Has it really been 10 years?

July 19th marks my 10th year anniversary since I started my new life in Costa Rica. 

I remember accepting a full time teaching job in Costa Rica back in 2016. The whole process lasted two days...I applied to a teaching job to an international school on a whim, while listening to Fifth Dimension's "The Age of Aquarius," thinking this could result into something... a change of fate, a redirection of sorts. 

At the time, I remember feeling disappointed with my experience in Canada...the miserable weather, the abusive Church, and so many negative experiences. I need a change. A positive change. 

Within minutes of submitting my application, the General Director replied and wanted to send the school chauffeur to pick me up to the interview. The next day I went to the interview and was hired at the spot, complete with a housing stipend. Later on, students commented that the General Director sensed "good vibes/energy" and thought I would be a positive influence to the school community. Little did I know that job would transform the way I view education, reveal power it holds and shape the vision I continue to carry with me to this very day. 

Ten years later, Costa Rica has allowed me to create the life that I wanted. I was able to travel to the UK (Cambridge University for my Literature programme, SOAS for Gender Studies), meet people and then travel together to Utrecht and the Andalusian region in Spain, Volunteer in Senegal, China (Xian and Zhangjiajie for my Honeymoon), Ireland, Iceland, Chile, The Galapagos in Ecuador, and Curacao. 

And next comes one of the biggest milestones of all: Graduating from the University of Bath with a Masters of Arts in Education. 

Through my work, I have met all sorts of fascinating people, from Cold War survivors from Poland and Hungary who later became European Diplomats, to children of U.S Embassy staff, expats from various multinational companies and amazing educators from all walks of life. I also met my husband, and together we are raising our beautiful daughter. I am endlessly grateful for my little artistic and traveling family. 

This entire chapter started with taking a risk, having the courage to leave behind abusive and unhealthy experiences, and wholeheartedly embracing change. 

In the blink of an eye, ten years have passed. After a marriage, a daughter, and now Costa Rican citizenship, I can honestly say this has been one of the best chapters of my life...and the best is yet to come!