New New New

On some level everyone can relate to the stereotype of “the new kid.”  Whether it is starting college, a new job, or making a big move, most people would agree being new can be a little uncomfortable.  I thought about this as I reflected on the long day I had with my students. If I had to describe myself I would say I am a pretty outgoing and positive person, but I haven’t felt that way this week. I think the root of it comes from the challenges that accompany being new. Adjusting your expectations and how you fulfill the role you are given can be a lot to take in.

Here is the conclusion I have come to: I would rather be new, admit that I have no idea what I am doing and grow from confronting life and its difficulties, then be complacent in an environment that is all too comfortable.

Part of the adventure of student teaching abroad is not knowing whether or not I will be good at it! Being a teacher is challenging no matter what continent you are on! I have seen more and more that it takes very special people to be educators.

While I am on the topic of new experiences, the most unexpected gift I have received during my time at VP Grey is being able to assistant coach the boy’s soccer team. Yesterday I had to ref my first game. We had two games going at the same time so I refed one and our head coach refed the other. I was nervous because the boys are talented players and I would have hated to make a bad call. They are in 3^rd grade and you would be surprised how different they are from my baby first graders!  I am happy to say we won the game! I doubt my coaching skills had anything to do with it- I had a hard time remembering to use my whistle as the ref and coach at the same time. Everything gets easier the more you do it so I am sure it will come more naturally the next game.

I really enjoyed myself and was grateful for the mental break. Some of the boys on the team didn’t know I was from America so they kept asking me if I was an actress. I was very confused! After talking to them, I realized they watch a lot of American TV! They spent all of practice today asking me to say the words “orange” and “apple." I’m always happy to be the comic relief! J

Rachel and I are each substituting for a second grade class tomorrow. If you don’t have anything to pray for-please put us on your list! It should be a very interesting experience.

We miss our sweet American friends Amy, Diana, and Sarah W. who went home last weekend. We were sad to see them go but excited for our new roommate, Sarah, who got in last night! We love her already!

When I told our cab driver that Amy, Diana, and Sarah W. had left, his response was “Well, you lost one Sarah but now you get a new one!”  Gotta love the wise words from cab driver Chris!

Have a great Wednesday everyone!

Love,

Casey

If you have to wake up at 6 am... at least you get a wonderful reminder of God's greatness!