Doing things you've never done - in places you never thought you'd be

I've decided the title of this post is my new definition of the word "travel."

We left Raleigh last night (maybe? My days are mixed up.) I enjoyed my first international flight very much - I watched "The Lion King" and realized a few things: it is a completely perfect Disney film, Nala is an inspiration to us all, and I still know every single word to every single song. It felt like a great way to usher in my time in Africa - and it was.

I woke up in Paris - and while I didn't get to see the city, I did get to try out my "Bonjour!" and "Merci!" many times. I also got to meet up with the other teachers who are with me here in Morocco. They come from everywhere - and teach everything. They are all such an inspiration to me as a teacher and as a human being. I know we're going to have such an awesome time together these next few weeks, and I just feel really grateful to be here with them.

Once we flew into Morocco, I did a lot of things for the first time. I exchanged dollars for dirhams ( the currency here, and a nice reminder of my hometown). I ate dinner on an old ship. I tried Moroccan Tea for the first time. I LOVED Moroccan Tea for the first time. I sat and talked with our in country consultant, Miriam, who is from Casablanca and is such a kind, compassionate person. We're really lucky to have her with us. I learned so much about this place from our talk tonight and I know that will only continue as the days go on.

As we walked back from dinner tonight, I realized that the title of this post - and my new definition of travel - is really how I'd like to spend my life. It feels brave and important and honestly - really good. I never thought I'd do this - be here - in Africa, in a country immersed in culture that I know very little about. I never thought I'd meet these teachers, or make this blog. I never thought it because I never believed I could do it.

But I did it. The question now is, what else can I do?

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