Christmas on the Africa Mercy

As mentioned in a previous blog, there have been Christmas events and activities throughout the month of December. The event continued these last few days. 

We sang carols on the dock with while hold candles. All the patients that were still here were able to come down to join in. Several of us were talking about how special it must have been for them. Usually patient walk up the gangway the day before their procedures or surgeries. They stay on the ship (in the hospital or on Deck 7) until they walk down the gangway to leave. It was fun to sing a combination of traditional carols and modern silly Christmas songs.

Christmas Eve was a quiet relaxing day on the ship with card writing and oragami. I also enjoyed homemade meal made by a friend and sugar cookies I made with Kalinda. The Christmas Eve service had several special musical pieces. One was the school band playing carols. I felt like I was sitting in a family den listening to young children play pieces they have practiced for hours. A little feeling of home and a big smile on my face. Another neat piece was "Silent Night" sung in English, Dutch, French, German, Norwegian, Spanish, and Malagasy (Kalinda and I privately). This is just a some of the languages spoken on the Ship.

Here on the Ship, the tradition is to put your shoe outside the door on Christmas Eve. During the evening and night, crew member wander around the ship quietly placing gifts, small treats and cards in the shoes. I have to say it was special to still have the surprise element on Christmas morning. Some people left names, and some did not. I think I will start this tradition myself next year where ever I may be. It really gives a small sense of community. Small things make a big difference.

Christmas Day was a good combination of activities and rest. Pastries and hot drinks were served in the cafe. After dinner on Christmas Eve, the dining room doors are shut. This is to hide the crew who are busily preparing for the brunch. At 10:30 the doors were opened to reveal flowers, tables covered with fresh fruit, cookies and pastries, and a turkey dinner in one line and breakfast in the other. Christmas brunch was delightful. It truly was a feast. Some supplies are running low as some expected containers have not arrived.  I was amazed at all the decorations and food. 

A few of us went for a walk in town in the afternoon. Many families were out and about dressed in their best. We stopped by a small fair that is always there but not always active. All the rides are truly man powered. There was popcorn and cotton candy available.

After a skype date with some of my family on the other side of the world, I went to open cabins. Several families, couples, and singles opened their cabins for guests to cycle in and out. They are here long term (at least two years). Some have been here for years already, and some are just beginning their two years. Each stop had a dessert(s). It was fascinating to see how each of them had made the place truly their home. Each unique; each reflecting their personalities and styles. You almost could forget that you are all on the same ship.