Hello out there!!
I hope this blog finds you all well and full! Life in Costa is crazy. But who doesn't need/love/want a little crazy?! Speaking of crazy....
Some days I look at my students and I can't believe how far we've come. All of us, together. We are constantly growing and learning and doing.. I often have to take a step back to really appreciate how lucky I am to have a class full of students who want to learn. A typical day with us includes lots of English, lot's of reading and writing (creativity!!) math, math and math - The boys LOVE math. And science or science experiments. Their theory is that everything should either explode or burn or smell or produce something to eat! And we keep learning. They help me with my spanish, I help them with "girl problems" (This is humerous as half my class still thinks girls have cooties [with the exception of mom and teacher!] and the other half of my class thinks that girls are angels that have fallen from heaven.) We talk about futbol, football, and baseball. They learn sarcasm. We learn hard lessons. We learn life lessons. Most importantly, we are constantly laughing. And it is good. Our school recently participated in the Independence Day parade - all of my students were a part of the band or the whistle blower to keep the rest of the school on step. It was a hot, fun day for us. We were a motley crew, but we appreciated our differences. We appreciated culture. Right now, we are working on our culture day project. Each grade gets to choose a country to represent. Your class researches the culture and customs, the language and government, the food, the people, etc... And then on culture day - you get to dress up/decorate/feed and teach the rest of the school about your country. Fourth grade will be representing Greece!! I am excited. The boys are more excited. We have been researching. We added a "Greek Mythology" unit. I now have a classroom full of "Greek Gods." When I look at my classroom I see something new: I see active imaginations at work. This is such an "American idea" but I am proud of them. They have taken it on fully. (My classroom also now looks like a tornado has blown through - but I greet it with open arms!)
Life is simple. I get to wake up and do what I love every day. I get to teach. And even better, I get to teach eager students. And when I'm not teaching, I get to explore. There is always a new beach to enjoy, a new mountain to climb. I get to read all the time. And boy, do I love a good book.
In September we had a week off from school. I decided to make a trip back to the states. I had several reasons for wanting to do so (more than just being homesick, but mostly because I was homesick.) And so, I made my way to New York City. My parents decided to surprise me for the weekend. Or it would have been a surprise if my mom didn't cave in and tell me. (I was so happy that she did tell me - it made what were a long few weeks a whole lot better.) And then my brother decided to come. And that would have been a surprise - if he was better at not putting stuff all over facebook. And then my best friend, Lesli decided to come. And that would have been a surprise - but she wanted to make a bad day better. And then, my sister and Payden decided to come. And THAT was a surprise. She tricked me! And it was good. :) We had a great weekend with my cousin, Kevin and Vinnie. It was so nice for my family to all be together. Since we've gotten older, the family trips have been fewer with longer time in between. But the weekend together, and getting to "love on" all of them, made my heart full and happy. After they left, I spent the week relaxinggggggggg. I got to help Vinnie celebrate his birthday which was fun. Every time I go to the city I see more and more and fall in love with it more and more. It was exactly the kind of week I needed. It was so hard to leave, but knowing that I would see everyone again soon for the holidays made it a little easier. (Barely. I am terrible at goodbyes. I need more hellos.)
And so I am back. I welcome the routine. I'm doing my best to make the most of my time here. I look around me and I feel blessed. There are so many good things. And some days are hard. But they are still good. And some things are bad, but it is so good. He is so good to me.
Always remember....greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world. Xo.
Monday, October 3, 2011
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Eyes Wide Open
And I am back.
This day is no different than any other. I have gone through the same motions, through the same routine. I'm barely awake through my shower, I run to catch the bus, and I greet my students. We dance, we sing to get our morning started right. I teach a room full of eager faces. I'm starting to wake up - starting to see again...why I'm doing all of this. I'm doing this to serve Him.
And the truth is, sometimes I forget. I get caught up in small things. I forget to look around. I have tunnel vision. But then, on my bus ride home - I sit next to a man whose hand is wrapped in a towel, blood soaking through. And my vision starts to clear. We don't exchange words, but I pray for him. I look out the window and I see poverty all around, and I pray. Walking from the bus to my house, I see kids looking through trash for something to eat. I invite them to my house and offer them what I can. And when they run off, I pray.
And I ask myself where is God in all of this mess? And I know. My heart knows the answer - God is right here. God is right here with us. And He knows. This pain is not comparable to the pain that He must have felt when He gave his Son for us. But that love is the love we live on every day. His love. His love is what clears my vision. He is using me. And that is enough.
Today, I have my face in the dirt. I am bending down at the feet of Jesus. Thank you Father, for the reminders, the opportunities you offer to me.
Praying for you, as you bend today for whoever and whatever is in front of you. He will meet you there.
This day is no different than any other. I have gone through the same motions, through the same routine. I'm barely awake through my shower, I run to catch the bus, and I greet my students. We dance, we sing to get our morning started right. I teach a room full of eager faces. I'm starting to wake up - starting to see again...why I'm doing all of this. I'm doing this to serve Him.
And the truth is, sometimes I forget. I get caught up in small things. I forget to look around. I have tunnel vision. But then, on my bus ride home - I sit next to a man whose hand is wrapped in a towel, blood soaking through. And my vision starts to clear. We don't exchange words, but I pray for him. I look out the window and I see poverty all around, and I pray. Walking from the bus to my house, I see kids looking through trash for something to eat. I invite them to my house and offer them what I can. And when they run off, I pray.
And I ask myself where is God in all of this mess? And I know. My heart knows the answer - God is right here. God is right here with us. And He knows. This pain is not comparable to the pain that He must have felt when He gave his Son for us. But that love is the love we live on every day. His love. His love is what clears my vision. He is using me. And that is enough.
Today, I have my face in the dirt. I am bending down at the feet of Jesus. Thank you Father, for the reminders, the opportunities you offer to me.
Praying for you, as you bend today for whoever and whatever is in front of you. He will meet you there.
Friday, August 19, 2011
August Already?!
Time has slipped away from me, once again! It's hard to believe that we are already half way through August. I guess time flies when you are having fun. ;) And that is exactly what I have been having!
At the end of July, my friend Meghan and I decided to rent a house together. So my last few days of July and first few weeks of August were filled with moving, organizing, cleaning & painting. We have comfortably moved into the house, and made it ours. It's a cute little casita...very Costa Rican. We have a great outdoor patio and dreams of having all of our friends over for dinner...there just hasn't been time yet.
Things at the school have been moving along smoothly. My students make me laugh every day. I have come to realize how big of a blessing it is to be able to say that - "I enjoy my work, every day." Sure, some days I feel like my room is filled with aliens (9 and 10 year old boys are pretty much aliens), and some days my patience is tested - but we are LEARNING. And we are GROWING. And the most beautiful part of it all is that we are doing it all TOGETHER. For as many things as I teach them, they turn around and teach me something new. We recently had our "Science Fair" at school. The boys were bursting with ideas for experiments that they wanted to do. First, we tried to make rock candy. Unfortunately, with no success. So we decided it was time to find something even better...which led us to "Elephants Toothpaste." It ended up working out perfectly with what we were learning in science (Chemical and Physical changes) - and the boys had a blast. When we presented out experiment to the parents and other grades, everyone was impressed...I was the most impressed. I enjoyed watching the boys research and try adding different things to get different reactions... It was a fun time in our classroom. All those little moments are what make this worth it. In our classroom, it is well known that we are a team - We will win together, and lose together. I am happy to see we win a lot more than we lose <3
Other news? Let's see. I have been battling sickness for almost two weeks - I pray the end is in sight. I will spare any and all details...but I will just say being sick away from home is probably the biggest challenge I've faced so far. I am so thankful to have friends who have been helping me through it.
On a much happier note! I am so excited to share exciting news about my dear friend Ryan Wedell! When I met "Weedle" my first day of college, I never would have guessed that we would become best friends...but it happened! Besides being so intelligent (nerdy, I say), funny, relaxed, and a smart-ass (excuse the language), he's caring and passionate. Weedle & I have a theory about "being uncomfortable" and how when we are most uncomfortable, we usually learn the most and have the best experiences. Well IS HE testing this THEORY! He left this week for the Peace Corps. He will be spending the next two years in Cameroon! Excitement doesn't even begin to describe what I feel for him. I know he's going to have the experience of a lifetime and learn so much. The people he will meet will forever be changed. I ask for prayers that he is kept safe and healthy. I am anxiously awaiting his first message to hear about everything!
How great is our God to give us these experiences? To guide us around the world, to use us. And He is USING US! And this makes our lives so full. I know that He loves us and I do not pretend to know why. I am not questioning the endless thoughts that race through my head. I am just thankful that He is using me now, for these moments. And that is more then enough. I can trust in that.
At the end of July, my friend Meghan and I decided to rent a house together. So my last few days of July and first few weeks of August were filled with moving, organizing, cleaning & painting. We have comfortably moved into the house, and made it ours. It's a cute little casita...very Costa Rican. We have a great outdoor patio and dreams of having all of our friends over for dinner...there just hasn't been time yet.
Things at the school have been moving along smoothly. My students make me laugh every day. I have come to realize how big of a blessing it is to be able to say that - "I enjoy my work, every day." Sure, some days I feel like my room is filled with aliens (9 and 10 year old boys are pretty much aliens), and some days my patience is tested - but we are LEARNING. And we are GROWING. And the most beautiful part of it all is that we are doing it all TOGETHER. For as many things as I teach them, they turn around and teach me something new. We recently had our "Science Fair" at school. The boys were bursting with ideas for experiments that they wanted to do. First, we tried to make rock candy. Unfortunately, with no success. So we decided it was time to find something even better...which led us to "Elephants Toothpaste." It ended up working out perfectly with what we were learning in science (Chemical and Physical changes) - and the boys had a blast. When we presented out experiment to the parents and other grades, everyone was impressed...I was the most impressed. I enjoyed watching the boys research and try adding different things to get different reactions... It was a fun time in our classroom. All those little moments are what make this worth it. In our classroom, it is well known that we are a team - We will win together, and lose together. I am happy to see we win a lot more than we lose <3
Other news? Let's see. I have been battling sickness for almost two weeks - I pray the end is in sight. I will spare any and all details...but I will just say being sick away from home is probably the biggest challenge I've faced so far. I am so thankful to have friends who have been helping me through it.
On a much happier note! I am so excited to share exciting news about my dear friend Ryan Wedell! When I met "Weedle" my first day of college, I never would have guessed that we would become best friends...but it happened! Besides being so intelligent (nerdy, I say), funny, relaxed, and a smart-ass (excuse the language), he's caring and passionate. Weedle & I have a theory about "being uncomfortable" and how when we are most uncomfortable, we usually learn the most and have the best experiences. Well IS HE testing this THEORY! He left this week for the Peace Corps. He will be spending the next two years in Cameroon! Excitement doesn't even begin to describe what I feel for him. I know he's going to have the experience of a lifetime and learn so much. The people he will meet will forever be changed. I ask for prayers that he is kept safe and healthy. I am anxiously awaiting his first message to hear about everything!
How great is our God to give us these experiences? To guide us around the world, to use us. And He is USING US! And this makes our lives so full. I know that He loves us and I do not pretend to know why. I am not questioning the endless thoughts that race through my head. I am just thankful that He is using me now, for these moments. And that is more then enough. I can trust in that.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
My heart is FULL!
My heart is FILLED! And it is because my life is so FULL! The past month has been busy, but so exciting and fun.
The first few days of vacation, I spent in Manuel Antonio with my friends Meghan and Dennis, and Megs brother Drew. We spent our days on the beach relaxing and enjoying the beautiful weather. It was a nice way to start vacation. My sweet friend Lesli flew in on Tuesday and we spent a few days in Jaco. It was nice to really "explore" Jaco - we had some great beach days, went ATVing in the mountains, hiked up to some beautiful lookout points. I felt like a had a huge part of home with me for ten days...which was one of the best feelings in the world. :) A few days later we went to San Jose to meet Kevin and Vinnie! It started off as an adventure. The four of us traveled to Arenal Volcano which is in the northern part of Costa Rica. It was awesome to see a new part of the country, while sharing it with my friends. We went ATVing (again!) and Ziplining around the Volcano. Because it was "cloudy" the whole time we didn't get to see any "lavaaaa" but it was still a lot of fun. On the way back to Jaco, we stopped in San Jose for Lesli to catch her plane. I was sad to see her go, but I have a feeling it won't be long until she's back. ;) Kevin, Vinnie & I hung out in Jaco for a few more days - beaching it up, and ATVing (for the third time!)They got to jump off waterfalls which Kevin claims is "WHAT COSTA RICA IS REALLY ALL ABOUT!" They loved body surfing the waves, and didn't love real surfing. We went out with my friends to celebrate birthdays and vacations, and then the boys both surprised me and decided to stay for another week! The only way that I can describe that feeling is going from the top of the world happiness, to an even higher happiness. My friend Corrine came into town so we were back to being four. Unfortunately the beginning of her trip started with a little bit of craziness, but nobody was hurt and everything turned out to be ok. Thank you God, for granting patience in a time when I was feeling anything but. While Corrine was here we went to Manuel Antonio and to the National Park with Meghan and her family! It is a beautifullll park and we would have loved to enjoy the white sand beaches, but the afternoon rainstorms had other plans for us. It was great to spend the afternoon with Meghans family though! We went ATVing AGAIN and had a great time. On Thursday we headed to San Jose again this time for Kevin to catch his flight. I am NO GOOD at goodbyes - and I don't know that I will ever be. Saying goodbye to your favorite cousin is especially hard! I also feel like it won't be too long until he comes back. ;) Vinnie decided he wasn't ready to go home, and decided to stay another week. (Again, the happiness thing!) Vinnie, Corrine & I explored San Jose for the day and went shopping in a MALL. I don't think this was exciting for anyone but me.....butttttttttt it was so lovely! We even got to go to the movies!! I was again sad to see my friend leave, but feeling so blessed to have had so many loving people come visit me and be able to share this part of my life with me. Vinnie and I had a relaxing weekend at the beach before I started school again on Monday.
And so I was back. Three weeks vacation is just long enough to get out of your routines - but I was excited to see my students! Walking into a classroom full of boys who yell TEACHERRRRRRRR and hug you, and can't wait to share their vacation stories with you makes it pretty easy to be back. While I went to work, Vin got to relax and beach it up. Meghan, Dennis, Vinnie & I had some fun nights together. It was so nice to spend time with someone who is special to me. :) And then it was time for Vin to go. Saying goodbye is always hard, but especially after spending a straight month of loving on my friends and family! HOWEVER I feel so blessed to have had them with me to love on and enjoy my vacation so I tried to not let myself be too sad. (Who am I trying to fool? ha)
We had a long weekend which was the perfect way to end my long vacation. I took a road trip to Panama with my friend Kayla. We had a good time exploring and shopping! We spent the night in Pavones which is a cute COSTA RICAN town with not a thing in it. It was a great way to unwind. Now, another week has started (or is halfway through!) and I am happy to be back and I can say I almost back into the routine of things!
There are some EXCITING things happening over here in Costa Rica - but things that I am not ready to share publically yet! I see how God is using me. And I know that He will continue to use me as long as I am open. I have come to learn that I may not always end up where I thought I would, but I always end up where I need to be. How great is our God? I pray that He will continue to guide me on these new adventures.
I would alao like to give a HAPPY BIRTHDAY shout out to my sweet brother. I can't believe that he turns 20 today! My parents no longer have teenagers!! (MOM! Does that make you feel old?!?! Don't worry...you aren't!) I am so proud of the person he has become - I see him leading a life by having faith in our Father and I know that God has amazing plans for him.. I love you buck and I hope your day is filled with laughter and love. We will have to celebrate you being an adult next time I'm home ;)
My heart is full. So full that somedays I feel like it may burst. And it is all because of the God I serve. I am blessed. I am happy. Life is good.
The first few days of vacation, I spent in Manuel Antonio with my friends Meghan and Dennis, and Megs brother Drew. We spent our days on the beach relaxing and enjoying the beautiful weather. It was a nice way to start vacation. My sweet friend Lesli flew in on Tuesday and we spent a few days in Jaco. It was nice to really "explore" Jaco - we had some great beach days, went ATVing in the mountains, hiked up to some beautiful lookout points. I felt like a had a huge part of home with me for ten days...which was one of the best feelings in the world. :) A few days later we went to San Jose to meet Kevin and Vinnie! It started off as an adventure. The four of us traveled to Arenal Volcano which is in the northern part of Costa Rica. It was awesome to see a new part of the country, while sharing it with my friends. We went ATVing (again!) and Ziplining around the Volcano. Because it was "cloudy" the whole time we didn't get to see any "lavaaaa" but it was still a lot of fun. On the way back to Jaco, we stopped in San Jose for Lesli to catch her plane. I was sad to see her go, but I have a feeling it won't be long until she's back. ;) Kevin, Vinnie & I hung out in Jaco for a few more days - beaching it up, and ATVing (for the third time!)They got to jump off waterfalls which Kevin claims is "WHAT COSTA RICA IS REALLY ALL ABOUT!" They loved body surfing the waves, and didn't love real surfing. We went out with my friends to celebrate birthdays and vacations, and then the boys both surprised me and decided to stay for another week! The only way that I can describe that feeling is going from the top of the world happiness, to an even higher happiness. My friend Corrine came into town so we were back to being four. Unfortunately the beginning of her trip started with a little bit of craziness, but nobody was hurt and everything turned out to be ok. Thank you God, for granting patience in a time when I was feeling anything but. While Corrine was here we went to Manuel Antonio and to the National Park with Meghan and her family! It is a beautifullll park and we would have loved to enjoy the white sand beaches, but the afternoon rainstorms had other plans for us. It was great to spend the afternoon with Meghans family though! We went ATVing AGAIN and had a great time. On Thursday we headed to San Jose again this time for Kevin to catch his flight. I am NO GOOD at goodbyes - and I don't know that I will ever be. Saying goodbye to your favorite cousin is especially hard! I also feel like it won't be too long until he comes back. ;) Vinnie decided he wasn't ready to go home, and decided to stay another week. (Again, the happiness thing!) Vinnie, Corrine & I explored San Jose for the day and went shopping in a MALL. I don't think this was exciting for anyone but me.....butttttttttt it was so lovely! We even got to go to the movies!! I was again sad to see my friend leave, but feeling so blessed to have had so many loving people come visit me and be able to share this part of my life with me. Vinnie and I had a relaxing weekend at the beach before I started school again on Monday.
And so I was back. Three weeks vacation is just long enough to get out of your routines - but I was excited to see my students! Walking into a classroom full of boys who yell TEACHERRRRRRRR and hug you, and can't wait to share their vacation stories with you makes it pretty easy to be back. While I went to work, Vin got to relax and beach it up. Meghan, Dennis, Vinnie & I had some fun nights together. It was so nice to spend time with someone who is special to me. :) And then it was time for Vin to go. Saying goodbye is always hard, but especially after spending a straight month of loving on my friends and family! HOWEVER I feel so blessed to have had them with me to love on and enjoy my vacation so I tried to not let myself be too sad. (Who am I trying to fool? ha)
We had a long weekend which was the perfect way to end my long vacation. I took a road trip to Panama with my friend Kayla. We had a good time exploring and shopping! We spent the night in Pavones which is a cute COSTA RICAN town with not a thing in it. It was a great way to unwind. Now, another week has started (or is halfway through!) and I am happy to be back and I can say I almost back into the routine of things!
There are some EXCITING things happening over here in Costa Rica - but things that I am not ready to share publically yet! I see how God is using me. And I know that He will continue to use me as long as I am open. I have come to learn that I may not always end up where I thought I would, but I always end up where I need to be. How great is our God? I pray that He will continue to guide me on these new adventures.
I would alao like to give a HAPPY BIRTHDAY shout out to my sweet brother. I can't believe that he turns 20 today! My parents no longer have teenagers!! (MOM! Does that make you feel old?!?! Don't worry...you aren't!) I am so proud of the person he has become - I see him leading a life by having faith in our Father and I know that God has amazing plans for him.. I love you buck and I hope your day is filled with laughter and love. We will have to celebrate you being an adult next time I'm home ;)
My heart is full. So full that somedays I feel like it may burst. And it is all because of the God I serve. I am blessed. I am happy. Life is good.
Friday, June 24, 2011
Love!
Ten days have passed since I last posted? Oh Costa Rica, you are playing games with time!
It was exam week for the kids. What SCHOLARS my boys are. They were diligent in their studies and worked so hard! Their hard work paid off and everyone excelled. Today we got to CELEBRATE the end of exams and the three week vacation we are about to have. There were games, clowns, shows & LOTS of junk food. I'm not sure I've ever been so happy to eat oreos. :) haha.
I'm getting my things packed to go to Quepos for a few days with my friends Meghan and Dennis, and Meghans brother! I am looking forward to relaxing on the beach and seeing more of beautiful Costa Rica.. and then when I get back I get to head to San Jose to pick up Lesli!! I do not have words to describe the excitement within me!!
Even though this is not a long post - I imagine that the next three weeks are going to be a WHIRLWIND and I won't be around my computer very much. There isn't really anything else to update on right now but I WILL say this:
This week, I spent a lot of time looking at numbers. I'm not normally a numbers person.. Growing up I never LOVED math. But I have always appreciated that no matter WHERE in this world you go, numbers are the same in every language. With that being said, statistics interest me. Like the statistic that there are 147 million orphans in the world. And when I think about that, my heart hurts. I want so badly to care for all of them and tell them all that I love them and GOD loves them. In a discussion I had this week about this statistic, and statistics like it, someone asked me how I could possibly believe their is a God when there are so many orphans and people hurting and dying in this world. My answer was simple. God created every single one of those orphans in HIS image and HE holds them ALL. Just like He holds you and I. And He ALSO put us on this Earth to take care of each other. James 1:27 says that "Pure and lasting religion in the sight of God our Father means that we must care for orphans" To me, it's right there - black and white. My heart weighs heavy with this statistic. I want to love them all. I ask that we all take a minute out of our days to pray for the orphans around the world. I pray that they will know humanly love, and the love of our Father. I also am praying for some hearts to be moved in the direction of adoption.
So much for my post not being long. :)
I better throw some clothes in my bag and get going - Happy Friday everyone!
It was exam week for the kids. What SCHOLARS my boys are. They were diligent in their studies and worked so hard! Their hard work paid off and everyone excelled. Today we got to CELEBRATE the end of exams and the three week vacation we are about to have. There were games, clowns, shows & LOTS of junk food. I'm not sure I've ever been so happy to eat oreos. :) haha.
I'm getting my things packed to go to Quepos for a few days with my friends Meghan and Dennis, and Meghans brother! I am looking forward to relaxing on the beach and seeing more of beautiful Costa Rica.. and then when I get back I get to head to San Jose to pick up Lesli!! I do not have words to describe the excitement within me!!
Even though this is not a long post - I imagine that the next three weeks are going to be a WHIRLWIND and I won't be around my computer very much. There isn't really anything else to update on right now but I WILL say this:
This week, I spent a lot of time looking at numbers. I'm not normally a numbers person.. Growing up I never LOVED math. But I have always appreciated that no matter WHERE in this world you go, numbers are the same in every language. With that being said, statistics interest me. Like the statistic that there are 147 million orphans in the world. And when I think about that, my heart hurts. I want so badly to care for all of them and tell them all that I love them and GOD loves them. In a discussion I had this week about this statistic, and statistics like it, someone asked me how I could possibly believe their is a God when there are so many orphans and people hurting and dying in this world. My answer was simple. God created every single one of those orphans in HIS image and HE holds them ALL. Just like He holds you and I. And He ALSO put us on this Earth to take care of each other. James 1:27 says that "Pure and lasting religion in the sight of God our Father means that we must care for orphans" To me, it's right there - black and white. My heart weighs heavy with this statistic. I want to love them all. I ask that we all take a minute out of our days to pray for the orphans around the world. I pray that they will know humanly love, and the love of our Father. I also am praying for some hearts to be moved in the direction of adoption.
So much for my post not being long. :)
I better throw some clothes in my bag and get going - Happy Friday everyone!
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Fearless for You!
I have been terrible at blogging! So my deepest apologies to you loyal readers! Life has been busy here in Costa Rica. I would like to blame my internet connection, but the more truthful answer would be that I am exhausted by the time I would have time to blog! :) I will work on being better!
School is going great! I seriously don't know how many ways to say that I have the best group of students I could have ever imagined. We have become a little "family" and are growing and learnig so much from each other every day. My favorite part is the innocent and eagerness that the boys still have for school. They love finding new, artistic and imaginative ways to do things and present materials. As a teacher, I couldn't be more proud! The boys also now insist I eat lunch with them ALMOST every day. That way none of the girls talk to them. Oh, to be 9 years old. :) I've also been invited to play soccer with them...That's a pretty big deal here! This week we are reviewing materials that the students have learned this trimester, and next week we have exams. It's pretty serious and the students all stress a little more than I'd like, but we will celebrate by having a party Friday before we go on vacation for three weeks!
I'm SO looking forward to vacation. My dear friend Lesli flies in on the 28th, and we will explore Costa Rica a few days and relax. I am really looking forward to her visit...she's the best friend I could ask for! And I miss her terribly...THEN! Kevin and Vinnie fly in July 4 for a week! I'm equally excited for them to visit and explore and spend some quality time with. :) And if that were not enough (which its more than enough!) My friend Corrine flies in on the 9th! It's going to be a great time!! :) I am counting down anxiously! I can't wait for my friends from home to see my new HOME! and way of life, and meet my sweet new friends!
God's been so gracious with surrounding me with supportive and amazing people here in Costa Rica. On Sunday, I celebrated my 22 birthday with them. Meghan insisted we go out to celebrate Saturday, and then everyone came to my apartment for a pool party and bbq on Sunday. They all told me that when you move to another country, you become instant best friends, and I was speechless to see their words ring true on Sunday. We had a blast Sunday and I am thankful to them for making my birthday so special!
Life is good here. I am amazed every day at some things that I see and learn about Costa Rica. (Some good, some bad - of course!) I have come to realize how beautiful diversity is. And in diversity there is STRENGTH. Some of the local people I meet just amaze me. I continue to ask for prayers for strength so that I can provide all of myself to these beautiful people. I also am asking for prayers for my family back home. As I am living my dreams out, I know that it's been hard to seperate myself from the people I care most about. I hope my family all knows that they are always in my heart and my thoughts.
Tonight I pray a little harder and bend a little lower at the feet of Jesus.. "Abba, Father,” he said, “everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what You will. Whatever YOU will, Father - I will do my best.
Sweet blessings<3
School is going great! I seriously don't know how many ways to say that I have the best group of students I could have ever imagined. We have become a little "family" and are growing and learnig so much from each other every day. My favorite part is the innocent and eagerness that the boys still have for school. They love finding new, artistic and imaginative ways to do things and present materials. As a teacher, I couldn't be more proud! The boys also now insist I eat lunch with them ALMOST every day. That way none of the girls talk to them. Oh, to be 9 years old. :) I've also been invited to play soccer with them...That's a pretty big deal here! This week we are reviewing materials that the students have learned this trimester, and next week we have exams. It's pretty serious and the students all stress a little more than I'd like, but we will celebrate by having a party Friday before we go on vacation for three weeks!
I'm SO looking forward to vacation. My dear friend Lesli flies in on the 28th, and we will explore Costa Rica a few days and relax. I am really looking forward to her visit...she's the best friend I could ask for! And I miss her terribly...THEN! Kevin and Vinnie fly in July 4 for a week! I'm equally excited for them to visit and explore and spend some quality time with. :) And if that were not enough (which its more than enough!) My friend Corrine flies in on the 9th! It's going to be a great time!! :) I am counting down anxiously! I can't wait for my friends from home to see my new HOME! and way of life, and meet my sweet new friends!
God's been so gracious with surrounding me with supportive and amazing people here in Costa Rica. On Sunday, I celebrated my 22 birthday with them. Meghan insisted we go out to celebrate Saturday, and then everyone came to my apartment for a pool party and bbq on Sunday. They all told me that when you move to another country, you become instant best friends, and I was speechless to see their words ring true on Sunday. We had a blast Sunday and I am thankful to them for making my birthday so special!
Life is good here. I am amazed every day at some things that I see and learn about Costa Rica. (Some good, some bad - of course!) I have come to realize how beautiful diversity is. And in diversity there is STRENGTH. Some of the local people I meet just amaze me. I continue to ask for prayers for strength so that I can provide all of myself to these beautiful people. I also am asking for prayers for my family back home. As I am living my dreams out, I know that it's been hard to seperate myself from the people I care most about. I hope my family all knows that they are always in my heart and my thoughts.
Tonight I pray a little harder and bend a little lower at the feet of Jesus.. "Abba, Father,” he said, “everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what You will. Whatever YOU will, Father - I will do my best.
Sweet blessings<3
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Pura Vida
Hello everyone!
I think my post is a little overdue! It has been a crazy, exciting, BUSY! past couple of days!
Wednesday morning I left bright and early. I was anxious. I was ready to get to Costa Rica, see the school, meet my students, and get going...but I was sad to say goodbye to my brother and sister, and friends. Luckily, my parents are the overprotective type, so they came with me to help me get situated. We landed in San Jose around 130 Wednesday, and rented a car and started on our way towards Jaco.
The ride was pretty! And long. haha. Costa Rica is beautiful though. Everything is SO colorful! It's absouletly amazing. We are staying in Playa Hermosa, which is the town right past Jaco. Wednesday night after dinner, my dad decided we should go and find the school. WELL! That turned into an adventure. The school that I'm working at, Las Nubes, is a private school, in a "gated community." So after the guard let us in to look at the school, he then went to the house next to the school and told the principal we were there. I was NOT expecting this! But she was so welcoming and told me how the students have been waiting for me. We sat and talked with her for awhile, she showed us the school, and then asked me if I would be there Thursday morning at 730? Oh, of course! Talk about being thrown right in. :)
For those of you who know me pretty well, know that I am pretty ridiculous when I get nervous. Thursday morning was pretty ridiculous. :) Once I got to the school, I was greeted by the high school principal and she took me to my class. She quickly explained that my students have had a sub for the past couple of weeks but to just look at the notes and I should be able to figure out what to do. REALY?!?! My students get to school around 8, so I had all of 15 minutes to get things ready. Then my students came. I have five students. ALL BOYS! Guillermo, Andre, Richard, James, and Patrick. They are perfect. I could not have asked for a better group of students. They were so helpful. I also met a lot of the other teachers, who are all very welcoming and kind! There are some girls from the States, and rest are "ticos or ticas" which means locals.
I made it through Thursday. It was a whirlwind and I don't remember a lot of it. But I made it through! Friday was a lot better. I had a plan! (I love plans. :)) I decided to take the day to do "ice breakers" and different, fun activities to get to know my students.. with some work mixed in. I am teaching English, math & science, and another teacher comes in for Estudious Sociales (social studies) and spanish. Well, she seems nice, but she doesn't speak a word of English. I am so lucky that I "clicked" with my students...they translated everything I did not understand. :) I've only been here a few days but I'm already picking up more spanish.
After school on Friday, I went and looked at some of the apartments that my parents had found while I was at work. Cross your fingers that if everything works out, I will have a place to live by Sunday. I've learned that a lot of things here are word of mouth, and people are very trusting. (So far) sooo I hope that it all works out. :)
Overall, I'm loving every second of this. Just about everything is different than what I'm used to..but in such a good different way! I feel very blessed to be here, and I know God has put me exactly where He needs me to be.
Today we are going to Manuel Antonio so my papa can see some monkeys! He is pretty excited, and so am I. I am so lucky (and thankful) to have such loving, supporting, caring parents. Having there here has made this a lot easier. I love them so much and would be lost without them. I will be sad to see them leave Tuesday, but for now I will enjoy the time I have with them.
With that being said, I'm going to close by saying Thank you! Thank you everyone for your prayers and support as I start this journey. You guys are amazing! I love you all so much... your kind words and support make this so much more enjoyable!
Besos!
I think my post is a little overdue! It has been a crazy, exciting, BUSY! past couple of days!
Wednesday morning I left bright and early. I was anxious. I was ready to get to Costa Rica, see the school, meet my students, and get going...but I was sad to say goodbye to my brother and sister, and friends. Luckily, my parents are the overprotective type, so they came with me to help me get situated. We landed in San Jose around 130 Wednesday, and rented a car and started on our way towards Jaco.
The ride was pretty! And long. haha. Costa Rica is beautiful though. Everything is SO colorful! It's absouletly amazing. We are staying in Playa Hermosa, which is the town right past Jaco. Wednesday night after dinner, my dad decided we should go and find the school. WELL! That turned into an adventure. The school that I'm working at, Las Nubes, is a private school, in a "gated community." So after the guard let us in to look at the school, he then went to the house next to the school and told the principal we were there. I was NOT expecting this! But she was so welcoming and told me how the students have been waiting for me. We sat and talked with her for awhile, she showed us the school, and then asked me if I would be there Thursday morning at 730? Oh, of course! Talk about being thrown right in. :)
For those of you who know me pretty well, know that I am pretty ridiculous when I get nervous. Thursday morning was pretty ridiculous. :) Once I got to the school, I was greeted by the high school principal and she took me to my class. She quickly explained that my students have had a sub for the past couple of weeks but to just look at the notes and I should be able to figure out what to do. REALY?!?! My students get to school around 8, so I had all of 15 minutes to get things ready. Then my students came. I have five students. ALL BOYS! Guillermo, Andre, Richard, James, and Patrick. They are perfect. I could not have asked for a better group of students. They were so helpful. I also met a lot of the other teachers, who are all very welcoming and kind! There are some girls from the States, and rest are "ticos or ticas" which means locals.
I made it through Thursday. It was a whirlwind and I don't remember a lot of it. But I made it through! Friday was a lot better. I had a plan! (I love plans. :)) I decided to take the day to do "ice breakers" and different, fun activities to get to know my students.. with some work mixed in. I am teaching English, math & science, and another teacher comes in for Estudious Sociales (social studies) and spanish. Well, she seems nice, but she doesn't speak a word of English. I am so lucky that I "clicked" with my students...they translated everything I did not understand. :) I've only been here a few days but I'm already picking up more spanish.
After school on Friday, I went and looked at some of the apartments that my parents had found while I was at work. Cross your fingers that if everything works out, I will have a place to live by Sunday. I've learned that a lot of things here are word of mouth, and people are very trusting. (So far) sooo I hope that it all works out. :)
Overall, I'm loving every second of this. Just about everything is different than what I'm used to..but in such a good different way! I feel very blessed to be here, and I know God has put me exactly where He needs me to be.
Today we are going to Manuel Antonio so my papa can see some monkeys! He is pretty excited, and so am I. I am so lucky (and thankful) to have such loving, supporting, caring parents. Having there here has made this a lot easier. I love them so much and would be lost without them. I will be sad to see them leave Tuesday, but for now I will enjoy the time I have with them.
With that being said, I'm going to close by saying Thank you! Thank you everyone for your prayers and support as I start this journey. You guys are amazing! I love you all so much... your kind words and support make this so much more enjoyable!
Besos!
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