Hello Whirlwind

This blog is aptly named...

The past few days have been a friggin whirlwind of activity. I am unsure how I am moving through it all, but the passage of time is inevitable and so, it seems, is the certainty of my success. Is it the sea?

Yesterday saw my first Explorer's Seminar, Practical Ways to Maintain Your Health During the Voyage. I am pleased to report is was well attended and that students who came seemed to get something out of it, as we discussed practical strategies for getting proper sleep, exercise, diet and hydration while on the voyage.

Also, my Chez Ali at Sea skit play to a packed, enthusiatic, and impressed shipboard community during last night's talent show. I also performed as a judge. What a show! The talent! The no talents! It was pretty spectacular.

I'm proud of myself for resisting the natural urge and urging of others to perform in talent shows, parties, etc. I feel that I am doing very well remembering that I am a staff member on this voyage, not a student, and that it is for the students that I am here. The spotlight belongs to them -- this is their time, mine has passed (Fall 2000 FOREVER!). I feel so honored to be a part of their experience, to see them learn and grow.

The happy whirlwind continues today. I led Zumba today to a packed Union, with plans to do it again on the next no class day (despite the clamoring to do it more often), and will be moderating an international healthcare discussion today during the Explorer's Seminar time. Whew! At this rate, I might be too tired to leave the ship! :)