WEEK ONE - YouTube Video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSZ9jrRgqWY

So as promised, now that i'm home, i'll upload some pictures. Unfortunately, I seem to be having some sour luck lately, for some reason my computer wont recognize that my memory card has pictures on it. So until I can figure that out, here are some pictures (about 1 a day) taken by Alyssa Hayter. Enjoy, and expect to see alot more soon!

The kids at St. Hilda's lining up for morning snack

Remember that massive tickle fight I mentioned? Note my face..these children were RELENTLESS

One of the classrooms at St. Hilda's

Teaching some St. Hilda's children how to be puppeteers

Setting up for our show at the High School

Lionel Hayter entertaining the St Barnabas children with Andy the dog

The Cathedral Puppeteers at St Barnabas with our very own Belizian Puppeterr, Ashley

Bev with the newly established St Hilda's Puppeteers

Everyone excited for a fun filled afternoon Friday; filled with Puppet shows, jokes, and dance

Unfortunately this will be our last Belizean Blog post. On Friday we had a relaxing evening in Belize City. Then yesterday we took the 9am Ferry out to Caye Caulker. We could not have asked for better weather for the day. It looked bleak when we first arrived; rain started to fall as we slipped into our snorkeling gear. Luckily by the time we arrived on our first dive spot, the sun was shining and the weather was scorching. We had three dive spots on our 3 hour trip out onto the reef. The first was kind of an 'orientation dive'. We stuck as a group, and our guide gave tips on ways to snorkel and pointed out types of fish, as a way to teach everyone who was new to snorkeling. Our second stop was really exciting. We went to 'Ray Alley'; We swum with literally 40+ Sting rays ranging in a wingspan of 2 to 5 feet. For those of us who were brave enough, we even got a chance to swim close enough to pet them. Our third stop was more along the lines of the first stop. Its reported there that George may have spotted a Nurse shark on that stop. By the we arrived back on Caye Caulker the sun was burning us to a crisp. We had a delicious lunch in a little local restaurant on the beach, then split into groups to spend our afternoon shopping in the islands little shops. By the end of it, most of us couldn't move we were so cooked, but personally I don't mind. It was all worth it to get to spend the day on that beautiful island. By the evening we were pretty much burnt out, but before we went to bed had a lovely dinner in Old Belize.

This morning we woke up early to make it to the 7am service at the Cathedral in Belize City. For the first service we preformed the show for the Sunday school, and I even got the chance to read the second lesson. For the second service at 930 we preformed the show again for the entire church. We just returned from the 2 services, and are about to have lunch, one more devotional, and then pack. We get picked up to go the the airport at 230, and are suppose to fly out 4 ish. We should arrive in Texas by the early evening. Might even get a chance to do some sight seeing on our night over there!

So until Texas..this is truly goodbye from Belize. It has been an amazing mission for all of us, and im sure one that will be close to our hearts for the years to come. I'd like to thank the team back home, for keeping us in their prayers, and for the entire congregation, both at the Cathedral and abroad, for keeping us in your thoughts.

See y'all in Texas.

(we're practicing our accents already)

I usually don't do a morning post, but from what I've heard internet will be hard to come by in Belize City, so this may be the last post until we reach Texas.

This morning the group got up early (Lionel George and I got up at 5 to see the sunrise, the rest got up at 6), to go see the "Great Belize Canoe Race" (...or something like that). Its been an annual event for the past 10 years in which about 40 canoe teams race up the river from San Ignacio to Belize City. The race is spanned over 4 days, and always has a huge turn out for watching. from there we walked up to Pops for a very crowded breakfast. In about 15 minutes we're heading to St. Hilda's one last time, and will be doing a puppet show amongst what from what I've heard will be a 'talent' show. Along with the show, there are going to be a children's dance (which i saw videos of from they're practice, they are really good) and some of the children we've trained to use the puppets will be doing a show of their own. All the families are invited to come, so it will be the perfect way to say goodbye to the school. After that we

re travelling directly into Belize City, and...who knows.

All i know is tomorrow... CAYE CAULKER (we're just a bit excited..). The weather has been a bit dodgey so far, but hopefully we'll be blessed with another sunny day.

So until Texas, adios, sianara, and we'll see you on the other side.

PS- I have no idea how to spell adios or Sianara

Guess we got so caught up in the moment I have 2 days to update you on now. Lets start off with yesterday.

As always we strolled over to breakfast at pops, and then drove over to St. Hilda's for the morning. The group split up at that point; some taught puppeting, some helped with reading, and some of us started on our labor project for the week, making bookshelves. Then for the afternoon we headed over to the high school that Ashley, the student the Cathedral is sponsoring, attends. The group (which was about 200 students I'd say) all crowded around the puppet theater, which we set up in the basketball court. From there we took a last minute trip out to Xunantunich, a Mayan ruin 15 minutes from San Ignacio and over 135 ft tall. It was absolutely amazing to explore the ruins and it defiantly was an experience no one here will forget. From there we had a relaxing evening and headed to bed.

Today we followed a similar schedule as the day before. Woke up, went to Pops and headed over to St. Hilda's again. In the morning, some taught more puppeting skills while the rest of us finished up the bookshelves. Lunch was amazing fun today. Today was the hottest and sunniest day yet. About 36 and not a cloud in the sky. Needless to say we all got red today. While on the lunch break, we explored the houses surrounding St Hilda's (kind of a neighborhood where most of the school children's families live). We then headed over to the Saint Barnabas elementary to do some more puppet shows. It was unfortunate because I must say, I've never had a more excited group to see a show...and halfway through we lost power at the school. This didn't stir the kids one bit, so we finished the show without the music. Soon after the power returned, so we finished up our visit there will the full show, with more enthusiasm than ever. We also met a little mascot of the school today, an adorable stray dog named Spooky. We then headed back to The Venus Hotel for some much needed R&R, and in about 45 min are heading out to supper.

Hear it snowed in Fredericton today...

try not to be too jealous of us for our weather

Stanley is home ....

After a wonderful few days in Punta Gorda, Stanley arrived safely home at 3:30am this morning.

Glad you made it safe and sound Stanley.

I hate to break my promises, but you might not be seeing the pictures just yet. I've been sitting at my computer for the last 20 minutes trying to upload some pictures, but it seems to have gotten stuck on 16%. Do not fret though, I'll keep trying.

In the meantime an update for what happened today. We awoke this morning and had a delicious breakfast at Pops (for all you frederictonians, it basically sums up to a Belize version of the Cabin on the Woodstock road). We then headed out to St Hilda's for our first full day at the school. After setting up the Puppet theatre, We traveled from class to class in 2 groups, teaching the basics of puppeting to the children. We had a amazing lunch (if you have noticed...good food is a recurring trend here), which was followed by, what could only be described as the most chaotic tickle flight known to man. To sum up, 80% of the children attacked us in a huge swarm of tickling. While this sounds rather foolish, it was the greatest thing that has happened so far. the connections that were made between the children and our team was so heart warming. From that point on, the children were 100% comfortable around us, none showing any shyness at all. I thoroughly look forward to going back tomorrow.

We then spent the afternoon doing the Jonah Show for each of the classes. We were tuckered out by the time the bus rolled in to pick us up at 330, but I don't think any of us would have traded today for a chance to sleep in and relax. Since coming back from the school, a few have gone shopping, and then got ready to go eat. I'm currently sitting in our supper destination, Flavas. Once we're done here we'll be heading back to the hotel where Bev and I will be doing our bible study/devotional time on 2 Corinthians 12; 1-10.

anyway, time for supper, keep an eye out for the pictures....they'll get up eventually.

I SEE FOOD!

February 27 - March 1 Caye Caulker / St. John's Cathedral and Travelling Home

Saturday

We had a nice breakfast delivered to us by the Diocese and then worked through some transportation and logistical issues for the week two team. Once we were all cleaned up we headed out on our water taxi to Caye Caulker. Doug and Ann strolled around the island as the rest of us headed out snorkling (since they have the second largest coral reef in the world!!).

This photo was taken less than a block away from the Anglican Guest House

where we stayed in Belize City

The view

Caye Caulker

On our way snorkling with beautiful coral, plants and fish, including dozens of stingray, two nursing sharks and a baracuda!

SUNDAY

Unfortunately I do not have photo's (yet) from our church service at St. John's Cathedral since the photo's were taken using Beverly's camera and she's still in Belize. The service was very uplifting. In particular we enjoyed the sermon, the singing of Happy Birthday and when each row joined hands for the singing of the Lord's Prayer. The minister was turning 70yrs old (at midnight ...since she's a leap year baby) and full of life. We chatted with members of the congregation after the service was complete, including the Bishop's mother. After the service we met up with three boys who had just taken an iguana out of a tree. It felt pretty neat holding it!

After church we had another meal delivered to us at the Guest House and then did devotions since we were so exhausted at the end of our full day on Saturday. Andrew then gave us a little tour around Belize City and then took us to the airport.

Saying "so long" to our new friend Andrew

Leaving Belize

We had a safe journey to Houston on Sunday night and when we arrived at the hotel we learned of Canada's win over USA in the gold medal game. We were so proud of "our boys"! We then enjoyed some yummy Texan pizza and called it a night since we had to get up at 3am.

Travelled on Monday from Houston to Newark and then a quick flight to Maine (after a 30 minute delay getting on the runway). The drive back from Portland was pretty clear, other than about an hour + stretch after Bangor. We were all (Doug, Ann, Susan, Brad, Sheila and Cindy) safely in our homes by 10:45pm.

March 2nd - Week One Team - Safe and Sound

Good morning!

Just a little update to let you know that Doug, Ann, Brad, Susan, Sheila and Cindy arrived back in Fredericton at 10:30pm last night. We're thrilled to hear that the Week Two team has arrived safely. Looking forward to hearing all about their adventures.

Week Two safe arrival

After a long and extremely tiring trip down, we have made it to Belize! It is beautiful here. We stepped off the plane to some nice breezy 28 degree weather. For all you who have been to Belize before, or have just returned, you know this is a rare occurrence (usually a lot warmer and a lot more humid with no wind). After a delicious lunch at Cheers, Andrew, the youth leader at the Cathedral in Belize City, drove us to St Hilda's Elementary to stop and say hi to the children. I know know about the rest of the team, but this certainly made my day. They were all smiles upon our arrival, and I know our entire team is extremely excited to be back again tomorrow. After that, (this was approximately hour 32 of our sleepless travel down) we checked into the Venus Hotel....and completely passed out. But that nice little catnap gave us the energy to enjoy a tasty supper at Han-nahs. Then after a relaxing devotional time, debriefing on our trip so far, we've settled in for a good nights sleep (something I greatly look forward to doing as soon as this is posted!).

There are far too many stories to tell and too many pictures to show over the past few days, but unfortunately we're on a bit of a time limit; I've got about 30 seconds till the internet cafe closes, so i'm working under the clock. If there are spelling errors, or sentences that make no sense whatsoever, please bear with me. But we are here, we are ok, and we are SO excited to get started.

I'll try to get in tomorrow at a more timely fashion. That way you can see some of the pictures that have been collected since the last post.

until then, Goodnight from Belize

-Cody McKay

The toucan has landed ...

Quick update to let you know that the week one team has arrived safely in Portland, ME. We expect to be home in Fredericton by about 11pm.

Thank you all for keeping us in your prayers.

February 25th & 26th - PHOTO's

THURSDAY

Morning Prayer

Beverly and Bill .....hard at work

School children sanding their new tables

The first six tables

Our "home base"

Cindy, Doug and Susan

Starting to paint Mr. Armando's Standard 6 classroom

This is the highest level of public schooling in Belize

(equivalent to our grade 8)

Doug painting all the high, bat dust, areas
Susan recruiting little Robert to help her stir the paint

The village bus

Brad enjoying some time with the children

Students from Mr. Armando's senior class, taking the tables into the chapel

Our team, just after watching Canada win GOLD in women's hockey

CANADA vs. USA

End of day devotionals

FRIDAY

"CANADA DAY IN BELIZE"

Beverly showing her national pride

Cindy enjoying some hugs and laughs

A couple students enjoying their new and improved classroom

Beverly with a few of the teachers from St. Hilda's

We gave them some educational gifts including, but not limited to:

practice books, dictionary's, wall posters, erasers, rulers etc...

Saying so long to Stanley as he awaits the bus

Group shot after presenting Mr.Armando with his newly painted & cleaned room

Photo includes Father Juan and his wife Maria and some curious little school children

Beverly tutoring David on reading

Ann and Doug teaching journalism

Group photo before the end of week assembly

Mrs. Ida Bennett addressing St. Hilda's students

This was the first time we saw all the tables occupied - Quite a sight!

Susan and Beverly look on with a little girl

St. Hilda's dance club perform for us

After the assembly we were each presented with a gift from students of St. Hilda's and we presented the school a plaque of Christ Church Cathedral (Aitken Pewter) for them to keep in the school chapel, as a reminder of our friendship.

February 25th & 26th - Day Four and Five at St. Hilda's

Our muscles may be sore....but our hearts are full!
- Ann Deveau

THURSDAY

Doug, Susan and Cindy finished the preparations of Mr. Armando's classroom and then completed the first coat and half of the second coat. It's antique white since they have only two lightbulbs and rely heavily on natural light for the children to see what they're reading. Meanwhile, the rest of the crew finished building table #8 and #9. As they prepared to move them out into the yard we all started to realize that the safety of the tables would be of great concern. The school is nestled in the middle of a very unsafe area named Georgeville. Without security, they were certain that the tables would "go missing" within no time. The initial "solution" was to have the senior students move the tables into the rooms at the end of every day and out each morning. We only had to move them in once to realize that this solution would not be feasible. The tables are unbelievably heavy and the children would surely be at risk of injury. Some more brainstorming continued. Possibly have concrete buckets weigh them down somehow? Chaining them together wouldn't work. In the end it was decided to only make one more table (10 instead of 12) so as to not make the issue bigger than it already was. We have hired an electrician to visit the school on Monday to install security lights in the schoolyard so that the tables can be left outside. Unfortunately, solar lights are not an option. It brought the spirit of the group down a bit during the afternoon ...but we were happy to have been given the challenge and have the opportunity to work together to figure out a solution.

Hode's Sports Bar for supper so that we could show our true colors and watch Canada vs. USA women's hockey. We proudly stood and sang the national anthem when we took gold, joined by another Canadian sitting on the patio with us.

Back to the hotel for our devotional and off to sleep.

FRIDAY

Everyone gathered to say goodbye to Stanley as he took the bus to Punta Gorda to visit his former parish and many friends. His contribution, as a friend and spiritual leader for the week, was very much appreciated by our entire team.

Table #10 was made and the second coat of white was added to the senior classroom. Then, we added the morant blue to the front wall and of course "The Blue Door". The extra wood came in handy when we realized that the majority of the text books in the senior classroom were sitting on tables and the floor. Brad sprung into action with Bill and built a very sturdy five shelf bookcase. Mr. Armondo was thrilled to have his room painted, cleaned, organized and mopped ...but the bookcase was definitely the cherry on top. It was the first sign of joyful emotion from him all week. He stood so much taller on Friday than he had throughout the week, and we left confident that we had made a small difference in his life, and hopefully the life of his students.

Ann and Doug held a journalism class with Miss Carol's class. They would like to start a school newspaper and have a lot of creative ideas. We shared some tips and tricks with them and described the kinds of jobs they could get in the world of journalism when they grow up.

Around 2:30pm, Father Juan and his wife Maria visited with us and commended us on our accomplishments. Prayers were shared and then all the students, sitting proudly on their new tables, had an assembly. They danced for us and presented each of us with a token of appreciation. In turn, we presented them with a framed pewter ornament of Christ Church Cathedral and an NB flag for each child.

After many tearful goodbyes, we boarded our bus to Belize City. Thankfully Andrew was patient enough to wait for us since we were over an hour behind schedule. Time well spent.

We arrived to the Anglican guest house and then turned around and headed out to the Bird's Isle restaurant for dinner with Andrew. It was a lovely restaurant on the water's edge near St. John's Cathedral.

We ended our day with devotions about servant leaders and Jesus washing the disciples feet.

February 28th Prayer Request

Good morning!

Today we ask that you pray for the following:

1) The children and teachers of St. Hilda's school
2) Safe travel for the two away teams, both today and tomorrow
3) Watch over Stanley on his journey
4) Build bridges between the local community of St. Hilda's and the mission team
5) The people of Chile in the aftermath of the earthquake
6) The growth of the Sunday school at St. John's Cathedral
7) ..and a prayer for the "shut-in" parishioners at both St. John's Cathedral as well as Christ Church Cathedral - at this morning's service there was a special plea for drivers to transport them to the church or to visit with them

Thank you,
Week One Away Team

Team 2 ready to go

This is probably going to be slightly confusing for the next three days or so; by the looks of it, we have 3 people blogging on here all at once.

But to keep it straight, this is a little team 2 update. We are now back on track! After (hopefully) having a nice restful sleep tonight, we'll be heading to the Portland airport to begin our 2 day travel down to Belize City.

In the meantime we've been having a great time here in Portland. This morning, we had a delicious breakfast at our hotel. Then while George and I finalized the flight, the team headed over the the Maine Mall, for a stress relieving shopping trip. For supper we went to Chili's conveniently right next door to our hotel, and had possibly the most delicious dessert I've ever tasted. Sadly I forgot my camera for this.

On the note of camera, I've tried to upload the photos I've taken so far. While I like to call myself a computer expert, I have no sweet clue if this will even work.

Anyway, please keep us in in your prayers for a safe travel down, and If all goes well, i'll blog again in the Newark airport (we'll be sleeping in the baggage claim by the sounds of it..) or hopefully, FROM BELIZE CITY!

talk to you all soon

*these turned out backward. terribly sorry for the confusion, if you want to chronologically look at them start from the bottom and go up. NEXT TIME ill get it!

The Girls Room enjoying their House marathon in Portland after a long day of shopping

The boys room in Portland

Our Friendly's dinner on Friday night in Freeport

Beautiful sunny day for driving to Portland

Lini and Heather look excited to go!

Ready to leave the Church Hall Friday at noon