Wednesday in Belize

This morning we split up at first. Liza, Ali and Justin went out to sea to fish while I went to tutor at school. I love getting to know my students' pen pals, and especially getting to work with the children in small groups. As soon as I entered Mr. Bood's room, all of the students jumped up in unison and recited together, "Good morning, Miss Kathy, and welcome to Holy Cross." Then they sat and look eagerly awaited their teacher's next instruction. It is amazing how the students are so well behaved in the classroom, yet seem to fight so often when they are out of school. Many seem so angry and interested in showing their toughness.

Back to my morning. Mr. Bood said thay Japhet and Brady needed the most help. I felt badly since he announced this in front of everyone. Brady wanted to know if Grant was a boy or a girl. I told her that Grant is a boy and even happened to have a picture of Grant (in my camera) dressed up for the recent play. She and Japhet thought that was funny. Brady is so sweet. I had to remind Japhet that Brady needed her time to talk as well. We worked on sounding out words first. They seemed to be at a first/second grade reading level, but remember that English is their second language. I had them practice writing. Mr. Bood wanted me to teach them contractions and some grammar before recess.

At recess everyone ran throughout, and they all wanted to visit. These children are so friendly and sweet. They wanted to know all about where I come from, my family and my students/their pen pals. They are so excited because they are writing a new set of letters for me to carry back and are all making bracelets for their friends as well. Mr. Bood presented me with my bracelet in front of everyone. It is absolutely beautiful! Their genuine joy here reminded me how fullfilling it is to give, even more than receiving. These students and this school no more have the money for the bracelet supplies, but somehow they figured it out so that they could make these special gifts. Now that I see how little they have, I wish I could come again to bring teacher resources, art supplies, books, etc. We have so much. They have so little.

In the late morning I went to meet up with Liza and the fishing crew. Well, Justin was sea sick, but Liza and Ali pulled in with their catch: red snapper and baracuda. Very exciting morning.

We rushed off to school to coach for the rest of the day. It was the hottest one yet, and Liza definitely ended up dehydrated and overheated. We started with the little ones, which was a blast. We did alot of dancing and singing before the older ones came out for practice. It is great that they know us now and look forward to seeing us. I am trying so hard to remember everyone's name. Time to sleep.

I hope all is well at home. Go Ravens!