I know that song was written about Africa, but on my way there, it's the way I felt about leaving behind my little bug. I am sitting in the Toronto airport actually grateful for the layover as a chance to catch my breath. I knew it would be a lot of work to get ready for this adventure, but I never dreamed how much! I feel like I worked so hard over the last couple months to have everything organized, but feel like I left in the midst of chaos. I was hoping to have some time to just hang with B but there were too many last minute things to do to have much extra time with him. He seemed so worried and stressed as we all bustled around cleaning and packing and moving. In spite of all the stress he and I have been feeling, my bags are finally packed, my boxes have been shipped and have already arrived, my house is immaculate (I'd like to stay and live there now) with a fantastic renter on the way in, I had the chance to get together with everyone for good-byes, all the little details such as address changes and an international driver's license have been looked after, and Barkley looked perfectly happy to be dropped off at another home where he will be loved just as much in my absence. This picture shows what I hope he is doing now.... relaxing! The difficulty I had in leaving him is a testament to how much I believe this journey will be life changing for me. I couldn't have left him if I didn't believe this will be a once in a lifetime, fantastic adventure. I also couldn't do this without the incredible help of my mason, my plumber, my fence repairman, my appliance repairman, my painter, my sander, my landscaper, my chef, my chauffeur, my bedsitter, my better-than-Molly maids, my entertainment provider, my sharer of resources, and especially everyone who will love Barkley for me while I'm away... in other words my wonderful family and friends!
I received my timetable this week so I now know that I'll be teaching grades 9 & 10 chem and physics, and grades 7-10 math. I also received an itinerary for my first few days in Arusha. It looks like we will be well taken care of as they will be taking us out for meals, to the grocery store, to the bank, etc. so I will be well oriented hopefully! I will be in touch as soon as I can when I arrive.
