To prove we actually are moving forward, I decided to make a list of all the big events that happened last year. I showed the list to Mr. Whittaker, and he said he was curious what each item on the list had taught me.

“Experiences don’t mean much if you don’t learn something,” he said. So below each item, I’ve listed a lesson learned.

Eugene Returns!
Eugene returned to Odyssey after being away for a long, long time. You read it first here — in the Odyssey Blog. We told you something big was happening, but did you listen to us? Noooo!

Lesson learned: Never, ever ignore the Odyssey Blog.

A Band is Born
Marvin and Tamika Washington and Trent DeWhite started a band called Los Perros Frescos, which, in Spanish means “The Cool Dogs,” “The Fresh Dogs” or “The Frisky Pears,” depending on who you ask.

Lesson learned: Always carry a Spanish dictionary when you’re around Marvin.

Eugene Starts New Organization
Eugene and his wife, Katrina, started Hand-Up, which Eugene referred to as a “philanthropic corporation to minister to the needs of individuals, family units and groups.” I think he means he’s going to help the people of Odyssey in a variety of ways.

Lesson learned: Always carry an English dictionary when you’re around Eugene. And make sure you pay attention to the people around you who need help.

It didn’t take long for me to realize I can learn something from pretty much everything that happens.

That’s all for this edition of your friendly, neighborhood Odyssey Blog. Stay tuned. —AJ out!