I'm officially in Venezuela! My plane came in on Sunday night. Packing was a challenge. There was plenty of room, but not enough weight. It all fit though, and I arrived here with both of my checked bags and carry-ons just fine. They passed through customs without a problem, which is a huge answer to prayer. There were a few problems among my team though. All of the new teachers coming from the United States met in Atlanta and were going to fly together to Caracas. We were seated on the plane when they came in to take one of my teammates off the plane due to what they claimed was a ticketing issue that they weren't responsible for. Then, our plane was delayed for an hour as they searched for her two bags to get them off of the plane. Thankfully, she was able to catch the same flight the next day, but unfortunately, one of her bags did not make it here yet. Another teammate was suppose to arrive on Sunday morning, but there was a death in her family, so she should be arriving tomorrow. Please continue to pray for safe travels and luggage issues for my teammates.
Since I've been here, I've been kept very busy with the orientation activities. I've learned how to shop for groceries, bought phones, opened a bank account, met four of my students, started arranging my classroom, and have begun learning more about teaching. Everyone at the school has been very kind and helpful to the new teachers here. They had things so well planned for our arrival that I was very impressed.I have also been busy unpacking and getting settled into my apartment. I live with three other single girls that teach at ICS Caracas. Only one of my roommates has been here so far; the other two should arrive tomorrow. Last night, I tried out our pineapple slicer for the first time! It looks like a giant apple slicer that cores it and takes the skin off. The slicer takes a lot of effort to push down, but I still found it easier than how I usually cut pineapples (after I asked my roommate for help at least). The view here is gorgeous. I have a view of the mountain and some of Caracas from my window.
Prayer Requests
- Safe delivery of the baby my teammates are expecting to arrive soon
- My teammate's luggage would arrive with everything in it
- I would be ready for the beginning of school
- Learning how to cook here
- The continued transition into a new culture
Well, back I go to unpacking. Buenos noches (good night)!
