26, Haiti Style!

Yesterday I had my first birthday in Haiti! It had the potential to be a little sad and lonely with being far from home, but it was the opposite! 

First, I woke up to a happy birthday message written on the bathroom mirror.

Then I headed to my classroom and found some festive bday decorations Katie snuck in the night before, that were added to throughout the day as representatives from each high school class come down with a sign.

They also serenaded me with birthday songs and even a rap!

Did you catch that at the end? I'm fresh like a cheetah.

At recess my kiddos gave me some subtle birthday messages all over the patio.

I received letters and pictures throughout the day from my kids as well - ones I pretended not to see them making during quiet reading time.

Here are a couple of my favorites:

"I love you Miss Alisa because is your birthday When I had money I will go on market and I will see what I can get for you I love you so much fun. Miss Alisha you are so buterful Miss Alisha"

Love this picture of me. Can you tell that I wore my hair out yesterday? :)

At the end of the school day I had presents from my aides, other missionary friends, and a couple kiddos - including things like vanilla extract, a sprite, crackers, and a carved wooden fish. I was also covered with stickers and had a collection of candy from kids from other classes who visited throughout the day.

After school, Katie threw me a little party at our place complete with with birthday cake!

Then I attempted (without much success) to join a google hangout party with some of my favorite past co-workers! I only got to see their faces and hear their voices briefly, but they were a great few seconds!

(Photo courtesy of Angel)

One of my favorite moments of the day was when I was talking to one of my students in class. The conversation went something like this:

Florine: "How old are you today?"

Me: "26"

F: "AND YOU'RE NOT MARRIED?!"

Me: "uh, no, I'm not married"

F: "Why not?"

Me: "well.. I don't know..."

F: "You're not looking for a husband?"

Me: "No, I'm not really looking for one."

(a few minutes later)

F: "Princess Alisha..."

Me: "Princess?"

F: "Since you're not married I'm calling you a Princess."

Me: "I'm ok with that."

:)

Thanks to everyone who made it a great day - those here in Haiti, and those back home who wished me well through Facebook and email!