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| Approaching Paradise Island |
I was invited to help chaperone the tenth grade expedition trip on Coral Reefs. It was awesome. I love those tenth graders and I was able to go to two places on the island I hadn't been before. We started at Paradise Island - literally a sand pile in the middle of the ocean! We all snorkeled there for an example of a healthy reef. At one point, I completely freaked out because I was surrounded by so many fish! But the beauty of the underwater world quickly filled me with awe and peace. After snorkeling we all played in the waves for awhile, took the boat back through the mangrove trees, interviewed the local fishermen, and ate a delicious, fresh fish-fry for dinner. That night we loaded back on the bus for Monti Cristi, another town on the north shore. On our way there, our bus got a flat tire; however, once again I was reminded of the care Dominicans show for one another. Many strangers stopped and helped us change the tire and get back on our way.
In Monti Cristi, we were able to see an example of a reef that has been damaged by pollution and over-fishing. Students were once again able to interview local fishermen. Our classroom for the day was in the middle of the mangroves, on a picnic table in the middle of the water. Absolutely beautiful. Snorkeling in this area, I saw a baby barracuda!
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| The pier at Monti Cristi |
Our last day, we went on a small hike on a cliff overlooking the ocean. We were hoping to see manatees in the water, but did not. This trip was such a blessing to me and I'm so glad I was asked to help chaperone. I was just beginning to feel healthy again, and to be out in nature just continued the healing process, physically and emotionally. I have moments here, where I think, "
How in the world did I get here? This is crazy! This is awesome and amazing." I had one of those moments, speeding through the ocean in a little speed boat, surrounded by beautiful mountains and people who have become very, very dear to me (when I didn't know this place or these people just 4 years ago). We are called to be faithful to God's calling - and when we are He can lead us into some pretty cool adventures. Thank you for the ways you have supported me in this journey.
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| Our classroom in Monti Cristi |
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| The view from the hike on our search from manatees |
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| The group in Monti Cristi |
