Monthly Archives: September 2012

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September 20, 2012 (the real date written)

First of all, it has been a VERY long time since I have last written a blog. I have tried to keep my pictures updated on Facebook, but that doesn’t include my personal thoughts and extended explanations. A lot has happened since I’ve last written: I had two visitors come to Arica (my Dad and Brittany!!), I went traveling in Peru for a good 9 days, my soccer team won the championship in our league, I started my English Club at my school, more volunteers arrived in Arica, I have met lots of new friends, I ran a 10K, spent more time with my Chilean family, started applying for jobs in South America for the following year, and most recently was the celebration of the Chilean Independence Day (18 de septiembre).

But right now I am going to write a short blog that focuses on what’s going on at this moment. This week I am on vacation to celebrate Chile’s Independence Day. I spent the first half of the week in Chile, celebrating with friends and family. Right now, I am actually in Peru. As I mentioned above, I have been applying for jobs in South America (specifically Chile and Peru). I had a school in Peru take an interest in me for the next school year (beginning in February). I took the opportunity to come to Peru for an interview and meet their staff and school. Everything went very well and I will be going back in tomorrow morning to meet again with the Principal, School Psych, and Director. There are so many things I need to consider and think about before making any final decisions. Whether this turns into something or merely passes as an experience, I am so thankful for opportunities like this to encourage my pursuit of doing what I love: teaching and living abroad! Right now I am going to leave it vague because I do not know what will come of this endeavor. But I do want you all to know that I am job hunting and looking for opportunities to stay a little while longer in South America.

Some other things…
– My Spanish is still improving, but is so much better than it was in the beginning.

– School is going well (only 2 more months left, wow!)…my classroom got taken away because someone from the Ministry of Education came in and took over, but it has all worked out and I continue to co-teach with my awesome co-teacher, Patty!

– I am really in routine here and love living in Arica. The people continue to be so warm, sincere, and generous. And everyday I am meeting new Ariqueños.

– The weather is starting to warm up again for Spring, but the past week has been really cool and windy. (I have actually forgotten how incredibly hot it gets here…but I will be reminded and living in it again in no time)

– Laura and Eryn have both returned to the United States…miss them both!

That’s all for now! Hugs and kisses to ALL!!!!