After 17 days, we finally see Barbados! Last night we saw a bright spot on the horizon, and this morning we could actually see the land. At first, we passed by the island, because the ship was instructed to anchor near St. Lucia Island, north of Barbados. But after some sailing around, we were authorized to go to Barbados, and I can already see buildings and houses. We will have a big reception on the 4th of April, but until then we have to stay on the boat.

I have asked the Captain to go home on the 8th of April, so my journey is coming to an end. The date is yet to be confirmed, but I will know for certain in a couple of days. I need to have the plane ticket in my hand when I step off Amistad in order to demonstrate I'm not interested in immigrating.

This has been a very interesting experience, and I will certainly not forget it. I will always remember when I saw sperm whales, dolphins, flying fish, and birds in the middle of the ocean. I'll keep in my memory the times Fogo chewed on my slippers, peed around the deck, or tried to drink the soap I was using to clean the floor. Of course, I'll remember the long night shifts, when I struggled to stay awake; and the night a flying fish jumped on board and rang the dinner bell; and the wonderful feeling of lying in my bunk trying to sleep, even when I had to hold tight so as not to roll over onto the floor! I will always think with love of the multicultural "B-Watch", even though we had our disagreements. (We were also called "Bermuda Watch", "Brazil Watch", "Barbados Watch" or "Bee Watch".)  And I already miss our afternoon classes and ship reports.

It has been great, but it's time to go home.

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