The New Normal: Thank you!

Richard and I were overwhelmed with gratitude at the send-off we received at ORPC this morning!  From the words spoken by Glenn Ogden (I was choking back tears), to the generous gift of money from the congregation, the beautiful print of the church drawn by Jack Wagstaff, the plane snacks (including my favorite York patties) from the Smith's, Chris Brown's picture memory CD, and for the many cards, kind words and hugs, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. And the cakes . . . wow, such a neat idea and so DELICIOUS; thank you Christine Uhrlass!  I have loved serving this church for the past 11 1/2 years and look forward to renewing old friendships when we return for a visit next summer.

Speaking of thank yous, I believe I have gone out to lunch and dinner more this summer alone than in the past three years combined.  Thank you Emily Moss, Roanne Ornelles, Kat Wolfson, Penny Vance, Andi Ives, Sue Carpenter, Sammie Braxton, Beth and Robert Dunbar, Randy and Janet Mintz and anyone else I forgot.  Thank you Kim Markham for looking after all of our plants; I hope there is still room in your house for people.  Thank you Ed Dickinson for watching over Emily, our sweet golden, and the pick-up truck.  Thank you Sue Carpenter for letting us stay with you the night before we leave town, checking our post office box while we are gone, and for just being there for me no matter what for the past 26+ years!  Thank you Autumn House for the care you show my sweet boy, Sam, everyday; he is growing by leaps and bounds under your watchful eyes, and this African experience would never had been possible for us without knowing that he is safe and happy.

Our flight leaves on Wednesday at 10:30AM.  We covet your prayers as we embark on the journey.  

Please add comments to this blog anytime to help us feel connected to you.  Blessings!

The New Normal: Getting Closer

We are just a little over two weeks away from our travel date.  The house is almost ready for rental, and our clothes and personal items are set to pack into our newly purchased suitcases.  

Meanwhile, horrible almost unimaginable events continue to happen all over the globe, which sometimes can fuel doubt when we think about this endeavor.  But, as the quote says, God is already there, waiting for us.  I will continue to pray that He is sending Richard and me to be of service in another nation, and that peace will prevail.

The New Normal: Perspective

My horoscope puts my current state of mind into perspective.  

The New Normal: What I'll be Doing at GWA

Folks have been messaging me asking about what I will be doing in Morocco, so, here's what I know so far.  I have accepted the position of learning resource specialist in the lower school at George Washington Academy.  I will also be the department chair, overseeing ESL, reading and special education in general.  My focus will change from Middle School (my Canterbury experience) to Lower School (as I begin my new position at GWA in August).  The school will be looking to me to determine the best direction in which to take the school regarding its learning resource program.

A little about the school . . . GWA is located in Casablanca and is a PreK-12 accredited private American school.  The school has been open since 1998 and, although the school is trilingual (Arabic, French and English), most classes are taught in English beginning in the 2nd grade.  The student body includes many Moroccans (60% or so), those from the United States (20%), as well as children from other parts of the world (20%).  They are immersed in the English language at every grade level, although younger children learn literacy in French (for many, this is the language they hear at home.) High school aged students can opt for AP and advance classes, and all students study both US and Moroccan history and culture.  In addition, the kids have opportunities for many extra-curricular activities including sports, clubs, music and drama.

I can't wait to get on campus!  أنا لا يمكن أن يوصل

The New Normal: Apartment Chosen

It's official . . . we've chosen our apartment!  It's located on 27 rue Socrates in the heart of Casablanca.  The flat is on the top (5th) floor, 3 bedrooms, 1 1/2 baths, with a walk out onto the roof.  There will be plenty of room for visitors!

The New Normal: Trying to Keep Calm (as best we can)

We leave one month from today!!!

The New Normal: Vaccinations

   

One more milestone past . . . vaccinations!  Richard and I had the hep a/b dose one, yellow fever and tetanus boosters yesterday, as well as starting the oral regimen for protection against typhoid fever.  Survived it, so far.  Thanks Beth Cameron for being so gentle (at least with Richard!)