Colegio Miramar by Nikki D.

Visiting Colegio Miramar

Today we heard from Nikki D. who is enjoying her time in Peru. Here is her account of how the girls spent Thursday:

Today we visited Colegio Miramar, an Ursuline grade school where Colegio Santa Ursula’s community donates money, food, and clothes to the students. Visiting the school reminded me that I should be grateful for the wonderful blessings that God has given me and be willing to share my gifts by giving back to the community. It meant the world to me to see these children with the biggest smiles on their faces. At first, I was a little hesitant because the children were a little timid, but, after they ate, they were ready for some action, literally. They were so energetic!  I am actually sore from running with them (or maybe because of my extra eating and lack of exercise)! To add to my soreness, when we were leaving Miramar, we joined in the boys’ P.E. class and imitated their intense moves. Props to Hilary and Angie for being able to make it through the entire dance without stopping!

Nikki getting to know the Miramar children

The energetic PE class at Colegio Miramar

Back at Colegio Santa Ursula, we enjoyed a lovely lunch with the nuns. We ate delicious arroz con pollo (rice with chicken) and devoured Lulu’s chocolate birthday cake given to her by the school. Some of us even danced with the nuns, and, might I add, they sure know how to dance! Later, we enjoyed a nice conversation where we got to learn not only about the nuns but also our fellow peers and teachers. It was a very thrilling Thursday but also a tiring Thursday filled with amiable people, plenty of exercise and scrumptious food!

Lulu and Madre Ester having a ball!

First Impressions & Happenings by Mary Margaret R.

UA Peru Delegate, Mary Margaret R., shares the following reflection on her first two days in Lima:

Thus far, our experience in Peru has been amazing! The people are so nice and, being immersed in the culture, my Spanish has already improved. I have been introduced to new foods and a new environment that is fascinating. The girls at the school are normal high school students and I have learned about their daily lives and customs. Today, we went to Huaca de Huallamarca, an ancient ruin right across the street from Colegio Santa Ursula. We walked to the top and looked at the beautiful backdrop of Lima. Señora Sandra who is a Social Studies teacher served as our tour guide and told us about the history of Lima and the lifestyle of early Peruvians. The Incas began construction on the monument and it was used as a temple. In later years, the pyramid was used as a cemetery and then later a storage unit for crops. In addition, Señora Luisa, an art teacher, guided us as we painted a mural filled with shapes, lines, bright colors, and abstract drawings. This art class was so fun and once finished we played traditional Peruvian instruments. It is only the second day and I have already seen and learned so much, I cannot wait for the rest of the trip!

Landed in Wimbledon

The students and chaperones have all made it safely to Wimbledon!  We were greeted with such a warm welcome from the Ursuline High School students and faculty members here.  All of the girls were so excited to see one another and could not wait to begin their trip!  Keep checking the blog for updates on this wonderful experience!

Wimbledon Bound !

Today was another exciting day at DFW airport as we bid farewell to our second delegation of the summer, the Wimbledon Delegation. Tonight this happy group is on British Airways headed toward London - just in time for Wimbledon Tennis and just before the Summer Olympics. We are looking forward to hearing from this delegation as they visit England during this extra special summer!



Greetings from Peru

Today we received this lovely photo from our Peru Delegation. It was taken at the Lima airport upon arrival and, as you see, our Peruvian host sisters were there (at 5 am!) to welcome their Ursuline Dallas sisters with great enthusiasm- so sweet of them! After the airport welcome, all of the students went to our sister school where they were treated to a wonderful welcome breakfast. We can't wait to hear more from Lima in the coming days!

On our way to Peru!

Our happy travelers are now on their way to Peru! This photo was taken this evening at the Miami airport just before boarding the plane to Lima. Even though the photo is a bit fuzzy, the happiness of the group is clear! We can't wait to hear more news from Lima!

Preparing for Summer Travel

The Peru Delegation - can't wait to arrive in Lima!

The Wimbledon Delegation - Ready for London 2012!

Summer is upon us UA and, for two student groups,  it is time to travel! Next week, we will send a delegation to our sister school in Lima, Peru and a delegation to our sister school in Wimbledon, England. Both groups are very excited to experience new cultures and to meet their Ursuline host families. Stay tuned to our blog to read updates from our world travelers!