Good Morning or Good Afternoon-

As I sit in my apartment, coffee in hand, a bit sleepy from our two-week extravaganza and clean from a HOT shower I can’t help but miss the sound of students laughing, singing, and doing a count off (ELEVEN)! I want to give a huge thank you to you the parents, the students, Diego and Evelyn, Global Glimpse and Ecuador for allowing me to experience a trip of a lifetime! Twenty-Six strangers embarked on a journey, together we laughed, danced, cried, spoke Spanish and got out of our comfort zone. I want to address the parents for a moment and let you know that each of you has a done an amazing job with your kids. The students were kind, open to trying new things, educated, and talented young adults that will go very far in their futures. Every night we would have a nightly meeting and give some shout outs to each other for the day we had, share stories, and have deep conversations. I have to say that those are the moments I am going to miss the most from this trip, I had learned a ton from them and they helped me grow as a person and educator. Emily and I were truly blessed with each of you, and as a group, we were the best! During the trip many of you guys referred to me as “mom” at first I joked and said “I am not old!” however, after reading the big love shout out and hearing you call me that because I was comforting, sweet, and looked out for you I want to say thank you! That was a huge compliment and I am glad that I could make you feel at home in a far away place. I want you guys to know that although we are no longer on the trip please feel free to call, text, email, or reach out. I really loved speaking to all of you throughout this trip and can’t wait to hear all that you accomplish in your final year of high school. As you guys know I was nervous about coming on a trip with “Scary older high schoolers” but, I couldn’t have asked for a better group and maybe one day I would even move on up and teach your ages. I want you all to remember the experience you had in Ecuador, the memories we shared, how we became a family, and how fortunate you are for both going on this trip and for everything you have in life. At times in life take a pause and remember what it was like working as a local, taking a cold shower, working on the streets shining shoes or selling ice cream, and the kindness and empathy you shared with each other.

Finally, as the quote on the back of our shirts said… “It’s a funny thing coming home. Nothing changes. Everything looks the same, feels the same, even smells the same. You realize what’s changed, is you.”
We could not have picked a better quote, to sum up our trip than this! Personally, I have changed because of our experience and hanging with you guys for two weeks was one of the best parts of this journey. Ecuador and you guys have forever changed me!! Love you!!

GLOBAL….(GLIMPSE) FINAL COUNTDOWN….

Here is a link for pictures I will continue to add videos throughout the next week or so (Hopefully I can figure out how)

https://goo.gl/photos/ksKrT3eTUJq4V1sm6