Hey team!
It has officially been one month since I arrived. I feel that I should apologize for not updating my blog, but better late than never, right? Today marked the end of the 3rd full week of school. It is tiring and stressful, and requires loooong days that turn into long nights, but I am learning. I am growing and being stretched in many ways, and will continue on like this with my chin up and my boots buckled. I mean. I'm not wearing boots. And I don't have any boots with buckles. But if I was and if I did, I promise you that I would.
So let me start this update by telling you about the things that are most pressing in my mind. First of all, I bought a cactus today for my house. It's real cute, about yay-high and its name is Cristóbal. I bought him at the grocery store. It's great to have a new addition to the family. Secondly, I am running my first international race on Sunday. It's a 10k and I am STOKED. I got my race packet today, and I am chomping at the bit to run it. There will be over 6000 people, and it will be basically be big running party. Thirdly, today for lunch I went out with a couple of teachers to a big authentic market place. We ate in this large cafeteria filled with about 15 booths all selling the same food. We ate "hornado" (roasted) pig that was served on top of a pile of potatoes with salad and avocado and pork rind. It was the most cultural thing I've done all week, and for that I am glad that I did it. In fact, I will make you a deal. If you come visit me, I will take you out for hornado so you can experience the fun yourself. I might even buy you a jugo de mora (blackberry juice) - the most heavenly juice in the world. :)
Although I haven't had the chance yet to travel much or jump off of anything cool or climb any mountains, everyday is an adventure of its own. "They" say that the first year teaching is the hardest, and I reallllly hope that "they" are correct. At the same time, I love my kids, and I really am enjoying teaching and ministering in this way. Additionally, I am helping to lead a group of students once a week to go minister at a food kitchen called Pan de Vida (Bread of Life). We had our organizational meeting this Wednesday. This will be a good way actively get out into the community and serve, love, and grow alongside my students.
I will try and do better at keeping you all updated, but in the meantime, do me a favor and remember with me that "life is not a trajectory". So keep spinning. :)
