here we go again..

You would think I'd be used to this by now. 2 days before leaving, too much to do, and impending "goodbyes," loom overhead. I've packed for more voyages, long trips and extended wanderings for years, and there is always the same routine - packing will happen after saying goodbye for the next few months. I should learn to be more responsible. I'm supposed to be a teacher.

I'll be spending the next few months aboard the Spirit of Massachusetts - a 125ft tallship, traditionally-rigged schooner as a mate, the Medical Officer, and Watch Officer. Really that means that for the next 3 months, at least, will be having groups of students to teach how to sail, cook, navigate, and function while at sea.. and I'm pretty excited. Sailing is cool, but the coolest moment by far is the moment where everything on deck is going wrong, because the sea has its own moods, and the students *click* and finally "get it." I'm hoping, secretly, that the same happens for me. 

This will be the largest boat I'll have ever worked on. Last month I wrapped up a 3 month voyage aboard S/Y Argo around the Caribbean, with 21 fantastic, exceedingly energetic and commonly clumsy students. No day was like the one before it, and no medical incident was like the one it preceded. Everything from sea urchin spines, to fractured vertebrae, these kids could find any way to challenge medical care at sea.

In the past journey, I would write mass emails, but in its stead I will be spending the next three months telling my stories on here.  I have no idea whats going to happen, but its a little exciting :)

"I read somewhere how important it is in life not necessarily to be strong, but to feel strong. To measure yourself at least once, to find yourself at least once in the most ancient of human conditions.