That's right, they call me Ms. Harkey

I AM A TEACHER NOW. There are some 70 odd students at El Buen Pastor Episcopal School who are walking around calling me Ms. Harkey. It's a bizarre experience for me, having just come out of college where I referred to everyone as Dr., Mrs., Mr. etc. Now I am one of them.

These past two weeks of school have been somewhat of a blur, but absolutely wonderful. My students have so much energy and excitement, which makes it that much easier to teach them. Any former/current teachers out there? Because I am always open to suggestions, advice, prayers, anything.

I'm teaching Social Studies to 8th, 9th, and 10th grade, and we're already in the swing of things, doing projects, homework (which they hate), group work (which they love), and just generally getting to know each other.

I've also begun study sessions with students getting ready to take the SAT and TOEFL. They are really excited for the next step in their education, and I can't wait to see where they all end up!

As for my life outside of school, I'm beginning to understand how the city works now, and I've been adventuring out and exploring. I found a Jiu Jitsu gym here (!) and I tried Crossfit for the first time, which just about killed me, but I liked it. I've slowly been meeting people and I'm starting to build a community here. Next week I'm going to start volunteering at an Equine Therapy clinic here in San Pedro that is run by one of the elementary school teachers. They work with children and adults with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, blindness, among many others. Check out their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/fuhdet.atuto

A quick shout out to my family, it's been a busy time of celebration! Lorna's birthday was the 25th of August, my Dad's was the 26th, Mom's the 4th of September, and their anniversary is the 8th. Also, the 8th is my Grandmother's birthday. I miss you all and love you!!