End of Chapter One

For exactly one year I have been the educator/ interpreter at Caddo Mounds State Historic Site in Alto, Texas. At first glance, Caddo Mounds is easy to write off as "just a few mounds in a field". But, in my view, this site and the sacred space it resides on is the simple cover of a book of amazing stories. A site with not just Texas, but global themes.  A site with beauty beyond the peaceful mound prairie, the sacred home of the early Caddo.

This morning seems like the perfect time to reflect on what I've learned from my first year at the Mounds, and since many of you have been along for this ride with me, I thought I'd share my reflections.

1. I never feel like I know enough. I'm learning as I interpret, which means I sometimes make mistakes during my programs. This occurrence is often followed by a cup of tea, a little palm to head action, thoughts about how many other times in class or at interpretive programs I received possibly questionable information, and finally a desire to read everything written about my subjects. I have to  be comfortable admitting I don't know everything there is to know about Caddo Mounds. It is in those moments of uncertainty that I don my librarian hat (the one I wore for 12 years) and make sure visitors leave with some great resources for answering their questions. In the end, I realize that interpreting what I love draws people in and creates curiosity about the stories I'm telling. So, even if there are some minor details that need polishing, the end result is curious visitors who have gained a little knowledge and interest in this amazing site. I think the end result keeps the scales tipped in favor of the greater good.
2. Falling in love with my site, breathing in the spirit of the place, and appreciating the nuances of it's landscape allows me opportunities to connect to people from many different spheres of interest. Getting people engaged in conversations about Caddo Mounds is my biggest challenge and my greatest reward. Thank you plant enthusiasts, paranormal investigators, history lovers, descendants of this sacred space, explorers, storytellers, astronomers, artists, writers, students, teachers, archaeologists, travelers, and friends who ensure my position is never a dull one.
3. Collaborating with people from a variety of different organizations and communities adds richness and depth to all I plan. There are so many talented, interested people that bring their own lens and experience to this site. I've loved engaging them and watching what becomes of it. Here is just a sample of the great partnerships I've experienced this year: 

• During the last year the Friends of Caddo Mounds group has quadrupled in size, received its official 501C3 nonprofit status, embarked on a major fundraising campaign to build a new Caddo house on site, embraced marketing of site projects and programs, and been an incredible support to our site staff. 
• We had an opportunity to work with Stephen F. Austin State University College of Forestry and Agriculture students and faculty. Serving as a project site for a management plans class we received many great ideas for good stewardship of the natural resources on our site and some exciting input on how to enhance trails and access to our 400 acres. We had almost 30 SFA Forestry and Anthropology students volunteer at our grand opening and el Camino Real festival, just wow! 
• Agency partners -that's you Marty Prince, Director of Texas Forest Trails Region and Lisa Worley, Youth Education Specialist- have been invaluable with their advise, support, and willingness to brainstorm future plans. And, there are some pretty exciting things in the works for this next year!

It has been a great first year, and now that my feet are officially wet, I'm looking forward to the promise and possibilities of year two.