I especially love the way people greet each other on the street, the way neighbors take care of one another, and the overall sense of community.
Some of the people who have grown to be most important to me are my friend Eilanna, a fellow volunteer, my first host mom who I call Doña, my host sisters Rosa and Graciela, my second host mom Gloria, my friend Magnolia, and all of my students and fellow teachers! They have truly been my lifeline and make everything I do worth it. I’ll be sure to tell you more about them throughout our journey together!
Another rose is the beautiful environment of the country. As volunteers, we are placed in a community for two years, and we don’t have much control over where our bosses decide to put us. Luckily, I really hit the jackpot! I live on the southern coast in a small fishing village called Ojeda. I can see the ocean from one window of my house, and the mountains from another. Beach walks have become a part of my daily routine, and if I want to go on a hike to find mangoes or bananas or avocados, there are hills of trees just waiting for me. I truly believe I live in one of the most naturally beautiful places on the planet, and I feel so lucky to call this place home.
Bud (What am I looking forward to?)
With only eight months left until I go home, I’m so excited to do so many things!
One of the buds I’m looking forward to most is seeing the way my students have progressed by the end of this school year. One of the most rewarding parts of my job is working in small tutor groups with kids who need some extra help with their reading and writing. We read fun books, practice writing our names, and play lots and lots of learning games.
