Cayman so far for me...

Hello, Cyber World!!

I have finally found the time to sit down and share my thoughts and feelings about this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!! 

For starters, I AM SO HAPPY WITH OUR TEAM!!! This group of amazing people have made me learn something new every second I spend with them, and since the fact that none of knew what to expect from this trip, I am extreeeemely relieved that we have been able to bond and develop new methods and strategies to reach our goals with the children in music. 

Speaking of the children, I don't think I have ever had such a rewarding experience. This is my first, but certainly not my last*** service trip, and I could not have asked for a better birthday present!!!!! (it's this Saturday)...

I absolutely LOVE all of them!! It's been great to get some serious hands-on experience with music therapy because although our program at Berklee is intense and definitely well-planned, a week of *unsupervised* therapy with a group of children we have never met is uniquely educational. 

Day 1 was a challenge, I must say, and I was really worried about not having the knowledge or experience to handle this project, but today was a wonderful day that I will probably never forget.

Yesterday, we were able to give the children some interesting musical experiences, but they seemed impatient and not very involved, so we were all collectively worried about how to deal with the situation. 

After today, I have to say I am really proud that we were able to give every child a moment to shine!! Our first group, the Yellow Team, started a band called J.J. and the Pink Berets (picked by them), our second group created an imaginary train and sang all of the lyrics, and our third group had a massive jam session during which they expressed a plethora of emotions through drumming solos and duets, and well as guitar playing and a campfire song for closing. 

Our welcome songs for the entire group were AMAZING, with some wonderful leadership skills that Seneca brought, and our entire energy was just on a whole new level of positivity. 

I honestly can't wait for tomorrow!!! We have many plans for the final concert on Friday, and I'm just smiling in my heart all of the time, because for me, this is a huge dream coming true. 

This Saturday, August 20th, I will be particularly thankful for another year of life, with a special feeling of gratitude for being blessed with the chance to make a difference in these children's lives. 

Keeping everyone posted,

Jeniris
8.16.2011