Red Wharf Bay with new crew

We go to Red Wharf Bay every year. It is routine! But this year would be a bit different. Katrien had let me know she couldn’t make it this time, so I recruited Kate instead. Later, Lynda said she was unavailable as well. This was an exodus! But I managed to also recruit Finley. And we would have Mike, who is increasing his teaching load. It would only be Jaco and me as the regulars! 

The weather was sunny but cold. Good enough! And whether it was the cold or not, when our first coach arrived, the student s immediately started boarding it. Works for me! I had told everyone to be there 15 minutes beforehand, so when all were inside 5 minutes before scheduled departure, I thought we could go. In just one coach! The 72-seater fitted everyone. Then a flustered-looking student appeared by the door, and we let him in too. Then we were off! 

The coach didn’t bring us all the way, as it might not be able to turn in the cramped parking lot, but it’s not a far walk. By the sea front we met the staff that had travelled directly. And then we could divide into groups and go. 

I think it went well! I had a responsive group. And we got through the trip smoothly. So smoothly, even, that my group had a bit of time to spare. And there is a cafe in the bay. Five students joined me there for a hot chocolate. That was nice! 

Sunny beach

Then it was time to get everyone on the coach again, and go home. Finley travelled on the coach as well; all the others were using their own transport. So I didn't really get to do a debriefing with anybody other than her. She felt she had been thrown in the deep end but she had come out on top! And I think in general it had been a success. And the next week we were scheduled to do the other trip. I hope that goes equally well!