Day 3: culture day

Hello everyone! Its Jayleen & Leyla reporting from Constanza DR. Today was a very fun and eventful day. We started off the morning bright and early waking everyone up by banging some pots and pans. Then, reported to breakfast where we got to enjoy mashed potatoes, ham, pancakes, yogurt, cereal, fried cheese, natural juice, coffee, and some delicious chocolate milk (everyone needs to try some). After breakfast we did a mental warm up where we gave some background on culture and our workshops with el gato (sculptor) and Paul Rosado (Dance Choreographer). Then, we rode the bus into the city where we sculpted clay models based off Tainos figure.

Then, we took a ride back to our wonderful villas where we ate some yummy lunch which consisted of rice mixed with corn, fried chicken, french fries, salad, fruit salad, and natural juices. Some of us enjoyed a good game of mafia after lunch while others got some rest and went back to their villas. Then, we went on another adventure heading to our very fun dance class. We ALL participated including staff and learned how to dance bachata, merengue, salsa, and even some zumba.

We tried to get ice cream after to cool ourselves down but unfortunately it was a fail at the famous “Helados Bon” so we went back to the villa where we got a variety of popsicle sticks. After we had an activity where we deepened our connections with one another and discovered new facts about one another. We got some free time where we all did different activities outside, some played soccer, volleyball, 8 ball pool, table tennis, and more.

Next, we had our amazing dinner where we ate stuffed hot dogs with lots of toppings. Finally to end off our night we had our nightly meeting in the gazebo where we gave a summary of our day, and talked about the infusion and importance of culture within society through music and art. We also did our nightly tradition of passing on the responsibility to the next leaders of tomorrow. We ended on a positive note with a lot of big loves being shared on today. THE END!!

– Leyla & Jayleen

P.S.

I miss you Ava, Cataleya, and JOLYYYYY and everyone in my family. I love you so much and wishing you the best back at home. – Leyla. A

I also miss you so much mom and everyone else I hope your doing well, just want you to know i’m doing well and that I didn’t forget about you. Can’t wait to see everyone when I go back. Love, Jayleen C.