Six months ago today, I walked down the jet bridge and onto a flight that would bring me to my current destination, Kosova. I have officially been here for six months and I cant believe time has gone so quickly. It is amazing to think how different my life is now and all the events and opportunities that have occurred and still have yet to occur. Speaking of events, let me bring you up to speed on what has been occurring since my last post.
1. IST - We just had our IST (In Service Training). IST is when your group of volunteers get back together and discuss issues, successes, get new ideas and just enjoy being with your cohorts again. My favorite things about IST (besides my friends) The sauna, the shower and THE BED - Oh My Goodness, that bed made me (and my back) extremely happy. But in all seriousness it was a good reprieve from everyday life and to get some new tips of the trade etc.
2. Thanksgiving - My first Thanksgiving abroad. I co-taught with another volunteer and then we prepared a small (very small) version of thanksgiving dinner. It was nice to spend some time with her and her family, as well as getting the opportunity to test my from scratch kitchen skills (not too shabby if I do say so myself). On Saturday we went to a staff members house and had a "traditional" American Thanksgiving - Turkey (even one from Mongolia - Woo Hoo!) and trimmings included. Almost all of the volunteers got together and we all cooked (or brought) something. It was a really nice get together and having some type of American food is always a plus.
3. Winter Break - 2 weeks away and all I can do is sit in excitement. I get to see my parents after 6 months away, and it is one of the best feelings. In addition to my visit with my parents, another volunteer and I have plans to do a quick vacation, before we both see our parents. I am excited for the opportunity to visit new (and old) places and create new memories. Plus, I will forever having the pleasure of knowing I am the reason my parents FINALLY went to Europe :)
4. School - After being away for a week from "my kids" (my students) I am missing those loveable, adorable yet loud children hahaha. I can't wait to see them and get updated on all their lives (which will probably be very limited changes from I went to see my Uncle to maybe I saw my aunt this weekend - doesn't matter - still love them the same).
Between competitions and a mini snow storm and normal day to day activities Ksovo is definitely keeping me busy. Hopefully I can at least keep up with one entry a month, because even that seems to be a tad much now haha!
Shihemi (see you soon)
