So, today is Friday, October 20th and it is time for us to travel to Lima, Peru! I cannot believe today is the day I am leaving for this learning experience and adventure! I cannot wait to meet my cooperating teacher, host family, and see the country for the first time. This opportunity is absolutely amazing and it's crazy the day is here - where did the time go?!?! I feel like I just started my placement in my 8th grade classroom and I am sad to be leaving those students for 8 weeks. However, I am excited to meet my new 2nd grade students as well!
This blog is where I will be posting all of my travel experiences and new things I am learning about education. For those of you who know me pretty well, you know I keep a journal of my daily life things - so here is my first public one for all to see...so stay tuned for all the "Lauren" things to happen (and also some shoutouts to friends and family!).
I first just want to share some initial shoutouts to people who have helped me prior to this journey:
Dr. Delano - your constant support and belief in me for this process has given me the confidence I need for this adventure!
Maeve - here's to all the adventures we are about to have, all the new educational experiences to have, and to living moment by moment
The Roomies (Mel, Megan, Meghan, Kristin) - I don't have the words for all the ways you have helped me. Thank you for always being there and demonstrating to me that going abroad is the best thing you've ever done.
Caytie Joe- For coming to help me pack...the night before (and for proof-reading this blog post).
Mikaela and Amy- For also coming to help me unpack..and repack. Where would I be without you?
Lyd Kid- thanks for the money belt and advice! If I loose something, I know who to blame! ;)
My co-operating teacher, Mickey, and the 8th grade team - thank you for teaching me how to be a great teacher! I can't wait to use what I have learned from you abroad.
Aunt Mo - your constant positivity and love has gotten me to this point and I will be forever grateful!
The siblings (Kath, Luke, Gracie-Grace): thanks for your humor and I will be awaiting sibling group chat photos and stories even so many miles away
Mom and Dad - you've done more than you know, and I thank you for everything. Love you so much.
*Shoutout to all of those who I didn't specifically mention, but you have been supportive and great friends along this preparation. You know who you are! See you soon!!
Tonight, I am boarding the plane to Peru with 3 overpacked bags, my passport, and a smile. I think I was able to fit all my stuff in the bags because the teachers at the school I am placed at have to wear uniforms. That saved me some space for souvenirs because I am going to wear the same thing everyday!
Now, I am awaiting greetings in Spanish and smiles on the other side. I can't say I'm completely mentally prepared, but I think I'm as ready as I will ever be! Here's to the next 8 weeks!!
To end this post, I am including a picture of me at my last time at "Heaven on Earth" (aka Culvers) for 8 weeks. Featured: Lauren with her Custard and Cheese Curds. What else do you expect?
Kudos to Connor for having to take this photo multiple times because I'm so picky!
Thanks for reading, y'all! The next post from me will be from Peru! HERE WE GO!
Until next time, USA!
Adios!