Today in rural Jamaica

Today we were assigned to evaluate a SPA project in a small town north of Kingston.  A "SPA" project is one which has had funds applied to it at the request of a PCV.  These funds come from many sources but generally are administered by the Peace Corps.  These have been used in a very targetted manner that allows sometimes amazing results.Anyway, our mission today started with a standard bus ride to Kingston and then taking anotherlarge bus to the town where a garden [also a tourist stop] is being upgraded.  The scenary once one gets away from the city is amazing - truly truly amazing and lovely.  Steep valleys with rushing streams, bamboo, palm trees of every sort, dramatic clouds and flowers bursting everywhere.  Wonderful sights.  The ride on the road in the bus rivals anything we saw in Italy but it was very much worth the ride and the views.  We met other PCT's there as well as 2 PCV who showed us the project.  This rural area is most definitely one I will visit again - hopefully soon.Had a great visit and made our way back to Kingston.  The bus 'schedule' is one where the bus waits at the beginning of the route until the bus is full. THEN it leaves.  That wait, depending on where it is headed may take several hours. Therefore, one only used the term schedule when visiting these areas in only the loosest possible context.  Fortunatey we caught a route taxi and were back in no time.We are very glad we made the decision to come.  Life is good!Best to all and look forward to your letters!Love, Matt and Karen