“Goedemoregen”- meaning Good Morning, is how each day starts at De Wilge! Monday was my first day of school here in Hilversum… It was also the first day I ever went to school on Labor Day! This first week was full of all kinds of emotions. I felt that one minute I was excited and full of joy and the next I was very overwhelmed and anxious. Being in a new school setting is nerve wracking in itself… But let me tell you, being in a new school setting in a completely different country where little to no English is spoken can be quite horrific! Lucky for me, the teachers were very nice and welcoming. The children at first, a little stand offish. – I would be too if there was some random lady in the front of the class that spoke a different language as I. I used this week as a, “get to know the children, teachers and families of De Wilge” week. I sang some songs with the kids, in English of course. Played Barbies (I’ve never played Barbies this much in my life), worked on puzzles, built with Legos… Just about anything to have some sort of interaction with the kids. Being in three different classrooms with three different groups of kids can be a bit challenging. But for me, the most challenging part is remembering all their names. I’ll get there! After all it is only week one. Six more weeks to go and I cannot wait to see what’s in store! My host family continues to be amazing, introducing me to life in Holland! Maartje, Valentine, Jasmine and I (along with a couple neighbor girls) went for a walk! Behind their houses is a big hill, this hill is also the highest point in Hilversum. Star on top and all! We climbed the hill and after sweating profusely and taking a couple breaks to breath and get water, we made it to the top!... Just kidding, it actually wasn’t that bad at all… they have stairs and a nice path around the whole thing. The view was absolutely incredible, and I stood there in awe. You could see nothing but gorgeous Dutch style buildings, green tree tops and the tops of the most beautiful cathedrals. I think I’ll leave you with that… Oh! And a little bit of advice… If you’re ever riding a bike in Holland. Make sure you stay in the RED BIKE LANE! Greetings from The Netherlands!
Comments