2024 Florida Keys & Everglades: Day 2
Good evening Bullis parents and community,
Our amazing 7th graders seamlessly "went with the flow today" (literally and figuratively) as our early morning snorkeling plans were postponed due to high winds. We spent the morning instead at Sombrero Beach, kicking off our shoes for a coastal beach cleanup, followed by cast netting for sea critters and absorbing a marine education. Before a picnic lunch, one group kayaked through mangroves and dipped in the gulf.
In the afternoon, our two busses pursued different itineraries; one group went snorkeling with Captain Hook's outfitters while the other continued beach education. Some of our own experienced travel journalists wanted to share their own memories with you:
"Each mangrove felt like the dry scales of a snake. Tranquil tributary, sapphire skies. My shoulders felt like cardboard on an open flame. All the boats were cells in the bloodstream moving along. The maze of mangroves was a never-ending quest of strain and joy." - Zaki M. '29
"The vibrant coral reefs frolicked as the radiant fish slithered through, and luminous waves collided with one another, creating a magnificent scene. The fish school plunged into the depths of the ocean unswervingly while the gradient sun radiated onto the boat, scorching the unsuspecting students. The students romped at the sighting of a majestic shark tail." - Chris L. '29
"The choppy waves greeted us as we entered the beach. The sand was a warm, reassuring blanket under our feet, unlike the piercing coral we soon encountered. The coral were legos you couldn't avoid stepping on, ruthless against your feet. We then split into two different groups; my group explored the ecosystem of the shallow waters. We used nets to collect and categorize the species living in the seagrass. We found hermit crabs, fishes, jellyfish, and many more intriguing creatures. Later, we switched activities and played in the crystal ocean, participating in chicken fights and eye-catching cheer stunts. Afterward, we played an intense war of volleyball and Nukem!" - Maggie F. '29
"We arrive at the sunny beach with a fresh smell of saltwater. We look out onto the sea, looking untouched by earth's issues and at peace. The kind tour guide instructs us to head over to the small alcove off the old wooden dock and scavenge for creatures in the sea. The tightly woven pale net dips into the sea, bringing back small olive-colored leaves and pink transparent jellyfish sloping around the thin fabric. My mind is as peaceful as the calm water soothing me." - Addie D. '29
Your amazing 7th grade crew
