One thing about expats - we are shameless about pursuing friendships when we intuit it might work out. And nothing forces a friendship to cement or break like traveling together. As the philosophic movie "Anchorman" taught us, 60% of the... Continue Reading →
surviving the first day of teaching in 2025! only cried once! I (40SWF) on a Friday night, finished a paper for my Masters program, dusted, was accosted by my creepy landlord’s husband (they live downstairs and he creeps on me... Continue Reading →
For now, I just have to get through two days of wrangling the sugared-up and feral creatures formally known as my students into a three minute choreographed line dance to “You’re a Mean One, Mr Grinch,” (it’s adorably awful) . . .
blackouts, side quests, to know someone, and making a life in a new country. just the little things.
The author reflects on the transformative experience of moving to Guatemala, shedding past roles and expectations. Embracing solitude and self-discovery, they express joy in forming new, authentic relationships while adjusting to their teaching position. This journey serves as a liberating reset, fostering confidence and personal growth amidst challenges and new adventures.
The problem was that the Far East was just too close. An hour-long bus ride away? Yeah, that will always be there. No need to make that a priority. It fell into the same vein as where I have lived... Continue Reading →
I couldn’t have ordered a more Rachel-esque day to get here to my new home in Panajachel, Guatemala. Moving out of my home in Hong Kong to the temporary spot at my parents in California for six weeks was wild enough. I was waiting on boxes still from Hong Kong . . .
me and bestie Everyone has a morning ritual. In this long six-week summer between teaching jobs, I’ve cozied into very different morning routines than from when I’m teaching. Those were usually "AH!/Coffee/get dressed/teeth/out door/try to not forget anything/forget something/AH!" mornings. But... Continue Reading →
The author shares the emotional turmoil of leaving Hong Kong after unexpectedly losing their teaching job. Despite initial challenges and rejections, they secured a teaching position in Guatemala. The new role comes with unique challenges, including teaching fifth grade without a partner and adapting to a different lifestyle. However, they express excitement about the opportunity, reconnecting with Spanish, and fulfilling a long-held desire to live in Guatemala.
north stars There’s a long list of things that can be painful or annoying about being single; getting a zipper up on the back of your dress, applying sunscreen in the right spots, opening a stubborn jar of pickles, a... Continue Reading →
The author leaves Hong Kong after making a bucket list and decides to visit Singapore. Despite initial flight and accommodation challenges, she explores the city under intense heat, enjoys the sights, food, and cultural mix, but finds the humidity overwhelming. The trip prompts reflection on leaving Hong Kong and the mixed emotions of departure.
Sunglasses Always Fit 