I am a lifelong learner. I’m always saying, “I learn something new every day.”
This summer has been no exception. However, I only wrote one blog post here this summer. That’s unusual. Typically in June and July I’m busy learning professionally–blogging, vlogging, participating in moocs, attending webinars, tweeting resources on Twitter, posting Flickr pictures and more. This summer I really didn’t. I was sad I didn’t participate in the 20TimeAcademy mooc, Google+ Maker Camp or #clmooc, or submit a proposal for the 2013 K-12 Online Conference. I have totally neglected my #bookaday goal and my friends in the Open Spokes Fellowship.
This summer my learning has been different.
For the past few months, I have been learning DIFFERENT new things every day. I’ve begun a brand new chapter, a major-life-changing chapter.
My husband and I will be moving to Bahrain. He will be a chaplain in a hospital and a pastor at an English language congregation. After I settle in and when there is an opening, I will be able to teach there too.
We have little international experience. (OK, actually, make that LITTLE.) We’ve never left our continent. I have traveled to Ciudad Juarez and Tijuana in Mexico and Thunder Bay, Mississauga, Surrey, and Vancouver in Canada. In other words, I’ve driven to Mexican and Canadian border towns.
In February, my husband and I secured our first-ever passports so we could go to Surrey, British Columbia. At the time I thought, Hmmm, now that we have passports, maybe we’ll get to use them again before they expire.
Little did we know, God had a plan for us to use them. You can read more about our story on our new blog, KrebsFollow.org.
Denise,
May I be the first to comment on what might be the last post on this blog of yours? (I looked up Bahrain – little did I know it was an island!) My husband keeps talking about it this morning, and how he “just couldn’t do it.” You and Keith are brave, and you are following your hearts. We all wish you the best of luck, and I, personally, am so glad you’ve begun your new blog so you can share your life with us!
One step at a time… I’m so very glad I get to share in your journey, albeit from afar!
Best wishes,
Joy
Thanks, Joy! I’m glad you are the first to comment, friend, but I hope it’s not my last post. I do want to stay involved in education, and this is where I think, share, and learn from you all.
Yes, one step at a time is great advice. We keep reminding ourselves of that too!
Warmly,
Denise
What an exciting new chapter in your lives! I have friends who have taught at university in Bahrain, and they loved it. I greatly admire your courage and I know that you will continue to grow and learn no matter where you are or what you are doing.
Thank you so much for being the inspiration to try Genius Hour and for all your thoughtful posts.
Best wishes in your new adventure!
Thanks, Kirsten! I’m glad to hear it. It is a beautiful country! I appreciate your thoughts.
Denise
Wow, this is super exciting. I applaud both of you for stepping into the unknown. Your lives will be so much richer for doing so. Think about how many people live their lives thinking ‘what if?’ You won’t have to answer that question. Amazing!
Hello Denise!
Like Joy, I didn’t know much about Bahrain and had to Google it! What an exciting new chapter in your lives! You’ll always be blessed when you follow His will.
I’ve added your new blog to my RSS so I can continue to learn with you! When is the expected date of departure? We need to get a Hangout date set again, hopefully before you leave!
Many blessings to you!
Warm regards,
Tracy
This is so exciting…and you have the BEST bio! Even though I’m not as active as the rest of you, I feel connected to this little group- maybe from the 365 which I started but didn’t finish- but I think you are such an inspiring group of teachers (I’m including all the commenters on this post, too).
I look forward to following your new blog, Denise, and wish you an incredible adventure!
-Andrea
Chris, Tracy, and Andrea,
Thank you so much for your comments and good wishes. I am excited and sometimes overwhelmed! I’m also a little jealous that you all are back to school and I’m not, but I know I will be again before I know it.
It seems likely that we will be going in January. Although, next month we get to go for a one-week visit. I will keep you updated on my new blog!
Thanks again,
Denise