Homecoming

It's hard to believe that one week ago tonight I was heading for the airport, about to embark on an adventure that was yet to unfold. So much was still a mystery to me then, the people I was to meet and share a slice of life with for a week. I was optimistic and not disappointed by having high expectations. The week that I spent on the island was incredible and life-changing in a powerful way. We learned so much in such a short time...it takes my breath away. The relationships we shared gave the entire team such a great vibe; I hated to be saying goodbye as one by one we went our separate ways in Nassau. I plan to stay in touch with them and I'll look forward to our paths crossing again someday. And I'm sure they will.
It was great to return and exciting to see what my school had been doing in my absence. My awesome colleagues incorporated the coral reef into their curriculum, celebrating The Week of the Reef through all grades from K to 5th. Their wholehearted effort and support touches me deeply and makes me appreciate what a special thing we have going at Park School. I hope they know how grateful I am for all they did to celebrate this expedition.
I have yet to fully unpack my bags with report cards due and so many other things to attend to. One major thing I must do is organize my photos (or rather "our" photos since we had a group share on the last night), and put together a presentation for the students to culminate our reef studies. They are such amazing little learners and will make great little scientists, given the opportunity. And the opportunities are there. May they all go on an Earthwatch adventure someday!