Lasagna and Swimming II

We had a scrumptious lasagna dinner with hot bread and salad at Huset. Over the course of the last several decades, Huset has been many things: hostel for miners, gathering place for the community, church, library, move theatre. Now it is a recently-renovated restaurant, smart and contemporary like one you would find in New York. But the spirit of this frontier town is still in the air. Very cool space.

This morning we had another chance to swim. More takers this time, after word spread of how much fun it was the first time. About 17 boys stayed back, and we had a lovely, quiet time lounging around, playing cards, transcribing South African folks songs, and just taking it easy.

pool

So it’s goodbye to northernmost town on the planet. A place most Norwegians never get to, let alone the rest of the world. It was a once in a lifetime experience that we’ll all always remember.

We’re now at the airport waiting for our flight to Tromso. Everyone seems happy and well. We have had some mild illness here and there, including adults. Mostly colds, a few stomach issues. And of course the longer tour goes on, the more likelihood of fatigue-based sickness. It’s a delicate balance. If the boys are not busy enough, they fall prey to homesickness, boredom, and bad behavior choices. Too busy, and they get run down. We pretty much have it down to a science, the balance, but there will always be some challenges.

Regarding homesickness, there has been very little. When it has surfaced, it has not been lasting or dehabilitating. Everyone on tour experiences it at some point – it’s healthy. Once the boys know that it’s okay to miss home, but not dwell on it, it makes it easier on anyone grappling with it. And we are always on the look out for it, and manage it. Again, there’s not much time to think too much of home because we are always on the go. On that note, time to board!

More later…