This past week has been pretty different from the previous weeks as we continued our three-day kayak trip rotations. While one group is kayaking, another is beginning SCUBA certification, and the third is continuing with academics.

Brett's Giant Stride	John writing in his placebook Palm Island Archeology

In SCUBA we're learning basic skills such as mask, regulator, and BCD removal and retrieval, and rescue skills such as buddy breathing. We were able to show off our knowledge by completing the section of SCUBA certification at The Island School. Our first open water dive is this coming Sunday.

The kayak trips have been slightly altered due to strong winds and large waves, but all three groups have overcome those challenges with ease, and had fun all the while. Everyone has returned to school with a littler dirt behind the ears and some great stories. Hopefully Kayak 3, which left yesterday, will have better weather and a wonderful time.

Getting Ready to Dive	Mary Alice and Mike

While we may not get as tan (yes, we're wearing sunscreen) during academics as SCUBA and kayaking, classes are definately interesting. We began Omeros, our main English textbook, and are in the midst of the history of the Lucayans, the native population at the time Columbus landed. Research projects are beginning to pick up steam. Dr. Ethan Freid, a botanist from the College of the Bahamas, visited for several days to consult with the Coastal Management group. His vast knowledge of plants helped us with identification, deciding which plants were best for preventing erosion, and many other helpful ideas.

Some highlights of the past week include Nella and Maxey's kayak group returning safely, passing SCUBA tests, a history field trip to a Lucayan archeological site, and playing water polo and soccer for morning exercise.

Coastal Management	Ashleigh and Ericka

With all the comings and goings of the different kayak groups, it's been much quieter on campus, and we've all been missing our friends who are out on the water. This is just one example of how much closer we've all become in these three weeks. It feels like we've been here forever, and we're having a great time. We miss everyone at home, and keep the mail coming! It's greatly appreciated!

This week's update has been brought to you by Jennie's wonderful advisee group:

Brett: Hi Mom, Dad, Brook, & Kelsey! I miss you and love you! Kirby girls & all my friends, I miss you and love you too!

Ericka: Shout out to my mom, grandmother and the rest of the Burrows Clan. Also to Janario and Michesia. I love you guys!!! Oh and to all my friends love ya!

Harry: He's out kayaking now, but he says hi to everyone at home.