Animal Hospital (9.8.11)

SGU not only has a medical school, but, there is a veterinary program on campus as well.  Grayson wanted to tour the small animal clinic, and Cal made a few calls for us to do so. The director was told that he had a potential student who wanted a tour, and you can imagine his surprise when we showed up with our 7 year old!  Ah, well, you can never start recruiting too early these days.

Macpherson View (9.7.11)

Our friends the Macpherson's hosted all of the Visiting Professors at their home.  Their balcony overlooks Grand Anse Beach, which is the perfect vantage point for sunset watches.   A storm blocked our view from the actual sunset, however, the sky was amazing until dark.

That's Ivan (9.7.11)

On September 7, 2004 (7 years earlier) Hurricane Ivan ravaged the island of Grenada, leaving an unimaginable scene of devastation and destruction.  Our friend Mike, part owner of La Sagesse Nature Center, wrote and recorded a piece he shared with us on his beach.  This song shares with the world the experience of Ivan and encouraged Grenadians not to lose hope but to walk together and rebuild.  Although we heard it firsthand, the song and video (which has been played every year on national television on the anniversary of Ivan) can be found on You Tube under "That's Ivan".

Surf and Turf (9.7.11)

LaSagesse is the perfect place for both these things.  

Rain Brings Rest (9.6.11)

A full day of rain is unusual in Grenada, even during the rainy season. Usually, a squall line will come through-- replenishing the Earth--with sunshine quickly to follow. The rain lasted well into the day--long enough to cancel our planned kayak trip.  We took advantage of the situation by Skyping with the kids' schools and taking naps.

Mona Lisa (9.5.11)

The third race of the night was the jackpot race.  Everyone present chose their own personal crustacean, picked to win.  There could only be one winner, and that winner would take all.  In the last minute Grayson chose #15 for me, and we named her Mona Lisa.  Of all the luck, guess who won the jackpot??  All $65 E.C.  Not exactly what I wanted to teach my children about gambling, but hopefully one lesson they learned-- to quit while you are ahead.   

The Races (9.5.11)

Just like Kentucky has horses, and Arkansas has dogs, Grenada has.... well.... Crab Races.  The Flamboyant has hosted this Monday night affair for as long as Lloyd can remember.  The point is simple. Numbered hermit crabs get placed in the center of a circle drawn in the sand on the beach.  People get a look at their favorite before they bet on a winner.  Once all bets are in, the race begins.  The fastest crab out of the circle, or the slowest (depending upon the race rules) wins.  The high bidder in our family held at $2 E.C.  (that's about $0.74 US).