Taking Belize Home

You've heard about our experiences throughout our adventure in Belize, and you've seen a glimpse into the things that have made our hearts smile while we've been journeying throughout. Since there wasn't time for us to write every single memory down on our blog, we'd like to recap some of our favorite moments for you. We hope you enjoy!

Erin 

Favorite part of the trip: It's hard to say what my favorite part of the trip was but since I have to choose, I'm going to say it was having devotions every morning with the teachers.

Most challenging part of the trip: It was challenging to be up and awake at 6:30 for breakfast every morning. I was also challenged as a teacher because I wasn't able to use the technology and resources I usually depend on. 

The most unexpected part of the trip: Constipation.  Not to be gross, but most of us were expecting quite the opposite of what we got. 

The thing I'll miss most: The thing I'll miss the most is the Victorious Nazarene school. I will miss our awesome principal, the great teachers, and most of all, I'll miss the students, especially my standard three class (5th grade). 

The item I wish I would have packed: I didn't have room for it, but I wish I had brought some snacks from home. You don't want to see the price of a bag of Cheetos here. 

The thing I hope to always remember: I hope I remember the relationships that I have built here with both the Belizeans and the education students. 

Andrew

Favorite part of the trip: The best part by far was how in depth Miss Janell and I went into conversations about education in Belize. Her experience teaching in Belize, retiring to USA to be an anger management counselor, working with 13-15 year olds who got caught up in drugs, and back to teaching in Belize again... Her perspective was absolutely amazing.

Most challenging part of the trip: By far, the hardest part of this trip was closed minded peers.

The most unexpected part of the trip: Being offered a job or somehow finding out that I inspired my teacher to see hope and enjoyment in teaching again (UNEXPECTED)

The thing I'll miss most: Being in a classroom all day.

The item I wish I would have packed: My robe.

The thing I hope to always remember: I do not understand their culture, I cannot fix their problems and they will continue to live this way; but, I will always remember that I am able to be the role-model that is needed for the next generation of students and that I am an effective teacher.

Elizabeth

Favorite part of the trip: My favorite part of the trip was the entire trip. I enjoyed meeting new people and getting to know my students.

Most challenging part of the trip: The most challenging part for me was the food. It took some time to get used to but now I hope to not eat rice and beans or chicken for awhile.

The most unexpected part of the trip: Teaching an eight year old girl in my class to read a book by herself was the most unexpected part. She knows some sight words but after working with her for about an hour, she was able to then read more than just sight words. The look on her face was amazing and I would have never imagined I would help a young girl to read.

The thing I'll miss most: I will miss being in this beautiful country and will definitely miss the wonderful students I had in my class.

The item I wish I would have packed: The item I wish I would have packed is more bug spray and a mosquito net.

The thing I hope to always remember: Snorkeling in the Mediterranean Sea but most importantly, the students at Howard Smith school. These students were amazing. Not only did I observe and teach the students but I have also learned from the students.

Felicia

Favorite part of the trip: My favorite part of the trip was the whole trip. I loved ever moment, even the rocky moments. This trip was an amazing experience and I cherished ever single moment.

Most challenging part of the trip: The most challenging part for me was adjusting to the food. I finally adjusted but I will be glad to not see rice and beans for awhile.

The most unexpected part of the trip: The weather. We couldn't control the weather but the weather controlled our plans.

The thing I'll miss most: I will miss my students the most and just being here in this beautiful country. 

The item I wish I would have packed: More bug spray, more sunscreen, and aloe for my sunburn.

The thing I hope to always remember: My students, Ms. Ingrid (The principal), Aby and Amalia (our wonderful cooks), and the new family I have gained in this group.

Aria

Favorite part of the trip: My favorite part of the trip was working in the schools. I learned so much from my CT and students, and have grown as a teacher and person. 

Most challenging part of the trip: The hardest part of the trip was being away from my husband and family for so long. 

The most unexpected part of the trip: The crazy, but loving students that I got to teach and work with. They were wild and almost uncontrollable at the beginning; but by the end they were great listeners and excellent students! 

The thing I'll miss most: I will greatly miss the love and thoughtfulness of the people of Belize.

The item I wish I would have packed: Extra shorts for after school

The thing I hope to always remember: This experience has taught me that relationships are more important than getting the next item on your list done. Take time, slow down and invest in others. 

Julia

Favorite part of the trip: I had so many favorite parts of the trip, but my absolute favorite was my last few days in the classroom. I had a really hard time in the classroom, and after a few days of wanting to cry and change classrooms, The Lord gave me some hidden strength. After I taught my last two lessons, I felt extremely accomplished but so humbled by the experience. I feel like I am a better teacher. 

Most challenging part of the trip: My classroom was the most challenging for sure, but once I cracked their shells, I fell in love. 

The most unexpected part of the trip: Definitely the friendships, the people journeying with me are awesome!

The thing I'll miss most: I will miss the sweet smell of the Belizian air, the kindness of the people, and the joy of not worrying.

The item I wish I would have packed: I wish I would have packed a normal sized pillow- that travel pillow doesn't have anything to sleep on, I slept on a folded towel too!

The thing I hope to always remember: I hope to always remember that trusting Him can get me through any situation. 

Emily 

Favorite part of the trip: My favorite part of the trip was something that in the moment, I never would've seen as my favorite part. Starting the second week at Howard Smith, both of the standard 4 (6th grade) teachers were out sick.....So I was on my own for the day without any plans or materials (well- in English anyways) and with 33 rowdy students. At the end of the day I was at my breaking point and at the edge of tears, BUT I made it through the day and survived. I was able to use the knowledge I've acquired from classes and apply it to my teaching practices. I gained the reassurance that this is what God has called me to do and with his presence and strength (cause I for sure know it wasn't mine), I was able to make it through what will probably be my hardest school day ever. 

Most challenging part of the trip: My placement for the two weeks was a huge challenge for me. The classroom didn't have a management/accountability system in place and gaining my students respect was hard- I didn't just receive it, I had to earn it. It took a few days to find the right style of management to use with my students but by the end of the 2nd week, I was no longer an outsider. 

The most unexpected part of the trip: All of the us coming together each night at our big table in the cafeteria, building friendships and sharing our days. We worked together to build lessons plans and supported each other. We were able to plan and talk through lessons, which improved our practices and strengthened our lessons. 

The thing I'll miss most: The genuine love from the students. Everyday I was tackled for hugs, hung-onto, and was over flooded with gifts from all the students at the school. 

The item I wish I would have packed: More bug spray and more spray sunscreen. There's a lot of bugs here! 

The thing I hope to always remember: New friendships gained, old friendships strengthened, and the experiences we got to experience together. And the family I've gained both in Belize and within our group from MVNU. 

Tori

Favorite part of the trip: I loved getting to teach in and immerse myself in a new culture! The experience I had in the classroom definitely broadened my perspective on diversity. I also loved getting to know everyone even better on this trip and becoming a family.

Most challenging part of the trip: It was hard to get used to a culture who is not very prompt. I like to know what is going to happen and when it is going to occur, but that wasn't always the case. I also did  not enjoy coming into contact with tarantulas. 

The most unexpected part of the trip: Probably how similar the schools were to the US schools. They did not have nearly as many resources, but they did many things the same!

The thing I'll miss most: My students and teacher! The homemade tortillas will also be missed terribly.

The item I wish I would have packed: I wish I would have packed a raincoat because I did not expect it to be so rainy!

The thing I hope to always remember: God puts you in situations to grow and shape you into the person that He wants you to be.

Jackie

The most unexpected part of the trip: Roosters going off at all hours
The thing I'll miss most: The friendships I have made and the lyrically Creole accent.
The item I wish I would have packed: Yoga pants.
Most challenging part of the trip: Missing my family was the most challenging part for me. 
The thing I hope to always remember: My final day in the classroom and the round of applause my students sent me off with when my lesson ended. Hallmark moment ;)
Favorite part of the trip: The last week in the classroom because I had established a rapport with the students that made things shine like a new penny.

Morgan

Favorite part of the trip: I loved getting out of the van at school and hearing my students yell "miss!" And seeing their smiling, joyful faces. I also loved getting to know all of the people on this trip. 
Most challenging part of the trip: We had a lot of early mornings and I am not a morning person! Missing my family and my dog back home also made it difficult. The most unexpected part of the trip: how close the group got. We often gathered around our giant family table and enjoyed many meals and good conversations together! The thing I'll miss most: the warm weather and the beautiful sunshine! Also, the delicious fresh pineapple juice and flour tortillas. The item I wish I would have packed: a raincoat! The thing I hope to always remember: to soak up every situation and find the beauty behind it....even if that means waiting in an airport for 7 hours. 

Jenny

Favorite part of the trip: My favorite part of the trip was lunch time. Not only was the food delicious, but it was the time of day I got to spend getting to know the students. The relationships I made during this trip are more special to me than anything else. 

Most challenging part of the trip: The entire trip was a challenge. A good challenge though. The kind of challenge that makes you a stronger person. There's nothing about this trip that is comfortable. That's the best part of the adventure. 

The most unexpected part of the trip: I was surprised at the welcome the Belizeans gave us. My CT welcomed me with open arms. I was overwhelmed with the love we experience. 

The thing I'll miss most: The thing I will miss the most is the collaboration with my peers about lesson plans. It was nice to come back from school everyday and share stories while planning for the next day. 

The item I wish I would have packed: I wish I would have packed another pair of tennis shoes and my favorite treat from the states. They don't have Reese Cups in the whole country, guys. Remember that when packing!! Introduce them to the wonderful mixture of peanut butter and chocolate next year!! 

The thing I hope to always remember: I will always remember how important it is to laugh with my students. Some of the conversations where I learned the most about my students was when we simply sat down, talked, and laughed. 
*If I could say something to students considering this trip next year...I would say GO!!! It may be scary, but it is life changing. You will experience God in ways you never thought possible. You will have adventures and sights that will blow your mind. You will meet people who surround you in love and will make a lasting impression. Go. You won't regret it. 

Taylor

Favorite part of the trip: My favorite part of the trip was being able to see the impact I had on my students. Even though I don't get to see the long term results, I got to see the difference I made in multiple students lives by grade increases and completion of assignments. Even just the comprehension of sight words; I was able to make a difference and I will cherish that achievement forever. 
Most challenging part of the trip: My most challenging part of the trip was having to be around the same group of people basically 24/7. I enjoyed all 21 days, but a change of atmosphere would be nice. Also, I am a hardcore social media person and 21 days with sketchy wifi, no wifi, or limited access to the internet was super hard for me. 
The most unexpected part of the trip: The most unexpected part of the trip was when I walked into my classroom for the first time. My stereotype was that it was going to be bare walls, hot rooms, and no visual stimulants. All of those were proven false. My class was full of color, posters, and centers for different subjects. It had windows and two doors that allowed for an amazing breeze. Lastly, there were so many pictures and informative materials all around the room. Needless to say, my eyes were never bored. 
The thing I'll miss most: I will miss the smiles and beautiful landscapes. There were always smiles and laugher, which I LOVE!! Also, the nature and beauty of the country was unexplainable. Everything was sooo gorgeous!! 
The item I wish I would have packed: Oddly enough, I wish I would have packed more warm clothing. Even though it was generally hot or humid in the day, there were at least 4 or 5 nights and mornings that were freezing!!! Global warming I guess ;)
The thing I hope to always remember: Two things come to mind when I read this: the kids as a whole and snorkeling. The kids smiles, conversations, willingness to learn, their love and joy for life, and the open arms they showed towards me. Snorkeling was probably the craziest and coolest thing I have ever done. Swimming with sharks and stingrays and the second largest coral reef will definitely be something I never forget! God is Good and his mercy and grace will never fail me! 

McKenzie

Favorite part of the trip: I could not possibly choose just one favorite thing. I absolutely loved my class of 59 students, my Cooperating Teacher, and the relationships I built with them in only two weeks time. I loved laughing, collaborating, and doing life with the 19 other people in our group. I loved (and was absolutely terrified!) when we went snorkeling with wild sting rays and sharks. I have more favorites, but simply not enough space!
Most challenging part of the trip: Feeling helpless. About the third day in the classroom, I had gotten to know my students fairly well and my cooperating teacher filled me in on some of their stories. Some of the children had lost parents, some of their parents were addicts, and some of them came from excellent families, but had little in terms of earthly wealth. I felt overwhelmed, wanting to "fix" them and realizing that two weeks was a much shorter period of time than it had sounded at our first meeting in October. I realized that I could not go home with them or love them enough to make up for what they did not have, but God could. Turning my students over to God was one of the hardest things I have ever done, but it gave me peace. I know that He loves them more than I ever could and that they are safe in His hands.
The most unexpected part of the trip: The gifts the students would bring me. Whenever I showed up it never failed that one of my students would bring me something. I received flowers, notes, a bracelet, a keychain, a pen, and even a piece of birthday cake. What was especially touching was when they would bring me food that they had bought with their own money...I could only wonder if they went without. Their generosity had  no limits.
The thing I'll miss most: The students calling me Miss. Every time a student wanted attention or had a question they would say: "Miss! MIss! Miss!" They would always greet me with: "good morning, Miss" or "good afternoon, Miss." It was so different from the greetings in the States, but so sweet. 
The item I wish I would have packed: Cough drops. As I was teaching, I would be speaking rather loudly and combined with the dust and whatever else...it made for one super sore throat.
The thing I hope to always remember: That kids are kids everywhere. While I was immersed in the Belizean culture and trying to make sense of it all, there would be moments of clarity where a little boy would laugh at a silly face his friend made at him or a middle school girl would blush when she was being teased about a boy.  I loved seeing how the older siblings would be protective of their younger siblings and it reminded me of my brother. It made me realize how similar we are within our differences.

Christy

Favorite part of the trip: I loved being in the schools and just fully immersing myself in the classroom. When we are in field placements in the states we only go for a few hours a day once a week. So being able to experience full days and going everyday fully immersing myself in the culture and in the classroom seeing my students in every part of the day. I also enjoyed seeing the true beauty of Belize. 
Most challenging part of the trip: 20 people with 20 different opinions and 20 different thought processes is just a lot to do and please. Plus we were all education minded people with a lot of the same personalities. So just learning to work with everyone and live alongside so many different people. Although it went a lot better then I thought it would. 
The most unexpected part of the trip: I never thought that I would adjust as well as I did. It was a big change in some ways but in others it was something I was used to being an outdoor lover roughing it wasn't new to me. So the fact that the culture shock wasn't as shocking to me as I thought it would be was a nice surprise. 
The thing I'll miss most: I will miss the love and kindness of the Belizean people. The smiles of my students will also be greatly missed and although I have tons of pictures they will never give justice to the true love I felt from their hugs and smiles. 
The item I wish I would have packed: I don't know if I could think of anything to put here. I was the person who literally packed everything. I was cutting it close with the weight limit at the airport when we left the United States so I received all sorts of jokes about how I over packed and was crazy but turns out I had a lot of things others forgot. So in the end it paid off. I really didn't have a need for anything while I was in Belize. 
The thing I hope to always remember: I really hope to remember this experience as a whole. This was truly something I never thought I would be able to do so having this opportunity and learning so much was such a blessing. Although the sunsets and rises, the people, and the food are all something I want to forever carry with my not only in my mind but in my heart. God is good and I was reminded of his beauty in the people I came in contact with on this trip as well as through the beautiful creation I was able to be a part of thought this past month. 
Thank you for all of your prayers and support. We couldn't have done it without you ❤️

Cassidy

Favorite part of the trip: The relationships built with others on our team, the teachers and the students. 

Most challenging part of the trip: Learning and adapting to the culture and working with students who are older than tan the age group I am used to working with.

The most unexpected part of the trip: Schedule changes! No plans and times are set in Belize! 

The thing I'll miss most: the beautiful country and the students!

The item I wish I would have packed: ANTI-ITCH MEDICINE!!!

The thing I hope to always remember: I hope to always remember that this experience made me a better teacher and that going out of your comfort zone it not as uncomfortable as it may seem. 

Tiffany

Favorite part of the trip: My favorite part of the trip was learning to overcome obstacles in the classroom that I used to fear. This trip has really allowed me to grow as a future teacher, and I owe it to Belize for the new confidence I have. Also, I made some amazing friends on this trip. I'm so blessed to be going home with friendships that will only keep growing back in Ohio.Most challenging part of the trip: The most challenging part was learning names! I was one of the two students teaching in the high school so I had 130 students. I didn't master them all, but I gave it my best shot hah.The most unexpected part of the trip: I was surprised that the cooperating teachers were ready to learn from us. I thought it was awesome that I was taking from their culture and at the same time, the Belizean teachers were taking from mine.The thing I'll miss most: My 130 students. The 80 degree weather. Pineapple juice. The cavalier :(The item I wish I would have packed: ALOE!!! Thank God for Aria's bottle. The thing I hope to always remember: I hope to always remember how it feels to stick with something even when it's difficult. The high school students proved to be a difficult group to manage, but God allowed this experience to prepare me for my future more than any field has in the past. I stood my ground and established my role as a teacher to earn respect. I know that I'll never forget how it felt to walk out of the classroom with a smile on my face because I had taught a successful lesson to a group of students that gave everyone problems. 

Brody

Favorite part of the trip: I finally connected with my students in a placement field. This was the first time that I felt apart of a classroom as a teacher. It was really neat to connect and bond with my students. I couldn't believe the impact I was able to make in just a few weeks. Most challenging part of the trip: Getting out of my comfort zone in many different aspects. This allowed me to build new relationships with my peers that will hopefully last forever. The most unexpected part of the trip: How accepting and friendly everyone was around me. The thing I'll miss most: The little things, like talking or playing with the students. It was awesome to bond with all students. The item I wish I would have packed: Warmer clothesThe thing I hope to always remember: That I'm very minuscule and I really have a lot to learn. God blessed me with this incredible experience that has changed my perception and attitude toward life.   

Misty

Favorite part of the trip: My favorite part of the trip was - hands down - my standard six classroom!! I love the joy, humor and warmth each student brought to the classroom every day. 

Most challenging part of the trip: The most challenging part of the trip academically turned out to be one of the biggest blessings. While technology was limited, and I planned an entire lesson using three grammar books and no internet, I was blessed with the understanding that we don't need technology to teach. Most people will say, "A good teacher differentiates," or "A good teacher utilizes multiple resources in order to be effective," but, in all actuality, a good teacher weaves passion, creativity, and love into an intricate package placed in the hands of students when, sometimes, they don't even know it! The other most challenging part of the trip? Emotionally? Saying goodbye.

The most unexpected part of the trip: I had no idea it would be so hard to say goodbye to my students after just two weeks. Ten days is definitely long enough to change your entire life. Moments matter. 

The thing I'll miss most: The people - my students, Ms. Shirley (my cooperating teacher), Miss Ingrid (the principal at Victorious), the other teachers at Victorious, Aby and Amalia (the cooks), and probably more that I forgot to mention here. Leaving Belize isn't hard; leaving its people . . . Now that's a totally different story!

The item I wish I would have packed: This is an easy one - Ear plugs!

The thing I hope to always remember: I hope to always remember the joy I felt teaching in an international classroom. I do believe God is calling me to teach English in Latin America, and I have been so blessed to feel His presence each and every day here in Belize. God is good!


God has been so present throughout our time in Belize, and we will be forever thankful for those quiet moments when he whispered softly into each of our hearts. While leaving Belize is sad, we are excited to see our friends and family at home. As for us, we each have 19 small pieces of Belize to take home with us - our new MVNU Belize 2014 family. 

We may have a small confession to make. We have loved you being able to journey alongside us as we have blogged about our experiences. We really believe we were able to accomplish so much because of your prayers and support. However, maybe this blog wasn't for you after all. This is something we will all cherish for the rest of our lives. Seeing how God worked in our lives this month only further proves our calling into the educational field. When we feel discouraged, when we feel like we are lacking, when we feel our job is overwhelming and our skills just can't meet the needs of our students, we will always have this reminder that God is calling us to do things we definitely cannot do alone! 

To my fellow travelers, I guess this blog makes one more part of Belize we will be able to take with us wherever we go. I hope you cherish the memories as much as I do. May your lives be forever changed because of our time together in Belize as I know mine will.

  

Update from the Belize Airport

Our plane from Atlanta to Belize is on the way, so that is good news! It will arrive at approximately 5:18.  They plan on turning it around in about 45 minutes, and then we should be on our way to Atlanta.  The last flight from ATL to CMH is currently scheduled for 9:54.  If they'll hold the flight another 30 minutes, we might make it.

We have full internet access and Delta is being helpful.  They just fed us all a large sandwich and a drink.  The adventure is not over.  We've already been through all phases of Phase 10 and now we're pulling together a euchre game.

We're doing fine, but we're ready to be home.

Flying Through Atlanta

Friends,

We are flying back to Ohio today! We are a little concerned since we have a layover in Atlanta. However, we are monitoring Delta's website and, so far, there is no indication that our times/flights havev changed, other than leaving BZE 30 minutes later.

Please feel free to monitor our progress on the Delta website or on any flight tracking website.  Our flights for today are:

BZE - ATL: DL0664

ATL - CMH: DL2460

If you would like email updates, please email sabina.thalheim@mvnu.edu and she can put you on her email list for flight updates. 

Thank you.  Say a prayer for us today :-)

Dr. Brad

Celebration in Caye Caulker!

No words can describe the beauty that we saw on the island and in the water today! 

Because she also celebrated her 21st birthday today, Morgan is going to tell us about her day:

There are a variety of ways one could celebrate his/her 21st birthday, but I think today trumps them all. First off, I was able to wake up this morning to a BEAUTIFUL sunrise on the dock in front of our hotel. It was gorgeous, but the beautiful faces surrounding me made it so much better. Most of our group came out to watch and sit in awe of the pinks, oranges, and yellows that shone across the sky. God had his paintbrush out, and we were all blown away by His creation! I was also treated to some delicious donuts and an iced chai tea from a local coffee shop where my friends sang happy birthday to me for the 5th time. 

While that alone could make for an awesome birthday, the day was just beginning. At 9:15, we all gathered around a tiny building and anxiously awaited to get fitted for the snorkeling gear we would be   using later in the afternoon. After everyone had their gear, we made it to the boats, got our group picture and headed out across the Mediterranean Sea. Our first stop: the manatee reserve! 

This part of excursion consisted of an hour long boat ride. Needless to say, it was the perfect time to relax and soak up the vitamin D our bodies have been craving! Next thing we know, the boat engines shut off and big poles were being used to push the boats around the reserve. The manatees must have known we were coming, because they tried to hide from us. We had to stop at three different spots before we finally spotted gray noses coming up for air. We couldn't ever fully see the manatees, but we could tell by the shadows they were huge! The captain of our boat even thought two of them were a mother and baby! And anyone who knows me knows how much I love babies!! We made the hour-long boat ride back while eating fresh pineapple and enjoying the breeze! 

After the manatees, we made a quick lunch break at a different island and set out to go snorkeling! Most of us have never snorkeled before, so we all figured we would start out easy... Nope. We were thrown right into shark and stingray alley!! We literally swam with a dozen stingrays varying in sizes and a couple nurse sharks! There were a variety of fish that showed up, including a huge barracuda. I don't think I have ever been so amazed, yet nervous in my life. I would just like to say that on this trip I've experienced a lot of things including holding a snake, feeding a bird with a fish right out of my hand and petting both a shark and stingray! 

Our last stop came too quickly, but it was one we were all looking forward to. It was time to snorkel for real, with our flippers and all, and explore a huge coral reef! My boat's captain, Joe, gave all of us a quick tour of the reef explaining the different types of coral, fish and all of the safety measures. After the tour, we were set free! An ongoing joke for the girls on this trip has been mermaids. Jackie brought "mermaid spray" for our hair that many of us desperately needed throughout this trip. While I was snorkeling and soaking up this beautiful creation, I truly felt like Ariel, the Little Mermaid, and I doubt I was the only one! 

Our night ended with a delicious dinner from Habeneros. Mine included dessert and happy birthday sang for the 8th time! It was a WONDERFUL birthday and being surrounded by 19 new friends has made it that much more enjoyable. Plus many of us are sporting that red-as-a-lobster look from the day in the sun, but you won't hear us complaining! 

I am truly blessed! 

Love, 

Morgan 

PS Caleb, just two more sleeps and I get to see you! Oh and hey mom! Tell dad I love you and miss you all!  

Well, Aria is already asleep, so tonight's devotions can't be written. However, they were amazing. She talked about making time for God. We were all encouraged by the devotion. 

Make sure to check the "In Preparation" post for return flight information - especially flight numbers. Please be praying for good weather so we make it home on time. I don't think some of us would mind getting stuck in Belize, but we don't want to be stuck in Atlanta!

Adventures in Caye Caulker

Today was a fun-filled day of adventure!

Here's what Felicia has to say about the day:

A few others and I began our day by waking up at 5:00am to see the sunrise, but -to our dismay - it was too cloudy and we were a tad too early. However, it was still worth it because we saw a huge stingray from the dock and we were able to sit and take in the beauty God created. 

The whole group met up and we attended a Catholic Church together. After church we all went our different ways to explore the island. My group decided to change clothes and find a place to eat lunch. We ended up finding a little restaurant and ate lunch on the beach. The view was breathtaking. After lunch, we roamed the island and visited a few different shops. Then we decided to head back to the hotel to get our swimsuits on and go swimming. To our surprise we discovered that our hotel lets us rent kayaks for free. So we decided to go kayaking. I was very scared because I have never kayaked before but Misty was a good kayaking partner :)  After having some great conversation on the sea (Caye Caulker is surrounded by the Meditterain Sea) we changed, again, and then relaxed and played some cards (euchre specifically). Then we explored a little more till dinner. We all met up at the Rainbow Grill and enjoyed a delicious meal, which for some included lobster, fish, bacon cheeseburger, and even fettuchini alfredo. Then again we all went our separate ways. I concluded my night with a very scrumptious scoop of caramel ice cream. Overall, it was amazing day on the little island of Caye Caulker.

With Love,

Felicia

P.S. Thanks for all the love and prayers especially from my family. I love you! <3

Here are devotions from Brody:

Over the past few days I have been reflecting on my experience in Succotz and I wanted to share this as my devotion. I chose the verse Ephesians 5:16-17, "making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is." During my experience in Succotz, I saw many students and children that have abilities and potential, but no opportunity. I have realized that we are blessed with many wonderful opportunities that we might not recognize. I struggle with the way I approach these opportunities because many times I am satisfied with being mediocre, instead of striving for greatness. There are many times that I am just "going through the motions," when I should be giving my maximum effort. The Lord wants us to strive for that greatness and we owe it to Him to give our best effort in every opportunity He gives us.

-Brody

It's incredible to see the way The Lord is still working in our lives - even after leaving Succotz. I think we're all sad we won't be returning to the classroom tomorrow, but we are excited to go to the manatee reserve and go snorkeling. 

Arriving in Caye Caulker!

We have officially arrived in Caye Caulker! We were definitely excited to step foot on the white sand beaches here - especially knowing that there's a blizzard back home!

Here's what Elizabeth has to say about the day:

My day began this morning at 5:30 when I woke up to get the cooks with Christy and Mrs. Taylor. I'm not a morning person, but there's something so beautiful about this land here. It's sometimes foggy at that time of morning, but you can still see the beautiful mountains in the distance when you get to the top of the hill.

We had a brunch since we were leaving today around 1. We had chicken, rice and beans, egg salad and doughnuts. Oh my goodness the doughnuts were delicious!!! I had four doughnuts, but I don't feel bad about that because my good friend Felicia had five doughnuts and one doughnut hole!

After brunch, we packed up and waited for about an hour and a half until we departed for Belize City, Belize. I don't remember much of that bus ride. All I can say is I got in a good nap! We soon arrived to Global Village where we dropped off some of our luggage and then continued on to the water taxi which would be taking us to Caye Caulker. The boat ride was not bad. I fell asleep for part of it and then watched the sunset - which was gorgeous. When we arrived in Caye Caulker, we walked to our hotel then went to dinner.

We are now in our rooms and getting ready for bed and a great day tomorrow here in Caye Caulker. Goodnight!

Love,

Elizabeth

While our days of all living in one dorm room are over, our adventure is continuing. It's so weird only going to sleep with three of my peers (shout-out to my awesome roommates - Erin, Felicia, and Elizabeth!) in the same room as me, but we are all excited to adventure here on the island. This is definitely the most breath-taking view I have ever seen in my entire life. 

Well, it's off to bed for us! Getting up at 5:00 AM to watch the sunrise will come early, but it will be so worth it! Although I'm feeling a little sentimental as this will be my first ocean sunrise without my mom beside me. I love you, Mom! 

Leaving Our Hearts in Succotz

Today was our last full day in Succotz. Although the rain changed our plans, we still had a great day. 

While we had plans to go to Xunantunich (the Mayan ruins in Succotz) this morning, the rain kept us from going. Therefore, we enjoyed a relaxing morning playing cards, games, and starting our packing for Caye Caulker. Then, we headed to Benny's Kitchen for lunch. When we finished, we walked down to the markets for some last minute souvenir shopping when we received a great surprise: Xunantunich was open!! We hurried back to camp, changed into tennis shoes, grabbed our cameras and headed out for the adventure!

We took the ferry over to the ruins and then were able to hike to the very top. I even got to reel us back across the river when we came back; it was awesome! Seeing this incredible holy ground where the Mayans sacrificed so many people was so overwhelming. Although it was foggy and rainy, we were able to see a breathtaking view from the top. To see such a big world, standing from the top of the ruins, knowing we are so small compared to God's world is an indescribable feeling. We all left soaking wet and incredibly blessed by the afternoon we were able to experience. 

When we returned, we had our final dinner at the campground. We were blessed by the presence of Aby and Amalia (our cooks) at the dinner table as we enjoyed chicken, watermelon and delicious rolls covered in jelly. 

We then moved onto seminar and devotions.

Here are devotions from Christy:

When I heard we had to lead a devotion during our time here in Belize I was very excited to hear what everyone had to say and the growth that would occur. It then hit me that I too was one of the people that had to create and lead a devotion. For those of you who don't know me, I am an early childhood education major (along with intervention specialist), but as my majors imply I enjoy teaching young children... Not my peers. So this soon became a stress for me. As I talked with leaders from the school professors on the trip, double digit hours of praying, and reading three different Bible translations of the scripture, God laid my devotion on my heart that was pretty obvious; however, I was still super nervous. 

For my devotion I was led to the verse Mark 5:16 which encourages us to let our light shine before others so that they may see God through us. After reading this verse and explaining how it applied to us and our time over he past 17 days I asked that everyone would get out of their seats and "mingle." Each student was asked to find at least six people and tell them how they saw Christ in them throughout the time we have spent here. This was in the schools, around the campground, and anytime you saw them showing the love of Christ through their actions. I asked that they would just take a moment to not only pour out their "cups" onto each other but also to allow theirs to be filled by each other. It was so encouraging to see everyone pulling each other aside and laughing, crying, and hugging out things that just made our last night wonderful. After about 2 hours the last few people filed out, and I could feel a peace of God's work in our group over the past 17 days and tonight in the love we all shared with each other. God is good, all the time. 

Love,

Christy

Overall, today has been an incredible blessing. Knowing that our journey here in Succotz is coming to an end is a sad realization, but knowing that God placed each of us here for a specific purpose is an amazing realization. Although we head out tomorrow for Caye Caulker, I know part of each of our hearts will always remain in Succotz. I for one will always be incredibly thankful for my time here.