So I've been in Philly for a day now and I already feel much more relaxed and comfortable with everything. Most everyone else is very much like me- anxious about not being able to learn the language, not fit in with our community, not be able to really get through to our students- and although many of the things we share are anxieties, it's so comforting to know that I'm not the only one with these fears. We're all also very excited about the upcoming adventure and ready for it to actually begin. I can't believe it's finally here! 18+ months in the making and I leave for the airport in about 2 hours!
Well, this may be my last blog for a bit, concidering I have no clue when I'll get internet access again. All i know is 3am bus ride to New York, wait in the airport for 6 hours, 15 hour flight to Johannesburg, 5 hour layover, one hour flight to Maputo, then sleep in a fabulous hotel :) Wish me luck and lots of sleep!
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Pre-departure Jitters!!
So, about 36 hours to go before I get on a plane for my staging in Philly. Very excited and very nervous at this point! I've finished shopping (which I've done far too much of, but it always seemed to calm me down) and tomorrow I will start to pack. As of now I have about 150 pounds of stuff and I have to get it down to 80lbs and cram it all in two bags. Wish me luck!!
Besides fitting everything into my suitcases, my main concern at this point it is the language. I've been trying to learn Portuguese online with Rosetta Stone but I haven't gotten too far with it. My first assignment was to Mauritania (last June) and I was confident about the language there because I already speak French- now I'm a bit more concerned. Other than language, I feel pretty good about things, knowing it's going to be very difficult and at times harder than I care to try, but I know I'll get through it (however, any love sent through the mail would be much appreciated!)
I may not have much internet access during my first few months in Mozambique, but I'll try to keep everyone updated as much as I can.
Besides fitting everything into my suitcases, my main concern at this point it is the language. I've been trying to learn Portuguese online with Rosetta Stone but I haven't gotten too far with it. My first assignment was to Mauritania (last June) and I was confident about the language there because I already speak French- now I'm a bit more concerned. Other than language, I feel pretty good about things, knowing it's going to be very difficult and at times harder than I care to try, but I know I'll get through it (however, any love sent through the mail would be much appreciated!)
I may not have much internet access during my first few months in Mozambique, but I'll try to keep everyone updated as much as I can.
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