FRIDAY was the final full day Team One spent in Puerto Rico. This is a “transitional day” meant to allow the missionaries time to de-stress and unwind before they head back to home. We pile into our van and head to our first stop, El Yunque National Rain Forest. The lush greenery is a welcome scene as we traveled the winding roads up the mountain. El Yunque has an elevation of more than 3,000 feet above sea level. Unfortunately many of the walking paths washed away by Hurricane Maria had not been restored so we do most of our tour in the van.
We left the mountain around noon and head to Luquillo Beach which is a popular spot for both the natives and tourist. We dined on succulent, fresh-caught lobster and other local favorites. During lunch we showed our appreciation to our hosts, interpreters, and chauffeurs, Lizy and Nicky.
After lunch we headed to the beach to close out our day AND our week of service.
SATURDAY is a bit of a logistical challenge because Team Two will arrive before Team Two leaves for the airport to return home. It is also a somewhat emotional one as I have grown very fond of Team One. As I head to the airport to pickup the incoming team, Team One heads out to pick up Church’s fried chicken for lunch. When the incoming team finally arrives at the guest house they are enthusiastically welcomed and graciously served by them. We only have a short period of time together since Team One must head to the airport and Team Two has to change clothes because they have a work assignment to tackle today. After a quick photo both teams get into their respective transportation and head out.
While Team One heads to the airport, Team Two heads into San Juan to the home of Ms. Anna where we do some prep work in advance of painting her house later in the week. Even though these missionaries left the comforts of their homes very early this morning, and with just a brief respite after traveling, they pick up tools and go about scraping peeling paint on the exterior of the home with gusto. The team keeps at this task until the sun starts to wane. We look forward to returning later in the week.