I live here now!

As I've kind of explained, I finally moved from Kolín to Prague. However, I am still working in Kolín until the end of the month. Then I have to go through all the stress of getting a license to teach independently, then get a new visa, and all the paper work that goes with it. I'm not looking forward to it. I'm trying not to think too much about it and to instead focus on how wonderful this new chapter of my life will be--beginning with living in a wonderful new flat in a really easily accessible place in Prague. It couldn't be more different from my life in Kolín and that is so much of its appeal. Also, I have roommates who play the ukulele and leave things like chocolate cake on the table for the taking.

I've got another week of commuting and/or sleeping at school ahead of me. But this rainbow of paper lanterns which I spent most of the weekend making are giving me a sense of calm and hopefulness. I am ready to make this place a home.

This Moment

This Moment:

One photo, no words, that reminds me why I am here.

(Based on the tradition of SouleMama)

The Night Before Kindergarten

Here goes with the storytime aspect.

I think that all the anxiety I should have felt for Korea, Illinois, the Catskills, and all the other big moves in my life has finally come out for this move. I've been reading curriculum books and trying to plan as much as I can. Somehow, even though I know so much more than I did before any of my other jobs, I feel like I'm less prepared. I keep staring at my suitcases and becoming completely overwhelmed. One of my books recommends reading The Night Before Kindergarten to children during the first week of school. I managed to find a copy yesterday at Southold's Library Cottage, along with a bunch of other great picture books, and it's actually had quite a soothing effect on me. So, I share it with you.

The Night Before Kindergarten from Colleen Heaney on Vimeo.

New Blog! Again! But Right Here!

Hello, friends!

I am moving again, this time to Kolín, Czech Republic to teach preschool. Instead of floating ESL teacher, I will be a real preschool teacher. I leave tomorrow (goodness!) with a suitcase full of teacher-clothes and a suitcase of picture books in tow.

The format for this new blog is likely to be snippets about my life and school with some pictures, but not a full photoblog like last time. There will probably also be a vlog aspect in which I read picture books because sometimes they are the best tool I have to express myself.