Life updates

It's been a hot minute since I've written on this platform. Wouldn't you know it, I got a job! And one that I'm really enjoying! To catch you up, we got our path to residency visas shortly after we landed, which allows me to work rather than just be here on a visitor visa which is how I landed here. This was welcome news, as I was feeling pretty isolated and lonely for a bit there. I reached out to a few local Montessori schools and one in particular stood out in its authenticity and vision. We've worked out a lovely leadership position in the school that allows me to work while the boys are in school, and be home when they are, and my years of education and experience get to be put to use once again in a way that I love, so lucky all of us. The school ranges in ages from 2 years through 12, authentically following Maria Montessori's philosophy. I'm working with the most international group of teachers I ever have. Here are a couple of photos...

Sports have ramped up with busy weeks of getting to lessons and practices, and games every weekend. Our weekend adventures have taken a backseat as we learn about the local culture with sports. Lots to say on that which I'll save for another post. When the weekend games are over, the kids are riding bikes all over this seet little town and meeting up with friends. They've discovered the secret mountain bike tracks along the river, they've figured out where the local fishing holes are, and they've systematically worked out which dairy (corner store) has the best deal on candy. I can't lie, it's pretty idylic. Meanwhile Bernard and I have been finding new running routes and visiting with kind folks who have extended friendly invites.

One thing that I really appreciate here is that there are no games on long weekends! I've struggled with this in the past. As a family, we've always felt strongly about keeping our commitments to school schedules and teams, but we've had tension around balancing so many other things we love to do with those commitments. But here we get a guilt free four day weekend to go and explore, and for this weekend (the King's birthday) we've landed on Tongariro National Park... YAY! We did the Tongariro Alpine Crossing last year on our visit, and absolutely loved it, so I'm excited to explore the area a bit more. I'll keep you updated when I find slices of time to write ;)