So I’m just as bad about updating this as I thought I would
be. Sorry about that. Life here in Samoa has become more regular and routine,
and while I’m not thrilled with every part of it there are still moments every
day where I’m grateful and excited by this experience. Some highlights have
included:
Getting through first quarter and only failing a few
students
Getting through first quarter with a few students getting
over 100%
Getting through first quarter in general
My students creating Mole Day songs and getting into rap
battles
The pep rallies here, which are unlike anything I’ve ever
seen
Walking home with the afternoon sun lighting Faga’itua bay
Getting really good at hitchhiking
Of course, the weekends are always a good time to visit the
other volunteers and unwind a little bit. Some of our adventures have included
day hikes to secret beaches and waterfalls, weekend trips to the small island
of Aunu’u, and a Halloween movie marathon complete with a carved pumpkin, toasted
seeds, and delicious fall cocktails crafted by yours truly (seriously, apple
sangria tastes like all the best parts of fall and summer in one delicious
cup). It was a nice slice of home that many of us volunteers (especially my
fellow New Englanders) were missing.
But, as we begin second quarter and continue trying to teach
our students something all of us volunteers are looking forward to are our
upcoming breaks. During thanksgiving we’re hoping to get a group out to the
Manu’a islands where a third of our group is stranded. Then for Christmas break
me and another 8 or 9 volunteers will be invading New Zealand. They’re all
excited to go and I’m itching to get back, I just have to figure out what I’m
actually going to do while I’m there haha.
Like I said, things have become fairly regular for all of us
here, and while it’s enjoyable I’m struggling to see the impacts I’m making and
losing some of my focus. Hopefully that won’t last too long. I miss all of you back home very much, and will try to be
better at updating this thing so I can keep you posted. We’re still working on
getting internet access at our house in Faga’itua, which will make it easier to
update and keep in touch with many of you. But until then, a big hug to anyone
reading this, and enjoy the leaves and apple cider I wish I could be drinking.
Mike
