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Monday, December 13, 2010

What we do when we feel cooped up

Exercising isn't easy here. There is a Gold's Gym, in fact, but its too far away from where I live. Plus, I'd feel a bit guilty going to the gym when people are starving outside. So, I do workout videos. I usually live with at least one person (I've had a bunch of different roommates and housemates in the last year. All have been amazing) who likes to exercise. Right now, its my dear roommate Kaitlyn (and sometimes Erta, who is always a hilarious workout buddy). We do Tai Bo, Pilates, Jillian Michaels, and sometimes the really annoying Tracy Anderson. But, when we need to step outside our bedroom and breath the gassy, dusty air, we go for a run. I don't even really like running. But it gives me a sense of freedom that is difficult to find here not having my own car. And, I get to see people I know every time I run. I almost NEVER run into people while I am out driving, running errands, or running when I am in the states. Here, I have to sneak away and hide in order to not see someone I know. I wonder what Haitians think of us running. "Oh, you fat Americans! Having to run your belly fat off while we starve." Its normal to receive comments (not sure if they are rude or encouraging) from people on the street or in cars. Or, to receive marriage proposals or whistles. If you're looking for an ego boost, come to Haiti! Going back to the states after being here, I feel pretty lame. No one needs a thing from me- not sandals, food, or medical care (unless I am in my workplace)- and no one takes one look at me and suggests marriage.

Last week, before the primary election results were posted, Kaitlyn filmed this video:



An awesome videographer staying with us, Adam, edited the video and put music to it. Sniff, sniff...Kaitlyn left for Boston today, not knowing when she will return. I love you, friend, and am thankful God brought you here to be my roommate and to work with our ministry!

13 comments:

Anonymous said...

I enjoy reading your blog, Brooke. I look forward to seeing you in a few weeks. My sister-in-law, Tonja, is coming too. She has a background as a trauma nurse. I hope you will have an opportunity to work together.
Blessings,

David (Fiske)

Kat said...

I Love Your Blog, Brooke!

Kaitlin Wilson said...

You guys are amazing!

moncler jackets said...

Congratulations ha ha ha ha ha

Anonymous said...

Hello. I wanted to let you know I stumbled over your blog while blog surfing one eveing and have enjoyed what you are sharing here. I put your blog in my reader list and posted about it. Thanks for sharing Him with the children and so many you proabably aren't even aware of. *smile*

I read your story of the wedding, the one about the coin and the child, and the one about the rain and how it reminded you of Seattle. The wedding one was cute in a "newby" sort of way. *smile* The coin and the child one made sence as I kept reading how you were using it as a tool rather than forcing a small child to sit for a long time like an adult. *smile* Very creative. *smile* And the one about the rain...I am pleased to say that we let our five and three year old children choose two things each to save "their money" in a way to give back. They earn it by making good choices in the am & pm and hiding His word in their hearts. The can earn 75 cents a day. They then tithe 10% (for now) and choose how much to give. My point here is that anyone can give if we set aside the time to make it a priority. *smile* Our five year old son chose masquito nets & milk whild our three year old daughter chose baby chiks (we have 6 chickens) & sports equipment. It was great fun for them to watch their money add up knowing Daddy had promised to match it. *smile*

This is longer than I hoped, but wanted to encourage you to grow in Him knowing there are people "back home" being encouraged by the love you are sharing in the way you are choosing to live for Him. Sincerely, Mommy of two little blessings & so much more!

positive affirmation said...

I really love your blog, absolutely stunning...

Michelle Colbert said...

Thanks brooke I enjoy reading tour blog:) many blessings, ellelelle

Jay@Dishtvblog said...

Wow, what a cool blog! It's refreshing and down to earth.

Best regards, Jay

Anonymous said...

Haha loved the video. My favorite part is when he starts running with you. I don't know if you saw my comment on your last entry, but I sponsor a little girl in Haiti, and I think it's so great you are volunteering there!

kaiti n' haiti said...

Wow, I am proud. I wish there was a "like" button in this.

Jawad Haider said...

Kindly visit my blog and do follow it if you thing it's good.

http://jawadnaqvi27.blogspot.com/

Leslie said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Unknown said...

I want to tell you how much i enjoy reading your blog. And i also wanted to let you know that we need more people like you in this world. And it makes me thankful to know that there are people spreading the word of God to some who may have never heard it if you werent there. So may God continue to bless you all while your there and forever more! And again thank you.