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) . . .
felt like death warmed up, but this was my one chance to shout out songs from "Mulan" at the top of a Wonder of the World . . .
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 →
As an educator, I will be a hollow shell of myself every year from August to October as I adjust to a new group of kids. For fun, now when I collapse onto the couch every day, I also get to wonder, “Ooohhhh . . . is it dengue?”
AI-Generated Summary, which cracks me up: After moving to Guatemala, the author encountered challenges like navigating the unmarked roads and adapting to cultural differences, but found joy in the friendly locals and natural beauty. As a teacher in a struggling school, the author is determined to make a positive impact despite the lack of resources, feeling grateful for answered prayers and a chance to utilize their skills.
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.
Sunglasses Always Fit 