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Once I get to Puerto La Cruz, I'll try to be diligent about posting notes and pictures about all of my new discoveries and adventures.
For now, though, here's what I've been doing for preparation:
- Listening to Pimsleur's Spanish program in my car every chance I get. So far I can say the really important things, like order wine and ask where the stores are. (Thanks, Uncle Matt!)
- Preparing to fly to a Venezuelan consulate (most likely in Chicago)to complete my work visa
- Sorting through my clothes and belongings to discard or put away everything that won't be coming with me
- Familiarizing myself with CIPLC's curriculum as much as possible, and pondering deep thoughts such as how to teach robotics to fourth graders, and wondering why in the world they never taught Venezuelan history here in the U.S.(haha...)
- Trying to sell my car (any takers?)
- Finding warm weather teaching clothes and buying swimsuits for the first time since I quit lifeguarding (it's tough, but someone's got to do it!)
- Finishing up two courses about teaching ESL students and multicultural literacy instruction - this will be handy since there are 16 different nationalities represented at CIPLC. :)
- Getting beach-body ready and checking a marathon off of my bucket list! Derek and I will be running The Dam Marathon on June 14th outside of Oakridge, OR. Three more weeks!
- Beginning to say those bittersweet goodbyes - there are still so many people to spend quality time with before July 19th!
I was fortunate enough to make it home for a few days in order to say goodbye to this guy, who deploys to Africa this week. Dan, I am so proud of you! (Too bad you didn't bring the Bondiband with you in order to charm the local ladies!)
One of the views I'll miss the most and will always be happy to return to - from the living room window at home in Big Timber.
