I’m sitting here waiting for the bus to take the science party to the hotel.  It feels really sad to be leaving all the people who have been my family for the last 8 weeks.

Some of the scientists already disembarked last night and right now the ship is a mix of odd quiet and frenzied activity.  The technical crew for our next expedition are coming on board while our tech crew is finishing up their duties.

There are happy reunions between the IODP people from College Station as the incoming crew greet their friends on the outgoing crew.  Some of the science party and crew have had family come in to meet them and spend time together in New Zealand before going home.  It makes me really miss my family and be ready to go home – I’m ready for my own reunion.

This has been the most amazing experience, and I have enjoyed every minute of it more than I can imagine.   Thank you all for following me along on this journey.