I went to Ukraine to teach English. It was an absolutely incredible experience. The best moments were when you could see a light bulb go off in their heads and then they started talking your ears off. I just love those kids.
I love the teachers/friends I got to know while I was there. I have not been good at keeping touch with most of them but each of them forced me to really take life by the horns and live it! It didnt' matter if we were lost on the metro, surrounded by drunk men, or walking through a beautiful cathedral or park we were always laughing -- yes we were THOSE Americans.
Sometimes I wonder what the family I lived with is up to. They don't speak hardly any English so most of our communication was pantomime. I love that Lina (my host mom) taught me how to make all kinds of yummy food and Volodia (my host dad) played his accordion while we danced and laughed. Natasha and Sofia were the best host sisters you could ask for. I loved helping Natasha with her English homework.
I miss the beautiful churches. I miss living the 'big city' life! I miss wearing a big fur lined coat and totally fitting in. I miss the high-fashion of the women there. I really miss that pink purse that I brought home totally black...I miss it all - but I am extremely grateful for what I learned there. It makes me proud to live where I live, and extremely thankful for everything that I do have.
I just can't believe it's been 5 years.
3 comments:
Wow.. I really 5 years! We did have some good times!
You are a brave girl! It takes serious guts to go to another country, with another language, and a different culture all by yourself. You are awesome! And, you haven't changed one bit either...you still look the same as you did in those pictures. What's your anti-aging secret? :)
That's wonderful news about the temple. And it was neat to read more about your experience there.
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