Today was the beginning of my fourth year teaching, and even after four years I was still filled with a bit of anxiety and a lot of excitement.  Beginning the year as a brand new teacher in Guatemala probably didn’t help any.  Nor did the fact that I’m teaching at one of the top schools in Guatemala.  Nor did the fact that I am still living in a hotel, I have none of the supplies I shipped from the U.S.  Nor did the fact that I’ve gotten very little sleep over the last few days.

But honestly, I loved every minute of it.  These students have so much personality and they’re completely full of life.  And the energy they give off is contagious.  Nothing is more motivating than a 13-year-old student giving you a high five, or shaking your hand and saying thank you in a genuine way.  Even their laughter is energizing.

Don’t get me wrong though, I miss my students from last year and the years before immensely.  But kids are kids no matter where you’re at in the world, and I’m just excited to be back in the classroom doing what I love.