2008 Daily Journal

Saturday, July 26, 2008

After we left the zoo yesterday, we drove to Belmopan, Belize's capital city. While in Belmopan, we stopped by the Univeristy of Belize to see where Emilio works and then walked around Market Square. During our stroll through the market stalls, everal of us bought fresh local fruit, gifts and stamps. Our last stop before arriving at our night's lodging was Blue Hole National Park, where we enjoyed a refreshing swim. Liz led us in a graceful water ballet and then Bill took us into an acoustic cave for a round of "Row, Row, Row Your Boat." Finally we arrived at our evening destination, Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and Jaguar Preserve.

After dinner we went on a night hike during which we saw several Red-eyed Tree Frogs and a few Pauraque (a species of nightjar). That night, as we lay in our bunk beds and listened to the sounds or our roommates (six per room), visions of luxourious Pooks Hill Lodge danced in our heads.

Early this morning we went on a bird walk and saw a Crested Guan and a Violet Sabrewing Hummingbird, as well as several other birds that we were unable to identify. As we walked along, Nathan called our attention to the natural drug store surrounding us in the form of medicinal plants on either side of the trail. After breakfast we loaded up the vans and headed to Monkey River, where we were scheduled to visit Ernease's school, Saint Stephen's Anglican Primary, and do several science activities with the students.

When we arrived in Monkey River we were greeted by several teachers and students, whose smiles demonstrated their eagerness to spend time with us. At the school we divided ourselves and the children, who ranged in age from five to fourteen years, into four groups. Each group participated in a different science activity. The students were wonderful — a bit shy at first, but quick to warm up to us. After the activities, we presented gifts to the school. For many of us, today's visit to Monkey River has been the highlight of the trip so far.

July 26 Q & A

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