What I've been missing (Part 1)

Some of you might have picked up on the fact that I've been struggling lately. I've been stressed and frustrated with current projects, planning, relationships, loneliness, etc. Today blew all those worries out of the water and helped me refocus on the positives.

Sept. 1st is the first day of school for teachers here in Romania. I vividly remember this day last year, and I can still picture the terrified Tara that bashfully walked into the cancelaria (teacher's lounge) unsure of what was to come. My, how things have changed. I walked into the cancelaria today with my head up ready for the millions of kisses my cheeks were about to receive. I kind of felt like the kids in movies who hide from old ladies lined up to dole out kisses and lipstick imprints. Only I wasn't hiding! I was like--Bring it on!! Then Natalia handed me a tissue to wipe the lipstick off my cheeks. I chatted up the colleagues I've grown to love, and I met some of my new colleagues as well. And to top things off, my director is back and in full force after defeating thyroid cancer! Booya! I loved the feeling of belonging within my school, Generala 1, but I forgot how long and boring consiliu profesorals (in-service meetings) are. At least I understand what they are talking about now!! I'm gonna rock it this year!

After school, I had a scheduled practice test for the IELTS exam with Ioana in the library; and then I walked home. However, this wasn't just your typical walk home. No siree! This was one of those walks where I felt like it could be a movie montage. The sun was shining brightly, my little Transylvanian town was full of energy, and I kept seeing people I knew and subsequently waving at them like an idiot. After crossing the bridge, I decided to veer off and walk home along the river. I had my headphones on bopping along to some vintage Beatles pop classics; and as I walked, crickets would jump and butterflies were fluttering around everywhere. Good Lord I sound like a Disney movie! And then I was reminded of this Emerson quotation, "Live in the sunshine, swim the sea, drink the wild air..." It's the wonder of life I've been missing. I've been focusing so much on my struggles that I forgot to take a few moments to sit in awe and wonder at the sheer beauty of my surroundings and my good fortune to be here.

Okay. I know I'm getting a little dreamy and sappy so I'll give it a rest. I'm just thrilled that for the first time in a while I can't keep a silly grin off my face.

While I can't give you the 360 degree experience, I'll put up some pictures shortly from a little sightseeing I did around town. People keep asking me why I like Tarnaveni...it's just a little, bleak, industrial town...but I say it's pretty!!