The Beginning

Since finding out 5 months ago that I had the great opportunity to exchange places with a teacher from the UK, my life has been a whirlwind. Who knew there would be so many details to weed through and preparations to make so that this was as smooth a transition as possible?! Having spent a week with Kelly, my exchange teacher, in Portland, and now having arrived in the UK myself, I believe the planning and preparation will pay off. I have learned to take '3 deep breathes' (as one of my favorite people once said) and have repeated the mantra, "All shall be well" by Julian of Norwich. The experience thus far has been exciting and only slightly nerve wracking. I cannot wait to meet my host school and the staff whom I am sure I will learn a great deal from!

This preparation was expanded at the recent Fulbright Teacher Exchange meeting in Washington DC. Fulbright teachers from 8 different countries traveled to a hotel on DuPont Circle in DC. The FHI 360/Fulbright Team did an amazing job of setting up engaging presenters (such as Harry Wong), a tour of DC, alumni presentations and time to collaborate with our exchange teacher. Kelly and I spent every extra moment sharing philosophies, curricula, and systems from each of our schools. In the end, we spent no less than eight hours just talking about all that we would need to know for a successful school year. I can now say, without a moment’s pause, that Deer Creek is extremely lucky to have Kelly and that she will be an amazing teacher for the First Graders who get to have her for a teacher! There are many things to be learned from her, and I know she is eager to learn from others.

Now I am in Hemel Hempstead with my twin sister and brother-in-law. The town is about 20 minutes from London. After a few days of recovery from jet lag, I set off into London today. I saw so many amazing sights and was reminded once again about how young we are as a country. At the British Museum, I was even able to hold an artifact from the Paleolithic period! There were several moments in my 'walk about' that I had to remind myself that I was not only visiting the UK but getting to stay in the country for 1 WHOLE YEAR! In a few days, I am heading north to West Yorkshire, and I am looking forward to getting settled in my new home. Kelly's family, coworkers and friends have already started contacting me and I feel lucky to know I have a support network.

All this being said, I wouldn't be able to be here without the support network from home that sent me off with many well wishes, love and support. I attempted to keep the tears to a minimum but it was difficult at times. You are all in my thoughts and I carry you with me. I hope to use this blog to keep all of you at home informed about the journey and the 'aha moments.' I apologize, in advance, for silly grammatical errors or typos. Until the next time...cheerio!