New Blog
Hi Everyone,
Please visit my new blog here!:
http://stephanieblanch.wordpress.com/
Thanks,
Stephanie
A beautiful day in Santiago, Chile!
Today I woke around 945am and met with the group. We had the chance to truly explore the city. We enjoyed moments at the top of Santa Lucia, where we saw gorgeous views of the city. I also love how the architecture here is lovely and the bare trees of winter suuround us. Today was sunny, without a could in the sky. I bought fresh fruit from the open air market and enjoyed a moment in the Plaza De Armas, beside a lovely Cathedral. The trees in this plaza were so pretty. I saw young kids feeding pigeons and trying to catch them with their hands. Also, I am seeing many fathers with their kids, which warms my heart. I took lots of pics and I will try to post them soon! The nights are cold but I was super happy today because I took a very very warm shower. A friend and I also visited this gorgeous church called san Francesco, close to our hostel. I cried tears of joy in the church because being there brought me much peace. I bought fresh fruit from the open air market and that was great.. Also, I saw a long line of people, waiting for fresh smoothies… it was Jamba Juice, Chilean style.. hehe. I have seen a statue of the Virgin Mary on this high mountain. Her arms open, as if she is watching over us.. I would like to go up there before I leave Santiago! Tonight we are going out with our Director, Allyson. I hope we all have a great time together. God bless you and thank you reading my blog. More updates to come!!!
The journey begins…
Thank God! All is well over here in Santiago, Chile. There are 11 of us on the semester program and I am so thankful to be with such loving people. It is definitely cold yet my fleece and jackets are serving me well.
I am currently staying in a hostel with my group and sharing a room with two sweet girls from the group, Kristy and Jen. The past two nights we have laughed together so much before we sleep. My field director is Allyson and she is dedicated, caring and hard working. As a group, we have gone around this city and learned so much about its history. We visited the US Embassy, explored during sunset, ate awesome food and drank sweet wine. How wonderful!
I am also trying to practice my Spanish and am in the advanced class.. should I be in this class!??! Well, I am up for the challenge! Thus far, everything has been awesome. Of course I am exhausted and miss a few aspects of home. But I am comfortable with being uncomfortable. Hmm what else? Things are cheap here! The people are sweet and I look forward to more great times. We will be in Santiago for about one more week for our teacher training and Spanish classes. I thank God for all of you who care for me and take the time to read this. Thank you.
Love,
Steph
Oh beautiful Santiago!
I safely made it to Santiago, Chile on Wednesday at 5am. We had a connecting flight from Miami to Columbia so yes, I have been to Columbia! Haha. I am with my group of 11 and everyone is just awesome. It is cold yet I feel prepared with my many layers, fleece and snowboarding jacket. I am truly thankful that all is well. God is taking care of me in every way: ). Thank you for your love, support and prayers everyone! More details to come…I need to get some sleep!
Much love,
Steph
I am off to Chile soon=)
It is official again! I am off to Chile on July 13th!!! Thank you all for your support!
TRAVEL PLANS:
Avianca Airlines 07/13/2010 Depart Miami 5:00pm 07/14/2010 Arrive Santiago 4:45am
At this time, I am still accepting donations. Those who have generously contributed to my cause have been noted in this blog. I appreciate your love and support.
Stephanie
=)
Wishing everyone a very Happy Easter!!!
Father and daughter moments.
Although I may not be going to Chile as I had planned, I feel very blessed to be by my dad’s side during this time.
Thank you God for all you do.
One of my best friends Jen and me… graduation was one of the happiest days of my life. I feel thankful to be where I am in life and to now be going to teach in Chile.
My sweetheart Calvin and me…February moments. He has been truly supportive through everything. I am blessed to have him by my side. No matter how far apart we are, we remain close.
My nephew, Kalani Blanch saying…Rawr! When I come back he might be talking in complete sentences!
Me and the cutest nephew in the world, Kalani Blanch=)
Postponed
Hello all!
Due to the devastation in Chile, I am now going with the semester program which starts in July, 2010. I will keep my blog updated for more info. I am glad to be home right now.
Love,
Steph
Time is flyin’…
So I am really winding down! I leave so soon! Can someone pack for me? It’s stressful so if you don’t mind I’d appreciate it! Haha…
Fun news! Here is a link to where I will be staying for my first weeks in Santiago, Chile:
http://www.hotelplazalondres.cl/home.php
And God Bless you!!! AHHHHHH I am leaving soon!!!!!!!!!!!
It’s Feburary 16th!
It seems like time has really flown by ever since I have been accepted into WorldTeach. Today, I have exactly one month until I take off for Chile. Calvin and I actually bought our plane tickets for Miami yesterday! I will be in Miami a little early to get settled and be more prepared before the long journey. The whole group will go straight to orientation on March 17 in Santiago! Ah!
Well, as crazy as my emotions are, I am truly happy and thankful to be where God has brought me. I feel so honored to be called to do this. I am also grateful for all the love around me that has brought me great strength during this time. God is so good. If you are reading this, I am pretty sure I love you!
God bless you,
Steph
