Exchange
I decided to participate in an exchange program offered by Pacific University where I am pursuing a Master’s in Teaching. My husband strong-armed me into taking a few selfish weeks away from my kids to travel to Auckland, New Zealand and enjoy an experience in education free from parental duties and household obligations. I mean, convincing me to go to one of the most beautiful, peaceful, and friendly countries where progressive and innovative teaching techniques are being implemented and shared all while being able to sleep through the night without any kids waking me to change their pee-stained sheets was a hard sell. And did I mention it’s a paradise? The locals are generous and have a very simple, straight-forward etiquette that is refreshing and delightful. I left Portland, Oregon on a sunny Friday evening in late spring/early summer only to arrive in Auckland, New Zealand on a rainy, dark Sunday morning in late fall. My classmate and I took a shuttle downtown and checked our ba...