Vaya con Dios, Amigo

All of us here at Tranquilo Bay will miss our dear friend, Frank Hilson, Sr. He has gone on to a better place. We are forever appreciative of the support he and his wife Joyce have shown us over the years.

While Jim and Jay were here building Tranquilo Bay, Frank, and later, Frank and Joyce, would come visit and check on progress. Frank and Joyce considered purchasing property in Bocas for a time, but then decided to buy a home in Panama City instead. They opened it up to us as our home in Panama City. We all spent a fair amount of time in our home in Panama City. We will always be incredibly appreciative of the hospitality that Frank and Joyce showed us.

Frank and Joyce sold the home in Panama City last year. During their last trip to Panama in March, 2011, they came out and stayed with us for close to a week. It was wonderful to see them again.

Frank’s battle with cancer continued and he passed away quietly at home last night.

As I think through our friendship with Frank and Joyce and what it has meant to all of us, I searched for a quote that fit because I am at a loss for words. I had a hard time finding anything that was right on point, but this is one seems to be one that Frank lived:

“Never get tired of doing little things for others. Sometimes, those little things occupy the biggest part of their hearts.” anonymous

Frank was always doing little things for us. He and Joyce adopted us like we were their children and our children their grandchildren. They have been truly great friends to all of us at Tranquilo Bay. He and Joyce both occupy a special place in our hearts.

We will miss you Frank. Thank you for being a wonderful friend.

Happy Fifth Birthday Boty!

Today is sweet Boty's birthday. We can't believe how time flies. She was born five years ago here in Panama. She is the princess of Tranquilo Bay for sure.

Second time around.

Over the holidays in 2007 we had several families come visit us for the first time. Ironically, of the guests that visited during that time frame, we have had more repeat guests than those that have visited at other times. Last week one of these families came for a second visit. We all had a wonderful time. You can read what they had to say about their stay here.

Here are a few of the photos taken by Robyn. Their son Gabe liked our place so much he has decided to stick around as an intern for a few months. Alexandra, in the top photo, is our new teacher for the children. She and her husband arrived at the same time as this family.

Happy Birthday Jim

Today is Jim's birthday. I won't tell you how old he is as age is a matter of the mind and he will always be younger than the years show him to be. Dalys, our new cook, is making him a coconut flan for his birthday tonight. It is one of his current favorites - so much so that he is forgoing chocolate for his birthday for the first time in years.

Looking for a teacher for our children

Our wonderful teacher is leaving us in May. We are looking for a teacher to begin working with us on July 1, 2011. Anyone interested in the position should send their resume and why they are a great fit for this job to info @ tranquilobay .com. This is a fabulous job for the right person!

Requirements:

• Deliver bilingual instruction given in English and Spanish
• Follow both U.S. and Panamanian curriculum standards simultaneously
• Plan and implement long-term and short-term lesson plans
• Implement plans for mixed grade level classroom based upon curriculum standards (currently 1st and 3rd grades, may support additional grades in the future)
• Plan and implement lessons for varying degrees of skills within the same classroom
• Provide lessons for all subject matter as well as specials suggested by the director (i.e. art, computer)
• Assess individual student needs or gaps in learning and address these appropriately
• Submit extensive written progress reports mid year and end of year
• Organize and submit assignments to director for Panamanian curriculum requirement due dates
• Provide weekly homework assignments and give feedback on completed assignments
• Research and plan field trips based upon standards
• Practice suitable classroom management and social standards
• Maintain appropriate behavior with students and serve as a role model
• Maintain classroom in an organized manner and be responsible for supplies
• Communicate regularly with director (i.e. concerns, needs, change of schedule, accomplishments)
• Follow morning and afternoon school schedules punctually
• Self-monitor and self-motivate

School Schedule:

Monday through Friday 8:30 am to 12:00 pm
Monday – Thursday 2:00 to 5:00 pm (approximate)
Vacation – June, One week every seven weeks (somewhat flexible)

Teacher Characteristics:

• Mature individual with an independent character
• Adaptability to live in a foreign country outside of your comfort zone
• Ability to dwell in a somewhat isolated environment
• Flexibility to coexist and share common and/or work space with other members of staff
• Adaptability to living in a tropical climate with basic accommodations
• Ability to pass several weeks at a time on site

Compensation:

Monthly salary at least $700 per month (dependent upon experience) plus room and board.

Updated to add more information...

Here is a link to some photos and videos to give you more insight into the position and our location: http://bit.ly/eG2Nz4

Panama Eco Adventure - 2011 Episode 2

Here is the next Panama Eco Adventure episode. We had a wonderful family down here with us in February. Jim and Ramon caught the boys surfing on film. Enjoy!

One day at the beach

Family Hike

Happy Birthday Steve!

Today is my younger brother's birthday. It is a big year for him. We wish him a big happy birthday. He and Susan are going to be going through the sleepless nights of a newborn as he ventures into a new decade. We know they will do great. Cameron & Kramer are going to be a big help with the little guy as well. Love to you all.

Viola Boys' Birthday Photo

Here are a few photos that we captured before the party began. They are precious boys. We all love them both very much! And we are lucky that their birthdays are close enough together that they can share the party. Thanks again everyone.

Viola Boys' Birthday Party Recap

Scott decided that he wanted to invite all of his classmates from the Tangerine School on Isla Colon and some of his other friends from Bocas out to Tranquilo Bay for his birthday party. It was a great day. The kids all kayaked, swam, played, ate, beat up the pinata, wrestled for candy - you know all the fun things one does at a birthday party. The parents had some fun too. Here is a quick look at the party and all the children having a great time! Thanks to all that came. It was a great day for all of us.

Happy Anniversary Jim & Renee

Happy 17th Anniversary to Jim and Renee! Many more years of wedded bliss to follow.

Happy Birthday Boty!

Happy Birthday to our little girl. She is the princess of our place. She reigns over all of our hearts.

Bocas Town

Zapatilla Cayes

Tranquilo Bay Grounds

Scenes from Punta Valiente

Family @ Punta Valiente

Women @ Punta Valiente

Children @ Punta Valiente