Day 8.5: Hasta la próxima, Quito

After we returned from our amazing outing to Mindo, it was time for our last supper in Quito. During dinner, Lenin had the kids reflect on their week in South America, what were they surprised about, what they liked, etc.... What fascinating to listen to these wise teenagers 'get it.'  I was one proud teacher.  They then surprised Lenin with a song, Stand by Me, which brought down the house...along with a flood of tears - teachers & students alike. We then made Lenin an honorary Iowan, dressing him in green.
The bus ride to the airport was a bit of a struggle, many emotions flowing but it just goes to show how quickly you can bond with your travel mates, teachers, and a tour director. The kids really came together like a small family..yes, we had our ups & downs, but they really pulled together, had each others backs, and took care of each other. Way to go, parents!  You have some pretty awesome kids & I thank you for sharing them with me for the week!
So, as we close this travel chapter, I feel there will be more chapters for many of these Roamin' Spartans and it will be fun to see where the world takes them.

To my kids - thanks for making #19 such a memorable trip!

Hugs to you all!!

Señorita :)

Camera thieves

Day 9:  We made it home safe & sound!  We had a late flight Sunday at 11:30pm.  Arrived in Atlanta at 5:20 am.  4 hours later we boarded our flight to Moline, arriving home to ice and COLD - blech! But many loving family members were awaiting our arrival, so it's all goo!

Day 10:  Everyone at school -yeah - a bit tired, but I still got my hugs in today!  Good to see all their faces!  More adventures to come, I know it!