This was the second time we gathered to craft an annual report together. We loaded into a minibus at eight o’clock in the morning before the break of dawn, although the next sunrise wouldn’t be for another few months.
We ventured out of town toward summer island, known for sandy beaches and the tropical tourquoise color that glows from beneath the shallow water when sun reflects off it. But on this december day, the ice cracked under our feet as we stepped out of the bus and we could see our breath in the crisp polar night.
Creativity comes best in unfamiliar environments, free from the distractions of every day. The winter holidays were approaching. We chatted about our plans during a break next to a christmas tree.
We all helped compile the previous year’s activities into a format to be compiled into the annual report. We reflected on the progress made, the papers written, and contemplated the year to come. And as we wrote, the twilight of mid day began to lighten the skies.
The island’s summer magic was not to be missed, so we struck out and had a look at the surroundings. Some of us threw rocks into the frozen water near the shore.
The sun was teasing us, coming close to the horizon, but it stayed just out of sight.
The moon shone big and beautiful in the sky.
And just as soon as it left, a few short minutes later darkness began it’s descent on the land once again.
We finished the day off with a game of charades. Krishna gave the funniest “words” which should be acted out and guessed, giving things like “The feeling when the second reviewer leaves an annoying comment on your paper submission”, even though her category was supposed to be microscopy.
Thanks for the fun trip everyone! Looking forward to a productive new year.
Aaron Celeste