Boot Camp Training

The day started off with a heavy fog. I sure was glad that we had Boot Camp today and were not planning to be out exploring this morning. After getting nametags, signing photo releases and getting a sweat shirt, it was time for breakfast. Lots of fresh fruit, quiche, waffles, yogurt, granola cereal and then bagels with choice of cream cheeses or jams. Oh almost forgot the huge bowl of hard boiled eggs already peeled. At everyones place was a bag of print materials, video and activity supplies. This is billed as a Science workshop but any teacher can use the ideas to spice up the classroom.

We spent the morning learning ways to engage students in activities. We all tried them this morning and then will have the oportunity to share then with the wait staff during the week. Just before lunch, we had the previledge of hearing from the author of her book "Salmon in the Trees". She shared pictures from the book and talked about her experience collecting the photos and learning about Salmon in the trees. Since it was a $30 book, I would really have to justify the purchase for school. Steve Spangler asked about where one could purchase the book and Amy (author of the book) mentioned Amazon and even a local Seattle book store called Carly. Well, the local book store Carly actually doesn't exist. It seems that Steve's assistant Carly, had arranged for everyone to recieve a copy of the book. Most people spent some of their lunch time standing in line to get their copy signed.

I went wandering around near the hotel for a sandwich shop I hear was up the street and to the left. Never made it to the sandwich shop as I found a crepe stand on the street. I got a ratitoulle crepe (savory crepe) and then a dark chocolate, hazel nut and raspberry crepe for desert. The crepes were great.

This afternoon was spent with a few more activities with Steve. We got instructions about where and when to meet tomorrow morning to head to the ship. All luggage must be tagged with special room tags before they are placed on the bus. We will go through some security at the dock but not like at the air port. No need to separate liquids in plastic zip lock bags etc. We were given the hint that Coke and bottled water can be brought on ship if placed in the checked bags. I have several cans of Coke left that will get packed away for the trip. Paying $3.50 plus 15% gratutite is a little steep for a average size glass with no refills.

Everyone gathered their new supplies, books and sweat shirt up and headed to the room. I ran up and got Steve to sign his book that we had been given with information about the things we had learned today and more. After a quick freshening, it was off to the lobby to head out for the rest of the afternoon with John and Steve. After watching, and recording the flying fish at the fish market, I headed in search of last minute items to purchase and dinner. Since I am in Seattle, I thought fish was a good choice tonight. I got the Captain's Basket