A few notes

A few notes:

The semester wrapped up on December 13 after a long week of testing. However, I wanted to share a bit about my adapted life in Dominica during the semester. 

Saturday Morning Market:

Every Saturday morning, there is a local “farmers” market in Portsmouth. It is about 1.5 mile walk from our house, and each time is a different adventure. The market is very similar to the States, however, goods are significantly cheaper. Commonly, I am able to purchase 6 passion fruits for 4-5$EC or buy heads of lettuce that 3 individuals can for salad at least twice! Only for 5$EC. I have grown a deep appreciation for the locals and their produce that they sell. Although, some locals see a ‘white girl’ and double the price… I call BS and walk away.

After Care and Substitute Teaching:

I was fortunate to obtain a position at the Ross University Preparatory School (Pre K – 8^th grade). I currently am a substitute teacher for Ms. Fredricks, the 1-2 grade teacher. The Prep School is multilevel classroom. It is grouped: Pre K and K, 1^st and 2^nd, 3^rd and 4^th, etc. Pre K through 2^nd grade only have one teacher and stay in the same classroom all day. While 3^rd – 8^th rotate teachers with subjects. Subbing in the 1^st and 2^nd grade classroom has been a wonderful experience so far. Although, my first day was an eye opener, in the morning, I struggled to time when to work with each grade. But the children helped out and showed me their normal routine.

While subbing, we spent an afternoon preparing for the Arts and Crafts Expo that occurs each fall. The Prep School has its own booth (Kids Corner) at the expo filled with artwork from the children. The 1^st/2^nd graders made book markers! Other items from the children included key chains, ornaments, and drawings/paintings (8^th Grade class). The Kids Corner was able to rise over $600EC, which was donated to several charities in the Picard Area (Northern District Home for the Aged, CALLS, and Lambs Feast).

Tables are ready!

Camy acting like a goof!

Bookmarks: the match sides were painted, then a map of Dominca placed in between and tied together with festive cloth

Also at the Prep School, I work as an After Care employee. This is a structured after school program, in which, students are allowed to participate. Generally, I worked on Thursday and Friday. Each day had a scheduled activity. Thursday ‘s are game day/food craft (budget pending). During this time, we made snow globes, decorated marshmallows for Thanksgiving and Christmas, played Halloween, TG, and Xmas bingo, etc! Next semester, I will be in charge of After Care :) And at the Prep School almost every day!

Spouse Community:

Love Them!

The Ross Spouse Organization (RSO) is the best thing on the island. RSO is the spouse community here, and consists of a wonderful group of individuals (Men and Women). All of us (spouses) are here for the same reason and are faced with the same conditions. I have met some amazing ladies here, they helped me adjust to living and have given me advice how to cook, etc. And most importantly, they are my escape and someone I can confide in. It is not a vacation here, not by any means, and only someone here can understand that.

Spouse Workout Group: Some of my best friends :)

Now BREAK! Josh is done with Semester 1 and we can FINALLY experience the island together!!

The night following his final, we went out for good food with great company!

It is common for local restaurants to only serve a few types of dishes. Rather than the guest choosing from a giant menu, we are offered a veggie dish, or the fish/meat of the day. Our dinner at Poonkies consisted of fresh caught Mahi-Mahi, served with provisions. One the best meals in Dominica thus far!