Dec 14th
After waking up at 6AM to have breakfast with Christina, Tierney and Annie, we watched the sun rise from the back deck. Everyone was up to share their last few moments together before we pulled into the Miami port. The water was crystal blue, and Dan and I could see dolphins in the water below as we watched the Miami coast line. At 8AM, we started pulling into the port area, so students gathered on the top deck to hold up signs to their parents and wave to those their to greet us. The U.S. Coast Guard started honking their horns and yelling “welcome home” to us. The parents on the pier started cheering as soon as they saw us. Many had huge signs, especially Harry’ parents. They made something that could cover two car lengths. Needless to say, he definitely saw it. As soon as we pulled in, the shipping crane came out to lift our baggage off the ship. Once they had re-distributed passports in the Faculty Staff Lounge, they began calling Seas to disembark. The whole process went a lot faster than any of us expected. By the time they got to the fourth to last sea, it was time for Sara to get off. We had all been standing around Tymitz square to hug good bye those students getting off. Everyone was crying or looked rather solemn. When they called the Mediterranean Sea, we said “good bye” to Sara. I started crying, which in turn made everyone else cry. Next was the Bering Sea, when a whole slew of friends had to leave, including Goldie and Dan. Finally, they called the Arabian Sea, which was the last group of students. We collected our things and together made our way off the ship to swipe our cards one last time. After passing through the terminal to collect our luggage, we passed through immigration. I was too stubborn to get a porter to carry my things (because they line for them was too long), so I had my backpack on, a carry on strapped to me and two enormous duffels dragging in each hand as I headed out the exit. The SAS alumni greeted me and handed me a student directory that I gripped between my teeth as I kept trudging along. One parent even started cheering me on, since probably looked utterly pathetic with enormous luggage strapped to all parts of my body. Finally, I made it to the curb side to wait for Mom to show up. During that time, I met Goldie’s parents, said goodbye to Britney, Jonah and Becca and finally got the hug I was waiting for the last four months! Mom showed up, helped me get my things into the cab and we headed to the airport to go home.
Highs and Lows
My “high” was having the best experiences of my life in one semester. My “low” was leaving the greatest group of friends I will ever meet.
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Day 108 – Packing
Dec 13th
Morning
I woke up at 5Am to check for the sunrise before falling asleep till 6AM for breakfasts Christina, Tierney and I had our very last breakfast on the ship while watching the sunrise come over the sea. I hung out with Spencer, Dan and Brian while the sun was coming up and chatted about going home! We swapped some pictures and videos from the trip. In the afternoon I finally decided to start packing my clothes, which ended up taking up a whole another duffel. After they called our sea, we ragged our stuff down to the bottom floor for the crew to collect. Julie and I wrote on the back of our picture to give helpful hints on what the next 4115 students should and should not do. I also taped my converter to the bottom to the desk as a welcome gift so they wouldn’t have to worry about their laptops running out of batteries around the ship.
Convocation Union
We gathered in the Union for graduation. A good deal of students were recognized for completing college upon the end of this semester, including Becca Valencia, Danny and Tori. Schoppa got up and read a speech about change: yourself, the economy and the world. He said, that “if you can deal with the auto rickshaws of Chennai, than you can handle the diminishing economy at home.” Essentially, he challenged students to integrate the new experiences they have had with home life. He reminded us that North Dakota is the only state not suffering from the economic collapse, so perhaps many of us would like to move up there to find a job. Then Tien sang “My Companion,” which he wrote on the trip about friendship and traveling. Schoppa called each graduation seniors name and they stood to take a bow, scream in enthusiasm or jump around. When they called one kid’s name, a bunch of friends threw condom balloons into the air in celebration. This kinda threw Schoppa off a little. Jack Van der Water got up to congradulate us on a great voyage. He started with “I’m proud of most of you” and then encouraged us to “think globally, act locally.” His final words were his slogan: Be safe, be smart and have fun. Professor Laxmi got up to sing a traditional Indian song dedicated to everyone on the voyage. Then we heard speeches from a student representative, a faculty representative and a staff representative about what a changing and moving experience it has been with everyone on the trip. Finally, Michelle sang a beautiful jazzy song before Schoppa announced the students with 4.0s who could get off the ship with Faculty in the second group and the awards from the World Food Summit.
USA Pre-port
Following Convocation, we stayed for US pre-port, which is essentially a big joke about the US and what we have to expect from American culture. Accordingly, the cultural norms include no public urination, no public nudity, stand at arms length form people and driving laws are not suggestions. Street lines and signs actually do mean something here. They encouraged us to remember that 100mph is not the same as 100kmph, even if it could be just as fun. Most Americans are only fluent in English, but some words to help you out include “please,” “goodbye,” and “Facebook.” Foreign currencies are not accepted. Americans use the dollar, which is pegged to the dollar at a rate of 1-1. Then they presented us with the 10 ten music hits at the moment and the top 10 movies out in theatres. We didn’t recognize any of them. More updates, included Bragalina not adopting another child, Tara Reed went to rehab, Huge Jackson was named sexiest man alive and Miley Cyrus got a hand me down porche to show she is not spoiled. Afterward, the LLC’s showed a video titled “A Day in the Life of Your LLC,” which included showing them sleeping till the afternoon and in training sessions. Their sessions included a naughty and nice list, alcohol distribution after confiscation, a student hook up chart and staff development otherwise known as creeping tactics. It was thoroughly amusing. Then Brad and Brian got up to re-enact Bob “The Voice” and Jack’s conversations in front of the students during pre-ports. Brad did the most amazing impression of Jack’s voice that it was almost creepy. Then Brian got up to run through the process of disembarkment when we arrive in Miami.
Highs and Lows
My “high” was staying up most of the night watching Weeds and hanging out with friends. My “low” was realizing it was the very last night we would all be together on the boat.
Morning
I woke up at 5Am to check for the sunrise before falling asleep till 6AM for breakfasts Christina, Tierney and I had our very last breakfast on the ship while watching the sunrise come over the sea. I hung out with Spencer, Dan and Brian while the sun was coming up and chatted about going home! We swapped some pictures and videos from the trip. In the afternoon I finally decided to start packing my clothes, which ended up taking up a whole another duffel. After they called our sea, we ragged our stuff down to the bottom floor for the crew to collect. Julie and I wrote on the back of our picture to give helpful hints on what the next 4115 students should and should not do. I also taped my converter to the bottom to the desk as a welcome gift so they wouldn’t have to worry about their laptops running out of batteries around the ship.
Convocation Union
We gathered in the Union for graduation. A good deal of students were recognized for completing college upon the end of this semester, including Becca Valencia, Danny and Tori. Schoppa got up and read a speech about change: yourself, the economy and the world. He said, that “if you can deal with the auto rickshaws of Chennai, than you can handle the diminishing economy at home.” Essentially, he challenged students to integrate the new experiences they have had with home life. He reminded us that North Dakota is the only state not suffering from the economic collapse, so perhaps many of us would like to move up there to find a job. Then Tien sang “My Companion,” which he wrote on the trip about friendship and traveling. Schoppa called each graduation seniors name and they stood to take a bow, scream in enthusiasm or jump around. When they called one kid’s name, a bunch of friends threw condom balloons into the air in celebration. This kinda threw Schoppa off a little. Jack Van der Water got up to congradulate us on a great voyage. He started with “I’m proud of most of you” and then encouraged us to “think globally, act locally.” His final words were his slogan: Be safe, be smart and have fun. Professor Laxmi got up to sing a traditional Indian song dedicated to everyone on the voyage. Then we heard speeches from a student representative, a faculty representative and a staff representative about what a changing and moving experience it has been with everyone on the trip. Finally, Michelle sang a beautiful jazzy song before Schoppa announced the students with 4.0s who could get off the ship with Faculty in the second group and the awards from the World Food Summit.
USA Pre-port
Following Convocation, we stayed for US pre-port, which is essentially a big joke about the US and what we have to expect from American culture. Accordingly, the cultural norms include no public urination, no public nudity, stand at arms length form people and driving laws are not suggestions. Street lines and signs actually do mean something here. They encouraged us to remember that 100mph is not the same as 100kmph, even if it could be just as fun. Most Americans are only fluent in English, but some words to help you out include “please,” “goodbye,” and “Facebook.” Foreign currencies are not accepted. Americans use the dollar, which is pegged to the dollar at a rate of 1-1. Then they presented us with the 10 ten music hits at the moment and the top 10 movies out in theatres. We didn’t recognize any of them. More updates, included Bragalina not adopting another child, Tara Reed went to rehab, Huge Jackson was named sexiest man alive and Miley Cyrus got a hand me down porche to show she is not spoiled. Afterward, the LLC’s showed a video titled “A Day in the Life of Your LLC,” which included showing them sleeping till the afternoon and in training sessions. Their sessions included a naughty and nice list, alcohol distribution after confiscation, a student hook up chart and staff development otherwise known as creeping tactics. It was thoroughly amusing. Then Brad and Brian got up to re-enact Bob “The Voice” and Jack’s conversations in front of the students during pre-ports. Brad did the most amazing impression of Jack’s voice that it was almost creepy. Then Brian got up to run through the process of disembarkment when we arrive in Miami.
Highs and Lows
My “high” was staying up most of the night watching Weeds and hanging out with friends. My “low” was realizing it was the very last night we would all be together on the boat.
Friday, December 12, 2008
Day 107 – Packing
Dec 12th
Reorientation/Re-entry
I got up to spend the morning with Julie lounging in bed. Eventually, Britney called and convinced me to get up for food. We had a quick lunch of chicken soup, before I headed to the gym with Sara and Goldie. Then we picked up our yellow fever cards, which they made it seem like if we loose it the punishment is death. Or, not re-entering the US, which would feel like death at this point. There is a serious buzz around the ship about getting back home. Personally, I’m mixed between the excitement of going home and near depression over leaving such a fabulous group of friends and experiences. After the first shower I took in two days, Sara, Goldie, Britney, Becca and I went to the Union to a student activity called “Reflection and Re-entry.” Basically, they had a panel discussion and presentations about returning home to warn us about feelings we might experience. They even had this whole diagram about the re-entry process that starts with excitement for being home then realization that things have changed then reverse-homesickness about going back and finally adaptation to home life. The doctor panel heavily warned us about boredom and depression. Britney, Sara, Becca and I left to grab snacks on the pool deck before heading back to hear a “breakout session” about the current economic conditions. Professor Warnock discussed the logistics of rent inflations, college endowment funds and employment options. It was pretty interesting, but a little scary to hear.
Packed Up
After the presentation, I took everything out of my closet and drawers to pack for home. The room looked like a tornado went through it and threw up clothes mixed in with African wood work, Indian scarves and Asian artwork. After I was done, it was all neatly packed into two ENORMOUS duffels. I had only come with one, but the accumulation of gifts and souvenirs ended up requiring more space. After successfully emptying every nock and cranny from the room, I meandered around the ship talking to friends, swapping pictures, taking music and getting email addresses to anyone I ran into.
Music Video
With some time to kill, Becca, Goldie and I decided to make our very own music. Goldie selected “All around the World,” the best choice for a mini tour of the ship and a good way to spend an hour. Goldie and I were the dancers, so we grabbed Britney’s flags that she had purchased from each country as props. We started in the library running through the stalks and then went to the computer lab to dance around Sara and Britney. We also got some shots in the dining hall, which included a star appearance from a waiter named Darwin, the Union, classrooms and the ship store. After Goldie and I danced our little hearts out (and got some weird looks in the process), Becca took the footage and put the video together. Look out for it on Facebook or UTube. We’ll post it sometime soon.
Rest of the Night
After dinner, we went to see Danny, Todd, Lauren and Ryan perform in the Rockapella concert. They were amazing, since each member took on their own song to take the lead in. Later, we headed to the last Pub Night to hang out with friends and enjoy some of our last time together. The long was super long, since everyone realized it was their last time to enjoy drinks on the ship. I just relaxed with some water, since I refused to buy the drink card that they almost charged me double for the last time. After enough time socializing, Sara, Britney and Goldie went back to their room to hang out. After deciding that Goldie’s hair was too long, we convinced her that I was an expert hair stylists. So, I cut her hair a few inches, just like I did my Barbie’s when I was younger. She looked great and was very happy with the results. Afterward, we all settled in to watch Step Brothers. I was the only one who stayed awake, since I can’t fall sleep during movies. I found it mildly hilarious.
Highs and Lows
My “high” was leaving Sara, Goldie, Britney and Becca to fall asleep on each other like puppies after finishing Step Brothers. My “low” was packing everything and realizing we were done with the semester.
Reorientation/Re-entry
I got up to spend the morning with Julie lounging in bed. Eventually, Britney called and convinced me to get up for food. We had a quick lunch of chicken soup, before I headed to the gym with Sara and Goldie. Then we picked up our yellow fever cards, which they made it seem like if we loose it the punishment is death. Or, not re-entering the US, which would feel like death at this point. There is a serious buzz around the ship about getting back home. Personally, I’m mixed between the excitement of going home and near depression over leaving such a fabulous group of friends and experiences. After the first shower I took in two days, Sara, Goldie, Britney, Becca and I went to the Union to a student activity called “Reflection and Re-entry.” Basically, they had a panel discussion and presentations about returning home to warn us about feelings we might experience. They even had this whole diagram about the re-entry process that starts with excitement for being home then realization that things have changed then reverse-homesickness about going back and finally adaptation to home life. The doctor panel heavily warned us about boredom and depression. Britney, Sara, Becca and I left to grab snacks on the pool deck before heading back to hear a “breakout session” about the current economic conditions. Professor Warnock discussed the logistics of rent inflations, college endowment funds and employment options. It was pretty interesting, but a little scary to hear.
Packed Up
After the presentation, I took everything out of my closet and drawers to pack for home. The room looked like a tornado went through it and threw up clothes mixed in with African wood work, Indian scarves and Asian artwork. After I was done, it was all neatly packed into two ENORMOUS duffels. I had only come with one, but the accumulation of gifts and souvenirs ended up requiring more space. After successfully emptying every nock and cranny from the room, I meandered around the ship talking to friends, swapping pictures, taking music and getting email addresses to anyone I ran into.
Music Video
With some time to kill, Becca, Goldie and I decided to make our very own music. Goldie selected “All around the World,” the best choice for a mini tour of the ship and a good way to spend an hour. Goldie and I were the dancers, so we grabbed Britney’s flags that she had purchased from each country as props. We started in the library running through the stalks and then went to the computer lab to dance around Sara and Britney. We also got some shots in the dining hall, which included a star appearance from a waiter named Darwin, the Union, classrooms and the ship store. After Goldie and I danced our little hearts out (and got some weird looks in the process), Becca took the footage and put the video together. Look out for it on Facebook or UTube. We’ll post it sometime soon.
Rest of the Night
After dinner, we went to see Danny, Todd, Lauren and Ryan perform in the Rockapella concert. They were amazing, since each member took on their own song to take the lead in. Later, we headed to the last Pub Night to hang out with friends and enjoy some of our last time together. The long was super long, since everyone realized it was their last time to enjoy drinks on the ship. I just relaxed with some water, since I refused to buy the drink card that they almost charged me double for the last time. After enough time socializing, Sara, Britney and Goldie went back to their room to hang out. After deciding that Goldie’s hair was too long, we convinced her that I was an expert hair stylists. So, I cut her hair a few inches, just like I did my Barbie’s when I was younger. She looked great and was very happy with the results. Afterward, we all settled in to watch Step Brothers. I was the only one who stayed awake, since I can’t fall sleep during movies. I found it mildly hilarious.
Highs and Lows
My “high” was leaving Sara, Goldie, Britney and Becca to fall asleep on each other like puppies after finishing Step Brothers. My “low” was packing everything and realizing we were done with the semester.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Day 106 – Panama Canal
Dec 11th
The Canal
Despite going to bed at 4AM, Sara, Goldie and I woke up at nine to watch us go through the Panama Canal. While selecting a shirt to wear, I flipped open my blinds to find a few canal workers in hard hats standing across the ledge outside my window. I screamed, although I don’t think they heard me, and dove on my bed for cover. I stayed crouched down for a few mins before finding it safe enough to close the window, throw on a shirt and run to meet Sara and Goldie. The whole process was a lot slower than we could have imagined. The lack of sleep last night didn’t help, since all we really wanted to do was crawl back into bed. Of course, we didn’t realize we would be going through the gates all day until six o’clock tonight when we reached the Pacific. So, we spent some time taking pictures of the lush green surroundings, murky water and canal operators who were working at each gate. Professor Sobey made periodic announcements about every 30 minutes about which body of water we were in, the number of gallons (16 Olympic swimming pools) filled each gate and how long the canal was itself. Very informative, but not an easy thing to sleep through. We watched as small trains drove along side the canal with ropes that dragged us through each gate. We had to sit and wait for water to fill us up to the next elevation level each time, so needless to say the whole process would be a lot more exciting in fast forward. Regardless, I was really impressed that the ship never hit the edges, seeing as there was only a few feet of space on each side. After an enjoyable brunch where the eggs were actually completely cooked for the first time, we headed to Britney and Becca’s room to watch a marathon of Sex and The City and take periodic naps.
Evening Activities
Once we reached the Caribbean Ocean, the ship got remarkably rocky. Perhaps that’s just because we were remarkably stationary throughout the canal crossing. After dinner with Falyn, Britney and Becca, I went to listen to Julie get serenaded by Tien, another SAS student with the most amazing voice. Julie and her two friends Stef and Cynthia had won the serenade and a number of his self-made CDs at the Students for Service auction. He sang a bunch of songs about his “hopeless crushes,” which made him all the more adorable. Later, Britney, Becca, Goldie and Sara dragged me out of bed to see the ‘Grande Finale Talent Show’ in the Union. Once again, Bobbie MCed that acts that included: a ballet dance, a few singers and a bunch of guys with guitars trying to be sexy. (It kinda worked.) My LLC Brooke came out of no where with one of the best voices I have heard on this trip. Armon sang an “interesting” song/poem about plagiarism in a Russian ascent. A group of guys raped about the trip, which was freaking hilarious. Chris brought out some raggae with a song he wrote on the trip.
Highs and Lows
My “high” was enjoying the greatest man-made wonder of the world (because it brought me much closer to home). My “low” was realizing that this “intermission” between countries and going home pretty much just consists of eating and watching SATC.
The Canal
Despite going to bed at 4AM, Sara, Goldie and I woke up at nine to watch us go through the Panama Canal. While selecting a shirt to wear, I flipped open my blinds to find a few canal workers in hard hats standing across the ledge outside my window. I screamed, although I don’t think they heard me, and dove on my bed for cover. I stayed crouched down for a few mins before finding it safe enough to close the window, throw on a shirt and run to meet Sara and Goldie. The whole process was a lot slower than we could have imagined. The lack of sleep last night didn’t help, since all we really wanted to do was crawl back into bed. Of course, we didn’t realize we would be going through the gates all day until six o’clock tonight when we reached the Pacific. So, we spent some time taking pictures of the lush green surroundings, murky water and canal operators who were working at each gate. Professor Sobey made periodic announcements about every 30 minutes about which body of water we were in, the number of gallons (16 Olympic swimming pools) filled each gate and how long the canal was itself. Very informative, but not an easy thing to sleep through. We watched as small trains drove along side the canal with ropes that dragged us through each gate. We had to sit and wait for water to fill us up to the next elevation level each time, so needless to say the whole process would be a lot more exciting in fast forward. Regardless, I was really impressed that the ship never hit the edges, seeing as there was only a few feet of space on each side. After an enjoyable brunch where the eggs were actually completely cooked for the first time, we headed to Britney and Becca’s room to watch a marathon of Sex and The City and take periodic naps.
Evening Activities
Once we reached the Caribbean Ocean, the ship got remarkably rocky. Perhaps that’s just because we were remarkably stationary throughout the canal crossing. After dinner with Falyn, Britney and Becca, I went to listen to Julie get serenaded by Tien, another SAS student with the most amazing voice. Julie and her two friends Stef and Cynthia had won the serenade and a number of his self-made CDs at the Students for Service auction. He sang a bunch of songs about his “hopeless crushes,” which made him all the more adorable. Later, Britney, Becca, Goldie and Sara dragged me out of bed to see the ‘Grande Finale Talent Show’ in the Union. Once again, Bobbie MCed that acts that included: a ballet dance, a few singers and a bunch of guys with guitars trying to be sexy. (It kinda worked.) My LLC Brooke came out of no where with one of the best voices I have heard on this trip. Armon sang an “interesting” song/poem about plagiarism in a Russian ascent. A group of guys raped about the trip, which was freaking hilarious. Chris brought out some raggae with a song he wrote on the trip.
Highs and Lows
My “high” was enjoying the greatest man-made wonder of the world (because it brought me much closer to home). My “low” was realizing that this “intermission” between countries and going home pretty much just consists of eating and watching SATC.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Day 105 – Ship Time
Dec 10th
Morning
My alarm went off at 10AM to get to the gym to meet Sara and Goldie, but I was way too tried and hit snooze before passing out again. I later woke up at 1PM, and found out that I successfully slept later than Britney Brit! That’s huge. I grabbed a quick snack for lunch before visiting Sara and Goldie on the top deck where half the boat was sun tanning or sleeping in the sun. After responding to some emails, I went with Becca and Britney to the Union for a disembarkment information session.
Disembarkment Meeting
Jack and Bob “The Voice” announced that we officially raised $30,000 through Students for Service due to the kindness of the Life Long Learners and some of the students’ drunken mistakes. Other announcements were as follows: There are no cash advances at the Purser’s desk, so if you have to pay off US customs you have to find money elsewhere. The last day for laundry was today. Now we just accumulate dirty socks until we get home to do it ourselves. We are each getting five luggage tags to attach to our oversized duffels for the crew to collect and take off the boat for us. For this, they are using a small crane, so we are advised to make sure the luggage is well sealed. After going over the disembarkment order, the Arabian Sea realized the only group that gets off after us are the “administrative boxes,” which are boxes of professor’s books. Otherwise, we are stuck there to the bitter end. Students for Service is also collecting unwanted, but gently used clothes, beddings, school supplies and toiletries that you don’t want to pack for the next two days.
Ambassador’s Ball
The girls (Britney, Sara, Goldie, Becca, Falyn) and I started getting all gussied up at around 6PM. All the guys were donning their tailor made suits from Vietnam. This included colors of orange, African print and purple suede. All girls had done up their hair, make up and wore their favorite dresses and hells. It was really weird seeing everyone in something else other than sweatpants or jeans. Becca, Britney, Sara, Goldie and I went to the Union to hear some “entertainment,” which consisted of Tien serenading us with the voice that I’m dating, Michelle re-creating Nora Jones for us and two professors playing classical piano. By 8PM, it was time for dinner. The fifth floor dining hall was decked out in a Chinese “A Forbidden Night” theme with paper dragons on the walls and lanterns floating about. As you walked in they handed you champaign in a real glass (as opposed to the plastic ones they hand you at Pub Night). We found our table, which was all the way in the back on the right. The table was stuck in a group of tables with other friends, so it was perfect to run around and take pictures with everyone. Darwin, our waiter, brought out the dishes, which included wonton and dim sum appetizers, sweet and sour soup, a mixed salad and file minon with veggies. Everything was delicious, except for the soup that was too spicy. Britney, a self-designated Chalula addict, polished off a few bowls. Between each course we reminisced about the trip, and talked about our favorite ports, favorite memories, best thing we learned and what/who we will remember most. It’s really hard to believe that this trip is actually ending. We have been stuck in our own bubble for so long that going back to reality will be quite a change. Regardless, we still don’t have to think about it for a few days. So, after we wrote down one thing that we wanted to remind ourselves of in the future and then all signed each others cards, we headed upstairs to socialize. Dessert came out a little while later. It was a long buffet of cheesecake, brownies, lemon cakes, fondue and fruit. After indulging, we headed to the Union, where a dance party had been set up with lights, streamers, balloons and blasting music. It really reminded me of a Bat Mitzah with the music choices, but we boogied away for a few hours before heading to Britney and Becca’s room to get into sweats and hang out. We flipped through slide shows of pictures from the trip, most of which made us hysterically laugh. About 60% of the pictures were just of me, since I am a bit of a camera whore due to my philosophy that “the more you take, the more bad ones you can delete.” I think Goldie will never ever forget my smiling face seeing how many times I used her camera recently.
Highs and Lows
My “high” was spending the time to sit down and really enjoy the company of friends. My “low” was not being able to take them home with me.
Morning
My alarm went off at 10AM to get to the gym to meet Sara and Goldie, but I was way too tried and hit snooze before passing out again. I later woke up at 1PM, and found out that I successfully slept later than Britney Brit! That’s huge. I grabbed a quick snack for lunch before visiting Sara and Goldie on the top deck where half the boat was sun tanning or sleeping in the sun. After responding to some emails, I went with Becca and Britney to the Union for a disembarkment information session.
Disembarkment Meeting
Jack and Bob “The Voice” announced that we officially raised $30,000 through Students for Service due to the kindness of the Life Long Learners and some of the students’ drunken mistakes. Other announcements were as follows: There are no cash advances at the Purser’s desk, so if you have to pay off US customs you have to find money elsewhere. The last day for laundry was today. Now we just accumulate dirty socks until we get home to do it ourselves. We are each getting five luggage tags to attach to our oversized duffels for the crew to collect and take off the boat for us. For this, they are using a small crane, so we are advised to make sure the luggage is well sealed. After going over the disembarkment order, the Arabian Sea realized the only group that gets off after us are the “administrative boxes,” which are boxes of professor’s books. Otherwise, we are stuck there to the bitter end. Students for Service is also collecting unwanted, but gently used clothes, beddings, school supplies and toiletries that you don’t want to pack for the next two days.
Ambassador’s Ball
The girls (Britney, Sara, Goldie, Becca, Falyn) and I started getting all gussied up at around 6PM. All the guys were donning their tailor made suits from Vietnam. This included colors of orange, African print and purple suede. All girls had done up their hair, make up and wore their favorite dresses and hells. It was really weird seeing everyone in something else other than sweatpants or jeans. Becca, Britney, Sara, Goldie and I went to the Union to hear some “entertainment,” which consisted of Tien serenading us with the voice that I’m dating, Michelle re-creating Nora Jones for us and two professors playing classical piano. By 8PM, it was time for dinner. The fifth floor dining hall was decked out in a Chinese “A Forbidden Night” theme with paper dragons on the walls and lanterns floating about. As you walked in they handed you champaign in a real glass (as opposed to the plastic ones they hand you at Pub Night). We found our table, which was all the way in the back on the right. The table was stuck in a group of tables with other friends, so it was perfect to run around and take pictures with everyone. Darwin, our waiter, brought out the dishes, which included wonton and dim sum appetizers, sweet and sour soup, a mixed salad and file minon with veggies. Everything was delicious, except for the soup that was too spicy. Britney, a self-designated Chalula addict, polished off a few bowls. Between each course we reminisced about the trip, and talked about our favorite ports, favorite memories, best thing we learned and what/who we will remember most. It’s really hard to believe that this trip is actually ending. We have been stuck in our own bubble for so long that going back to reality will be quite a change. Regardless, we still don’t have to think about it for a few days. So, after we wrote down one thing that we wanted to remind ourselves of in the future and then all signed each others cards, we headed upstairs to socialize. Dessert came out a little while later. It was a long buffet of cheesecake, brownies, lemon cakes, fondue and fruit. After indulging, we headed to the Union, where a dance party had been set up with lights, streamers, balloons and blasting music. It really reminded me of a Bat Mitzah with the music choices, but we boogied away for a few hours before heading to Britney and Becca’s room to get into sweats and hang out. We flipped through slide shows of pictures from the trip, most of which made us hysterically laugh. About 60% of the pictures were just of me, since I am a bit of a camera whore due to my philosophy that “the more you take, the more bad ones you can delete.” I think Goldie will never ever forget my smiling face seeing how many times I used her camera recently.
Highs and Lows
My “high” was spending the time to sit down and really enjoy the company of friends. My “low” was not being able to take them home with me.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Day 104 – “Last Day on Land”
Dec 9th
Last Stop
For our last day, Becca, Cassidy, Ryan and Torrie left early to go on a canopy tour. The rest of us hung around the house and made cereal, fried plantains and left over beer for breakfast. We spent the morning cleaning up the house, finishing the beers and lounging around the pool. While Jonah and Goldie played frisbee, we found an enormous iguana that lived in the next door lot. Britney spent most of the morning in the hammock, while Goldie and I played catch with a rubber ball in the pool. After saying good bye to Alfronzo, the family and Bronco, we headed back to central Puntarenas to enjoy a late lunch and get back on the ship. We wandered around and away from the generally pricy tourist area to find a quaint local eatery on the road side. We ordered chicken fajitas and garlic fish with fries and cokes on the side. It was a wonderful meal for $4. Afterward, Jonah, Britney and I headed to the internet café across the street where I unsuccessfully tried to log onto OASIS (Vandy’s online class registration) to sign up for classes I got bumped out of. Instead, I read all my birthday Facebook posts. Jonah, Britney and I then wandered about town toward the direction of the ship and check out a few shops to spend our last colones. When we finally made it to the pier, we trekked down the 300 yard pier back to the ship.
Ship Time
Unfortunately, not as many students were as drunk and entertaining as I had hoped they would be, but a lot of students failed a “random” drug test. I don’t know what will happen to them, but the prescribed punishment is withheld academic credit. Dinner back on deck six was ‘Around the World’ themed, so it included things like Costa Rican rice and beans and Indian curry chicken. Of course, they faithfully managed to stick iceberg lettuce in there anyway. Later Goldie, Sara, Britney and I watched a marathon of SATC, before Goldie left us to enjoy a champaign and cookie reception with her Sea. They had the highest percentage of student donations to the Alumni Fund, so they got to join faculty and staff in the Faculty Lounge for drinks and dessert. She and Becca V. managed to smuggle back some cookies for us anyway. While walking back to Britney and Becca’s room, we came across Jonah in the hallway. So, we ended up sitting around for hours blocking traffic and munching on cookies. Greg, the camera crew guy, found us and taped us “in our habitat.” We just kept breaking into laughter every time someone said “fuck” or “shit” and then realized Greg was still filming. I’m not sure how much of that tape he is going to use, unless he wants to show people what happens after too much time on a ship.
Highs and Lows
My “high” was reading Facebook birthday wishes (because they have shamelessly become one of my favorite things to do post-birthdays). My “low” was leaving our magical yellow-and-blue oasis of carefree fun.
Last Stop
For our last day, Becca, Cassidy, Ryan and Torrie left early to go on a canopy tour. The rest of us hung around the house and made cereal, fried plantains and left over beer for breakfast. We spent the morning cleaning up the house, finishing the beers and lounging around the pool. While Jonah and Goldie played frisbee, we found an enormous iguana that lived in the next door lot. Britney spent most of the morning in the hammock, while Goldie and I played catch with a rubber ball in the pool. After saying good bye to Alfronzo, the family and Bronco, we headed back to central Puntarenas to enjoy a late lunch and get back on the ship. We wandered around and away from the generally pricy tourist area to find a quaint local eatery on the road side. We ordered chicken fajitas and garlic fish with fries and cokes on the side. It was a wonderful meal for $4. Afterward, Jonah, Britney and I headed to the internet café across the street where I unsuccessfully tried to log onto OASIS (Vandy’s online class registration) to sign up for classes I got bumped out of. Instead, I read all my birthday Facebook posts. Jonah, Britney and I then wandered about town toward the direction of the ship and check out a few shops to spend our last colones. When we finally made it to the pier, we trekked down the 300 yard pier back to the ship.
Ship Time
Unfortunately, not as many students were as drunk and entertaining as I had hoped they would be, but a lot of students failed a “random” drug test. I don’t know what will happen to them, but the prescribed punishment is withheld academic credit. Dinner back on deck six was ‘Around the World’ themed, so it included things like Costa Rican rice and beans and Indian curry chicken. Of course, they faithfully managed to stick iceberg lettuce in there anyway. Later Goldie, Sara, Britney and I watched a marathon of SATC, before Goldie left us to enjoy a champaign and cookie reception with her Sea. They had the highest percentage of student donations to the Alumni Fund, so they got to join faculty and staff in the Faculty Lounge for drinks and dessert. She and Becca V. managed to smuggle back some cookies for us anyway. While walking back to Britney and Becca’s room, we came across Jonah in the hallway. So, we ended up sitting around for hours blocking traffic and munching on cookies. Greg, the camera crew guy, found us and taped us “in our habitat.” We just kept breaking into laughter every time someone said “fuck” or “shit” and then realized Greg was still filming. I’m not sure how much of that tape he is going to use, unless he wants to show people what happens after too much time on a ship.
Highs and Lows
My “high” was reading Facebook birthday wishes (because they have shamelessly become one of my favorite things to do post-birthdays). My “low” was leaving our magical yellow-and-blue oasis of carefree fun.
Monday, December 8, 2008
Day 103 – Puntarenas
Dec 8th
Breakfast
Sara, Jonah and Ryan made pancakes, scrambled eggs and toast for everyone. It was much better than boat breakfast, and just felt great to wake up and sit around the table with everyone in the morning. A lot of the conversation surrounded what foolish things people did last night and what things we hope they could remember. Ex: “No, Goldie, Todd’s skuzzy clinger did NOT throw up in your bed last night.” And “Yes, Todd, you were pull dancing around the enormous wooden block that holds the house up.”
Pool Activities
We spent the rest of the morning, goofing around the pool. I convinced everyone to start drinking again with enticing breakfast juices. Falyn tanned herself by the pool. Cassidy, Becca and Torrie slept in very late. Sara and Goldie had hand stand contests, while Todd filmed underwater. Goldie and I raced each other in inner tubes. Sara, Goldie, Todd and I filmed underwater shots with flips and dives. After feeding the parots, Alfronzo cut down a coconut with a machete and gave us the pieces to nibble on. Almost everyone ended up laying out in the sun (except for me since I knew I would get heat rash almost instantly in the heat.) Britney and I took naps in the hammocks with beers in hand. We spent hours just taking pictures of our beautiful little oasis. We couldn’t believe how amazing the place was and how happy we were to spend the time together.
Lunchtime
In the early afternoon, we decided to head into Central Puntarenas to see what the town was like and get some traditional lunch. We hoped into taxis that took us on 20 min tours of the run down buildings, small houses and heat-drenched people of Costa Rica. The scenery was beautiful, but you could see the utter dilapidation of the area. The taxi drivers recommended a wonderful open-air seafood place right in the center of town. We ordered a pitcher of margarita, which ended up being disgustingly sour and waters before diving into orders of ceviche (shrimp cocktail) and this plantain dish. Goldie mis-ordered, but we shared this delicious dish of fried plantains that you cover with bean paste and cheese. Then we passed around tastes of garlic fish, beans and rice and shredded chicken. I was happy to discover some new favorite tastes to take home. After that we split into groups to walk around town for a bit. Britney, Sara, Goldie, Becca and I walked to the pier side of town where we found the Explorer sitting idly along a long and empty pier. There were tons of small tourist shops filled with hammocks, beach hats, embroidered bags and hemp jewelry. We walked along to the supermarket where we found ice cream and “Negroito” candy. The candy actually features a black man with an afro on the cover. That would totally not fly in the US. Regardless, I bought out the display on the counter. Goldie ordered a Fanta that they then poured into a bag that she had to carry around, since you aren’t allowed to carry bottles.
Afternoon
As it got late and the heat was wearing us down, we headed back to Casa de Rector to take naps and rest up for tonight. Eventually, the music started blasting and calling everyone to get up, get dressed and get drinking! Becca V. decided to treat us to dinner for the last night, since we wanted to have a family dinner. Goldie, Jonah and I pulled some tables together to try and fit all 14 of us together. While we set the table, Sara made fresh gucuamole and Becca V. and Falyn made nachos. Ryan and Dan prepared the macaroni and cheese, while the chicken was barbequing on the grill. After we all settled down and made sure everyone had a nice sized drink in their hands, Becca V. made the most moving speech about our time on the trip together. She started to cry almost on command, but we were all seriously touched by it. They we dug in and shared some wonderfully “homemade” food for the first time in a long time.
Fiesta Round Two
Sara, Britney and Falyn started a power hour that I kindly declined the invitation from to stick to my delicious champaign cocktails that I was treating myself to for my birthday. (Side note: my birthday lasted throughout the entire trip to Costa Rica.) The music was blasting as we danced around Todd and Spencer who remained passed out on the living room couches despite the commotion. Goldie took glamour shots of Sara and I with Sprite cans. (We have no idea why.) We went over to the other SAS house, but they only had radio and did not feel like sharing drinks, so we returned to Casa de Rector and brought along those SASers who wanted to have more fun. We had this incredible dance party that we captured in multiple video shots. Specer dancing was the all time best! Unfortunately, Todd did not pull out his pole dancing routine again. He did manage to pull a train of girls out of the kitchen into the living room though. Some of us got back into the pool to swim and splash around. Later, Britney, who is the most innocent and reserved of the bunch, used this idea to purpose skinny dipping in the ocean. So, inevitably all 22 SASers got rallied up at her liberation and charged the ocean naked. If only there had been someone on the beach to capture the moment everyone came thundering down the hill into the water. It would have been priceless.
Highs and Lows
My “high” was sitting around for family dinner. My “low” was falling asleep next to Sara with a boob hanging out.
Breakfast
Sara, Jonah and Ryan made pancakes, scrambled eggs and toast for everyone. It was much better than boat breakfast, and just felt great to wake up and sit around the table with everyone in the morning. A lot of the conversation surrounded what foolish things people did last night and what things we hope they could remember. Ex: “No, Goldie, Todd’s skuzzy clinger did NOT throw up in your bed last night.” And “Yes, Todd, you were pull dancing around the enormous wooden block that holds the house up.”
Pool Activities
We spent the rest of the morning, goofing around the pool. I convinced everyone to start drinking again with enticing breakfast juices. Falyn tanned herself by the pool. Cassidy, Becca and Torrie slept in very late. Sara and Goldie had hand stand contests, while Todd filmed underwater. Goldie and I raced each other in inner tubes. Sara, Goldie, Todd and I filmed underwater shots with flips and dives. After feeding the parots, Alfronzo cut down a coconut with a machete and gave us the pieces to nibble on. Almost everyone ended up laying out in the sun (except for me since I knew I would get heat rash almost instantly in the heat.) Britney and I took naps in the hammocks with beers in hand. We spent hours just taking pictures of our beautiful little oasis. We couldn’t believe how amazing the place was and how happy we were to spend the time together.
Lunchtime
In the early afternoon, we decided to head into Central Puntarenas to see what the town was like and get some traditional lunch. We hoped into taxis that took us on 20 min tours of the run down buildings, small houses and heat-drenched people of Costa Rica. The scenery was beautiful, but you could see the utter dilapidation of the area. The taxi drivers recommended a wonderful open-air seafood place right in the center of town. We ordered a pitcher of margarita, which ended up being disgustingly sour and waters before diving into orders of ceviche (shrimp cocktail) and this plantain dish. Goldie mis-ordered, but we shared this delicious dish of fried plantains that you cover with bean paste and cheese. Then we passed around tastes of garlic fish, beans and rice and shredded chicken. I was happy to discover some new favorite tastes to take home. After that we split into groups to walk around town for a bit. Britney, Sara, Goldie, Becca and I walked to the pier side of town where we found the Explorer sitting idly along a long and empty pier. There were tons of small tourist shops filled with hammocks, beach hats, embroidered bags and hemp jewelry. We walked along to the supermarket where we found ice cream and “Negroito” candy. The candy actually features a black man with an afro on the cover. That would totally not fly in the US. Regardless, I bought out the display on the counter. Goldie ordered a Fanta that they then poured into a bag that she had to carry around, since you aren’t allowed to carry bottles.
Afternoon
As it got late and the heat was wearing us down, we headed back to Casa de Rector to take naps and rest up for tonight. Eventually, the music started blasting and calling everyone to get up, get dressed and get drinking! Becca V. decided to treat us to dinner for the last night, since we wanted to have a family dinner. Goldie, Jonah and I pulled some tables together to try and fit all 14 of us together. While we set the table, Sara made fresh gucuamole and Becca V. and Falyn made nachos. Ryan and Dan prepared the macaroni and cheese, while the chicken was barbequing on the grill. After we all settled down and made sure everyone had a nice sized drink in their hands, Becca V. made the most moving speech about our time on the trip together. She started to cry almost on command, but we were all seriously touched by it. They we dug in and shared some wonderfully “homemade” food for the first time in a long time.
Fiesta Round Two
Sara, Britney and Falyn started a power hour that I kindly declined the invitation from to stick to my delicious champaign cocktails that I was treating myself to for my birthday. (Side note: my birthday lasted throughout the entire trip to Costa Rica.) The music was blasting as we danced around Todd and Spencer who remained passed out on the living room couches despite the commotion. Goldie took glamour shots of Sara and I with Sprite cans. (We have no idea why.) We went over to the other SAS house, but they only had radio and did not feel like sharing drinks, so we returned to Casa de Rector and brought along those SASers who wanted to have more fun. We had this incredible dance party that we captured in multiple video shots. Specer dancing was the all time best! Unfortunately, Todd did not pull out his pole dancing routine again. He did manage to pull a train of girls out of the kitchen into the living room though. Some of us got back into the pool to swim and splash around. Later, Britney, who is the most innocent and reserved of the bunch, used this idea to purpose skinny dipping in the ocean. So, inevitably all 22 SASers got rallied up at her liberation and charged the ocean naked. If only there had been someone on the beach to capture the moment everyone came thundering down the hill into the water. It would have been priceless.
Highs and Lows
My “high” was sitting around for family dinner. My “low” was falling asleep next to Sara with a boob hanging out.
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