Look! We're on TV

Hello Friends,

Today was another full day. At the Alpha Centre we split into groups and taught the students about hygiene. We sang songs, drew pictures, and read books about how to wash hands, brush teeth, and shower. With a generous donation of tooth brushes and tooth paste, we then practiced brushing teeth and washing hands.
This evening we watched the National News. The Alpha Centre was the feature of the second story. The clip began with an image of the children singing. Paige and I were right there as well! I was quite surprised to see my face on National television. The news story talked about what we were doing at the Alpha Centre and included an interview with Edwin as well. This shows how much of a community this entire island, entire country, is. Word travels fast on the island, and hopefully this will increase publicity for the Alpha Centre so that they can reach out to more children. They are truly doing remarkable work.
Our afternoon adventure included a trip to Scotts Head, on the southern part of the island. We started to drive onto the rocky strip of land at the point. We ventured on and soon heard the wheels spinning. I know how to get unstuck from snow, but not from rocks on the beach. We were told to go to the back of the bus. In a flash we piled up, Victor drove us right out, and cheers for Victor erupted. We then walked out where we were able to stand with the Caribbean Sea on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other. A few of us took a nice walk up a hill where we could see for miles. Then a chilly swim in the Caribbean. Leah and I pulled out our mask and snorkel. Staying close to shore we saw small fishes, big blue fishes, and a camouflage fish with spikes (we think this may be the fish the locals refer to as the boo-boo fish).
It is hard to believe that tomorrow is our last full day, but I am thankful to work with the wonderful students of the Alpha Centre tomorrow.

It's a small world after all

What a wonderful day of adventure. Today included time at the Alpha Centre, a meeting with the Prime Minister of Dominica, and a trip to Trafalgar Falls. As we drove down the road to the Alpha Centre I noticed many roosters along the side of the road. My nickname is rooster, so I quickly snapped some photos.

Meeting Prime Minister Skerrit: We gathered in the conference room at his office and were invited to ask him questions. He thoroughly answered as he explained the education system and general mindset of Dominica. I am inspired by his care and compassion for his people. He truly wants what is best for them. He also attended New Mexico State University, and a few of us from New Mexico quickly bonded. As we were walking out of the office I asked him if a name sounded familiar, the last name of my aunt's family. He quickly smilied and said, "Oh yes, how do you know them?" I told him they were family and he proceeded to tell me all they had done in Dominica in their short time here. What a small world that the Prime Minister of Dominica remembered my family from New Mexico and then years later, I got to meet him.

At each moment I want to stop and just enjoy the beauty around me

Dominica at last

Hello from the gorgeous island of Dominica,
I last posted that Shelby and I were leaving San Antonio, well Shelby left that morning. However, there was a mix up with my ticket. After seven hours standing at a check-in counter, 36 hours of being in airports, and no more than an hour of sleep at a time, it is safe to say I have learned a few things. I would love to share a few tips from what I found helpful or learned along the way:
1) ALWAYS make sure your name on your ticket matches the name on your passport.
2) Check-in with plenty of time before your flight (especially during spring break)
3) Keep your phone charger in your carry-on.
4) Even if you are not in charge of your flights, know your itinerary.
5) Be patient, more people are willing to help you.

Now, with the help of my wonderful family and many others, and these helpful tips, I am now in Dominica with my amazing group!
I am awestruck by the beauty. I looked out the window with my jaw dropped as we drove along the winding roads.

We stopped at a beach that Edwin knows. The water was warm and salty and I loved simply laying in the sand!

While being here is enough to make anyone's day, I loved the sunset! As we made our way back to Holy Redeemer, we glanced to the right and between buildings I saw the sun setting. As the beautiful colors began to change we came to an opening and I watched as the sun set on the water.

I am thankful to be here amongst the beauty of Dominica and the friendship of my fellow travelers.

Departure

4:45 AM

Shelby and I are up and leave San Antonio in a couple hours. Leah and Paige left yesterday and are currently in Charlotte and Washington D.C., respectively. We will all be united tonight in the wonderful land of Dominica. Our excitement grows as we embark on our grand adventure.

About Katie

I'm Katie Ogawa, a first year from Albuquerque, N.M. At Trinity I am premed and pursuing a major in neuroscience, a minor in math. On campus I give tours, volunteer, and am a member of a couple different science and medical clubs. In my free time, I enjoy eating sushi or trying new foods, running, and finding new and creative ways to help people, such as visiting the Alpha Centre in Dominica.