Long Overdue

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