MORE TO COME!!
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Greetings from Hastings, Nebraska
I'm home. Home sweet home. Back in cold Nebraska. I'm sure everyone who's been stuck here is enjoying the sun right now but I'm freezing. It's not the same. I've already been harassed by my roommates for turning the heat on too high. But it is nice to be home. I missed my own space, my own bed, and I think most importantly, my own clean shower.
It feels weird to be back in the States. I drove home with another girl from the trip yesterday and couldn't stop staring out the window at all the cement and buildings that surrounded me. Little things like a frozen lake completely caught me off guard. We joked about all of the differences that we saw during the drive.
Our little travel group spent the last four days of our trip at a resort in Cancun. At first, I was shocked at the resort lifestyle and Cancun. Everyone was screaming and hollering about the ocean as we drove up to our resort, but I sort of sat in a stunned silence. It was beautiful, don't get me wrong, but I was very aware of the fact that we seemed like rich, spoiled, American tourists. The feeling wore off about 15 minutes after we'd hit the beach, but it was a completely different change of pace. Overall, it was a wonderful way to end our trip.
The beaches were so beautiful and the sand was so white and soft beneath my feet. The water was clear and I could see all the way down to my feet. I think I could listen to the waves hit the shore forever. I'm from Colorado so I get the question "would you rather live by the mountains or the ocean" a lot and I've always said I'd rather live by the ocean. I think this entire month has reaffirmed that answer.
I was very surprised at the lack of people and life outside. I understand that it's cold and no one wants to head outside to sit on porches to enjoy each other and watch their children play, but I barely saw anyone outside of their cars or a building on the way home. When we arrived at my apartment, I unloaded my bags in a deserted parking lot and walked up to my front door without seeing anyone. Where is everybody? Where are the people? I think I'm really going to miss the friendly atmosphere I became so accustomed to in Belize and Guatemala.
I'll be uploading pictures one of these days. I can't believe I have so many...three full memory cards...so it might take a while, but I'll get them up as soon as I can.
It feels weird to be back in the States. I drove home with another girl from the trip yesterday and couldn't stop staring out the window at all the cement and buildings that surrounded me. Little things like a frozen lake completely caught me off guard. We joked about all of the differences that we saw during the drive.
Our little travel group spent the last four days of our trip at a resort in Cancun. At first, I was shocked at the resort lifestyle and Cancun. Everyone was screaming and hollering about the ocean as we drove up to our resort, but I sort of sat in a stunned silence. It was beautiful, don't get me wrong, but I was very aware of the fact that we seemed like rich, spoiled, American tourists. The feeling wore off about 15 minutes after we'd hit the beach, but it was a completely different change of pace. Overall, it was a wonderful way to end our trip.
The beaches were so beautiful and the sand was so white and soft beneath my feet. The water was clear and I could see all the way down to my feet. I think I could listen to the waves hit the shore forever. I'm from Colorado so I get the question "would you rather live by the mountains or the ocean" a lot and I've always said I'd rather live by the ocean. I think this entire month has reaffirmed that answer.
I was very surprised at the lack of people and life outside. I understand that it's cold and no one wants to head outside to sit on porches to enjoy each other and watch their children play, but I barely saw anyone outside of their cars or a building on the way home. When we arrived at my apartment, I unloaded my bags in a deserted parking lot and walked up to my front door without seeing anyone. Where is everybody? Where are the people? I think I'm really going to miss the friendly atmosphere I became so accustomed to in Belize and Guatemala.
I'll be uploading pictures one of these days. I can't believe I have so many...three full memory cards...so it might take a while, but I'll get them up as soon as I can.
Friday, January 22, 2010
Greetings from Corozal, Belize
Today is our last full day in Belize and I'm already dreading leaving. I don't think that I'm ready to go home yet. I've fallen in love with the area and the warmth-both from the sun and the people. We get a lot of "hello pretty ladies" which can get annoying, but everyone is so friendly. They're always willing to say "hi" or "good morning" when you pass someone on the street. I didn't realize or even think that I was unfriendly at home, but compared to here I am awful. So often we all just walk to class with our heads buried in our coats that we don't stop to enjoy each other or our surroundings. I don't want to stare at the ground or close my eyes to the world around me here. I'm trying to soak in everything...the way the sun reflects off the bay, the way the water seems to change colors every day, the way people are always sitting outside together, relaxing and talking, and the way the clock never seems to control anyone's day. I love it all.
We were warned about experiencing culture shock after a week here, but I think I'm going to experience it after we get back to the States. I'm not ready for the cold weather and the bleak grays and whites that are dominating Nebraska right now. I don't want to give up the varying shades of green, the clear blue skies, the clean air, or the bright colors that are speckled around the town.
Here are some things that I have learned while traveling in Belize:
1. Although their oranges aren't orange in Belize, they are amazing. I think they taste sweeter than any orange at home and I've been eating so many of them. We have a market close to home where you can get 8 oranges and 8 bananas for $1.
2. Cramming 10 girls into one apartment with two bathrooms is impossible. I don't know how we managed to survive.
3. Once again, people are incredibly friendly. I think traveling reassures your faith in the good of people. People are generally good at heart.
4. It's impossible to be unhappy or mad in a place this beautiful. I'm not a morning person but I wake up excited and happy every morning.
5. I think traveling is kind of like getting a tattoo...once you get one, you've got to get more. I know I'm not finished exploring the world.
6. People in Belize seem to consider us friends. They treat strangers like family.
7. It's important to be grateful for what you have.
8. Traveling on a budget is a better experience than anything you could get while staying at resorts. We're here to adapt to their culture, they're not trying to adapt to ours.
9. Showers in Belize really aren't that cold, they're just not the hot that we're used to. Besides, it's so warm no one really needs a hot shower.
10. Eight days in Corozal has managed to give me so many experiences that I cannot ever forget and will stay with me forever. The schools, students, and teachers have touched my heart.
We were warned about experiencing culture shock after a week here, but I think I'm going to experience it after we get back to the States. I'm not ready for the cold weather and the bleak grays and whites that are dominating Nebraska right now. I don't want to give up the varying shades of green, the clear blue skies, the clean air, or the bright colors that are speckled around the town.
Here are some things that I have learned while traveling in Belize:
1. Although their oranges aren't orange in Belize, they are amazing. I think they taste sweeter than any orange at home and I've been eating so many of them. We have a market close to home where you can get 8 oranges and 8 bananas for $1.
2. Cramming 10 girls into one apartment with two bathrooms is impossible. I don't know how we managed to survive.
3. Once again, people are incredibly friendly. I think traveling reassures your faith in the good of people. People are generally good at heart.
4. It's impossible to be unhappy or mad in a place this beautiful. I'm not a morning person but I wake up excited and happy every morning.
5. I think traveling is kind of like getting a tattoo...once you get one, you've got to get more. I know I'm not finished exploring the world.
6. People in Belize seem to consider us friends. They treat strangers like family.
7. It's important to be grateful for what you have.
8. Traveling on a budget is a better experience than anything you could get while staying at resorts. We're here to adapt to their culture, they're not trying to adapt to ours.
9. Showers in Belize really aren't that cold, they're just not the hot that we're used to. Besides, it's so warm no one really needs a hot shower.
10. Eight days in Corozal has managed to give me so many experiences that I cannot ever forget and will stay with me forever. The schools, students, and teachers have touched my heart.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Greetings from Corozal, Belize
Belize National Anthem
O. Land of the Free by the Carib Sea,
Our manhood we pledge to thy liberty!
No tyrants here linger, despots must flee
This tranquil haven of democracy
The blood of our sires which hallows the sod,
Brought freedom from slavery oppression's rod,
By the might of truth and the grace of God,
No longer shall we be hewers of wood.
Arise! ye sons of the Baymen's clan,
Put on your armour, clear the land!
Drive back the tyrants, let despots flee -
Land of the Free by the Carib Sea!
Nature has blessed thee with wealth untold,
O'er mountains and valleys where prairies roll;
Our fathers, the Baymen, valiant and bold
Drove back the invader; this heritage hold
From proud Rio Hondo to old Sarstoon,
Through coral isle, over blue lagoon;
Keep watch with the angels, the stars and moon;
For freedom comes tomorrow's noon.
O. Land of the Free by the Carib Sea,
Our manhood we pledge to thy liberty!
No tyrants here linger, despots must flee
This tranquil haven of democracy
The blood of our sires which hallows the sod,
Brought freedom from slavery oppression's rod,
By the might of truth and the grace of God,
No longer shall we be hewers of wood.
Arise! ye sons of the Baymen's clan,
Put on your armour, clear the land!
Drive back the tyrants, let despots flee -
Land of the Free by the Carib Sea!
Nature has blessed thee with wealth untold,
O'er mountains and valleys where prairies roll;
Our fathers, the Baymen, valiant and bold
Drove back the invader; this heritage hold
From proud Rio Hondo to old Sarstoon,
Through coral isle, over blue lagoon;
Keep watch with the angels, the stars and moon;
For freedom comes tomorrow's noon.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Greetings from Corozal, Belize
This week's started off pretty slow. We're back in Corozal to teach at the schools. I left my assigned class last week so I've been going around the town to the other schools. It's pretty interesting to compare the different schools and the different student teachers. Each has a unique way of handling things and I'm enjoying my time traveling. Each student teacher is also very different and no one seems to handle things the same way, which is a good thing. A lot of students are getting the opportunity to actually teach their class for the day, rather than sitting and watching at the back of the classroom. Everyone seems willing to participate and take control of the class. Things can get pretty hectic but I know it's a great experience for them.
I traveled back to Mary Hill yesterday to take pictures of the rest of the elementary teachers and the pre school teachers. I'm having a great time seeing this trip through my camera. I think I'm seeing things that I wouldn't notice otherwise.
I only had to take pictures of two student teachers today so I had the afternoon off. Although I keep saying that things are really relaxed here and I'm not used to a schedule, we've still been traveling around and have had to stick to somewhat of a plan. So today, I decided to walk downtown and enjoy lunch and the bay. Now, I don't eat by myself. I think it's the weirdest thing to sit and eat but I figured if everyone else can do it, I can too. So I sat at this great little restaurant and had lunch. I can't get enough of the Belizian favorite, rice and beans with stewed chicken. I brought my book and it was so nice not to feel rushed at all. In the States, our check is immediately brought out as soon as we're finished eating and everyone stuffs food into their mouths during their short breaks for lunch. I was able to sit and relax and not feel the need to hurry and get out of the restaurant. I don't know if I'll get the same feeling back in the U.S. but it's worth a try.
I'm headed down to the bay to sit at the water and read as soon as I'm done blogging. I've got to soak up all the sun I can right now. Honestly, not much as happened so far this week, but that's okay. I'm enjoying the simple things and the time I have here. I can't believe it's almost over. Traveling makes you think about the life you've been used to and how different it can be in the future. Everyone is in a hurry to finish school and begin a career so they can make money, buy a house, and settle into a routine. That's great if that's something you want to do. That's what I always thought I was going to do. But I've been talking to so many other travelers who have amazing stories. When I tell them I'm so jealous of their lifestyle and the fact that they have the courage just to go travel, they all ask me the same questions...why can't you do it?
I traveled back to Mary Hill yesterday to take pictures of the rest of the elementary teachers and the pre school teachers. I'm having a great time seeing this trip through my camera. I think I'm seeing things that I wouldn't notice otherwise.
I only had to take pictures of two student teachers today so I had the afternoon off. Although I keep saying that things are really relaxed here and I'm not used to a schedule, we've still been traveling around and have had to stick to somewhat of a plan. So today, I decided to walk downtown and enjoy lunch and the bay. Now, I don't eat by myself. I think it's the weirdest thing to sit and eat but I figured if everyone else can do it, I can too. So I sat at this great little restaurant and had lunch. I can't get enough of the Belizian favorite, rice and beans with stewed chicken. I brought my book and it was so nice not to feel rushed at all. In the States, our check is immediately brought out as soon as we're finished eating and everyone stuffs food into their mouths during their short breaks for lunch. I was able to sit and relax and not feel the need to hurry and get out of the restaurant. I don't know if I'll get the same feeling back in the U.S. but it's worth a try.
I'm headed down to the bay to sit at the water and read as soon as I'm done blogging. I've got to soak up all the sun I can right now. Honestly, not much as happened so far this week, but that's okay. I'm enjoying the simple things and the time I have here. I can't believe it's almost over. Traveling makes you think about the life you've been used to and how different it can be in the future. Everyone is in a hurry to finish school and begin a career so they can make money, buy a house, and settle into a routine. That's great if that's something you want to do. That's what I always thought I was going to do. But I've been talking to so many other travelers who have amazing stories. When I tell them I'm so jealous of their lifestyle and the fact that they have the courage just to go travel, they all ask me the same questions...why can't you do it?
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Greetings from Tikal, Guatemala
I have so much to catch up on. A lot has happened during the past couple of days and they have just flown by. I have barely had any time to stop and catch my breath, much less sit down at a computer and type a blog. We've finally had some down time to relax and enjoy our hotel so I decided to write everyone back home in Nebraska, which I hope isn't too unbearably cold.
We ended the first week at the schools in Corozal on Thursday. I left my classroom at St. Paul's to travel to the other schools with the other student teachers to take pictures. Thursday was also the day we passed out books and balls to the students. Some of the student teachers took part in a "Books and Balls for Belize" program where they collected books and balls to donate to the schools. Each school ended up receiving five to seven boxes filled with an assortment of balls for recess and books, markers, crayons, and coloring books for the classroom. I arrived with Kirsten, Sam and Annie at Mary Hill Roman Catholic School to begin blowing up balls and I started snapping pictures immediately. Although we arrived to school about a half hour early, most of the students were already running around the playground and the open field in the back of the school. Annie, Sam and Kirsten went to work and the students flocked to them. Some had great big smiles on their faces, but most had a look of astonishment. They were in awe at the amount of balls we were giving them. Each student stuck out their hand in hopes of grabbing a ball to play with. With a ball in hand, they would take off with another group of students and start laughing and screaming in the playground. They looked so excited and I had a blast watching them enjoy their games.
I headed into Kirsten's kindergarten classroom to take pictures of her teaching. We were waiting for the teacher to come to class when the school secretary walked in and told Kirsten her teacher had called in sick. Instead of bringing a substitute teacher into the class to take over, the secretary told Kirsten she would be in charge of the class. I saw a look of panic quickly cross over her face, but then she smiled and gladly accepted the job. Kirsten is going to make an amazing teacher. She was energetic about her lessons and made an effort to get the students involved. It was apparent that there had previously been little order to the classroom and Kirsten made attempted to teach her students about respect. They seemed very receptive to her as a teacher, but there were 30 students in her class. I think it is impossible to control 30 four and five year olds for an entire day. I offered help to Kirsten and ended up staying for the rest of the day to help her out. I was supposed to travel to some of the other classrooms to take pictures but I wasn't going to abandon Kirsten. I have a new respect for my kindergarten teacher. By the end of the day I was slumped in my chair because I was so exhausted. The day took a lot out of me but I think Kirsten did an amazing job to take control of the classroom on her fourth day of student teaching.
It was an early night because we were going to leave for Guatemala on Friday. Plus, I was exhausted and asleep within the first five minutes after I laid down. Each day I am so tired when I head to bed. You know how we always wish we could fit an extra three or four hours into each day? I'm pretty sure they have found out how to do that in Central America. My days are so full and I am exhausted by the time the sun dips below the horizon, but I never feel rushed. It is an amazing feeling, but I think I am getting too comfortable with it. It is going to be too hard to get back into a routine with a schedule and clock when I get back home.
We left for Guatemala early on Friday and stopped at the Belize Zoo along the way. The zoo was not like the ones we are used to in the U.S. It was completely natural and there were no cement buildings and sidewalks and the animal habitats were natural with only a wire fence separating the people from the wild animals. We saw a tapir, a jaguar, plus monkeys, birds, and other native animals. Awesome.
After the zoo we continued to drive to Guatemala. Once again, we had to get out of our bus and walk across the border. I can't believe how we have already been in three countries this quickly. It takes planning and a couple of days to drive to a border from Nebraska and it has only been a days drive to get across two borders. Guatemala is beautiful. It doesn't have mountains like Colorado, but it does have some lush, tree covered mountains. They are gorgeous and I couldn't stop staring out the window. We drove past people washing their clothes in the river and saw the most amazing lakes. They were huge and by the time we were passing them, the sun was low in the sky and the water sparkled. I couldn't believe how much it glittered.
We arrived at the Jaguar Inn late on Friday and headed to bed to be up at 4:00 a.m. for sunrise on the ruins. We climbed through the middle of the jungle in the pitch black darkness to sit on the side of a Mayan ruin. It was the most amazing, unforgettable experience. Who can say they sat on the side of a 20 story Mayan ruin to watch the sun rise? I have never felt so unbelievably connected to Earth and everything in it. When we first arrived at the ruin, it was dark and the stars seemed to be within an arms reach. We all sat in silence and enjoyed what was before us. I couldn't stop taking deep breaths, I just wanted to breath in all of the fresh, clean air that I could. It was a great release.
While we were on the side of the ruin, we saw the jungle slowly lighting up and things come to life. We heard birds and howler monkeys. I couldn't believe where I was and the things that I was hearing. I sat in shock and probably had a dumb smile across my face the entire time.
After we were done at the first ruin, we trekked through the jungle to the next ruin sight. It was about six square miles and had the most amazing ruins. We climbed up and around everything. These ruins weren't as tall the last one, but they were just as great. I kept thinking about the fact that we were walking in the same area that other people had hundreds of years ago. Life was so different back then.
After climbing the ruins, we headed back to our inn and go ready to go zip lining through the jungle. Wow. It was such an adrenaline rush. We went through eight different lines and each one got better than the rest. I had such a great time zooming over the forest below me. It went by too fast. I even got to go down face first. Unfortunately, when I got to the end, I couldn't seem to get up and everyone watched me scramble around trying to grab the cable or somehow manage to get my feet on the ground. I felt like an idiot but it was pretty funny.
I think I've caught you up on everything that you've been missing out on. This weekend has been incredible and a wonderful experience away from Corozal. I almost feel like a completely different person here. It is impossible to be upset or angry when the weather is this beautiful and the people are this friendly. I feel a sense of youthfulness that I haven't felt in a while. I laugh and play like I'm a kid again and it doesn't feel weird or out of place. Everyone seems to be having a great time and laughs and jokes around with each other. I'm loving it. So, so, so, so much.
We ended the first week at the schools in Corozal on Thursday. I left my classroom at St. Paul's to travel to the other schools with the other student teachers to take pictures. Thursday was also the day we passed out books and balls to the students. Some of the student teachers took part in a "Books and Balls for Belize" program where they collected books and balls to donate to the schools. Each school ended up receiving five to seven boxes filled with an assortment of balls for recess and books, markers, crayons, and coloring books for the classroom. I arrived with Kirsten, Sam and Annie at Mary Hill Roman Catholic School to begin blowing up balls and I started snapping pictures immediately. Although we arrived to school about a half hour early, most of the students were already running around the playground and the open field in the back of the school. Annie, Sam and Kirsten went to work and the students flocked to them. Some had great big smiles on their faces, but most had a look of astonishment. They were in awe at the amount of balls we were giving them. Each student stuck out their hand in hopes of grabbing a ball to play with. With a ball in hand, they would take off with another group of students and start laughing and screaming in the playground. They looked so excited and I had a blast watching them enjoy their games.
I headed into Kirsten's kindergarten classroom to take pictures of her teaching. We were waiting for the teacher to come to class when the school secretary walked in and told Kirsten her teacher had called in sick. Instead of bringing a substitute teacher into the class to take over, the secretary told Kirsten she would be in charge of the class. I saw a look of panic quickly cross over her face, but then she smiled and gladly accepted the job. Kirsten is going to make an amazing teacher. She was energetic about her lessons and made an effort to get the students involved. It was apparent that there had previously been little order to the classroom and Kirsten made attempted to teach her students about respect. They seemed very receptive to her as a teacher, but there were 30 students in her class. I think it is impossible to control 30 four and five year olds for an entire day. I offered help to Kirsten and ended up staying for the rest of the day to help her out. I was supposed to travel to some of the other classrooms to take pictures but I wasn't going to abandon Kirsten. I have a new respect for my kindergarten teacher. By the end of the day I was slumped in my chair because I was so exhausted. The day took a lot out of me but I think Kirsten did an amazing job to take control of the classroom on her fourth day of student teaching.
It was an early night because we were going to leave for Guatemala on Friday. Plus, I was exhausted and asleep within the first five minutes after I laid down. Each day I am so tired when I head to bed. You know how we always wish we could fit an extra three or four hours into each day? I'm pretty sure they have found out how to do that in Central America. My days are so full and I am exhausted by the time the sun dips below the horizon, but I never feel rushed. It is an amazing feeling, but I think I am getting too comfortable with it. It is going to be too hard to get back into a routine with a schedule and clock when I get back home.
We left for Guatemala early on Friday and stopped at the Belize Zoo along the way. The zoo was not like the ones we are used to in the U.S. It was completely natural and there were no cement buildings and sidewalks and the animal habitats were natural with only a wire fence separating the people from the wild animals. We saw a tapir, a jaguar, plus monkeys, birds, and other native animals. Awesome.
After the zoo we continued to drive to Guatemala. Once again, we had to get out of our bus and walk across the border. I can't believe how we have already been in three countries this quickly. It takes planning and a couple of days to drive to a border from Nebraska and it has only been a days drive to get across two borders. Guatemala is beautiful. It doesn't have mountains like Colorado, but it does have some lush, tree covered mountains. They are gorgeous and I couldn't stop staring out the window. We drove past people washing their clothes in the river and saw the most amazing lakes. They were huge and by the time we were passing them, the sun was low in the sky and the water sparkled. I couldn't believe how much it glittered.
We arrived at the Jaguar Inn late on Friday and headed to bed to be up at 4:00 a.m. for sunrise on the ruins. We climbed through the middle of the jungle in the pitch black darkness to sit on the side of a Mayan ruin. It was the most amazing, unforgettable experience. Who can say they sat on the side of a 20 story Mayan ruin to watch the sun rise? I have never felt so unbelievably connected to Earth and everything in it. When we first arrived at the ruin, it was dark and the stars seemed to be within an arms reach. We all sat in silence and enjoyed what was before us. I couldn't stop taking deep breaths, I just wanted to breath in all of the fresh, clean air that I could. It was a great release.
While we were on the side of the ruin, we saw the jungle slowly lighting up and things come to life. We heard birds and howler monkeys. I couldn't believe where I was and the things that I was hearing. I sat in shock and probably had a dumb smile across my face the entire time.
After we were done at the first ruin, we trekked through the jungle to the next ruin sight. It was about six square miles and had the most amazing ruins. We climbed up and around everything. These ruins weren't as tall the last one, but they were just as great. I kept thinking about the fact that we were walking in the same area that other people had hundreds of years ago. Life was so different back then.
After climbing the ruins, we headed back to our inn and go ready to go zip lining through the jungle. Wow. It was such an adrenaline rush. We went through eight different lines and each one got better than the rest. I had such a great time zooming over the forest below me. It went by too fast. I even got to go down face first. Unfortunately, when I got to the end, I couldn't seem to get up and everyone watched me scramble around trying to grab the cable or somehow manage to get my feet on the ground. I felt like an idiot but it was pretty funny.
I think I've caught you up on everything that you've been missing out on. This weekend has been incredible and a wonderful experience away from Corozal. I almost feel like a completely different person here. It is impossible to be upset or angry when the weather is this beautiful and the people are this friendly. I feel a sense of youthfulness that I haven't felt in a while. I laugh and play like I'm a kid again and it doesn't feel weird or out of place. Everyone seems to be having a great time and laughs and jokes around with each other. I'm loving it. So, so, so, so much.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Greetings from Corozal, Belize
First off I have to apologize because I've been spelling Corozal wrong this entire time. I've been thinking that it was spelled with two A's but I guess it's actually two O's. My bad. I finished up my time in the classroom today. It was depressing leaving the school and all of the students. I know I've only been around for a couple of days but the children made me feel so welcome and showed so much love and compassion it was hard to tear myself away. I promised to e-mail the teacher all of my pictures, which I think the students will love. I've really enjoyed taking pictures of the classrooms, other student teachers, and the students. They are so willing to have their picture taken and I've gotten some great ones. I can't wait to get to my own computer to download and post them.
Class at St. Paul's has been really great. I sat down with the principal, Mrs. Rogers, to talk today. There are about 180 students in the school, which is relatively small to many of the other schools in Corozal. Mrs. Rogers said that she caps each class at 25 students and tries to keep them small. Although the classes are smaller, I've noticed the students do not receive a lot of individual attention. The teacher stands at the front of the class and lectures. She usually has the children recite readings and math problems out loud. It's incredibly easy for students to mouth the words or quielty mutter them.
Most of the students are incredibly bright but don't seem to try very hard. There is one student the teacher calls "Sleeping Beauty" because he is always laying his head down on the desk. I've realized that he is a very smart boy, probably smarter than the other kids in his class, and sleeps for most of the time because he is not being challenged enough. Students don't seem to jump ahead or move up grade levels. They are, however, held back in primary school. I have two children who are repeating the fourth grade this term.
There is also very little order in the classrooms. I completely understand how hard it would be to hold an eight year old's attention for an entire day, but the students are constantly turning around in their desks or getting up to move about the classroom. The teacher tries to maintain order, but more often than not, she just lets the students roam. It's a lot different than the structure that we are used to in the States. I've heard from other student teachers that they are experiencing the same problems.
Although things are differnt I'm really enjoying myself. I know that we have a lot of experience to offer these teachers and could teach them a lot. I've only taken one education class and I don't want to act like I know everything, but I have a lot of faith in the other teachers and the student teachers who will be staying here for the next eight weeks.
The other teachers at St. Paul's and I went to lunch at a Belizian restaurant today and it was delicious. The locals say they are known for their beans and rice with stewed chicken so I tried it and pretty much ended up licking the plate clean. There's no way I'd be able to eat so much food everday though. My teacher saw me out running for exercise yesterday and asked me about it during class today. She was shocked that we were running and asked if exercising was big in America. I was shocked that no one here really exercises. I guess all the fresh fruit and vegetables that they eat cancels out the need for exercise. Greasy McDonald's and processed food in the States makes it a necessity.
The weather's starting to warm up again and the sun was shining today. We walk along the bay to get to St. Paul's and the walk was gorgeous this morning. The sun was shining and bouncing off the sea so the water sparkled. I couldn't stop staring. Unfortunately the sidewalks are pretty cracked and falling apart so I had to tear my eyes away to watch where I was going.
The sidewalks aren't the only thing that is not being taken care of here. Trash and garbage litter the sides of the streets. Turns out, the garbage company is on strike because the government is refusing to pay them. We were thinking about cleaning up the streets but if we did we would ruin the statement that the company was trying to make. Looks like our good deed will have to wait for another day.
I'm planning on traveling to the schools with the other student teachers tomorrow and for some of next week. I'm excited to see what the atmosphere is like at these schools. I'm hoping for some great pictures too.
We're also headed to Tikal, Guatemala for the weekend to see the ruins and sleep in a hostel in the jungle. We will most likely be stopping at the Belize Zoo too. My teacher told me that was a great idea to see the tapir (Belize's national animal), the black orchid (the national flower), and the mahogany tree (the national tree). It should be a great weeked.
Class at St. Paul's has been really great. I sat down with the principal, Mrs. Rogers, to talk today. There are about 180 students in the school, which is relatively small to many of the other schools in Corozal. Mrs. Rogers said that she caps each class at 25 students and tries to keep them small. Although the classes are smaller, I've noticed the students do not receive a lot of individual attention. The teacher stands at the front of the class and lectures. She usually has the children recite readings and math problems out loud. It's incredibly easy for students to mouth the words or quielty mutter them.
Most of the students are incredibly bright but don't seem to try very hard. There is one student the teacher calls "Sleeping Beauty" because he is always laying his head down on the desk. I've realized that he is a very smart boy, probably smarter than the other kids in his class, and sleeps for most of the time because he is not being challenged enough. Students don't seem to jump ahead or move up grade levels. They are, however, held back in primary school. I have two children who are repeating the fourth grade this term.
There is also very little order in the classrooms. I completely understand how hard it would be to hold an eight year old's attention for an entire day, but the students are constantly turning around in their desks or getting up to move about the classroom. The teacher tries to maintain order, but more often than not, she just lets the students roam. It's a lot different than the structure that we are used to in the States. I've heard from other student teachers that they are experiencing the same problems.
Although things are differnt I'm really enjoying myself. I know that we have a lot of experience to offer these teachers and could teach them a lot. I've only taken one education class and I don't want to act like I know everything, but I have a lot of faith in the other teachers and the student teachers who will be staying here for the next eight weeks.
The other teachers at St. Paul's and I went to lunch at a Belizian restaurant today and it was delicious. The locals say they are known for their beans and rice with stewed chicken so I tried it and pretty much ended up licking the plate clean. There's no way I'd be able to eat so much food everday though. My teacher saw me out running for exercise yesterday and asked me about it during class today. She was shocked that we were running and asked if exercising was big in America. I was shocked that no one here really exercises. I guess all the fresh fruit and vegetables that they eat cancels out the need for exercise. Greasy McDonald's and processed food in the States makes it a necessity.
The weather's starting to warm up again and the sun was shining today. We walk along the bay to get to St. Paul's and the walk was gorgeous this morning. The sun was shining and bouncing off the sea so the water sparkled. I couldn't stop staring. Unfortunately the sidewalks are pretty cracked and falling apart so I had to tear my eyes away to watch where I was going.
The sidewalks aren't the only thing that is not being taken care of here. Trash and garbage litter the sides of the streets. Turns out, the garbage company is on strike because the government is refusing to pay them. We were thinking about cleaning up the streets but if we did we would ruin the statement that the company was trying to make. Looks like our good deed will have to wait for another day.
I'm planning on traveling to the schools with the other student teachers tomorrow and for some of next week. I'm excited to see what the atmosphere is like at these schools. I'm hoping for some great pictures too.
We're also headed to Tikal, Guatemala for the weekend to see the ruins and sleep in a hostel in the jungle. We will most likely be stopping at the Belize Zoo too. My teacher told me that was a great idea to see the tapir (Belize's national animal), the black orchid (the national flower), and the mahogany tree (the national tree). It should be a great weeked.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Greetings from Corazal, Belize
Today was my first full day in the classroom at St. Paul's. I can't belive how much I already love the school. I love the children and their enthusiasm. They have so much passion about school and about life. I was greeted with a million hugs early this morning and each student already treats me like a friend or family member rather than a teacher.
I ate lunch with the students and after we'd finished, they took me around the school and to the back where the playground was at. They were so excited to run and play with me. Unfortunately, I wore open toe shoes today and my feet got trampled by about 100 different boots, tennis shoes, and sandals. My toes are raw and sore. I brought my camera out and the students couldn't contain their enthusiasm. They jumped at the chance to be photographed. They climbed all over each other to get to the front of the picture, and then after the picture was taken, they climbed all over me to see it replay on the screen. At one point, I had been pushed to the ground and the students were literally stepping on my legs and stomach to see it. At that point I had to put the camera away. I doubt I would've made it out of lunch alive if I hadn't stopped. I loved playing with the kids. They thought it was so great to run around and tickle me or hang onto an arm or leg. I was dragging them all over the place. I also handed my camera over to a couple students to take a picture because I just couldn't say no when they asked. Sure, they weren't the best photographers, but neither am I so who am I to judge? They had the greatest smiles when they started ordering everyone around to pose for a picture.
It was a whole new experience to be in the classroom for a full day also. The classes don't have clocks so no one ever knows what time it is. Well, I think everyone else knows what time it is except me. They seem to know when to head to lunch or change subjects without a schedule telling them to do so. I find the "no clock concept" here amazing. Besides setting an alarm to wake up, I don't follow a schedule or live life by the clock in Belize. I eat when I'm hungry, I go to bed when I'm tired, I'll go to the market when I'm bored, or go on a run when I need exercise. I don't feel rushed to do anything or get things done by a certain time. It's probably mainly this way because I'm on a sort of vacation, but I also don't feel like people are rushing around me either. Everyone seems to enjoy this sort of lifestyle, including me.
The weather hasn't been too bad here, but it's not exactly what we were expecting. I think we've been in Nebraska for too long because the cold weather has seemed to have followed us here. Locals are telling us that this is the coldest it has been in over 40 years. Great. Although most of the people and all of the students are walking around with coats and hats on, I still think it's great enough for shorts and a t-shirt. Not tanning weather, but 10X better than anything I've ever been used to in the States.
This school day has left me absolutely exhausted but I can't wait to go back tomorrow. The students gave me hugs on the way out and I even got a "Don't skip school tomorrow" from one girl. I was planning on staying in my classroom for only a day or so and then travel to the other student's classrooms to take pictures of them in action. I think my plans have changed because I can't pull myself away from this classroom and these students just yet.
I ate lunch with the students and after we'd finished, they took me around the school and to the back where the playground was at. They were so excited to run and play with me. Unfortunately, I wore open toe shoes today and my feet got trampled by about 100 different boots, tennis shoes, and sandals. My toes are raw and sore. I brought my camera out and the students couldn't contain their enthusiasm. They jumped at the chance to be photographed. They climbed all over each other to get to the front of the picture, and then after the picture was taken, they climbed all over me to see it replay on the screen. At one point, I had been pushed to the ground and the students were literally stepping on my legs and stomach to see it. At that point I had to put the camera away. I doubt I would've made it out of lunch alive if I hadn't stopped. I loved playing with the kids. They thought it was so great to run around and tickle me or hang onto an arm or leg. I was dragging them all over the place. I also handed my camera over to a couple students to take a picture because I just couldn't say no when they asked. Sure, they weren't the best photographers, but neither am I so who am I to judge? They had the greatest smiles when they started ordering everyone around to pose for a picture.
It was a whole new experience to be in the classroom for a full day also. The classes don't have clocks so no one ever knows what time it is. Well, I think everyone else knows what time it is except me. They seem to know when to head to lunch or change subjects without a schedule telling them to do so. I find the "no clock concept" here amazing. Besides setting an alarm to wake up, I don't follow a schedule or live life by the clock in Belize. I eat when I'm hungry, I go to bed when I'm tired, I'll go to the market when I'm bored, or go on a run when I need exercise. I don't feel rushed to do anything or get things done by a certain time. It's probably mainly this way because I'm on a sort of vacation, but I also don't feel like people are rushing around me either. Everyone seems to enjoy this sort of lifestyle, including me.
The weather hasn't been too bad here, but it's not exactly what we were expecting. I think we've been in Nebraska for too long because the cold weather has seemed to have followed us here. Locals are telling us that this is the coldest it has been in over 40 years. Great. Although most of the people and all of the students are walking around with coats and hats on, I still think it's great enough for shorts and a t-shirt. Not tanning weather, but 10X better than anything I've ever been used to in the States.
This school day has left me absolutely exhausted but I can't wait to go back tomorrow. The students gave me hugs on the way out and I even got a "Don't skip school tomorrow" from one girl. I was planning on staying in my classroom for only a day or so and then travel to the other student's classrooms to take pictures of them in action. I think my plans have changed because I can't pull myself away from this classroom and these students just yet.
Monday, January 11, 2010
Greetings from Corazal, Belize
We've finally arrived in Corazal, Belize to work in the classrooms. I was so excited this morning and woke up before my alarm even went off. I wasn't sure what to expect and was hoping for an entirely new experience. So far, I've received exactly what I wished for.
Our group met at the Corazal Community College to arrange our placements with the school director, Mr. Mai. After waiting for a couple of hours, most of the students left to their assigned classes. Students have been placed in three different elementary schools and one high school. I had no idea Corazal was so large or that it even had a college. I was among the last group to be taken to a school. We're helping at St. Paul's Anglican School which is a building right off the bay. Since I was among the last people to leave the college, we hung around the building for a while and then met with some students who were having lunch. Anna and I decided to play Uno (since we figured everyone plays the same version of Uno) with a group of high school students, Ian, Hector, and Kevin. I had a fun time and learned to call each of them a "cheater" in Spanish...tramposo. We each ended up yelling it back and forth at each other.
Once we arrived in the classroom I was overwhelmed. All I needed was a smile to win these children over. I was placed in a what would be the equivalent of a fourth grade classroom with Sara. The children immediately stood up as we entered the room and greeted us with a "Welcome to Belize, visitors." Each shyly stared at us and tried to look away when we made eye contact. But sure enough, I would catch them staring at me a minute later.
When the students were released for a recess, I decided to head outside. Of course, I was mauled by all the students coming up to us. The entire school goes to recess at the same time so everyone was curious to meet us. They were so friendly and all smiles. I learned so many names this first day. I don't know how teachers manage to keep them all straight. They were so welcoming and loving.
I immediately started taking pictures when we got into the classroom and I think each student was silently hoping to get their picture taken. Their eyes would follow me through the classroom and when I turned my camera towards them I usually got a big smile. I would literally have to stalk and then sneak up on a student to avoid catching their attention and a huge grin.
The classrooms are small and hold about 20 students. My teacher told me her class is the smallest with 17 students. Each one is so unique. The teacher also told me there are about 10 different ethnicities within Corazal and it was obvious to tell the differences in the students. Each one was adorable and I have never felt my heart be so full. I'm sure I am not the only student on this trip who felt this way the first day.
The students are very eager to learn and although today was the first day of school for them, they were so excited. One little girl, Keiara, told me that she enjoys school better than summer vacation. I'm not sure that I agree with her, but I pretended that I did.
Sara and I also explained snow to many of the students and they were shocked. Most of them actually seemed jealous. Once again, I'm not sure if I agreed with them. I offered to switch them places and they could head back to Nebraska, but everyone laughed and declined.
We're using the computers at the community college which are incredibly nice so I've got to make this a short and sweet entry. I'll write again soon. I'm having a great time!
Casey
Our group met at the Corazal Community College to arrange our placements with the school director, Mr. Mai. After waiting for a couple of hours, most of the students left to their assigned classes. Students have been placed in three different elementary schools and one high school. I had no idea Corazal was so large or that it even had a college. I was among the last group to be taken to a school. We're helping at St. Paul's Anglican School which is a building right off the bay. Since I was among the last people to leave the college, we hung around the building for a while and then met with some students who were having lunch. Anna and I decided to play Uno (since we figured everyone plays the same version of Uno) with a group of high school students, Ian, Hector, and Kevin. I had a fun time and learned to call each of them a "cheater" in Spanish...tramposo. We each ended up yelling it back and forth at each other.
Once we arrived in the classroom I was overwhelmed. All I needed was a smile to win these children over. I was placed in a what would be the equivalent of a fourth grade classroom with Sara. The children immediately stood up as we entered the room and greeted us with a "Welcome to Belize, visitors." Each shyly stared at us and tried to look away when we made eye contact. But sure enough, I would catch them staring at me a minute later.
When the students were released for a recess, I decided to head outside. Of course, I was mauled by all the students coming up to us. The entire school goes to recess at the same time so everyone was curious to meet us. They were so friendly and all smiles. I learned so many names this first day. I don't know how teachers manage to keep them all straight. They were so welcoming and loving.
I immediately started taking pictures when we got into the classroom and I think each student was silently hoping to get their picture taken. Their eyes would follow me through the classroom and when I turned my camera towards them I usually got a big smile. I would literally have to stalk and then sneak up on a student to avoid catching their attention and a huge grin.
The classrooms are small and hold about 20 students. My teacher told me her class is the smallest with 17 students. Each one is so unique. The teacher also told me there are about 10 different ethnicities within Corazal and it was obvious to tell the differences in the students. Each one was adorable and I have never felt my heart be so full. I'm sure I am not the only student on this trip who felt this way the first day.
The students are very eager to learn and although today was the first day of school for them, they were so excited. One little girl, Keiara, told me that she enjoys school better than summer vacation. I'm not sure that I agree with her, but I pretended that I did.
Sara and I also explained snow to many of the students and they were shocked. Most of them actually seemed jealous. Once again, I'm not sure if I agreed with them. I offered to switch them places and they could head back to Nebraska, but everyone laughed and declined.
We're using the computers at the community college which are incredibly nice so I've got to make this a short and sweet entry. I'll write again soon. I'm having a great time!
Casey
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Greetings from San Pedro, Belize
Today has been off to a great start. A group of about 10 of us woke up and were at breakfast by 8 a.m. I enjoyed fresh fruit while overlooking the ocean. It was beautiful. Unfortunately, today has been cloudy, but the weather is still warm. After breakfast, we took of to go snorkeling. Wow! The last time I went snorkeling, I couldn't stop gulping salt water and ended up getting sea sick. I was excited, but a little aprehensive this time. I didn't have my hopes too high. This excursion blew all of my expectations out of the water. Our guides, Alfonse and Mario, were the best on the island. Alfonse was incredibly enthusiastic about the ocean and all of the sea life. He had tattoos covering both arms, both ears pierced, and I think he looked like he was living the life on the island.
After we picked up a couple other passengers, we went to a reef about 10 minutes away. Alfonse instructed us about the correct way to clean and wear our snorkels and then took us out into the ocean. I have never seen anything so beautiful. Fish were swimming all around us and coral covered the ocean floor. It wasn't deep and for most of the time, we could stand and the water would hit about chest level. There were fish ranging from the length of my finger to the length of my leg. Alfonse was clapping underwater and pointing at everything. He knew what each fish was called, all of the information about them, and of course, how tasty they were. We saw more than just fish too. I saw a giant green eel, which Alfonse swam down to and grabbed its tail. We saw a thing that looked like a mix between a crab and a spider that was living in a rock. We saw three turtles eating seaweed on the ocean floor and sting rays saw around the outer ring of the reef. My head couldn't stop swiveling back and forth. If I didn't have to stop so often to spit out salty seawater, I wouldn't have ever lifted my head out of the water.
Our next stop was called Shark and Sting Ray Alley and it definitely lived up to its name. We jumped into the water and immediately Alfonse brought a huge shark to the surface. It was amazing. The thing was atleast as big as he was. More sharks circled around us and swam directly under me. It was incredible to be that close to something. Sting rays also came around and once again, Alfonse would randomly pick them up so we could all touch it. It was the weirdest feeling. I was expecting the skin to be hard and rough but it was completely the opposite. It was almost spongy feeling and smooth when I ran my fingers over its back. Alfonse even let me hold one! It was huge!
Although I was so close to all of these creatures, I never once felt scared or nervous. There is something about being underwater that is incredibly serene. It was calm and so quiet and at times, I would stop swimming and just let myself be pushed along by the current.
I couldn't believe what a great trip it turned out to be. After we had finished at Shark Alley I was waiting next to Alfonse in the ocean to climb back onto the boat. Earlier in the morning, Alfonse had joked with me that sharks love pink nail polish because my toes are painted bright pink. Well, he swam under the water without me noticing and grabbed my foot. I about jumped three feet out of the water and into the boat. So I guess it's not entirely true to say I never once felt scared. He was a great guide.
We're planning to spend the rest of the day exploring the city. The sun's not out so no tanning. The water is still warm though and it felt like bathwater when we were snorkeling.
Last night we went to a small restaurant for some authentic food. Wow. I am not a seafood person at all, but I was willing to try it again. It has to be delicious if it's this close to the ocean, right? Of course. I had pananas and a tortilla with stewed chicken. A panana is fish and corn wrapped in a tortilla and fried. Sooo good. I could've eaten those for days. There was homemade salsa on the table also. This salsa wasn't like Pace that you can just pick up at the grocery store. This was the real deal and so good. It was incredibly hot and most people couldn't eat it with their food, but I couldn't seem to stop even though my mouth was on fire.
That's definitely something I'm learning a lot more about on this trip. You've just got to get out there and do it. If you want to try something, try it. There's no point in saying no and these experiences open your eyes. You're only in Belize once and you're only going to be in this moment doing this thing once, live it the fullest. We're staying in a hostel in San Pedro and it's very tiny. There's no AC, no TVs and a community bathroom with no hot water. The rooms are only big enough for two beds and a dresser and the walls are cardboard. I know they don't sound appealing, but why not? We're only in the rooms to sleep. Plus, we're functioning just fine without hot water or a TV. I actually enjoy it. There's no point in complaining because it's not going to change anything. It's an opportunity to embrace something new and learn from it.
I can't wait to see what else this trip brings. I hope you're enjoying reading about our experiences. There is so much that I leave out and I know other people are experiencing so many different things, it's so hard to fit it all into one post. Enjoy and I'll write again soon.
After we picked up a couple other passengers, we went to a reef about 10 minutes away. Alfonse instructed us about the correct way to clean and wear our snorkels and then took us out into the ocean. I have never seen anything so beautiful. Fish were swimming all around us and coral covered the ocean floor. It wasn't deep and for most of the time, we could stand and the water would hit about chest level. There were fish ranging from the length of my finger to the length of my leg. Alfonse was clapping underwater and pointing at everything. He knew what each fish was called, all of the information about them, and of course, how tasty they were. We saw more than just fish too. I saw a giant green eel, which Alfonse swam down to and grabbed its tail. We saw a thing that looked like a mix between a crab and a spider that was living in a rock. We saw three turtles eating seaweed on the ocean floor and sting rays saw around the outer ring of the reef. My head couldn't stop swiveling back and forth. If I didn't have to stop so often to spit out salty seawater, I wouldn't have ever lifted my head out of the water.
Our next stop was called Shark and Sting Ray Alley and it definitely lived up to its name. We jumped into the water and immediately Alfonse brought a huge shark to the surface. It was amazing. The thing was atleast as big as he was. More sharks circled around us and swam directly under me. It was incredible to be that close to something. Sting rays also came around and once again, Alfonse would randomly pick them up so we could all touch it. It was the weirdest feeling. I was expecting the skin to be hard and rough but it was completely the opposite. It was almost spongy feeling and smooth when I ran my fingers over its back. Alfonse even let me hold one! It was huge!
Although I was so close to all of these creatures, I never once felt scared or nervous. There is something about being underwater that is incredibly serene. It was calm and so quiet and at times, I would stop swimming and just let myself be pushed along by the current.
I couldn't believe what a great trip it turned out to be. After we had finished at Shark Alley I was waiting next to Alfonse in the ocean to climb back onto the boat. Earlier in the morning, Alfonse had joked with me that sharks love pink nail polish because my toes are painted bright pink. Well, he swam under the water without me noticing and grabbed my foot. I about jumped three feet out of the water and into the boat. So I guess it's not entirely true to say I never once felt scared. He was a great guide.
We're planning to spend the rest of the day exploring the city. The sun's not out so no tanning. The water is still warm though and it felt like bathwater when we were snorkeling.
Last night we went to a small restaurant for some authentic food. Wow. I am not a seafood person at all, but I was willing to try it again. It has to be delicious if it's this close to the ocean, right? Of course. I had pananas and a tortilla with stewed chicken. A panana is fish and corn wrapped in a tortilla and fried. Sooo good. I could've eaten those for days. There was homemade salsa on the table also. This salsa wasn't like Pace that you can just pick up at the grocery store. This was the real deal and so good. It was incredibly hot and most people couldn't eat it with their food, but I couldn't seem to stop even though my mouth was on fire.
That's definitely something I'm learning a lot more about on this trip. You've just got to get out there and do it. If you want to try something, try it. There's no point in saying no and these experiences open your eyes. You're only in Belize once and you're only going to be in this moment doing this thing once, live it the fullest. We're staying in a hostel in San Pedro and it's very tiny. There's no AC, no TVs and a community bathroom with no hot water. The rooms are only big enough for two beds and a dresser and the walls are cardboard. I know they don't sound appealing, but why not? We're only in the rooms to sleep. Plus, we're functioning just fine without hot water or a TV. I actually enjoy it. There's no point in complaining because it's not going to change anything. It's an opportunity to embrace something new and learn from it.
I can't wait to see what else this trip brings. I hope you're enjoying reading about our experiences. There is so much that I leave out and I know other people are experiencing so many different things, it's so hard to fit it all into one post. Enjoy and I'll write again soon.
Friday, January 8, 2010
Greetings from San Pedro, Belize
We've arrived in San Pedro, Belize today. It's beautiful...the trees are green, the ocean is a mixture of blues and greens, and the sky is dotted with clouds. We traveled here from Corazal, Belize this morning on a two hour boat ride. I've realized that travelers are incredibly friendly. People want to know where you are from, where you've been, and where you're headed. It's really making me itch to travel more. There are so many experiences and opportunities out there that Americans don't realize. We are consumed with money, time, and a schedule so we don't allow ourselves to breathe and enjoy whats really out there.
While we were driving from Chichen Itza, Mexico to Corazal, Belize, I stared out the window at the passing jungle and villages. Families were sitting outside of their homes, enjoying the time together and just relaxing. They didn't seem consumed with planning dinner or finishing up work. They weren't reading books, talking on phones, or typing on computers. I understand their situations don't allow them to buy these items, but they proved that they didn't really need them. They were content with sitting in the warm weather and enjoying what they had. I know I enjoyed watching them pass by with my ipod on, jamming out to some Michael Franti. (This of course, proves that I cannot go without my technology, unlike these people).
Thanks to our bus driver in Mexico (and our group appointed translator, Kelsea) we were able to learn about the culture of the villages we were passing through. We stopped at a cemetary to learn about La Dia de los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead. The cemetaries are covered with decorations to honor the dead. According to our bus driver, once a person is laid to rest, another body can be buried on top of them after six years.
We were also fortunate enough to stop at a village where our driver purchased freshly made tortillas. He even taught us the proper way to eat them...lay them flat on your hand and roll them up, so it looks like a rolled cigar. These tortillas, fresh from the oven, were delicious! Much different than what we are used to in the US, but just as delicious. Take away all the salt, sugar, and other artificial flavorings and you will probably get a real tortilla.
Speaking of delicious food, I ordered chips and salsa for lunch in San Pedro today and was in heaven. The salsa was made fresh and I loaded each chip with enough fresh tomatoes, onions, jalapenoes to feed an army. Yum!
We're going to spend the rest of the day exploring the town and soaking up the sun. Some of us were laying out this morning and a woman walked by and told her family that it was too hot to tan. I think after being in cold Nebraska for the past couple of months, it will be impossible to get too hot.
We're planning on enjoying the night life tonight and hopefully go snorkeling tomorrow. Wish me luck!
Casey
While we were driving from Chichen Itza, Mexico to Corazal, Belize, I stared out the window at the passing jungle and villages. Families were sitting outside of their homes, enjoying the time together and just relaxing. They didn't seem consumed with planning dinner or finishing up work. They weren't reading books, talking on phones, or typing on computers. I understand their situations don't allow them to buy these items, but they proved that they didn't really need them. They were content with sitting in the warm weather and enjoying what they had. I know I enjoyed watching them pass by with my ipod on, jamming out to some Michael Franti. (This of course, proves that I cannot go without my technology, unlike these people).
Thanks to our bus driver in Mexico (and our group appointed translator, Kelsea) we were able to learn about the culture of the villages we were passing through. We stopped at a cemetary to learn about La Dia de los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead. The cemetaries are covered with decorations to honor the dead. According to our bus driver, once a person is laid to rest, another body can be buried on top of them after six years.
We were also fortunate enough to stop at a village where our driver purchased freshly made tortillas. He even taught us the proper way to eat them...lay them flat on your hand and roll them up, so it looks like a rolled cigar. These tortillas, fresh from the oven, were delicious! Much different than what we are used to in the US, but just as delicious. Take away all the salt, sugar, and other artificial flavorings and you will probably get a real tortilla.
Speaking of delicious food, I ordered chips and salsa for lunch in San Pedro today and was in heaven. The salsa was made fresh and I loaded each chip with enough fresh tomatoes, onions, jalapenoes to feed an army. Yum!
We're going to spend the rest of the day exploring the town and soaking up the sun. Some of us were laying out this morning and a woman walked by and told her family that it was too hot to tan. I think after being in cold Nebraska for the past couple of months, it will be impossible to get too hot.
We're planning on enjoying the night life tonight and hopefully go snorkeling tomorrow. Wish me luck!
Casey
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Greetings from Chichen Itza, Mexico
We're finishing up our first day at Mayaland Resort in Chichen Itza. We went on a tour around the resort and visited all of the Mayan ruins. Our tour guide, Juan, dressed in dark sunglasses and a gold necklace. was incredibly knowledgable about his history. I was surprised to learn about Mayan history from his viewpoint.
Turns out, it is unknown if sacrifices actually happened. Although there are skeletal remains and theories about sacrifices, there are little facts to back it up. The tour was a blur and Juan threw so much information at us, I could have listened to him talk for hours.
We wrapped up our tour and spent the rest of the afternoon enjoying the resort and spending some wonderful time at the pool. No beach, no ocean, and no sand yet, but the pool and sun were amazing! I think I saw the beginning of some tan lines! Jealous? We heard Nebraska was about -40 with wind chill. It was at least 75 degrees here!
We're off to Corazal, Belize were we will be living in apartments. Unfortunately, our bus driver can't take us across the border, so we're going to have to get out, walk across the border, and load onto another bus. Wish me luck!
Casey
Turns out, it is unknown if sacrifices actually happened. Although there are skeletal remains and theories about sacrifices, there are little facts to back it up. The tour was a blur and Juan threw so much information at us, I could have listened to him talk for hours.
We wrapped up our tour and spent the rest of the afternoon enjoying the resort and spending some wonderful time at the pool. No beach, no ocean, and no sand yet, but the pool and sun were amazing! I think I saw the beginning of some tan lines! Jealous? We heard Nebraska was about -40 with wind chill. It was at least 75 degrees here!
We're off to Corazal, Belize were we will be living in apartments. Unfortunately, our bus driver can't take us across the border, so we're going to have to get out, walk across the border, and load onto another bus. Wish me luck!
Casey
Greetings from Chichen Itza, Mexico
Well we've made it in one piece. I feel like I was just watching the snow fall in Omaha and we were de-icing the plane before take off and now I'm waking up to chirping birds in the middle of the jungle. The sound is 10X better than any alarm clock or ringing cell phone could make.
When I woke up this morning, I stepped out onto our room balcony and looked around. I'm surrounded by the lush green color that I've been longing for in Nebraska. The ocean breeze hit me the minute I stepped out of the Cancun airport. It's not like the crisp breeze I'm used to from the mountains of Colorado, but it's just as refreshing and I couldn't seem to breathe deeply enough to suck it all in.
We drove from the Cancun airport to Mayaland Resort in Chichen Itza to watch a light show and enjoy dinner. Multi-colored lights bounced on the walls of various Mayan ruins that are located at the resort. The blues, greens, purples, and whites worked together to form flowers and lightning and acted as a story was played over the loudspeakers. Even though I'm here to work on my Spanish, the story was read in Spanish and I, along with most of my group members, were completely lost.
The resort is completely different in the daytime and I can't wait to explore today. We're going to visit a Mayan village, as well as Mayan ruins. Wish me luck!
Casey
When I woke up this morning, I stepped out onto our room balcony and looked around. I'm surrounded by the lush green color that I've been longing for in Nebraska. The ocean breeze hit me the minute I stepped out of the Cancun airport. It's not like the crisp breeze I'm used to from the mountains of Colorado, but it's just as refreshing and I couldn't seem to breathe deeply enough to suck it all in.
We drove from the Cancun airport to Mayaland Resort in Chichen Itza to watch a light show and enjoy dinner. Multi-colored lights bounced on the walls of various Mayan ruins that are located at the resort. The blues, greens, purples, and whites worked together to form flowers and lightning and acted as a story was played over the loudspeakers. Even though I'm here to work on my Spanish, the story was read in Spanish and I, along with most of my group members, were completely lost.
The resort is completely different in the daytime and I can't wait to explore today. We're going to visit a Mayan village, as well as Mayan ruins. Wish me luck!
Casey
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Greetings from Omaha, Nebraska
How do you start a blog? Do I write "Hello all..." or "Dear friend...."? I'm sitting with a computer in my lap with a dazed look on my face and am drumming my fingers across the keys because I'm not sure what to say just yet. My dad writes a Christmas letter to our relatives and friends each year and somehow he always manages to keep it witty and interesting. Well, here's my similar attempt. But instead of writing a letter that says "Seasons Greetings from the snow capped peaks of Colorado" (my home) or "Happy Holidays from the snow covered plains of Nebraska," I'm going to write about my wonderful experiences in beautiful Belize, Guatemala, and Mexico. Feel free to be jealous as you read my blog.
Now, I'm just not some rich college student who can travel on a whim and who decided to spend the month of January in warm, sunny Central America (which isn't a bad idea considering how cold Nebraska is going to get). While I get to enjoy all of the perks of the warm weather, soft sand, sunny beaches, and crystal clear waters of Belize, I'm traveling with about 20 other students as part of an education trip at Hastings College. Besides spending our time site seeing and traveling as tourists, we will be teaching in public schools around Corazal, Belize.
I'm surrounded by future teachers and educators and find myself as the solo journalist. Print journalism, advertising, or public relations lies in my future rather than teaching. I've always found education to be interesting, but know it is not for me. I do however want to put my Spanish minor to use and do something more impactful than laying around on a beach, getting a tan...though a tan might impact some of the guys I'll see around the city. Once again, feel free to be jealous.
Ill use this next month in Central America to learn about the culture and take in as many experiences as I can. I'll try to share as many as I can with you. I know I will fill my camera memory card within a matter of days.
I've checked through my suitcases at least five times and my roommates back home were probably sick of my requests to go through my stuff one last time to find something I must have forgotten.
Of course, I didn't start trying to force and shove all of the things that I just had to take with me into my suitcase until about 2 a.m. yesterday. At about 2:30 a.m. I realized I overestimated my suitcase and knew I would need something bigger. At 3 a.m., my roommate drove me to Wal-Mart where we stood in the suitcase aisle and compared suitcases. Needless to say, I bought a new suitcase and was successfully packed by 4:30 a.m. Great way to start the trip, right?
Now, I could not be more excited and am ready to get this trip underway. We'll be leaving for the airport at 3:30 a.m., so once again, I'll be getting no sleep. Oh well. I'm too excited to sleep anyways. Wish me luck!
~Casey
Now, I'm just not some rich college student who can travel on a whim and who decided to spend the month of January in warm, sunny Central America (which isn't a bad idea considering how cold Nebraska is going to get). While I get to enjoy all of the perks of the warm weather, soft sand, sunny beaches, and crystal clear waters of Belize, I'm traveling with about 20 other students as part of an education trip at Hastings College. Besides spending our time site seeing and traveling as tourists, we will be teaching in public schools around Corazal, Belize.
I'm surrounded by future teachers and educators and find myself as the solo journalist. Print journalism, advertising, or public relations lies in my future rather than teaching. I've always found education to be interesting, but know it is not for me. I do however want to put my Spanish minor to use and do something more impactful than laying around on a beach, getting a tan...though a tan might impact some of the guys I'll see around the city. Once again, feel free to be jealous.
Ill use this next month in Central America to learn about the culture and take in as many experiences as I can. I'll try to share as many as I can with you. I know I will fill my camera memory card within a matter of days.
I've checked through my suitcases at least five times and my roommates back home were probably sick of my requests to go through my stuff one last time to find something I must have forgotten.
Of course, I didn't start trying to force and shove all of the things that I just had to take with me into my suitcase until about 2 a.m. yesterday. At about 2:30 a.m. I realized I overestimated my suitcase and knew I would need something bigger. At 3 a.m., my roommate drove me to Wal-Mart where we stood in the suitcase aisle and compared suitcases. Needless to say, I bought a new suitcase and was successfully packed by 4:30 a.m. Great way to start the trip, right?
Now, I could not be more excited and am ready to get this trip underway. We'll be leaving for the airport at 3:30 a.m., so once again, I'll be getting no sleep. Oh well. I'm too excited to sleep anyways. Wish me luck!
~Casey
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