Photo: Hog Island, Gretchen Linton
Gretchen Linton
“It’s no exaggeration to say I think of Hog Island just about every day. It was such an invigorating, restorative, beautiful, and delicious place!”
I was thrilled to be awarded a scholarship for Educator’s Week 2021. I drove up from Alexandria, stopping along the way in Connecticut and the Portland area.
Hog Island sunrise, Gretchen Linton
The sun rose a little earlier than in the Mid-Atlantic region and I was up at about 5 am to make sure I met the ferry at Bremen!
About 30 other teachers, media specialists, and informal educators from all over the East Coast and Central states gathered, looking a bit stressed from various modes of travel during Covid.
We were immediately put at ease under the pines, swapping stories of our past year, and watching the sun set over the harbor, getting to know each other and our leaders who came from Washington State, Georgia, and New England.
Hog Island mushroom, Gretchen Linton
The accommodations were dorm-like, clean, and cozy. Meals were OUTSTANDING! I don’t think I’ve ever eaten so well in my life. Fresh, local, innovative, scrumptious, and every meal had gluten-free and vegan options.
We gathered for our daily meals and workshops outdoors and had evening sessions in the Fish House each night.
Highlight sessions included: tidepool exploring, bioluminescence, hikes to the pitcher plants, and the Bingham Cottage, as well as an excursion to Egg Rock, presentations about Project Puffin, JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversion and Inclusion) as well as time to wander, make art, and share our experiences and hopes for the coming year.
Now that I’m back in the classroom, navigating this Covid world with my 7th graders, my time on Hog Island feels a lot like a beautiful dream but I hope to return as a Friends of Hog Island Volunteer next summer.