In no way could I have predicted we'd be traveling and teaching in Kuwait, but alas here we are and I couldn't be happier.
I cannot encapsulate all the changes that have taken place since my time in Tofino but needless to say I have experienced surmountable change.
I graduated from Concurrent Education, started to supply teach, moved to Guelph with my Ma, gained more experience working within social work, as well as, fell in love with the sweetest guy I've ever met.
The travel and teach in Kuwait seed was planted by Cale's brother, Mason during his visit home in the summer. Mason spoke so highly of the experience and was so instrumental in helping us find work opportunities. His Fiancee, Amanda sealed the deal when she found us classrooms at the school she works at.
Cale will be teaching a class of all boys in either grade three or grade five. I will be teaching an all girls grade five class. At first, I was a little overwhelmed by the idea of teaching grade fives- eek, they're older then I have ever really taught. Upon looking at the curriculum, I was able to put my mind at ease and the excitement for this opportunity started to build.
We had approximately two weeks to get ready for our trip. I spent the time working the last shifts at my jobs, seeing good friends and family, as well as, grabbing some last minute things for the trip. The time seemed to blow by quicker then I had imagined. Cale was equally as eager and ready to start this adventure.
We flew out of Toronto at 10:55pm. I was full of nerves and lots of anticipation for all that was ahead of us. We said goodbye to our families, and before we knew it we were boarding our flight to Istanbul. This flight was about 9 hours and I felt it. I was beyond ready to get off the plane when we reached the tarmac. I was thankful for Cale's shoulder, as I was able to sneak in some shut eye.. I don't think he was as fortunate. We got Istanbul and had a 3.5 hour lay over. We grabbed a drink and a fresh pastry while we waited for boarding. I have to include Cale and I have also started to re-watch all the seasons of Recess; we also fit in some episodes here.
We got to Kuwait around 1:40am and were lucky enough to have Mason and Amanda waiting to pick us up. They swooped us up and took us to their apartment for the night. I am so grateful for these two, I honestly can't imagine this adventure happening without them! After a quick chat, we were quick to bed. I had trouble sleeping as the 8 hour time change has thrown me off quite a bit. Eventually, we fell asleep and awoke to the hustle and bustle of the city at 7:00 am.
I forgot how energizing adventures can be. I am so lucky to have so many amazing people to share it with, as well as, a partner in crime to be by my side.
I am approaching this opportunity with an open mind and motivated spirit. I cannot begin to imagine all that it will entail but I'm sure it will be both challenging, positive and life- changing.
Sending lots of love from the desert.
- nor.
“The moment you doubt whether you can fly, you cease for ever to be able to do it.” - peter pan
