Sick in Buenos Aires

One of the first things I'm quickly reminded of as I venture out in Buenos Aires is how badly I suck at directions.  I have various maps but they are all useless if I don't know how to work them. Jardin Japones didn't happen but this deliciously smelling cafe on Republica Arabe Siria did, regardless how I actually got here.  

I have now gotten lost twice in the last few days (once in Paris, other in London) to the point of almost tears. Instead of pushing myself to find the damn garden, which at this point is closed, I decided to cut my losses and eat. That attitude will serve me well as I get to know one of the biggest cities I've ever visited. My walk enabled me to see Plaza Alemania, get Argentine pesos from the ATM, reflect on the last few days, weeks, months and help a little kid not lose his soccer ball while playing with dad.  

I've been getting sick for the last few days, my throat's scratchiness undoubtedly assisted by the horrible smoke all over Spain and Paris.  For the many reasons I love Spain, there is one I absolutely hate it, its perpetual stench of smoke. After the cold rain on my last day in London and a 13 hour flight (the longest I've ever taken) I had no chance but to give into this cold and deal with it. Thanks to Rob and Olya who have supplied me with a solid amount of drugs and Federico who reminds me nonstop to rest, I should get this taken care of swiftly.

In the last two days, I've spent some time reading through my BA guidebook, downloading helpful apps and talking to my personal concierge to get an idea what there is to do. To say that I'm overwhelmed by the city's size is an understatement of the century so I'll start with a guided tour tomorrow at 11 which I hope, will steer me the right way for the rest of the week. 

It's been a while since I've traveled alone. When I did, I was much younger and technology wasn't a staple for traveling. Now, even though I'm as friendly as I've always been I'm sitting at this cafe typing on my iPad as a girl next to me, took a pic of her beautiful coffee, posted it on FB and has been working on her iPhone since then. Over the years, I've met some incredible people while traveling but I am now wondering if it's my age or the cripple of technology that will make this experience a different one? It's nearly impossible to talk to anyone since everyone is "busy." It makes me think that being horrible at directions is not such a bad thing after all, being continuously lost allows me to talk to locals all day long.

Pre-Trip Jitters

When I wake up in a few short hours I will be leading a group of 28 people on an international trip across the pond.  21 teenagers, some never been on a plane, are about to embark on a trip that is bound to change their life. Let's face it... it was this experience I had as a 17 year old, that made traveling a huge part of my life.

Every year, I count the days until school gets out in order to explore the world. 10 weeks in Central America, 5 in Europe, train trip up the Pacific Northwest, you name I've done it (or really want to).

This time I'm heading to 8 countries, 3 continents and 2 hemispheres. Usually, I'm psyched and ready to go but this time it feels different.  I don't know if it's because I'm nervous due to the size of our group. Or that I've met someone new and I don't want to lose momentum in what could turn into a nice relationship. Or that my 91 year old grandma is not feeling well. Or that I said good bye to a friend moving to Brazil. I can't quite put my finger on it but something feels off.

I've been fielding questions from nervous students and parents all day. This is no time to doubt myself so I'll get it together, sleep and be the best tour guide I can be. There is a lot of world to see and share.

Adelante!

How did I get to 10?!

One thing about my job is that it's very cyclical.  There is always a very clear beginning and an end.  Most people reflect on their year December 31st while I get to it mid-June.

Personally, this year has been one full of new friends, dancing, changes, and taking action.  And wine. Lots of wine.

Professionally, I've been offered more opportunities than I know what to do with. But when it comes to the most important part of my job, connecting with students, I've had much better years.

As I close out on year 10, I'm thankful to 99% Ride for being my highlight and inspiration.  Of course, I will miss those students who made it a joy to come to work every day. The ones who made me laugh and showed they cared.  In a few short days, I hope to make an impact on a group of amazing people as we travel to Spain, a project I've been busy with for the last 15 months.

When I am back in the classroom in two short months, I hope to be recharged and inspired so when I write my parting message next year I can look back and be proud of the things I've accomplished, much more so than today.