It has been a busy week since we were delayed a week and a half getting out of dry dock and back into the water. It was quite an experience as they had to rock the ship back and forth with a large machine because sitting so long makes the steel wheels develop flat spots and any grit left on the tracks will stop ship from moving on the track. They have the wheels packed with little bits of cloth to keep grit out and also a man goes underneath and blows all remaining grit away in order to insure the wheels will turn. As they started to move the ship, one of the large roller skates broke and had to be removed. But we made it into the water and now are docked and the work will continue till we leave on the 4th of August to sail to Tenerife to complete loading.
Yesterday all the families returned to the ship with lots of kids and hustle and bustle and little ones greeting their playmates and reunited with moms and dads who have been absentee while the families stayed in hotels in the city. Kids are not allowed on ship while in dry dock so families are moved to hotels. The hotels are so in agreement with Mercy Ships, they either give rock bottom prices or let some stay at no cost. What a blessing.
Began today, loading fuel and cargo and getting ready to serve in Benin. I was told that the fuel costs are $35,000.00 per day of sea travel (will that be cash or credit?) and they only travel at a speed that maximizes fuel economy. We have air conditioning on parts of the ship, not our deck yet, but it takes up to a week to cool the ship down so the air conditioning can work properly.
Since our projects for this year are finished, we now are being assigned to ship's departments to help with to do lists that can use extra manpower. Next week, we begin cleaning the entire ship and will assist medical staff in sanitizing the OR's and wards. Lloyds is here to certify the ship next week before we can sail. Pray everything passes as we will have drills and a thorough inspection of the entire ship. Lots of dust and debris left when you remodel....Oh, for those who want to know, the sterilizers were certified and ready for service. Company flew in 3 technicians for the week and it is my understanding everything is ready.
Ship is really rolling with the swells even though we are tied up. If you look outside you can see the movement or if you sit still, you can feel the back and forth in the water.
We went Wednesday night for our "goodbye" ice cream night at "Liky Liky", our favorite ice cream parlor. We were saying good bye to our friend from the Netherlands, Arie. The girls at the ice cream parlor were sad when I told them he was going home Saturday, but they were quick to ask if we would still be coming. I assured them we would. There was a large picture of the cutest baby eating ice cream on the wall of the shop, and we found out she is the daughter of one of the girls who serves us. What a pleasant surprise.
Keep praying for us as opportunities are arising and we have to make decisions in the upcoming week. Thanks to everyone for remembering us and keeping us in your prayers.
Love
Ken and Peggy
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