Probably not. But I bet now that I've said it, you are wondering, aren't you?
Yesterday, Kids Alive Haiti celebrated Christmas with a HUGE Christmas party. The party lasted four and a half hours and included the Kids Alive kids, foster parents, teachers, school staff, and friends and family from the surrounding community. There were over 200 people present! Here is what it was like...
First, we pulled ALL of the benches and chairs into the large school hallway. We decorated with a Christmas tree, garland, balloons, and a big star filled with flashing Christmas lights. We even constructed a stage for the many performances.
Everybody got dressed up in some of their nicest clothes. From jewelry and freshly-cleaned shoes to specially braided hair and holiday dresses, they pulled out all the stops. I had a blast helping them get ready.
The festivities started out with a short sermon about the meaning of Christmas. We praised God in song and prayer.
Next, came the performances, which resembled a talent show. Singing, dancing, jokes, and games were all part of this portion of the party. I was so proud of the kindergartners who got up to sing a medley of Christmas songs which we have been practicing in class.
After two and a half hours of partying, it was time for FOOD! I can't imagine the amount of time that went into feeding 200 people. But the food certainly never ran out! There was rice and beans, beet salad, chicken, fried plantains, fresh veggies, and - of course - cake.
The last part of the party was about honoring our kids - making them feel special, wanted, and loved. Because of the high-poverty in the area, many of our students didn't receive any Christmas presents at home this year. But thanks to the wonderful people who sponsor our children monthly, Kids Alive was able to give everyone a gift.
What a blessing it was to hand Synthia a doll and see her face light up with gratitude.
And, of course, I got to spend some special time with a few of my students.
Merry Christmas!
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