Greetings family and friends,

Today is our 4th day of friendship camp in Bequia and so far things are going very well. The younger kids here are a bit more used to a structured camp environment so our kids have been reflecting on the differences between here and our time on St. Vincent. Last night we attended a local semi-professional basketball game on an outdoor court with many local fans. It was nice to experience an evening out on the town and see what local folks are up to. This afternoon we will be visiting the former prime minister, Sir James Mitchell, at his estate and hopefully swimming in his infinity pool that overlooks the entire island. We are fortunate that one of our local contacts has access to this enlightening experience. Tomorrow we will be wrapping up camp here and then probably heading to a beach for the afternoon. Saturday we have arranged for a local boat trip to an island to do some snorkeling and spend the day on the water. On Sunday we are heading to the Old Hegg Turtle sanctuary to do a service project and work with a man trying to save the sea turtle population in the Caribbean. As you can see we have an action packed final few days in country and then make our way back to the United States on Tuesday. 

Everyone is having a terrific time and all are healthy and happy!

Thatcher, Kate, Evan, and the Bridge Caribbean LIAs

Student Blurbs: Something Learned on the Trip So Far… A ‘Lesson’ You Will Take Home With You

Anna: I learned how to be more independent on this trip because the LIA leaders give us a lot of freedom and hold us accountable for our actions.  They also don’t spoon feed or baby us which is fantastic.

Ryan: I learned that altitude drastically effects weather even in warm climates. 

Seamus: I learned that travel is all about being flexible.  Random stuff is going to happen and you just have to roll with the punches; for example, Antigua for 5 hours in an airport.

Joe: I learned one small action can make a big difference to somebody.  I also learned that to take the initiative is to be a leader. 

Hannah: I learned how to better work with children and how to body surf.

Lee: I learned that teaching young kids is one of the most difficult things to do in the world.  I also learned to appreciate the luxuries I have.

Judah: I learned how to better handle things not in my control.  I also learned how to handle kids of different ages differently. 

Leah: I learned that the way Americans live is an anomaly rather than the norm.  I also learned that it takes very little to make a small child happy. 

Moose: I learned from Pastor Cupid that you have to live life to its fullest, you only live once. 

Silvana: I learned how to keep an open mind and make the best of things.

Francesco: I learned more about the right way to resolve conflicts.  I also learned about and experienced running a camp for the first time.  I learned how to get information about the local area from native locals. 

Sam: I learned to be grateful for what I have. 

Sophie:  I learned how to really communicate and connect with young children. I also had an epiphany that made me realize not take what I have for granted.

Calvin: I learned to work well with younger children and also function better with a group. 

Isaiah: I learned how to deal with living in conditions that are more rustic than I’m used to. 

Ariel: I learned that different cultures don’t have to be that different from what you’re used to.