Showing off Holy Cross

I knew the time would fly once I finally got here to San Pedro and Holy Cross, and sure enough, it is! It's already the end of Week 1. Today I met with representatives of 2 colleges -- Defiance College in Ohio and Vancouver Island University -- who want to develop partnerships with Holy Cross. It was both fun and challenging to serve as the spokesperson for the school, telling the story of Holy Cross and answering a zillion questions. I know I could never do the job that Francis or Vernon would have, but I did my best. I think new and exciting things will come out of our discussions and the school will benefit greatly.

There were also visitors from the nearby condo development, Reef Village. They brought donations of school supplies, books and vitamins. There is a property dispute between the developer of Reef Village and Holy Cross -- more on that later -- but it's hoped the owners' meeting this weekend will be productive.

A rumor made its way back to me today -- the word is that Francis has left the school and I am the new manager!!! Oh no. No way! As much as I would love to be here forever, I am NOT an administrator, nor can I stay beyond June. We are working hard to squash that rumor!

I saw more of the children today, and it is so neat when they look up to greet -- as they do with every adult -- and then realize they know me! This evening in town, I saw one of my favorite little jewelry makers and got a big hug. I know I will see more of him.

Tomorrow is a 1/2 day at the school because it is pay day. Many of the teachers actually live on the mainland in Belize City, Orange Walk or other towns and must go home to pay their bills. No direct deposit here.

Through Francis's introductions, I have been in email communication with the Bishop of Belize. I have been asked to serve as the chaplain for Holy Cross while I'm here and possibly teach a youth confirmation class this spring. I have to have Bishop Wright's approval, so Wednesday I will go to Belize City to meet with him.

The weather is interesting and very changeable. We had a hard rain with lots of wind last night. Today we had 1 or 2 very quick showers. They do settle the dust, but they also fill up the potholes and make puddles. The temperatures are very comfortable (sorry all you folks about to have snow and ice at home), and I am loving wearing my flipflops!!!!

My apartment is full of local color -- murals of palm trees and birds and other local scenes everywhere. I am beginning to get used to it and actually find it pretty charming. However, the owner came by today to put a "for sale" sign in the window. Yikes. I hope I don't find myself needing to move any time soon.

I am looking forward to St. Luke's Team 1 arriving tomorrow. There has been a volunteer group from Virginia Beach here all this week. We have some mutual friends so it's been great to get to know them. They have worked very hard in many areas of the school.

I will leave you a couple of photos -- the entrance to my new home and tonight's moon.

Have a great weekend and stay warm and safe!