The political unrest in the country hasn’t stopped very much all year. Food prices have continued to climb as the currency is devalued. Now there is a gas shortage that is really impacting everyday life here. Schools have not started, no one is able to get anywhere or buy and sell and there is so much tension in the air. People glare at you (or demand something) when you come out of the store with groceries probably because they aren’t eating much these days. People are getting robbed driving down the road because if you have gas you are rich! It’s like everyone is grabbing what they can get for themselves even more than usual.

Schools in Haiti tried to start in September but they all gave up. If they remained open, they felt vulnerable to attack. They will try to start in October again is what we are hearing. Thankfully for the most part it feels relatively safe around our mission compound which covers two adjoining hills. Our local missionary school has been open when possible except the days when major disturbances are announced.

Grace jumped up to 9th grade this year since other kids in her class moved back in June and she was the only one left in 8th grade. There was also only one 9th grader too–her friend Annie–so Grace was able to join her! She has the same teacher as last year who she really enjoys! So some things are different and some things are the same.

Things around here continue to happen about the same as much as is possible, although we are living on edge. The unsettled feeling we all have is always present, affects everything we do, and forces us to either choose giving in to fears or to trust the Lord. The Lord is our refuge in times of trouble!