 patients!! (with NO promotion ahead of time!!)

Medical Clinic set up in a local church.

Dr. Nori Frape doing a checkup.

Angie Morris working with the Medical Team handing out teddy bears to children waiting in line.

Dave Wright handing out food to a lady at the Food Distribution on Monday Afternoon.

John Teskey (Petrolia), Wendy Pauls (Baden) & Kelly Deschamps (Espanola) handing out food at Food Distribution.

Here are a few quotes from a couple team members that were said at a team meeting...

John Teskey (aka Little John) made a witty comment tonight (referring to their incredible productivity - completing 2 more houses!!) He said, "Another day....another 2 houses"

Don Welten (aka Sparky) -During sharing time said, "We have an amazing building team....and that's all I'm gonna say."

Dave Wright talked about the Food distribution and the impact on the families...and confirmed his earlier comment, "that's what it's all about"

Saturday March 5th & Sunday March 6th

2011-03-07T09:00:00.000-08:00

This is a picture of all the supplies donated to the volunteer Firefighters and EMS crew. The team also served them dinner.

Some of the team also got to slide down the Fireman's pole. This is a bit blurry but it is Kathy Mizen from Windsor.

Early on Sunday morning those of the team that were going to do the volcano climb arrived to a group of horses ready for them to begin their journey upward.

Nothing like a trail ride up the side of a mountain/volcano.

Dave Wright just found out they had marshmallows for roasting. He is a very happy man!

Kathy Mizen heading up the trail to the lava flow.

Here is the team at the edge of the lava flow.

Nothing like roasting some marshmallows over a hot air vent from the volcano.

Dave Wright shared this story during a team gathering a couple nights ago...

"When we were driving away from the worksite, a teddy bear fell on the ground of the van - we weren't sure where it came from. But we looked ahead in the road, and there was one little boy just standing there so we stopped the van to give the bear to the little boy. He broke into a huge smile from ear to ear and I nearly lost it. Building the houses is neat, but THAT is what it's all about."

Here is a really cool story that Rose Gass (Simcoe) found out about and wanted to share...

I have to tell you the story about the village we are currently working in. Many of the homes are built on the hillside. The homes are built of tin sheets; the floors are dirt. Walkways up into the homes are carved into the hillside. I can’t imagine what a river of mud this must be in the rainy season which lasts from May until November. Several years ago a man came to this village and promised the villagers that he would come and build homes for them. How they must have anticipated this improvement in their circumstances! Families gave $500 to this man with his promise to come back and build. $500 is a fortune in a country where the average wage is about $1 a day. This money was probably their life savings -- money they needed in case of an illness, or other emergency in the family. The man never returned.

Then arrives another man, John King a Canadian missionary, who promises that a team will come and build homes for them. How this other promise must have stirred up feelings of distrust and possibly anger at remembrance of what had been promised before. But this time supplies arrived -- timber, tin roofing and cement. Hope. Anticipation. Can you imagine the excitement of the families who were going to receive a new home! And best of all, the families were going to receive these homes free -- paid for by Canadian donors.

It was the local pastor who decided which families were in the greatest need of a home. While John and the pastor were walking through the village, an older man approached them. This man had been very angry at what had happened to him previously and was very distrustful of strangers promising new homes. John, however, felt moved to listen to this man. John felt in his heart that this man and his family needed to be blessed with one of these homes.

God had a plan of good for the wrongdoing done to these villagers. I feel so humble being part of God’s blessing to these families. Myself, our team, and the Canadians who have contributed to make the dream of home ownership come true for a remote village in Guatemala.

Now that is what I am talking about!

Saturday March 5th in Chimaltenango

2011-03-06T05:58:00.000-08:00

Cathy Hughes loading up groceries to prepare the dinner for the Volunteer Firefighters and EMS folks.

Sloppy Joes, Potato Salad, Angel Food Cake with fruit and whip cream. Yummy!

Sometimes you just have to pause and give the local kids a shot.

Sometimes you will catch them laughing, and posing for a picture!

You see a lot of this all over in Guatemala. Carrying sticks on the back. You can see a house in the background made from branches and such.

Tabitha Wright keeping the local kids busy. She looks like she is having a blast.

Al Primmer mixing concrete for the floor. That's right folks...no cement mixer...you mix it right on the dirt and then spread it.

Tyler Field looking for some more sun screen.

Wayne Lipski on the move looking for something. Maybe he is looking for sunscreen for Tyler!

That is right. There is no flat ground in Guatemala.

I love Kelly Deschamps! He is never too busy to take time with the kids.

Another house close to completion.

Okay...so they have been working for two days and have 4 houses completely finished. Yes, you read right. I knew they would be good but c'mon now. This team is a bunch of Freaks!

I may have to put out a request for more funds to build a few more houses. You can build one of these in Guatemala for $400US. Imagine that. I think they had enough money for 6 houses. I am going to check and see. Here is a note from Colleen Lipskie about the medical team...

"What an amazing day!! Our first clinic day and we saw over 200 patients. Our team of 14, along with our 3 interpreters, were wonderful. There was no job too small or unimportant for anyone. Every member was willing to do anything and everything...and when John King gave himself a gaping head wound the entire ER staff sprang to action!"

John stood up quickly and banged his head open on something hanging - blood was dripping down. He's fine but I hear the reaction was pretty funny.

Today(Sunday) the team is taking a break and will be visiting a "live" Volcano and also doing some shopping in Antigua and enjoying a nice supper at Loco Moco, which I have always called the "Funky Monkey" restaurant.

Stay tuned fro more reports!

Updates from Guatemala Team

2011-03-05T06:14:00.000-08:00

Friday, March 4 - our first full workday....and we survived! Today the medical team joined the building teams as they set out to build two new homes in a village just outside of Chimaltenanga.

The people in the village were very excited and many were standing near the building site when we arrived. Tabitha (age 14) along with a few other members of the team, kept the children entertained some pencil crayons and bubbles.(both were a big hit with the kids who stayed gathered around for hours) . Both teams faced some challenges (uneven surfaces, re-digging post holes) but they worked things out and both houses are ready to have the cement floor poured!
Despite the size of this team (33 including our hosts, the Kings), everyone is working well together - stepping up to serve and sharing the workload. It's going to be a good week!

Friday, March 4th in Chimaltenango, Guatemala

2011-03-05T05:54:00.000-08:00

Here is one of the building teams. Looks like a crazy crew! That is Barbara Wright (Quebec) in the front with the iam1ru tshirt on, holding the post hole digger. Looks like she is ready to start digging!

Quite a good days work! I am told they got this house 80% done yesterday and only need to do the concrete floor and a front door. That is Kelly Deschamps from Espanola in the red tshirt and yellow hat.

The owner of this new house in the guy in the bottom right in the white hat. Tyler Field from Petrolia is in the grey tshirt in behind the house owner.

Don Welten getting stuff out of the truck. Al Primmer(Petrolia) is on the left with the grey tshirt and white hat on.

Thats right ....31 people.....and about 60 bags in total!

Imagine going through the airport with this load?

The roof going on the house.

There it is, the house on the hill. It may not look like much to you, but when your previous house had walls made of cornstalks, and an old beat up piece of tin as a roof...I am thinking they are thrilled with this new dwelling. Way to go Team!

News from Guatemala Team

2011-03-04T14:02:00.001-08:00

Hello folks! I got a short email from Wendy this afternoon letting me know all was good and that she would send me an update later on.

Orphans got dishwashing supplies!!!

2011-03-03T20:52:00.000-08:00

We had this Dream posted-
We have a huge need in one of the orphanages in Central Asia.
We need a year’s supply of dishwashing liquid and dishwashing
sponges. The orphanage has 120 children. All the dishes are
washed by hand because they do not have a dishwasher. The
children eat meals 3 times a day and so there are a lot of dishes.
We need $30 a month for this need so in total we need $360 a
year. Would you please help us purchase the dish cleaning supplies
for one month, a couple or more?

We recieved $60 towards this Dream,enough for two month.
First of all we sent money to our PI Dream Agents and they
went to the markets. They were so happy to purchase the dishwashing
supplies, and said that the orphans were so happy to help wash the
dishes. They help wash the dishes on a schedule and usually nobody
liked this job. They did it just because they had to. But now with the
new dishwashing supplies they were actually fighting over who will
wash the dishes. Everyone wanted to try the sponges and dishwashing
liquid.

Thank you so much for helping our dishes be clean as well as
helping our children enjoy washing the dishes!!!
March 2011

Report from Special Agent Josiah Olver

2011-03-03T16:53:00.000-08:00

Just got this note from Josiah Olver, our Special Agent working with the Burseys in Mexico.

Hola,
So my time here has been very rewarding. The type of people that we meet on an everyday basis are in some kind of need, whether it be physical, Mental or Neglected. This one boy in Particular that has been through a ton of trauma within the past year. This young man was a part of a gang here in Linares and got into a confrontation with another gang. He was severely Beaten up with a baseball bat and left unconscious. From there he was thrown onto the train tracks for dead. With the covering of the Lord, the train went right over him without killing him. If you were to see him now you would think there is no way of recovery. He is very Emaciated and is unable too speak, walk, or perform simple tasks such as wipe his face. This boy is in dire need of professional therapy and encouragement. Our plan with this boy is to get him 3 months of therapeutic care to help him recover. They have said that he has the potential to recover 95% with the right tools, and that's what we want to do.

You can read more about Luchi and his dream here.

They have arrived in Guatemala!

2011-03-03T16:43:00.001-08:00

I do not have many more details other than they have arrived. However, I have not heard if their luggage arrived also! lol! We will keep you updated.

The team is waiting for the plane!

2011-03-03T06:09:00.000-08:00

The team is waiting in line at about 7:30 this morning. I am told it went smooth except for them having to have some hockey bags tied around the middle so it made them thinner.

Here are Dave Wright from Quebec and Rose Gass from Simcoe waiting to have the hockey bags tied. I knew some of the bags were pretty wide. Good thing they have a guy at the airport to tie them. And it only cost $5 a bag.....what a country!

Here is the team all checked in and ready to head through security. It is a big team with another two (Don Welten & Al Primmer) to be added in El Salvador.

There is no question in my mind that Wendy Pauls has the goods (and the "guns") to lead this team. Vee and I are sad we cannot be with them but Wendy will do a great job leading this crew. It is a great team and I cannot wait to hear the reports and see the pics and videos. Stay tuned to this blog to get updates.

iam1ru Guatemala in less than 24 hours!

2011-03-02T07:59:00.000-08:00

The team is making final preparations. There are 28 hockey bags sitting in the lobby of Freedom Church waiting for the bus that will pick up the team tomorrow at 5:30am. As many may now know I will not be leading the team as I have decided to take some time to recharge my batteries. Wendy Pauls will now be leading the team.

They will be holding medical clinics and have two building teams on the go. Please stay tuned for updates as the team makes an incredible impact in lives in the country of Guatemala.

Orphans got a book shelf in the classroom!!!

2011-02-25T16:10:00.000-08:00

We had this Dream posted in our Web-
Our two PI ladies are working as psychologists in the college with orphans.
We have a great agreement with the college that they will keep our children
there for two years. That way 16, 17 and 18 year old orphans will have a
free place to live in the dormitories, as well as being able to learn a profession.
The work of PI is expanding. We used to work with orphans in only one
college. We have now begun work in another college with orphans who have
just graduated from the orphanage. Children are 16 to 18 years old there.
These children are very happy to have our PI ladies help them. They have
already begun to refer to them as their mothers. As well, all the staff in
the college are very happy to have additional helpers. Our ladies have
an office where they can have psychology lessons with the children, but
they don’t have any supplies in the office. Could you please help us
purchase a shelf for books and other educational supplies? The shelf
costs $120. Please help us with $20 or more!
This Dream was sponsored and we were so happy to purchase the
shelf. On behalf of our PI ladies from Central Asia thank you so much!!!
They said that they were able to buy some books too.

Another interesting things happened –our PI Dream Agents said
that it was an awesome start because when some of their friends
heard about the shelf they gave them some books for free.

February 2011

New floor for blind lady Galina.

2011-02-24T12:06:00.000-08:00

We had this Dream posted in our Web-
Our blind lady Galina has rotten floors in her apartment. You can
see in the picture that there are holes everywhere. She often falls
down and it’s been a miracle that she hasn’t broken anything. Galina
receives a very small pension, barely enough to buy basic food so
she will never be able to fix her floor. We worry so much that her
floor is going to have more holes. We really want to fix the floor in
her little one bedroom apartment and we need $450 to do that.

In a few days the Dream was sponsored and we sent the money to
our PI Dream Agents in Central Asia. They did not wait a second.
Right away our PI ladies found workers and began to make
Galina’s dream come true. As always our PI ladies tried to find
good deals so they got all the materials to cover the holes very
cheaply, and they found two men who worked almost for free
because our ladies asked them for charity. Yes…they have
boldness to ask …they say-“They won’t beat us for asking.
The worst thing they could do is say-“no”…but if they say “no”
it does not mean we will have to pay full price …it means we
can ask other people….”

And the dream of not having holes was realized…but our PI ladies
always like to do more. They had some money left over and they
decided to cover the floors with linoleum. It is something the blind
lady loves because it is very easy to clean. Can you believe we
covered the floors of the kitchen, bedroom and living room with
linoleum.

And still they had some money left…so they decided to buy a couch
for Galina. It is a used couch but in a very good condition.

Thank you so much for such amazing gifts for our blind lady Galina!!!
February 2011

Orphans Lola and Anjela got new shoes!!!

2011-02-19T05:44:00.000-08:00

This Dream was posted on our Website-
Two of the girls from one of the orphanages where we work have a huge need -- their feet grow so fast and they do not have any shoes to wear. Would you please help us purchase 2 pair of shoes for them? One pair costs $20.

This dream was sponsored by two people at the same day
and we were able to help two girls to get two pair of shoes-
dressy shoes and running shoes for each girl. Our girls Lola
and Anjela could not believe that their dream came true.

Actually it took a while until they finally wore them. Our

PI ladies said that the girls continued to wear their old ripped shoes

for a couple of days. The girls kept looking at their new shoes and

did not want to start wearing them because they wanted them to

continue to look new.

Thank you so much for giving such beautiful and practical gifts to our
Lola and Anjela!!!

February 2011

Our blind lady Katya got help.

2011-02-06T18:52:00.000-08:00

We received this letter from our PI Dream Agent in Central Asia-
“Our senior Katya can see a little bit of some objects. She is considered
90% blind. Because she can see some objects, she is able to not run into
things when she is on the streets and when she goes to familiar places. She
was kind of independent in many ways…but then she began to lose even
this very little sight. We took her to the eye doctor and found out that she
could have one injection into her eye that would help but the injection costs
$65. Please help our Katya to get this treatment so she can continue to
have an “independent” life.”

The Dream was sponsored right away and our PI Dream Agents
were really happy to help Katya. They went one more time to the
doctor to check when he could give Katya the injection. The doctor
was so happy they returned. He said that he was thinking about
Katya and about our ladies trying to help a lady who is really no
one to them. The Doctor said that he wants to give them a
discount because he was touched by the love our PI ladies had
towards the blind lady Katya.
Our ladies were so happy about the discount for the injection
because with this extra money they were able to buy some
groceries for Katya. Look at the picture to see how happy
Katya is-she got an injection for her eyes plus some food.
Katya was especially thankful for the meat as she cannot
afford to buy meat at all.

Thank you so much iam1ru Philanthropist for such an amazing gift for
our blind lady Katya.
February 2011

Our PI Dream Agents are getting new skills.

2011-01-18T08:02:00.000-08:00

In Central Asia our PI ladies take some type of lessons during
the year. We have had really great results. For example one
of our ladies who works with the blind people graduated from
hairdressing school and now helps blind people.
Two ladies from the Baby Orphanage graduated from massage
therapy classes and now they help the babies in their orphanage.
The PI ladies do this on their own time and do not get paid to do
so. They have a huge desire to improve their quality of work.
We just received our 2010 report-one of the ladies graduated from
sewing classes. Take a look at her first work! There was an old bench
in the medical room and she made a cover for it. She says that this
was a very simple work. She is excited about the future and how she
will make clothing for the children in the orphanage.

Another lady had to learn how to cook -- something very simple, not
expensive but very-very delicious. Then she did some cooking with the
children at her project. Look how much fun they are having. They made
traditional food, something like a fried perogy.

First El Salvador Dream!

2011-01-14T06:10:00.000-08:00

We have just posted the first dream in El Salvador. You can watch an intro video here.

You can read more about this dream from Dream Agent Ken Desaulniers on the website.

Read about the dream.

sick one day to baseball tryout the next!

2011-01-13T07:20:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday I was out....worst cold/flu symptoms I have had in years. Was not sick to my stomach but fever...aches...chills....absolutely no energy. I stayed in bed all day....woke up yesterday to an opportunity for a "tryout" for a mens baseball team here in San Salvador. They must be desperate. It was fun. You can watch the tryout video....juts click here.

Some fav pics from Mexico

2011-01-11T20:13:00.000-08:00

On our first night in Mexico, while in the city of Monterrey we visited some friends of the Burseys. It was at this meeting that I was passed a drink that was red, and as I drank some, was told it had tequila in it. The name of the drink...."Vampiro"....hello?

This next pic was taken at the airport when Special Agent Josiah arrived. What a crew. Look at that crazy Ken! Smile for Uncle Kenny!

This next pic was taken just before the Special Agents Marlow & Johnstone left and went through security.

I choose Jackson & Gracia!

2011-01-09T20:34:00.000-08:00

It has always amazed me how we can make our lives so difficult and complicated. Every once and a while it is good to find out where you stand when it is all stripped away. What do I stand for? What is my life about? If given a choice....what would I choose. During my time in Mexico I have once again come "face to face" with my clarity.

Jackson Bursey is 9 years old(he is the youngest son of our Dream Agents Rick & Lisa Bursey in Mexico). When he eats chicken wings, he gets more sauce on his face than most adults would like. Jackson does not care...he enjoys his wings and can always clean up later. For most of you Jackson is just a kid....but to me...he is a wise philosopher beyond his years. Earlier this year Jackson wrote the following on the family whiteboard...

You can have all your high priced jobs....hectic schedules and the running of yourselves ragged. I like the simplicity of Jackson's life view. I choose Jackson.....wing sauce and all.

Many of you might remember Gracia. She was our first dream realized in Mexico. She had a badly crossed eye.

I got to meet Gracia in person tonight. It has been months since she had her operation that some of you "everyday philanthropists" sponsored. Oh my goodness!

This is a pic of Gracia with her mother and brother.

As I held this young girl I was overwhelmed with joy as I recognized again the "power of hope".
If my life was about having a huge bank account, I would be doing something else....if it was about prestige, I would not be doing what I am doing. If I was making the choice afresh tonight....money & fame vs Gracia? I choose Gracia. No doubting. No looking back.
I thank God that I have a wife that supports me in this whole crazy pursuit of "building a nation of everyday philanthropists". We will never have a huge house and a sports car....she does not care....I love you baby! You see....as one person, we choose "wing sauced" Jackson, and Gracia.
www.iam1ru.com

Saturday, January 8th in Linares, Mexico

2011-01-08T20:26:00.000-08:00

What a day! We were able to go to Jesus's house and see him. Not sure if you remember him but he is the guy that was hit by a car while riding his bike....two broken legs...needed an operation to ever have hope of walking again. Well....we posted the dream on our iam1ru "dream machine" and it got sponsored. We had a great visit today and he is well on his way to recovery.

One of the coolest things was that we had extra money come in (about $200) and we were able to give it to him today. It was an incredible blessing as it was going to help him pay some extra hospital bills. Come on now!

Marta, if you remember, was the lady we got a bike for as she was walking about 15km's a day for work. It was about 3-4 hours of walking. We dropped by her "house" today for a visit. Jorden....I can see what you mean. This house will not do. We will be exploring options over the next couple months.

Just to give you an idea....this is part of Marta's roof on the inside of her house. As you can see....when it rains....it leaks....dirt floor...sides are like the roof....enough said! We will keep you updated.

Then it was off to what will be the "mother" of all orphanages in Mexico. It is an incredible piece of property. Rick & Lisa have found the "diamond in the rough". It will be an incredible blessing to children and also to the people of this region. I am not going to show too many pic as we will be showing more later.

Above is the courtyard. Truly, this is an incredible building and property. Imagine a place where abandoned children are treated like precious gifts and taught that they can make a difference. Imagine the iam1ru Mexico headquarters where teams stay on same property as children and together to they make difference in Mexico. Hello? Are you tracking with me?

The property had its own well. Ken was totally "pumped" about this lovely well. He is excited.

Sam does not look impressed. Nothing could be further from the truth...this is his pose when his mind is "whirling" with possibilities. This property caused a lot of whirling.

The owner of this property built it with complete excellence. This excellence will be used to impact a generation of young people. Stay tuned. This is going to be incredible.

Lasting Impact in Linares!

2011-01-07T19:26:00.000-08:00

Here are some pics of the house we finished the reno on today! I will show the "before" and "after" shot and then some other pics. Enjoy!

Nothing like a great transformation! Thanks to all who donate to help us do what we do at Possibilities International. It truly is the best gig on the planet! Great work Special Agents Marlow & Johnstone.

Rick Bursey is looking very impressed after the sawdust was flying!

Merari was close to the action all day! Always smiling.

Even in Mexico that Leafs are taking a pounding from Ottawa! It is not right.

Dream Agent Rick Bursey with the happy family. Now that is what I am talking about!

Who knows what is going to take place tomorrow?

Special Agents Marlow & Johnstone's last report.

2011-01-07T19:12:00.000-08:00

Hello Nation of 'Everyday Philanthropists' - The last few days of our work in Linares, Mexico where busy and full days, however we did not have hydro for a few days and could not send any reports so I will give you a little wrap up Special Agents Marlow and Johnstone's time fulfilling dreams.

Day 7
Monday morning the clan woke up early, Rick and the guys went out to pick up the wood for Francisco's house and we got started. The team tore down the front of the house and rebuilt the front wall. It was a bit of a puzzle as in Mexico there is no such thing as standard cuts of wood. Nonetheless, we got the wall up, looking great. Taylor and Desiree had a blast with the power saw, and Juan showed off his 'special skills.' There were some war wounds including Emanuel's shin from a piece of wood flying at him after Rick smacked it with a Hammer. At lunch the girls went home to make sandwiches to find there was no hydro in the house. We survived though and ended the day watching a movie at Juan and Desiree's. Before we left the River where we were building, Fransisco's wife walked around the corner on her way home from work glowing - she was so happy with the look of her new house.

Day 8
We awoke bright and early again, this time with aching bones from the day before and went back to Francisco's house to continue building. This day we competed the right side wall and half of the back. When we arrived at the house Tuesday morning, Francisco's little son Brain ran up to Jackson and said 'Come see my new house, its soo cool!' It brought tears to my eyes. This simple house renovation was changing this entire families house. Because of the arrival of Sam on Wednesdat and our departure on Thursday this building project is being completed Friday. After a day of building we went out shopping to buy some blankets, pillows, sheets, and a stove top for our amazing friend Martha because Taylor and I could not accept the way this woman has to live. Still now power, so we went to Desiree's house to shower and then home to bed.

Day 9
Wednesday we woke up in excitement for the arrival of our fearless leader Sammy boy in Monterrey early afternoon, with Ken from El Salvador accompanying him as well. But before we left we had to go pay Martha a little visit to give her the goods we had bought the night before. Martha was blessed and so grateful for these simple household supplies that would make a huge difference in her life. Martha is a true inspiration to us, and I am sure that if you met her you would fall in love with her as well. After our quick visit to Martha, we were on the road to Monterrey. We picked up Sam and Ken and spent the night at Juan's parents house where we ate traditional Mexican dishes which were to die for. Lots of good conversation and some world changing discussions where had. I felt as though I was in the presence of some of the greatest minds in the country - I cannot wait until I can do things like this full time.

Day 10
On our last day in Mexico we woke up bright and early as we had one last thing to do before we flew out at 1:15pm. We packed up all our things and went back to Roman's house, our friend we visited our first day in Mexico who needed new windows with bars for his house - especially for his daughter who is sick with Typhoid fever. The job was almost complete when we arrived and let me tell you it looks great! Roman was so grateful for our help and We even payed for Roman's gas tank to be filled all the way, which will last him about 4 weeks apposed to what he usually can afford which would last him only one week. This man was almost blown off his feet. It was a great morning. From there Special agents Marlow and Johnstone were dropped off at the airport and Special agent Oliver was picked up a couple hours later.

Special Agent Marlow and I would like to thank all of you for the opportunity to make a difference in Mexico - It was life changing and something we both plan to do again and again. Until we meet again.

Special Agent Jorden Johnstone - Out!

Update from Sam

2011-01-07T06:19:00.000-08:00

First of all let me apologize for no pictures yet! My lost bag which is now supposed to be in San Salvador has my wire to hook up my camera to laptop. I have my camera...but no wire. It is not a common wire either so I may have to wait.

Anyways...I am in Linares, Mexico with Ken Desaulniers(Dream Agent in El Salvador). Yesterday we saw Special Agents Marlow & Johnstone off to the airport and picked up S.A. Olver and headed to Linares (where Dream Agents Rick & Lisa Bursey live). Had a nice visit and we are up and at it today and getting ready to do a bit of a makeover on a house...actually this house in the pic above. S.A.'s Marlow & Johnstone started the reno project and we will finish it today and I will try to post a pic of the finished product. The "owners" of this one room home are a young couple and they have a cute two year old son. I want to thank "everyday philanthropists" that support Possibilities International (iam1ru) on a regular basis....those who jump on the "dream machine" and sponsor dreams. It is because of your generosity that we are able to help families like this. It is amazing what a little bit of hope does when injected into a family! Hope to post the finished product tonight.

Sam is in El Salvador

2011-01-05T04:40:00.000-08:00

I made it to El Salvador! My luggage did not! What an adventure. The great thing is that I leave for Mexico right away with Ken Desaulnier and had to give them two addresses to forward my luggage to. Knowing that it was a slim chance that I would see my luggage before I get back to El Salvador Ken took me to San Salvador's version of a second hand store. It was awesome. 5 pair of shorts.....shirts and we stopped by a store and got new briefs and socks....I am set. We are off. Will update once in Mexico!

Taylor & Jorden - Day #5 & 6

2011-01-02T20:28:00.000-08:00

First, we must share the events of last night, then we will fill you in on Day 6 here in Linares.

Day 5 cont'd

Yesterday, being New Years Day, the day began with a slow start. However we spent the day making lists of goods that would fill baskets to give to some friends who the Bursey's have been helping, fulfilling their dreams. We went to the grocery store and bought things like flour, sugar, tortillas, cookies, coffee, eggs, oil, rice, beans, and other staple items for Mexican families. Then we went and bought some nice little garbage pales to put the goods into to give to our friends. You might be thinking thats a little strange, but this way we provide them with a nice new garbage pale as well as food, a basket could be used as well, but a garbage pale is just that much more practical and trust me, these people need it!

The first friend we went to see is Martha. This woman is AWESOME! Taylor and I had the pleasure of meeting her in the market a few days ago and from the smile and joy that this woman brings, you would never guess how little she has. Nothing really could prepare me for what Martha calls home - there are people worse off in this world - but the fact that this woman is so joyful but yet has nothing really challenges me. Martha was so glad that we brought her food and could not wait to show us her new door! Imagine, not having a door on your house? This woman has a special place in my heart. She has been a friend to the Bursey's since they moved to Linares, meeting them when she worked sweeping the parking lot at one of the grocery stores in the city, and after the hurricane, they helped her but building her some beds and giving her a dresser, and that is about all she has. I could go on forever about this woman and her story, but for the sake of space, I will end by saying I hope that you will be hearing more about this woman soon because she still needs a lot of our help.

The second friend that we brought a food basket to was a little girl who the Bursey's have been helping with your help who's name is Liliana. This sweet young girl fell when she was 2 years old severely breaking her nose causing her a variety of problems for her, she has trouble breathing, she has inner ear issues causing balance issues and causes her to vomit when she travels in cars making it very difficult to travel to Monterrey which is two hours away so getting medical opinions on her condition very difficult. We are currently awaiting recent test results to see if this young girls life can be improved. Her father was very grateful for the goods, Liliana, being very shy and anxious around strangers hid behind Dezeray.

We came home to a gate-full of friends and Rick made Tacos for everyone. The night ended with a game of Spanish Pictionary played in both English and Spanish - it was exciting to say the least.

Day 6

Sundays are a little different here in Mexico - church isn't until 5:30 pm so we started the day off with a trip to the mountains. We embarked on the hour and a half trip to Galiana which is a little community way up in the mountains, just outside of this town is a sink-hole that is believed to be a result of the ground collapsing on an underground river. Its really deep, and quite scary to stand at the edge of. Phil came along for the ride because he has been laying low on this trip. We even found him testing fate, dangling from a tree near the sink-hole. After some 'thrilling' fun - throwing rocks in a really big hole! We went back into Galiana to find some food. This proved to be a difficult task on a Sunday in the mountains, but we eventually found a nice little restaurant and ate like Kings!

We made it into Linares just in time for church, in which the congregation seemed to be exceedingly hyper, and then arrived home for some snacks, some english church (podcast) for those who can't understand Spanish and Early bed because we have an early morning tomorrow with building day 1 of 2 on Francisco's house. Should be a great day!

Special Agents Johnstone and Marlow - Out!

New Years Day in Linares, Mexico

2011-01-01T11:53:00.000-08:00

Linares, Mexico 2011, New Years Day - 1/1/11

Here are some pictures that I couldn't send earlier - one is of Taylor and I down by the river w Merari, Francisco's niece who is in love w Taylor. The house is Francisco's house that we will be repairing on Monday.

Not to much going on today - don't know if we'll have a report or not, but will try to keep you posted.

Highlights from New Years:
- Lisa out did herself by making delicious dips with veggies and fruit to eat while playing some pictionary with the family
- The boys bought lots of fire crackers and Rich thoroughly enjoyed blowing things up! Haha. Never give a Newfie explosives!
- Alex, Jorden, and Rico, played a game of basketball while the rest laughed over youtube videos
- We rang in the New Year all together, enjoying new and lasting friendship.
- The about 12:30, we were off!
- Our friend Manny from Haiti finally arrived at the Bursey's to celebrate New Years Eve with us, he had been traveling for the holidays
- Went to a friend's house in Linares, who also attends the Bursey's church, and his father made us Hamburguesas

It was a great night! One I know, I will never forget!

Taylor & Jorden - Day #4

2011-01-01T08:41:00.000-08:00

Friday December 31st 2010 - Linares, Mexico - New Years Eve :)

This morning we went back over to the river to measure Francisco's house so that we can purchase wood to make repairs to his house. We checked in town and then traveled outside of the city where we found wood for half the price. We ordered enough wood to practically build Francisco a new house - but the thing is that the wood has to be re-usable in the sense that Francisco is living on his sister's land and this home is only temporary until he can find his own land. So we have to ensure that this house will be able to be torn down and re-built at a later date. We purchased the appropriate amount of wood, and will be picking the wood up on Monday morning bright and early so that we can begin building Monday as well. This dream is on its way and should be interesting to watch unfold.

Later, we went into the city to enjoy some lunch and pick up some goodies to bring to our host's house for new years tonight. We will be experiencing New Years in a Mexican home and will be eating hamburgers which here have ham on them (typical to Mexican culture) as well as some other traditional foods, it should be interesting and culturally rich. It is always fun experiencing new cultures, especially during the holidays.

It should be an interesting way to ring in the New year, and what could be a better way of ending one year and starting another than by changing peoples lives? I wouldn't have it any other way.

That's all for today - I'm sure we'll have some interesting stories to share tomorrow.

Special Agents Johnstone and Marlow - Out!

Taylor & Jorden - Day #3

2011-01-01T08:40:00.000-08:00

(sorry about no pics...internet issues)

This morning was started with a feast of eggs and lots of coffee to prepare for the day ahead.

We left the house 11am and headed to the orphanage that the Bursey’s support – Casa Hogar. We brought to them a hockey bag full of feminine hygiene products, toothbrushes as well as boxes of band-aids. The lady at the orphanage(not sure of the name), told us that she was very grateful for these things that Canadians have sent because these are things that are a genuine need, things like stuffed animals that are sometimes sent are more of a unneeded luxury which they do not have room for. This was an important insight because it helps us to better understand how to effectively help people in these countries. We also found out from this orphanage that the government has begun to be very strict on regulations for orphanages in Mexico so many repairs and additions are required to be made in order to stay in operation. The issue is that these orphanages do not have the funds to complete these renovations on their own and can only work on them when funds from outsiders are present. When we visited today, they were working on a separate dormitory for the girls, as they cannot by new regulations be in the same quarters as the boys.

We came home and had a feast of ‘Tostadas’ for lunch, Jorden’s favourite J and then when out with Rick and Juan to see about getting a battery for the boys with muscular dystrophy but its seems like we are going to have to get a battery from Monterrey which is about an hour and a half away so this dream won’t be fulfilled until the New Year.

Later in the afternoon we travelled to the river, where many people lost their houses because of flooding after the Hurricane last July. People who lived on the river lost almost everything, and moved their houses to higher ground. We went to look into helping a friend Francisco by building better walls in their house, which is ridden with holes that the weather and a variety of animals can get through. We will be travelling tomorrow to look into buying wood to fulfill this dream in the next few days hopefully.

It was a busy, fun-filled day, and tomorrow should be busy as well. The weather is just beautiful but by the time we get home, we are ready for bed! J

Special Agents Johnstone and Marlow – Out!

Taylor & Jorden - Day #2

2010-12-29T21:44:00.000-08:00

After a nice long sleep (going to bed around 8:30pm and waking up around 9:00) we got up, fueled up on coffee and we were out the door.

We started our day by visiting the young boys who suffer from muscular dystrophy, William and Raul. We are purchasing batteries for their wheelchairs so that they can have better use of them throughout the day, making them more mobile. We are working through the details of finding the best and most effective batteries that will stayed charged, which may require obtaining one from the larger city of Monterrey, but this dream will be fulfilled, and we hope very soon.

Next we travelled to Jesus, a man who recently got hit by a car while riding his bike and had to have his intestines repaired as well as major operations on his broken legs so that he could maybe walk again. He is doing much better after having surgery that was supported partially by iam1ru supporters. Through the assistance of a wheel chair he is somewhat mobile. However, the doctor's orders are for him to be up on his feet more. So, Rick and Lisa purchased a walker for Jesus and he was thrilled, a little nervous to try and stand, but from the joy on his face, this walker will change this man's life greatly.

The day was concluded by some touring of Linares, a chicken feast at the Bursey's, some fireworks compliment of the boys (Alex and Jackson) and then some quality bonding time around the house.

Special Agents Johnstone and Marlow - Out!

Day #1 - Special Agents Marlow & Johnstone

2010-12-28T19:18:00.000-08:00

December 28th 2010 - Monterrey Mexico

The day started bright and early with a 6:30 am flight from Toronto to Detroit - but was not without excitement with the celebrity appearance of Justin Beiber in Pearson airport.

Flight from Detroit to Monterrey was delayed for roughly 45 minutes because of ice on the wing, but once we were in the sky it was 'Hello Sunshine!' and the plane was even on time.

Arrived in Monterrey around 12:30 - cleared customs with ease, other than Jorden being hard of hearing on account of the air pressure - haha. The Bursey's made it just in time to pick us up, take us for lunch and then we hit the ground running - off to Roman's house to look into getting him some windows and bars to make his house warm and safe for his daughter who is ill with typhoid fever. Our hope is that this will be a dream we can fulfill while we are here in Mexico.

Finally got to relax at the Bursey's Mexican palace here in Linares - contacting with our loved ones and getting ready to SLEEEEEP. But cannot wait for the rest of the week!!

Special Agents Johnstone and Marlow - Out!

Special Agents Marlow & Johnstone

2010-12-28T03:09:00.000-08:00

Taylor Marlow & Jorden Johnstone are students at Wilfred Laurier University in Waterloo, Ontario. During this holiday season they wanted to do something to help others in another country. With that in mind we contacted our Dream Agents in Mexico, Rick & Lisa Bursey. The trip was set up and early this morning Vee and I picked up Jorden in Cambridge and met Taylor and her mother Bonnie at the airport in Toronto. I helped the girls get checked through (it was the first time ever that I used the kiosk check in without any issues) and sent them toward US customs. As I write this entry they will be boarding their plane to Detroit and then will head to Monterrey, Mexico where the Burseys will pick them up. The pic above was taken this morning at the airport. Stay tuned to the blog for updates of their travels in Mexico.
* Special Note: Phil decided to jump in one of their bags...so who knows what kind of monkey business may begin. Stay tuned.

No worries!

2010-12-23T06:43:00.000-08:00

A calm office manager by day....

A security "terror" by night and day! When you need her....Erta is ready to defend!
Sorry I could not resist posting this pic. Seriously...this young lady is changing the "relational fabric" of Haiti. You would do well to have her as part of your team. Trust me.

It was crazy!

2010-12-22T19:22:00.000-08:00

Well...what a day! This Canadian team was incredible....seriously. They were a credit to their country.
The day started early with setup beginning at 8am.

It was a good thing we started early...it was pretty hot today.

After a couple hours we had a very nice theatre setup ready for the folks to begin to pour in.

The Big Kahuna, Bill Manaserro was running sound for the event. He is one cool cat!

We opened the doors at about 2:30 for a 3pm start. As you can see there was a lineup outside. Each person got a wristband that entered. We handed out 400 wristbands. It was supposed to make the whole event go smooth....it was wild.

It was a full house. By the time we got around to feeding 400 people it was dark. It was crazy. Wow.
Everybody got rice....a couple salads....chicken....and a drink.

It was crazy. Man....I live for this stuff. The Fin was loving it all! Ask him about chasing the kid that scaled over the wall trying to get an extra gift bag! I am talking about reflexes like a cat baby!

Notice the white spots? That is dust. The line was constantly moving....it was pressing forward...the children wanting a gift bag. Jody Pilon had my back! It was a blast.
We are leaving tomorrow. Stay tuned for the video to be released over the next week. It is not too late to sponsor a dream before Christmas on the iam1ru website.
Thanks again to all who sponsored the gift bags and the trip in general. The team was incredible...my props to them all...
Mary Farrow.....your heart to serve was incredible...watching you do dishes most nights...full of joy...brought joy and passion to my soul.
Marcel McIntyre...you are a working machine. However, watching you collect garbage after feeding 400 did my soul well.
George Passmore...watching you be "moved" by one encounter after another was incredible. Keep serving all in your path.
Roger Pilon...you were created to do this stuff as much as you can. What an asset you are to any team!
Kelly Deschamps...you are like a Humanitarian Trip McGyver! You crack me up! You need to travel with me more!
Jody Pilon...anytime...any PI Team...just let me know when.
Gabriela Deschamps...joy and serving overflows from your pockets. C'mon now!
Milt Farrow...our elder statesman! You are a tribute to what it means to be Canadian and a servant.
Peter "Fin" Findlay...you had my back at all times. Let's do it again baby!

Group Hug!

As we begin Wednesday December 22...

2010-12-22T03:54:00.000-08:00

As we begin the day of crazy activity and the big presentation I thought I would post a few more pics....enjoy.

The team walking from the meeting at the ravine.

A lady sitting on the roof of a house and watching the feeding program.

What can I say about this pic?

Afternoon at the Ravine

2010-12-21T15:24:00.000-08:00

In behind the Guest House is a ravine which is inhabited by quite a few people. While I was here in June with the team we had joined a church service the last morning we were here. We took this team back to the ravine this afternoon. We had given money so that rice & chicken could be purchased and cooked ahead and then we showed up for a short meeting...actually a short church service.....talk about singing...oh my! It was an opportunity for some of the team to bring greetings and they did a great job. We fed quite a few people and it was a great opportunity to bring a shot of hope to these folks. The pic below is of the food that was being cooked...

During the singing some of the team got right into it. Here Marcel is doing the "Marshakka Mumbo"...

Mary Farrow is a serving machine!

Kelly and Fin had the assembly line going...

Once they got their food the children had to leave the building. It was the only way to keep control.

We also chatted with the local pastor about whether "milk bag" mats would be of a benefit. He was quite intrigued with the mat. Once I explained what it could be used for...he kept it. Thanks so much to Ruth McGauley and all those who helped put the mats together.

Enough said.

2010-12-21T06:50:00.000-08:00

Tuesday, December 21st

2010-12-21T03:39:00.000-08:00

I am up early again. My body is to mosquitoes what the Mandarin is to me! Yikes. No worries folks I am heavy duty into some malaria medication. Enough of my slight discomforts. This is the last day before the big presentation/party/shindig/pageant/....today is dress rehersal day. Here are a few of my favourite pics from yesterday.

You need to take a few minutes and head over to the iam1ru website and look under the "dreams" tab and see what you can sponsor for Christmas.

It was quite a day!

2010-12-20T14:38:00.000-08:00

The kids gathered at 10am this morning for rehersal. As you can see they were working hard at listening intently to instructions.

Today was "feeding program" day again. Usually about 90-100 children gather for some fun activities and some food, which is usually rice and beans. However, today for a few extra bucks we were able to have chicken added to the meal and we found out something else was happening with the children and an extra 100 kids or more were invited in. It was crazy! Below is a pic of the little children sitting and enjoying their meal.

Okay...are you ready for a cool story? There was a man there who's name was Gary and he runs a small orphanage for boys that presently has 11 young lads that have come straight from the street. They were at the afternoon feeding program today and when it came time to serve, they jumped right in to help serve the food. When it came to the end of the serving time there was no food left for them. They sat there very politely. Marcel and I overheard a conversation about what they were going to do to feed the boys. They were talking about taking them back to the orphanage to feed them. If you know anything about PI you know what is coming next. Oh yeah baby! The last shall become first! We gave Gary enough money to take the young lads out for a hamburg and fries and ice cream! That is what I am talking about! Every child should feel special. This pic below is of the happy crew just before they "bolted" for the restaurant! C'mon now...somebody shout! I was thinking of my good friend Gramma Donna as I took this photo!