All at Sea

As the ship pushed back from the pier today in Halifax, Nova Scotia, I was overcome thinking of the magnitude of what lies ahead. I have done this before - stood on the deck of the MV Explorer - but that feeling never gets old. Looking straight ahead into the vast ocean, knowing that we will, as just this community, make this crossing together makes one (or at least me) feel fortunate.


What was once a quiet ship is now populated. And we are all at sea. Next stop Cadiz, Spain, on September 4. I am eager to watch this community of people (ranging in age from 6 months to 90 years old) grow to know one another. 


Yes, today I boarded a ship to embark on a voyage that travels the world. And yes, I watched some of my best friends shrink in size as we motored out of the harbor. But I continue to remember the magnitude of what lies ahead. And I continue to be amazed.
 

Hittin' the road

Tomorrow got here fast. When I think about how long I've known I'd be sailing on the fall voyage, I remember feeling like it would never get here. And, now, all of a sudden, tomorrow is here. I can't wait to hit the road and head to Norfolk.

Th ship comes in on Saturday morning. Emily likes to joke and claims the MV Explorer is my real girlfriend. I disagree - but I sure do love watching her come into the final port. We sail to Halifax on Monday night (Emily too!) and then its off on my third voyage. Pretty exciting.


It's going to be one of those nights where I don't sleep much even though I am exhausted. I passed the torch to my graduate intern turned Interim Registrar today. She will do a great job. It felt strange to walk out of the office tonight knowing I won't be back there until January.

A huge adventure lies ahead, and I am grateful for the opportunity. As Kobi Yamada said, "Some experiences simply do not translate; you have to go to know." It's time to go...