Oh my, I cannot imagine seeing that every single day! Know that as Cali grows older, she will realize the importance of giving to others who are less fortunate, and to be thankful for the things that she has!

While on a cruise through the Panama Canal several years ago, we were diverted to Columbia due to a hurricane. (I had never WANTED to go to Columbia, but there I was!) It was scary also, but not nearly as bad as what you have described. Our tour guide insisted that, as we got out of the tour van to enter a church, we look straight ahead and not engage in any conversation with any of the locals. He said that once your look at them,or talk to them, they will become relentless and everyone else will come to you wanting your money or for you to buy their goods. It was scary! There were military personnel with machetes and guns on every other corner!

I can now say that I have been to Columbia... and I never want to go back!

I hope that you and your family will be relocated to Australia ASAP. (((hugs)))