First Impressions

After 3 hours of traveling from rainy Charlotte, North Carolina, we arrived in sunny Belize City. We managed to make it through customs easily with all 19 bags plus personal items in tow. With so many bags and 9 people, it was difficult to get a taxi. Half of our group managed to get a taxi within 5 minutes; however, 4 were left to wait 20 minutes for another taxi big enough to carry the rest of the luggage and the remaining members of our team. The taxi ride was an adventure in itself. We realized quickly that the traffic laws in Belize are not enforced. The roads had no lanes, and the taxi driver never stopped at a signal stop sign. This adventure led us 10 miles from airport to the Chateau Caribbean where we will be staying until Wednesday. The hotel is a charming place that is right on the sparkling water. We unloaded the rest of our bags, claimed our rooms, changed clothes, and headed to the dining room. Most of the team is very adventurous at trying new foods and juices. Fresh lime, papaya, and watermelon juices are some of our favorites so far. After a delicious meal ranging from cheeseburgers to rice and beans, most of the group went exploring. Like most tourists, we enjoyed taking pictures along our walk around the community. The reason for the walk was not only to take pictures, but to look at the school we will be working at, St. Mary’s School. The remainder of the afternoon was spent reading and napping. After a few hours of rest and recuperation, we meet in the dining room for dinner. Again, the group tried new foods and enjoyed a pleasant dinner together. Traveling so far from home is exhausting. Our group plans to relax and go to bed early so we will be ready to go to school at 8:30 in the morning. Continue to pray for our safety and our attitudes that they will be glorifying to God. Pray for those we will come in contact with, the children, and our willingness to serve.