"So, what brought you here?" Valid question.
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.
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 →
I recently posted my 4ty-5 by 45 challenge list, with the next set of goals I’d like to accomplish by the next big birthday. Although, to be fair, every birthday should be celebrated as a big birthday. It’s a privilege... Continue Reading →
A few years ago I started marking each actual year of my life, answering these same set of questions each birthday to help me measure moments. Here are the last 365.25 days: new hair for a new decade! first time... Continue Reading →
Sunglasses Always Fit 