Until we meet again...

It is Friday, the last day of our second week and the first time we start saying goodbye. Susanne and Devin are leaving this evening and everyone is aware that we have reached the tipping point toward ending versus beginning. The day did not disappoint. It was a hot and sticky Kia Orana Day. Everyone at our school was dressed in brightly colored shirts, dresses, and skirts. Sylvia and I were presented with lovely headdresses, Papa Bob with an ei. Again the Friday morning meeting included children singing beautifully with the occasional squirms and flicks, not to mention a growl from Einga. It must be said that it was sweltering in there and I was having a hard time staying focused as much as the children. Luckily I was able to jump up and take a turn dancing with Einga to the delight of the students and the amusement of the other teachers. It wasn’t long before students were running to the computers setting up for another day of Nessy. The rest of the school day was filled with school pictures, playing games at the long break and enjoying a delicious traditional umu. I will be forever grateful to the teachers and staff at this school for welcoming us so graciously and sharing their personal stories and time with us.

After school it was on to the beach to float in the water and then a short walk. As I was waiting to cross the street, I heard someone call “Katie” and crossed to the open arms and huge smile of Clothilde. She said “I knew it was you!” I smiled all the way back to the KiiKii to change into a fancy dress for our farewell dinner and our school pictures.

The Tamarind House was beautiful. Papa Bob spotted a couple of whales in the distance, Rudy sang John Denver while strumming a ukulele, Devin saw her favorite student, and Auntie Hills was in the air. More incredible food and the sky put on a wonderful performance. It doesn’t get much better than this.

The traditional Navajo do not say goodbye to one another. They say, “Until we meet again” believing that our paths will cross again in our life’s journey. Until we meet again, Devin and Suzanne…

Entry submitted by: Katie