This is my last post on the blog.....We get up at 2 a.m., catch the bus at 3 a.m. for our three-hour ride to Shannon Airport. Our flight leaves at 9 a.m., "Irish time". As promised, we had one of our busiest days yet: Games at the Community Center, Gaelic football drills, leaving chocolate at the site of the "Fairies", throwing a penny over the bridge to satisfy the trolls, cutting peet in the bogs, dinner (of, what else? FISH - Brayden even told us how good it was!) We are returning your children to you tired - and changed.
I asked a few of the delegates who actually enjoy expressing themselves in written form, to leave final thoughts. Here they are:
CHRISTIAN - In the beginning of the trip, in my opinion, we were all a bit immature. Lines took forever, count offs were impossible, and everyone was a stranger. But now, as the trip comes to a close, we make straight lines, count offs are fast. But the most important part is that we are more than strangers or friends. We are a family.
CARA - Probably one of the biggest aftermath advantages of our trip is the emotional experience. A lot of us became older, stronger, more mature. Others remained stubborn....Dynamic and Static characters.
Three weeks ago, we were practically strangers, Now, after traversing through Northern Europe with these nutcases, I've grown much closer to them. It was a necessity: we needed some stability in this foreign land. Cliques and clans were formed amost intantaneously. Drama and rivalries sprang up behind the scenes. Scandals whispered between roommates in the dead of night. Harsh remarks hissed between clenched teeth in the breakfast room at daybreak.
Despite this irritating-teenagerness-fueled drama battle, deep attachments have drawn us all closer together. It's wierd; I feel like it's been years since I stood in the line at airport security wishing people would go faster....Just another surreal aspect of our Whirlwind Tour of Europe.
TINHNY - You are walking down the street, when suddenly a beggar stands in front of you; clothes torn and filthy. They hold their shaking hands out, cupped together, pleading for any amount of money that you can spare.
Have you been in this situation before? Have you seen unfortunate men and women on the streets, begging for money to make their unfortunate lives better, only to have their pleas rejected and ignored?
Humans have a tendency to create what we call a "First Impression". The impression of dirt and scum is placed upon us when we see these people traversing the streets. Upon seeing these people, we create our first impressions.
From fairly recent experiences, I have learned that first impressions are inaccurate. The act of creating a first impression of someone is the same as judging someone without knowing who they are. Who are we to judge others without knowledge of who they are, what they've been through or where they're from? Creating that inaccurate first impression is a misunderstanding of another's position in life.
There is only one way to eliminate the first impression , and that is to open your mind to understanding. Open your own mind to understand others and who they are. Open your mind to compassion, so that you can see the truth in others' character, emotions and actions.
MORGAN - As we pulled out of the first hotel in Amsterdam, I noticed a common theme. Everyone jumped around from group to group, never really establishing a best friend or place we fit into more than the rest. This let us get to know everyone, but that and the short time we have together kept us from getting close and making the lifelong friends that were promised in the meetings.
But over the course of the trip, we have warmed up to each other, showing the beginnings of a family. Of course, with teenagers there is eternal drama. and hurt feelings. I'm sure every one of us has felt sad or left out over the last three weeks. But through living so up close and personal, we've gotten closer. Helping each other through homesickness and upset simply comes with the territory.
At the beginning, I was uneasy and nervous about making friends. Now our delegation is a home.
CAMERON - Towards the beginning of our trip, at the aiport I just thought of all the others to be fellow travelers and nothing else. I had no idea that some of them would turn out to be my closest friends.
Something else that has changed is our perspective of different countries. \Before the trip, we may have thought of other countries as strange or wrong. But at the end, we have matured so much, and now we feel that this different lifestyle is a part of us.
I feel that I will remember this trip for my entire life. The things that we've done will be stuff that many of my friends never have done and possibly never will. This trip has given me so much, and I am so thankful for that.
Ms. Mary - Well said. Good Night from Ireland.
Sunday, July 1, 2012
The Final Five
TRE'VON - Yesterday I had lots of fun. The bus ride was very long (*from Limerick). But the boat ride was awesome! The rain was off and on, but the views were amazing! Also our home stay family is cool. It's a man and two boys and one girl. They are fun, and I got the best shower, sleep, and breakfast of the trip.
TINHNY - Ireland, like many European countries, is often misrepresented by stereotypes that have spread around the world. From wearing green to crocks of gold, the Irish culture is often seen incorrectly. The Irish scenery is beautiful. One thing about Ireland that is often overlooked is its great mountains, vast countryside and fresh, cool air. Our delegation was able to see this for ourselves with the jaunty ride we took. Similar to a horse-drawn carriage, we toured the Irish countryside in groups of four, enjoying the ride through rain and sun, experiencing sites and smells that warmed our hearts. We discovered sites and smells that we will forever remember.
TITO - Yesterday was really fun. The best part was the jaunting car. We got to ride around the hills and mountains. We also rode through the Gap of Dunvel. It was very magnificent. I loved the view. We also went on a boat ride for one hour. It was also fun because we were all ducking under the tarp.
PAIGE - Yesterday was fun but sad, because I didn't feel well. I have had two painful bruises (elbow/knee), but other than that it was amazing to watch my delegation. I loved the talent show. I loved the 15-year old Eleanor song.
HANNAH - After a great, warm breakfast, we had to go out on a boat while it was raining. The ride might have been miserable, but the view was beautiful. When we got off of the cold, wet boat, we got to eat a warm lunch. They even gave us hot chocolate. Ever thought about going to the top of an Irish mountain? Well, we got to. We even got to ride in a horse and carriage up there. The waterfalls were outstanding. We also learned how to Irish dance. It was so fun. Getting to know the other delegation (* high schoolers from California) was interesting, because they were quite shy. There was a talent show, and the things people could do was fun to watch. We all had a great time.
Ms. Mary - BTW, our delegation dominated the talent show! TJ started off with his deep voice and his chipmunk voice - which cracked everyone up! Morgan followed by singing (acapella - sp?) "We Are Young", which everyone joined in on the chorus. Sam, Malik and Isaac brought down the house with their version of "Bacon and Cheese". We will request encore performances at the reunion party!
TINHNY - Ireland, like many European countries, is often misrepresented by stereotypes that have spread around the world. From wearing green to crocks of gold, the Irish culture is often seen incorrectly. The Irish scenery is beautiful. One thing about Ireland that is often overlooked is its great mountains, vast countryside and fresh, cool air. Our delegation was able to see this for ourselves with the jaunty ride we took. Similar to a horse-drawn carriage, we toured the Irish countryside in groups of four, enjoying the ride through rain and sun, experiencing sites and smells that warmed our hearts. We discovered sites and smells that we will forever remember.
TITO - Yesterday was really fun. The best part was the jaunting car. We got to ride around the hills and mountains. We also rode through the Gap of Dunvel. It was very magnificent. I loved the view. We also went on a boat ride for one hour. It was also fun because we were all ducking under the tarp.
PAIGE - Yesterday was fun but sad, because I didn't feel well. I have had two painful bruises (elbow/knee), but other than that it was amazing to watch my delegation. I loved the talent show. I loved the 15-year old Eleanor song.
HANNAH - After a great, warm breakfast, we had to go out on a boat while it was raining. The ride might have been miserable, but the view was beautiful. When we got off of the cold, wet boat, we got to eat a warm lunch. They even gave us hot chocolate. Ever thought about going to the top of an Irish mountain? Well, we got to. We even got to ride in a horse and carriage up there. The waterfalls were outstanding. We also learned how to Irish dance. It was so fun. Getting to know the other delegation (* high schoolers from California) was interesting, because they were quite shy. There was a talent show, and the things people could do was fun to watch. We all had a great time.
Ms. Mary - BTW, our delegation dominated the talent show! TJ started off with his deep voice and his chipmunk voice - which cracked everyone up! Morgan followed by singing (acapella - sp?) "We Are Young", which everyone joined in on the chorus. Sam, Malik and Isaac brought down the house with their version of "Bacon and Cheese". We will request encore performances at the reunion party!
Saturday, June 30, 2012
We've made it to County Kerry!
Greetings! We are now at the last stop on our travels. All of the delegates are safe and sound at four beautiful bed and breakfast "home stays". I will have the delegates report/reflect on today's activities and post those tomorrow. Just a hint: Boating, Buggy Rides, Hiking, Irish Dancing and Talent Show!!!! We have a very full itinerary for our final day: A scavenger hunt around the town, visiting a senior center, working with local teens on cutting peet, trying our hand at Gaelic sports with the teens, and packing for our very early departure! While the delegates are looking forward to going home and "resting", they are sad about leaving the friends - family, really - they have made. The leaders hope everyone will make every effort to attend the reunion party in August.
Here are yesterday's reflections:
KAITLIN - The GAA was amazing! I had alot of fun seeing the stadium. I really enjoyed learning about the history of the stadium (*Croke Park) like that one of the players for Ireland got shot by a British soldier. Now there is a section in the stadium named after him. Also because of that day, they have Bloody Sunday. We also got to tour the city and see their monument, which was a 300 foot tall needle thingy. Then we saw the University of Ireland (*Trinity University). They had an arch and the tale is, if you go under it, you will have bad luck in school, so I didn't go under it. I had a great time.
BRIANNA - We went to a stadium today. They play like five different sports in one stadium. It was really interesting. Hurling sounded dangerous. I wouldn't want to play that. The stadium was huge (*seats 82,500), and the guide said you could play two football games on the field. It was amazing! The people in Ireland saw that their sports are a part of their culture, and that's why the tickets aren't that much money. I wish people in America cared that much about their culture. Well, I guess we don't think like that because we have so many different cultures. It's spectacular how much people treasure their culture.
KRYSTAL - Yesterday at the university, we walked through a place that no one walks in because it was built on a graveyard. So hopefully I don't die! I felt cool! The spier was amazing - 10 feet wide at the bottom and 15 inches at the top. It looks like a giant needle. I loved Croke Park Stadium. It was so pretty and the grass was so green. I like how no matter who you are, the ticket prices were the same. We ended the day with shopping and yummy burgers! YAY!
VIDA - Yesterday we went to Croke Park Stadium and learned about Gaelic Football. It was really amazing that the width of their stadium was the same as the length of our football stadiums. We got to try some skills or techniques that would be needed to play hurling. I think you had to be born with the skills for that, because it seemed like it would be very hard to play. I wouldn't mind trying it for real, because I love sports, and it seems fun.
PENNY - Yesterday was heavenly for me! We walked the busy streets of Dublin, where we were allowed to roam and shop in groups. I, personally, had been scouting fashion boutiques and did a little research before we came. Seeing as how we'd spent the first half of the day getting into Dublin, I was in need for some exploration and shopping. However, I pittied the boys we'd be grouped with. After a little over an hour of roaming, scattered with bits of hopping, we boarded the coach and, once again, headed to yet another hotel.
Here are yesterday's reflections:
KAITLIN - The GAA was amazing! I had alot of fun seeing the stadium. I really enjoyed learning about the history of the stadium (*Croke Park) like that one of the players for Ireland got shot by a British soldier. Now there is a section in the stadium named after him. Also because of that day, they have Bloody Sunday. We also got to tour the city and see their monument, which was a 300 foot tall needle thingy. Then we saw the University of Ireland (*Trinity University). They had an arch and the tale is, if you go under it, you will have bad luck in school, so I didn't go under it. I had a great time.
BRIANNA - We went to a stadium today. They play like five different sports in one stadium. It was really interesting. Hurling sounded dangerous. I wouldn't want to play that. The stadium was huge (*seats 82,500), and the guide said you could play two football games on the field. It was amazing! The people in Ireland saw that their sports are a part of their culture, and that's why the tickets aren't that much money. I wish people in America cared that much about their culture. Well, I guess we don't think like that because we have so many different cultures. It's spectacular how much people treasure their culture.
KRYSTAL - Yesterday at the university, we walked through a place that no one walks in because it was built on a graveyard. So hopefully I don't die! I felt cool! The spier was amazing - 10 feet wide at the bottom and 15 inches at the top. It looks like a giant needle. I loved Croke Park Stadium. It was so pretty and the grass was so green. I like how no matter who you are, the ticket prices were the same. We ended the day with shopping and yummy burgers! YAY!
VIDA - Yesterday we went to Croke Park Stadium and learned about Gaelic Football. It was really amazing that the width of their stadium was the same as the length of our football stadiums. We got to try some skills or techniques that would be needed to play hurling. I think you had to be born with the skills for that, because it seemed like it would be very hard to play. I wouldn't mind trying it for real, because I love sports, and it seems fun.
PENNY - Yesterday was heavenly for me! We walked the busy streets of Dublin, where we were allowed to roam and shop in groups. I, personally, had been scouting fashion boutiques and did a little research before we came. Seeing as how we'd spent the first half of the day getting into Dublin, I was in need for some exploration and shopping. However, I pittied the boys we'd be grouped with. After a little over an hour of roaming, scattered with bits of hopping, we boarded the coach and, once again, headed to yet another hotel.
Mas
HUNTER - Today we repelled over a castle wall. Repelling was scary, but the view was worth it, and I encouraged others to do it. The view was magnificent and you could see Wales. The castle is actually not a castle, but a house.
ISAAC - Yesterday, we repelled down a castle tower that was not actually a castle. It is a mansion, I think. I'm sure everyone was at least a little nervous. When each persoon went up to the tower, we always cheered them on! I was a little nervous at first, but once I started to go down, it was AWESOME!
ERIN - The repelling down the wall was absolutely amazing! The weather was a little rainy, but when I finally got up the 80-some steps, I got a little nervous. When I finally got to the top of the tower, and they told me to start leaning back, then my legs got a little shaky. However, as soon as I got started walking down the wall, it was extremely fun!
SAM - Repelling down the castle was only scary at first. I went up the stairs of the tower thinking, "This will be easy. I'm going to fly straight down that wall." Then the persoon holding my rope said, "Lean back........."
BRAYDEN - Repelling down the castle wall was so scary but fun. The scariest part was when I had to lean back and tip toe down the wall. I wan't confident at first, but once I got the hang of it, it was really fun, and I enjoyed it. After that, we rushed to the ferry ride to Ireland. That was fun, too. They had arcades, good food, and I even saw a whale!
ISAAC - Yesterday, we repelled down a castle tower that was not actually a castle. It is a mansion, I think. I'm sure everyone was at least a little nervous. When each persoon went up to the tower, we always cheered them on! I was a little nervous at first, but once I started to go down, it was AWESOME!
ERIN - The repelling down the wall was absolutely amazing! The weather was a little rainy, but when I finally got up the 80-some steps, I got a little nervous. When I finally got to the top of the tower, and they told me to start leaning back, then my legs got a little shaky. However, as soon as I got started walking down the wall, it was extremely fun!
SAM - Repelling down the castle was only scary at first. I went up the stairs of the tower thinking, "This will be easy. I'm going to fly straight down that wall." Then the persoon holding my rope said, "Lean back........."
BRAYDEN - Repelling down the castle wall was so scary but fun. The scariest part was when I had to lean back and tip toe down the wall. I wan't confident at first, but once I got the hang of it, it was really fun, and I enjoyed it. After that, we rushed to the ferry ride to Ireland. That was fun, too. They had arcades, good food, and I even saw a whale!
The FULL ON Experience
Good Morning to yee. Keep in mind as you read these entries, that most delegates had never repelled before, but they took to it like ducks to water. Good thing, because the weather presented its own challenges. As one guide told me, "There's no such thing as bad weather - only inappropriate clothing choices."
BTW - My computer is acting up - AGAIN! I have entered this blog three times this morning, only to lose the information before I could complete it and send. I will probably have to send a few entries at a time. ARGH!
KENNEY - (*He was the first one over the wall!) Repelling off the wall of the castle was scary at first. It was the first part of repelling off the tower where you were standing on the ledge that scared everyone. Howeer, once you started going down the wall, it turned into a lot of fun. Unfortunately for some people, they were still scared. I thought the whole experience waas really cool. But my favorite part was at the top of the tower before you started repelling when you could look around and see out t the sea and to the mountains.
ISABELLE - When i went repelling down the wall it was so much fun. It was really scary at the top when you had to go over the ledge, but I wanted to do it really badly and go out of my comfort zone. I wish I could do it again, and the idea of the FULL ON Experience is really cool, and the cheering really helped me do go over the ledge and do it!
BTW - My computer is acting up - AGAIN! I have entered this blog three times this morning, only to lose the information before I could complete it and send. I will probably have to send a few entries at a time. ARGH!
KENNEY - (*He was the first one over the wall!) Repelling off the wall of the castle was scary at first. It was the first part of repelling off the tower where you were standing on the ledge that scared everyone. Howeer, once you started going down the wall, it turned into a lot of fun. Unfortunately for some people, they were still scared. I thought the whole experience waas really cool. But my favorite part was at the top of the tower before you started repelling when you could look around and see out t the sea and to the mountains.
ISABELLE - When i went repelling down the wall it was so much fun. It was really scary at the top when you had to go over the ledge, but I wanted to do it really badly and go out of my comfort zone. I wish I could do it again, and the idea of the FULL ON Experience is really cool, and the cheering really helped me do go over the ledge and do it!
Friday, June 29, 2012
Runo had something more to say.....
RUNO - Yesterday was such a long day. That morning we had a few problems with the bus; its tire popped out which means we had to change coach after coach, etc. (*Parents, it wasn't the tire - it was a hose issue.) Okay, the interesting part was when we went to some castle (*Warwick) and played many sorts of activities. My favorite was the sword play where we would act like we were in battle. It was fun, until one of those swords hit me in the you-know-what!
Ms. Mary here - Runo really wanted to write two entries, so he did!
Hopefully, internet will continue to be available during our stay on the Emerald Isle!
Ms. Mary here - Runo really wanted to write two entries, so he did!
Hopefully, internet will continue to be available during our stay on the Emerald Isle!
"R's" and and "A"
RACHEL WHITE (RAY RAY) - Yeesterday, at Full On, was amazing! When the instructor told us that we would be breaking boards, I panicked. I laughed so hard to stop from crying. When we got started, I just thought, "I CAN DO IT!" Many people were breaking boards on their first try, and I was like, "OK, I got this." Although on my first try, I messed up. I was so embarrassed, but I tried again and guess what?.......I broke it! The sting in my hand was definitely worth it! I just couldn't wait to rush home to show my mom and dad what a strong daughter they have raised. It was just an amazing and life-changing experience.
ROSE - Yesterday was one of the most scariest fun days ever! We were told at a Full On activity that they would pick a volunteer to break a board, and all I was thinking was, "Please don't pick me!"
But we soon found out that we would all be breaking boards. I was so nervous. But after 5 people, I went up and didn't break my arm! It was so fun!
ALASDAIR - The best part of yesterday was the castle and the tour that the lady gave us! The castle wasn't like super big, but still impressive. The view from there was spectacular! I wish my camera actually worked.....but I still used a camera, so, YAH! The weather really was in our favor so epicness all around!
RACHEL WALGENBACH - Yesterday we drove from London to WALES. We got to eat at an adorable restaurant, and go visit a castle. We checked in to the dorms of Bangor University. It was the first time we got to room alone, and it was awesome! Then we got to go to Full On, and they showed us that when we think, we can actually do it. We ended up breaking boards. It was really cool!
RUNO - Yesterday was quite a fun day. My friends and I spent only a day in Wales, where we went to some beautiful castle. My friends and I walked around the castle and met these outstanding birds, called peacocks. Okay, here comes the interesting facts about that day; we played some small activities where we would use our aplms to chop a piece of wood. It felt great having to test your emotions and using them for strength. After that, we spent the night in a university, which was pretty nice, though can't say that about the rooms.
ROSE - Yesterday was one of the most scariest fun days ever! We were told at a Full On activity that they would pick a volunteer to break a board, and all I was thinking was, "Please don't pick me!"
But we soon found out that we would all be breaking boards. I was so nervous. But after 5 people, I went up and didn't break my arm! It was so fun!
ALASDAIR - The best part of yesterday was the castle and the tour that the lady gave us! The castle wasn't like super big, but still impressive. The view from there was spectacular! I wish my camera actually worked.....but I still used a camera, so, YAH! The weather really was in our favor so epicness all around!
RACHEL WALGENBACH - Yesterday we drove from London to WALES. We got to eat at an adorable restaurant, and go visit a castle. We checked in to the dorms of Bangor University. It was the first time we got to room alone, and it was awesome! Then we got to go to Full On, and they showed us that when we think, we can actually do it. We ended up breaking boards. It was really cool!
RUNO - Yesterday was quite a fun day. My friends and I spent only a day in Wales, where we went to some beautiful castle. My friends and I walked around the castle and met these outstanding birds, called peacocks. Okay, here comes the interesting facts about that day; we played some small activities where we would use our aplms to chop a piece of wood. It felt great having to test your emotions and using them for strength. After that, we spent the night in a university, which was pretty nice, though can't say that about the rooms.
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Post from the "M" Delegates
BTW - It's almost midnight, so please forgive typos!
MAKAYLA - Yesterday, we went to Warwick Castle where we met three men: Luis, the archer, Henry - his weapon was the beak - and Liam, the sword fighter. They were mazing. Luis told us many stories and was so dramatic. He showed us many different types of arrows, Henry taught us how to strike, block and how to hold the beaker. We were going to war with another P2P group, and we had to have loud battle cries. Liam is the youngest sword fighter there at the castle, and he taught us how to stirke, block and end a sword fight. I had so much fun. The castle had never been invaded because it had such a great set up to keep armies and intruders away. It was really cool. I hope I can visit again and watch the launching of a fireball, again.
MORGAN - At the Castle of Warwick wwe were walked through all of the tortures of warfare set up in the castle - How soldiers would literally be slipping in their own blood as they kept attempting to moeve forward. Now, isn't that yummy? I find it odd that centuries before, people were dying in the place we were laughing and joking around in. In a few hundred years, everything our generation has accomplished - wars, economic troubles - will be as distant as the dying soldiers in Warwick. It will be impersonal, but I think that is what allows us to look back down on it so well. We could be a million times better in that situation, right? But only until the heat of the moment is actually ours.
MILES - Yesterday, the first thing we did is switch buses bbecause the fist broke down, and then after that we had a wonderful lunch in a parking garage. Later, though, we learned to swordfight, learned about archery, and we were taught how to fight with a pole. We ended our activities of the day watching peacocks and witnessing the firing of a flaming ball from the world's largest trebuchet. It was, overall, a pretty fun day.
MCKENZIE - "We will protect Warwick." We trained in archery, front line and swordsmanship. "After this, we shall take on any army."
MALIK - Yesterday was a slow day in the begining. Our coach broke down in the Warwick Castle was our next destination. Once there, we had dinner, which lead to our training. We learned archery, sword fighting and battle stances.
MATTHEW - We had gone to a castle. I thought it was really neatl. We got to see a real archer. We got to fight with real swords. And we got to see how it would be to fight with a spear. It was really cool.
COADY (First name Mike) - Warwick Castle was both beautiful and daunting at the same time. The Pentagon of its era, I could see why its gargantuan stone walls still loom as a grim reminder of its perserverance. The instructors were very comical, but all gruesome to vital areas of the bloodline area. The sword fighting makes me wish I was a squire in the midieval ages, battling the Yorkish.
MAKAYLA - Yesterday, we went to Warwick Castle where we met three men: Luis, the archer, Henry - his weapon was the beak - and Liam, the sword fighter. They were mazing. Luis told us many stories and was so dramatic. He showed us many different types of arrows, Henry taught us how to strike, block and how to hold the beaker. We were going to war with another P2P group, and we had to have loud battle cries. Liam is the youngest sword fighter there at the castle, and he taught us how to stirke, block and end a sword fight. I had so much fun. The castle had never been invaded because it had such a great set up to keep armies and intruders away. It was really cool. I hope I can visit again and watch the launching of a fireball, again.
MORGAN - At the Castle of Warwick wwe were walked through all of the tortures of warfare set up in the castle - How soldiers would literally be slipping in their own blood as they kept attempting to moeve forward. Now, isn't that yummy? I find it odd that centuries before, people were dying in the place we were laughing and joking around in. In a few hundred years, everything our generation has accomplished - wars, economic troubles - will be as distant as the dying soldiers in Warwick. It will be impersonal, but I think that is what allows us to look back down on it so well. We could be a million times better in that situation, right? But only until the heat of the moment is actually ours.
MILES - Yesterday, the first thing we did is switch buses bbecause the fist broke down, and then after that we had a wonderful lunch in a parking garage. Later, though, we learned to swordfight, learned about archery, and we were taught how to fight with a pole. We ended our activities of the day watching peacocks and witnessing the firing of a flaming ball from the world's largest trebuchet. It was, overall, a pretty fun day.
MCKENZIE - "We will protect Warwick." We trained in archery, front line and swordsmanship. "After this, we shall take on any army."
MALIK - Yesterday was a slow day in the begining. Our coach broke down in the Warwick Castle was our next destination. Once there, we had dinner, which lead to our training. We learned archery, sword fighting and battle stances.
MATTHEW - We had gone to a castle. I thought it was really neatl. We got to see a real archer. We got to fight with real swords. And we got to see how it would be to fight with a spear. It was really cool.
COADY (First name Mike) - Warwick Castle was both beautiful and daunting at the same time. The Pentagon of its era, I could see why its gargantuan stone walls still loom as a grim reminder of its perserverance. The instructors were very comical, but all gruesome to vital areas of the bloodline area. The sword fighting makes me wish I was a squire in the midieval ages, battling the Yorkish.
More "C" Delegates
BTW - I HATE my computer!
CHRISTIAN - Yesterday was a blast. With the old Tower of London, the home of the Crown Jewels. And I have never seen such splendor in all my life. I'm sure you could buy every country in Europe with thowe things. Then the very interesting talk with an old Parliament member about their government and history. And last but not least, was the Shrek play. I did not expect much of it, but really most of the jokes revolved around an older sense of humor, and it was great. And let me tell you, that is just one day. It just keeps getting better and better.
CAMERON - Something that I enjoyed on June 25th was listening to a former member of Parliament. He was very knowledgable, and was telling us all information that I thought was pretty interesting. He went into a lot of detail on some parts of English history, but what I thought was very interesting was how he described America and its important role in the world. He says that America is the "police" of the world. This man believes that he owes his freedom to the United States of America. In WWII, before America joined in, he says there was no way England could have survivied. But after we joined in, there was no way England could lose. This man's lecture/speech was my favorite part of the day because of how well spoken and informational it was.
CAMILLE - The play was very good last night. The play, Shrek, was good because it told a good meaning behind the story. The meaning was, you don't have to be beautiful or pretty to be loved. Even though Shrek was an ogre, he was loved because of who he was, not what he was.
CHRISTIAN - Yesterday was a blast. With the old Tower of London, the home of the Crown Jewels. And I have never seen such splendor in all my life. I'm sure you could buy every country in Europe with thowe things. Then the very interesting talk with an old Parliament member about their government and history. And last but not least, was the Shrek play. I did not expect much of it, but really most of the jokes revolved around an older sense of humor, and it was great. And let me tell you, that is just one day. It just keeps getting better and better.
CAMERON - Something that I enjoyed on June 25th was listening to a former member of Parliament. He was very knowledgable, and was telling us all information that I thought was pretty interesting. He went into a lot of detail on some parts of English history, but what I thought was very interesting was how he described America and its important role in the world. He says that America is the "police" of the world. This man believes that he owes his freedom to the United States of America. In WWII, before America joined in, he says there was no way England could have survivied. But after we joined in, there was no way England could lose. This man's lecture/speech was my favorite part of the day because of how well spoken and informational it was.
CAMILLE - The play was very good last night. The play, Shrek, was good because it told a good meaning behind the story. The meaning was, you don't have to be beautiful or pretty to be loved. Even though Shrek was an ogre, he was loved because of who he was, not what he was.
Postings from the "C" Delegates
CALLISTO - Although yesterday we did not get back to the hotel til midnight because of our events, it was worth it. The Tower of London was very interesting, and the Crown Jewels were beautiful. Parliament was also very interesting, and I liked that a whole lot. The speaker was quite funny (even though I forgget his name). But the best part was Shrek the Musical. Same as the moviebut even more fun.
CARA - Hello Mom.. And Jimmy. And the three childs. So, uh, we're in London. No microwaves blown up in the past two weeks. No major casualties except my running into a boat! We saw the Crown Jewels yesterday. All I can say is that the ORB looks kinda useless. I mean, I understand the crown and mace and stuff, but an ORB? Not like Elizabeth R can play volleyball with it. Oh, and lunch was weird. That is all.
CHRISTIAN - Yesterday was a blast. With the
CARA - Hello Mom.. And Jimmy. And the three childs. So, uh, we're in London. No microwaves blown up in the past two weeks. No major casualties except my running into a boat! We saw the Crown Jewels yesterday. All I can say is that the ORB looks kinda useless. I mean, I understand the crown and mace and stuff, but an ORB? Not like Elizabeth R can play volleyball with it. Oh, and lunch was weird. That is all.
CHRISTIAN - Yesterday was a blast. With the
Good Intentions!
JacobHowdy from Wales. Internet availability has been terrible, so we haven't been able to post for some time. A few days ago, I had the brilliant idea (if I do say so myself) of having the Delegates post to the blog. Each morning I select different students to write about the previous days' activities. Since then, we have not had any internet! Josh even typed the entries on a word document, but we have not been able to copy and paste. So here goes....
JOSH - At the United Kingdom Sailing Academy, it was easy to tell the entire delegation had a great time. Yesterday, half the delegation would have an event where 3 teams had to buy raft-building supplies with a 1000 pound budget in an auction, and then build and race rafts against each other. The other half of the group went kayaking, and after lunch switched games. Although I personally felt sick, and did not get in the water, the UKSA leaders were great to let me be involved by being a judge/auctioneer, which was really cool. Today, we are going to the Tower of London, seeing a play, touring the Thames and meeting a former member of Parliament. I'm really excited!
P.S. Hi Dad. Hi Mom. Hi Zack. Hi Olivia.
JACOB - Hey, I'm Jacob Cruz and so far this trip has been great! I have made lots of friends and visited
lots of ancient buildings. I personally liked the Eiffel Tower and the London Eye, because they were so high in the air. The teachers are nice and they treat us fair, and they keep us safe. That's pretty much all I have to say about the trip so far.
P.S. I love you, Mom and Dad! And I miss you, too.
JAN - The 25th of June was a great day. I needed to get up at 6:45 and go to breakfast at 7:30. We then went to get our stuff, pack and remove the bed sheets. Our schedule: Go to War Museum. Go to London Eye, eat lunch, eat dinner. It was really fun going to the museum and the Eye, but I wish we had some free time.
JOENE - When we went to the Eiffel Tower, it was amazing! The view and the air felt incredible. Our leaders gave us free time to walk around up there. We took so many pictures. All the beautiful places we have been just makes you see all the wonderful things outside of Texas.
JAZMINE - My favorite place that I loved so far on this trip is the American Cemetery. I loved that place because it was sad and it made me think, "I' m grateful for what thee men and women did for our country and what they died for. They died for us so we can have a great and peaceful country.
JUSTIN - This trip is realy fun. We have done alot of things not many people have done in the USA. I like it.
JENNA - It has been a little cold (really cold by Texas standards) and so much fun. The food is nice, but it's times like this when I miss my mom's pepper jelly pork chops. Most of the time we are fed fish, fish and more fish. Oh well, as they say...While in Rome, do as the Romans do.
JOSH - At the United Kingdom Sailing Academy, it was easy to tell the entire delegation had a great time. Yesterday, half the delegation would have an event where 3 teams had to buy raft-building supplies with a 1000 pound budget in an auction, and then build and race rafts against each other. The other half of the group went kayaking, and after lunch switched games. Although I personally felt sick, and did not get in the water, the UKSA leaders were great to let me be involved by being a judge/auctioneer, which was really cool. Today, we are going to the Tower of London, seeing a play, touring the Thames and meeting a former member of Parliament. I'm really excited!
P.S. Hi Dad. Hi Mom. Hi Zack. Hi Olivia.
JACOB - Hey, I'm Jacob Cruz and so far this trip has been great! I have made lots of friends and visited
lots of ancient buildings. I personally liked the Eiffel Tower and the London Eye, because they were so high in the air. The teachers are nice and they treat us fair, and they keep us safe. That's pretty much all I have to say about the trip so far.
P.S. I love you, Mom and Dad! And I miss you, too.
JAN - The 25th of June was a great day. I needed to get up at 6:45 and go to breakfast at 7:30. We then went to get our stuff, pack and remove the bed sheets. Our schedule: Go to War Museum. Go to London Eye, eat lunch, eat dinner. It was really fun going to the museum and the Eye, but I wish we had some free time.
JOENE - When we went to the Eiffel Tower, it was amazing! The view and the air felt incredible. Our leaders gave us free time to walk around up there. We took so many pictures. All the beautiful places we have been just makes you see all the wonderful things outside of Texas.
JAZMINE - My favorite place that I loved so far on this trip is the American Cemetery. I loved that place because it was sad and it made me think, "I' m grateful for what thee men and women did for our country and what they died for. They died for us so we can have a great and peaceful country.
JUSTIN - This trip is realy fun. We have done alot of things not many people have done in the USA. I like it.
JENNA - It has been a little cold (really cold by Texas standards) and so much fun. The food is nice, but it's times like this when I miss my mom's pepper jelly pork chops. Most of the time we are fed fish, fish and more fish. Oh well, as they say...While in Rome, do as the Romans do.
Saturday, June 23, 2012
One more thing....
That team challenge at the Louvre was won by, no other than.......TEAM PINK!
Team members:
Krystal, Morgan, Rose, Paige, Kaitlin, Penny, Tinhny, Justin, Vida, and Josh. And guess who the leader was?!!!!!!!
Each member of the winning team received an extremely rare and valuable Eiffel Tower key chain!
hint.... I love mine! lol
Team members:
Krystal, Morgan, Rose, Paige, Kaitlin, Penny, Tinhny, Justin, Vida, and Josh. And guess who the leader was?!!!!!!!
Each member of the winning team received an extremely rare and valuable Eiffel Tower key chain!
hint.... I love mine! lol
UKSA - Day 2
Cheers! No one wants to leave the United Kingdom Sailing Academy tomorrow (Sunday). The weather today has been "crack", our accomodations (rooms) have been cool, the staff has been so positive and encouraging, and the activities have been perfectly challenging!
Today, the delegates broke into two groups. While one group was learning the finer points of kayaking and paddling (but not so much about stopping....), the other group subdivided into three teams of about seven. Each group of seven came up with a team name and a chant. These were some of the team names: A Team, Sea Otters, BLAAAHHH, Bob the Builder, Our Name Is (my personal favorite!) Each group was given a budget of £1,000 to bid on packages of raft-building materials comprised of items like barrels, paddles, logs, boards - rope was "free". BTW, several delegates were "under the weather", and they participated as the auctioneers and as judges for each part of the challenge. Once the teams had outbid the other teams for the items, groups had to work together to design a raft on which all of them must fit and STAY AFLOAT! You can't begin to imagine what transpired!! After lunch, the two big groups exchanged activities, and the challenges began, again. It was hysterical to watch!
Currently, all delegates are participating in field activities, like soccer, rugby, etc. The counselors are planning on "schooling" our students in English sports!
Once they all return, we have a surprise birthday cake in honor of all five of our Delegate birthdays we have or will celebrate(d). Previously, we celebrated Kenny, Sam, Jan, and Malek (today). We are looking forward to honoring Joene in the future.
Off to London tomorrow.
Today, the delegates broke into two groups. While one group was learning the finer points of kayaking and paddling (but not so much about stopping....), the other group subdivided into three teams of about seven. Each group of seven came up with a team name and a chant. These were some of the team names: A Team, Sea Otters, BLAAAHHH, Bob the Builder, Our Name Is (my personal favorite!) Each group was given a budget of £1,000 to bid on packages of raft-building materials comprised of items like barrels, paddles, logs, boards - rope was "free". BTW, several delegates were "under the weather", and they participated as the auctioneers and as judges for each part of the challenge. Once the teams had outbid the other teams for the items, groups had to work together to design a raft on which all of them must fit and STAY AFLOAT! You can't begin to imagine what transpired!! After lunch, the two big groups exchanged activities, and the challenges began, again. It was hysterical to watch!
Currently, all delegates are participating in field activities, like soccer, rugby, etc. The counselors are planning on "schooling" our students in English sports!
Once they all return, we have a surprise birthday cake in honor of all five of our Delegate birthdays we have or will celebrate(d). Previously, we celebrated Kenny, Sam, Jan, and Malek (today). We are looking forward to honoring Joene in the future.
Off to London tomorrow.
An overview to date from Susan...
Hello from the Isle of Wight in the UK. We are at the UK Sailing School today through Sunday morning. I'll write more about that in a minute.
Our visit in Belgium was enlightening. Our WWII guide in Brussels, Henri, gave us a detailed account of the events there fighting the Germans. We toured the barracks and saw various styles of tanks up close. His personal stories of that time, when he was under the age of 15, helped us to understand just how difficult it as for the residents when the Nazis occupied their land.
We toured downtown Brussels, learned how to make chocolate candy and did some taste testing. Belgian waffels and ice cream were also treats we shared.
On to France and Paris! We visited Notre Dame and our visit to the Louvre museum allowed us to see some world famous art treasures and answer questions for a team competition quiz. We've got some pretty bright students!
We climbed the 200+ steps to the Sacre Coeur basilica, a breathtaking white wonder, and then shopped a bit in the Mont Marte area before eating lunch with an appetizer of escargo and frog legs.
Then on to the Eiffel Tower...we took the elevator up and some went all the way to the top! You're going to see some awesome photos of our Paris tour.
On the coach ride one day, we had a talent show. Some of the students sang and Sam told a joke. Then our surprise...TJ can speak both like deep bass James Earle Jones and Alvin the Chipmunk. He has been entertaining us ever since.
Our guide for the Normandy visit, Anne Marie, a local native, told us of the events on D-Day and of the nearly 10,000 Americans who sacrificed their lives there. We laid a wreath during a ceremony at the cemetary which was quite moving and they played the US national anthem. Then we toured bunkers on the beach at one site and some collected sand at the Omaha Beach site where another memorial is erected.
Finally last night we arrived at the port of Caen to board our overnight ferry. We could not board until after 10 PM and set sail about 11 PM. The students were tired and we sent them straight to their rooms for bed. There was no cell phone signal while on the ferry if some of you missed a call.
Up early this morning for our 45 min. boat ride on the Jenny M to the Isle of Wight from Portsmouth. Few escaped getting a good soaking from the rough waves. It's a bit chilly here but the students are having a fine time at the sailing school. Wet suits keep them warm enough for the activities and competitions. Tomorrow they build rafts. What fun!
On that note, we have had spotty WiFi service at the hotels and some have had difficulties with phone service.
We've had a few homesick moments, and after a phone call and a few tears, everyone seems to perk up. Let me remind you that when you speak with your child in the evening, he/she is tired and that is when they are missing home. Asking about favorite memories of the day and what they are looking forward to helps. Everyone seems to be bonding and making friends. With a few minor behavior issues, mostly with using electronics when not appropriate and missing personal items (because they are no keeping those items in backpacks and are just laying them down), we have had many compliments from our hosts.
One thing I do fear is that they are not getting sleep at night and are staying up talking and watching TV. They fall asleep everytime we get on the coach bus, sometimes during tour guide talks, which can be embarrassing for us. Please encourage your students to get enough sleep at night so they are ready for our daily activities.
Please know that no one is sick, even though we've had a few headaches and upset tummies and sore throats, but nothing that lasted more than a day with rest. They aren't drinking enough water, which can contribute to ill feelings, so we keep encouraging them to drink water at all meals and to fill up their bottles whenever possible. The meals have been healthy and plentiful. Sometimes full hot breakfasts and other times cold cereal and breads. Lunches and dinners have varied with beef, pork, and fish and often the students were able to make meat and vegetable choices.
They were off to the Rec Room after pool games and crawfishing last night and tonight they are learning a few tips on playing rugby.
Until later, chums...
Susan
Our visit in Belgium was enlightening. Our WWII guide in Brussels, Henri, gave us a detailed account of the events there fighting the Germans. We toured the barracks and saw various styles of tanks up close. His personal stories of that time, when he was under the age of 15, helped us to understand just how difficult it as for the residents when the Nazis occupied their land.
We toured downtown Brussels, learned how to make chocolate candy and did some taste testing. Belgian waffels and ice cream were also treats we shared.
On to France and Paris! We visited Notre Dame and our visit to the Louvre museum allowed us to see some world famous art treasures and answer questions for a team competition quiz. We've got some pretty bright students!
We climbed the 200+ steps to the Sacre Coeur basilica, a breathtaking white wonder, and then shopped a bit in the Mont Marte area before eating lunch with an appetizer of escargo and frog legs.
Then on to the Eiffel Tower...we took the elevator up and some went all the way to the top! You're going to see some awesome photos of our Paris tour.
On the coach ride one day, we had a talent show. Some of the students sang and Sam told a joke. Then our surprise...TJ can speak both like deep bass James Earle Jones and Alvin the Chipmunk. He has been entertaining us ever since.
Our guide for the Normandy visit, Anne Marie, a local native, told us of the events on D-Day and of the nearly 10,000 Americans who sacrificed their lives there. We laid a wreath during a ceremony at the cemetary which was quite moving and they played the US national anthem. Then we toured bunkers on the beach at one site and some collected sand at the Omaha Beach site where another memorial is erected.
Finally last night we arrived at the port of Caen to board our overnight ferry. We could not board until after 10 PM and set sail about 11 PM. The students were tired and we sent them straight to their rooms for bed. There was no cell phone signal while on the ferry if some of you missed a call.
Up early this morning for our 45 min. boat ride on the Jenny M to the Isle of Wight from Portsmouth. Few escaped getting a good soaking from the rough waves. It's a bit chilly here but the students are having a fine time at the sailing school. Wet suits keep them warm enough for the activities and competitions. Tomorrow they build rafts. What fun!
On that note, we have had spotty WiFi service at the hotels and some have had difficulties with phone service.
We've had a few homesick moments, and after a phone call and a few tears, everyone seems to perk up. Let me remind you that when you speak with your child in the evening, he/she is tired and that is when they are missing home. Asking about favorite memories of the day and what they are looking forward to helps. Everyone seems to be bonding and making friends. With a few minor behavior issues, mostly with using electronics when not appropriate and missing personal items (because they are no keeping those items in backpacks and are just laying them down), we have had many compliments from our hosts.
One thing I do fear is that they are not getting sleep at night and are staying up talking and watching TV. They fall asleep everytime we get on the coach bus, sometimes during tour guide talks, which can be embarrassing for us. Please encourage your students to get enough sleep at night so they are ready for our daily activities.
Please know that no one is sick, even though we've had a few headaches and upset tummies and sore throats, but nothing that lasted more than a day with rest. They aren't drinking enough water, which can contribute to ill feelings, so we keep encouraging them to drink water at all meals and to fill up their bottles whenever possible. The meals have been healthy and plentiful. Sometimes full hot breakfasts and other times cold cereal and breads. Lunches and dinners have varied with beef, pork, and fish and often the students were able to make meat and vegetable choices.
They were off to the Rec Room after pool games and crawfishing last night and tonight they are learning a few tips on playing rugby.
Until later, chums...
Susan
Friday, June 22, 2012
A Few of My Favorite Things
Hello to everyone from the UK Sailing Academy on the Isle of Wright. It is about 7:00 PM here. The temperature here is in the seventies with a brisk wind. We came over today in a 15 meter boat in brisk seas. The waves were 2-3 meters with no trough in between. There was a spring tide and a southwesterly wind in the Solant. The kids had a great time on the roller coaster ride. (no one got sick - don't worry) We saw the town of Ride in the distance on the island. The captain that was what the Beatles were talking about when they sang, "She's got a Ticket to Ride". Who knew!
Yesterday We spent the day in Normandy, France. First we went to a museum on WWII concentrating on D-Day in Caen. Then we went to Point Du Hoc - the cliffs the rangers had to climb. Apparently when things went bad the Battleship Texas bombed the cliffs until enough dirt fell so the rangers to climb up. Better yet when we got to the top there was a memorial to the rangers and the Colonel in charge of the operation - James E Rudder - as in Earl Rudder!! Whoop! Jacob had on an A&M jacket so I took a picture of him next to the plaque. We went to the American Cemetary at Normandy were we laid a wreath at the memorial. They played the national anthem and taps. It was very crowded there and all the people got quiet. It was awesome. We saw the grave of Theodore Roosevelt Jr. and the two brothers from Saving Private Ryan.
Last Sunday in Belgium we went to the Battle of the Buldge Museum. A gentleman who was nine during the occupation led us around. We visited Easy Company's (Band of Brothers) foxholes. We toured the original headquarters and saw a lot of vehicles from the time period.
Amsterdam was lovely. We went to Anne Frank's house and took a cruise down the canals. We went to a small town named Edam and rode bikes thought the town, countryside and saw windmills.
We have really been having so much fun. Please remember when our delegates call it is late, they are tired, and homesickness is worse at night. Please help them focus on the incredible things we have been doing and the events that are still to come.
Love to all,
Annette Burke
Please excuse any spelling errors - this British keyboard is driving me crazy!!!!
Yesterday We spent the day in Normandy, France. First we went to a museum on WWII concentrating on D-Day in Caen. Then we went to Point Du Hoc - the cliffs the rangers had to climb. Apparently when things went bad the Battleship Texas bombed the cliffs until enough dirt fell so the rangers to climb up. Better yet when we got to the top there was a memorial to the rangers and the Colonel in charge of the operation - James E Rudder - as in Earl Rudder!! Whoop! Jacob had on an A&M jacket so I took a picture of him next to the plaque. We went to the American Cemetary at Normandy were we laid a wreath at the memorial. They played the national anthem and taps. It was very crowded there and all the people got quiet. It was awesome. We saw the grave of Theodore Roosevelt Jr. and the two brothers from Saving Private Ryan.
Last Sunday in Belgium we went to the Battle of the Buldge Museum. A gentleman who was nine during the occupation led us around. We visited Easy Company's (Band of Brothers) foxholes. We toured the original headquarters and saw a lot of vehicles from the time period.
Amsterdam was lovely. We went to Anne Frank's house and took a cruise down the canals. We went to a small town named Edam and rode bikes thought the town, countryside and saw windmills.
We have really been having so much fun. Please remember when our delegates call it is late, they are tired, and homesickness is worse at night. Please help them focus on the incredible things we have been doing and the events that are still to come.
Love to all,
Annette Burke
Please excuse any spelling errors - this British keyboard is driving me crazy!!!!
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