Lay-Tah, Boss! Lay-Tah, Mama!

Thanks to the smiling parents who greeted us upon arrival this evening at Norfolk International Airport.  As we flew home from Miami, the looks on the faces of all in our group showed glowing tans and even brighter smiles as we reminisced about our amazing adventures!  Talia, Leah, Emma, Sydney, Katie, Grayson, Jasper, Brock, Miles, Tomas, Evan and Andrew -- we hope you go to sleep tonight with visions of clear waters, glowing organisms, friendly locals, and star-filled skies! Thanks to each of you for an amazing adventure! ~ Ms. Scherrer & Mrs. Sharp

(Almost) Miami Bound

The learning never ends!  As we checked in at the STX airport, students witnessed first-hand the power of positivity and kindness.  Thanks to Ms. B at the American Airlines counter & Mr. L. at the Customs line, we are now happily waiting for our outbound flight to Miami! Ty, Travis, Heather & Elliot - thank you for a wonderful time at Discovery Grove.  Give Disco, Gabby & Orion big hugs, too!

Savoring the Sights on Our Last Day

We are heading west today to check out the other side of this intriguing island.  As we made our way to our snorkeling spot, we stopped at Butler Bay Plantation. The ruins of the plantation house were fascinating, but even moreso was the sight and story of the Bayobob Tree. Henry & all of his Dolphin travel mates are savoring this last day in St. Croix!

Bioluminescent Bay Update

We arrived safely back at DG following our campfire dinner and nighttime kayak in Salt River Bay. The darkness of night hinders our ability to capture in images what we saw and experienced this evening; and the magic of the bioluminescent bay is simply too incredible to capture in words.  Millions of tiny single-celled organisms, called Dinoflagellates, illuminated as we paddled and swam in the darkness of the night through the Bay.  It was truly...magical. Thanks to Elliot, Travis & Ty, for another amazing time together!

Bioluminescent Bay

Its a beautiful evening at Salt River Bay! We are enjoying a dinner by the campfire and a nighttime kayak excursion to locate, identify and learn about the bioluminescent organisms that thrive here. 

Days 7 & 8: Community - Caribbean Style

We had another amazing evening on St.Croix. First on our list was heading to the St. Croix Boys & Girls Club in Christiansted. As we made our way there, the group expressed what we believed we would see when we arrived. While there were many interesting predictions, none would capture the energy and warmth we were greeted with.  We were welcomed with a blessing and smiles, and then we divided into age/grade group rooms to help the youngsters with their homework. Counting and math, vocabulary and story writing - we did it all!  Next it was time to play outside and we enjoyed every minute of our tag, jumping rope, piggy-back races, and 4-square fun!  In fact, we enjoyed it so much, we have modified out plans for Friday to give us one more day with our new friends!  Our group decided this morning to make a list of supplies we thought the B&G Club needs.  We are going to pool our "souvenir" funds, and hit the local store to surprise our friends tomorrow!  Shhhh! Don't tell them! ;)

We when made it back to DG after our fun at the Boys & Girls Club, we were greeted with smells that are far too rich and amazing for words!  Mr. & Mrs. Brown had arrived 3 hours earlier to start preparing our farm-fresh meal.  Pumpkin soup was first, followed by cucumber salad, plantain salad, roasted pork & chicken, lamb stew, and fresh banana and mango smoothies.  It was an experience that will surely be treasured as our senses were overloaded with goodness!

As for today, we are laying low at DG as we have a big night ahead kayaking! We are spending our time planting new vegetation around the grounds, making coconut jewelry and art, and enjoying the sun-filled day! (We received word that VBVA is in the 50s today! yikes!). The group has experienced so many eye-opening and heart-warming moments ... ones that will provide stories for years to come!

 

Mangrove Morning on Day 7

Our trip to Salt River Bay was one of our most educational excursions this week!  Ty & Elliot led us through the Salt River shore and pointed out the three types of mangroves, discussed the ecological system that helps the mangroves to flourish, and recognized the positive impacts of the mangroves.  As we rounded the bend, Ty shared with us the historical importance of this location and the role the reef in Columbus' arrival. 

Diving In!

Students were treated to an incredible dive experience today with "Dive Experience" masters!  After spending time learning the important basics, including equalizing and essential hand signals, we then boated to a blue hole where we were treated to two separate dives.  Emma, and the others, jumped right in!

While one group was diving, the other group of students was treated to arts & crafts time at DG and also a tour of historic Christiansted led by Ty.  The architecture was a treat - but the students seemed to love the souvenir shops even more! Love ones - we won't spoil the surprise!  You will see what you get when we get home!

What Have We Learned So Far?

Although technical issues made it difficult to face time with students on St. Croix yesterday, Mrs. Sharp shared this video of them answering the question "WHAT HAVE WE LEARNED SO FAR?".

Agriculture in St Croix

This morning, we visited two uniquely different farms near Discocery Grove.  The sun was up high & hot for our 9am visit to Mrs. Brown's farm.  She showed us her livestock and crops, explained to us the environmental challenges she faces to keep her crops productive, and shared with us local honey that was so very delicious!  Her farm was filled with activity and we look forward to dinner with her Wednesday night as she prepares a meal fresh from her farm.

Our next farm visit was to the hydroponic farm where we saw thousands of bib lettuce heads and tomato plants blooming thanks to the complex and nutrient-rich water supply. Many of the students were talking about how we could design and set-up our own such farm for Winterim and sell the produce at a "farmers market." The distinctive differences in the farming systems gave way for many questions - and much learning. 

After lunch back at DG, we grabbed our masks and fins and headed snorkeling.  It was a beautiful spot and students saw a variety of rocks & marine life. 

Tomorrow is an early wake up as we have two groups who will be enjoying their first scuba experience. It is sure to be a memorable day for all!

"Woe is me"

Upon arrival at the boardwalk this morning, we were greeted with "bad news."  The wind was just too light for a sailing adventure. "Woe is us." We had to make do on a 42" glass bottomed boat captained by Mr. Jeff  and crewed by Mr. Marcus.

After a short ride, we reached Buck Isalnd and jumped right in. Immediately, students were greeted by clear seas and a world of sea life. Once we download the underwater photos, we will share. In the meantime, we happily share these fun moment from our day ... thus far...

Buck Island Bound

The Caribbean Connections team let us sleep in today with breakfast at the relaxing time of 8am!  The extra hour sleep was much needed and appreciated after a remarkable Day 3.  Yesterday was spent immersed in Caribbean Culture as we visited and interacted with locals at the market, heard from and explored the bush with Ms. Gordon, snorkeled with the locals at Cane Bay, and then came back to DG to enjoy an entertaining and educational drum session complete with local singers who shared the history of the art.  During our circle-up time last night, many were hard-pressed to find one highlight from the day -- as the whole day was spectacular.

We expect another great one today as we are headed to Buck Island - via private sailing boat - to snorkel in one of most pristine and marine-life rich areas in the world!  We look forward to sharing our highlights later.  In the meantime, enjoy some of our highlights from yesterday here.

Day 2 and Day 3 Pictures

Day 3 - Morning Market Visit

It was an early morning for us today!  We  headed into town to experience the local farmers' market. Pairs of students were  tasked with finding a fruit or food item they have never seen!  At the market, students talked with the locals about what it is, how it's grown, and how to prepare and eat it. Then, upon our return to DG, each pair shared with the group what they learned!  Our wonderful discussion was led by Ms. Veronica Gordon, a 7th generation Bush Doctor, who shared stories and details about the native fruits and vegetation - and their many medicinal benefits! Incredible questions, incredible stories, incredible moments at Discovery Grove!

Leah & Grayson brought back "Purple Sugar Apples" to share. It's a very sweet and delicate fruit that is creamy in texture and tastes amazing! Brock & Katie picked up papaya, a brown yam, and some fresh sugar. 

Arrival in St. Croix picture.

Day 2 in St. Croix - Great Pond Bay & Green Cay

After a fun-filled first day, our travelers are preparing for what is sure to be an incredible experience today. With sunblock slathered, hats on, and water bottles filled - we are headed for Great Pond Bay for some rock climbing and team building then off to the Northeast Shore - Green Cay - for some splashing and exploring!

Snorkeling Gear Fitting at Discovery Grove

Students get ready for their snorkeling experiences by 

getting fitted for their gear at the Discovery Grove pool.

Mask Fitting Video with Ty and Eliot

St. Croix Arrived safely

Our students arrived in St. Croix safe and sound and are on their way to Discovery Grove.

Mrs. Sharp, Ms. Scherrer, and 12 8th Graders departed St. Croix early this morning.  We can't wait to hear about their on island learning adventures!