The Academy

As time continues to fly by and we are counting down to just 7 weeks left on board this floating hospital, we have had many moments lately of reflecting on things we will miss.  There are so many blessings in this place. We feel confident of God's leading of our family off this ship but we also know that it will be a difficult goodbye.

One of the blessings we will miss the very most is the Academy. This school has been such an amazing gift to our family and, especially, the kids. They have received such a rich education that is unlike any other.  This year all 3 kids have classmates and teachers from around the world. There are some things that you just can't learn from books. Interacting with the world right in your classroom is a gift we will not soon forget.

I realize this post was possibly better placed at the beginning of the school year but I never got around to it.  So here's a brief glimpse into each of their classes and who they will have to say goodbye to:

Adalynn is in Grade 1 this year. Her teacher Miss Shea is from Texas. She has 2 classmates, Emma from Georgia and Benjamin from Brazil. The three of them get along so well and really enjoy each other. Miss Shea says that in their free time they write encouraging notes to one another.

Adalynn's class on Jabulani day ("spirit day")-theme: Benin

Pictured with Immanuel one of our Biomed technicians that is from Benin but has been on board as crew for many years.

On their field trip to the rehab tent

Grade 1 class pics :)

Cora is in Preschool 2. Her teacher is Miss Jenelle from Washington State. Her classmates are Lukas from Netherlands and Abigail from Brazil. Cora really loves being the oldest in her class and is excited to be starting to learn to read words.

Jabulani day. Lukas didn't want to go up and Abi was a bit shy.

Wet Wednesday with the Nursery class!

Preschool 1 and 2 class pic.

Jack is in the Nursery. His teacher is Mrs. Tatyana from Brazil. His classmates are James from England and Elle from South Africa. James is just 1 month older than Jack and Elle is 19 months old. They are the best of buddies (most of the time :) ). The mommies of these two little ones are dear friends and we spend lots of time together. They will be missed so much.

Jack's class made flags from each of the represented countries.

With Mrs. Taty playing outside.

Jabulani day.

Nursery class pic (plus Joseph who is not yet old enough)