1st Birthday in Taiwan

Again, it's been forever since I've last updated my blog. The biggest news to report is that I'm going to be staying another year in Taiwan! This past year flew by as you could probably tell from my lack of posts and long rants about work. The decision was pretty difficult, especially with missing everyone at home so much, but I couldn't justify moving back when I haven't experienced nearly enough. I've already lined up my next job (with loootts less hours and hopefully a more sane workload) and my new apartment, so I've been busy readying myself for a more well-rounded life while working a few English summer camps the past few weeks.

I also just celebrated my 23rd birthday at the end of June. It was strange to be so far away from friends and family, but I had a fantastic day with my friends and completely felt the love from all of them. I've put a link to Julia's blog where she has posted a pretty funny video from the birthday dinner and being serenaded by the resident restaurant singer.

http://juliataiwan.blogspot.com


The rest of the weekend was spent partying with my other friends and Demetra and Mia, who also had their birthdays that same weekend. Since summer began, I've been lucky enough to escape the city on the weekends with the girls to Fulong beach where several of my friends have houses. The things that are the most different about beaches here vs. the Jersey shore include being allowed to set off fireworks on the beach, Taiwanese "swimmers" who are fully clothed and only go in to their knees (ghosts can take over your body if you are swimming in the ocean) , and most importantly, being surrounded by beautiful mountains on all sides. Then, last week I headed out of the city again to a mountain area in Taoyuan where I worked a sleepaway English camp for 4 days. We were able to go rock climbing and hiking, as well as try other adventure challenge activities. The best part besides the incredibly sweet students was the fresh peaches that are grown in the area. All in all my head feels a lot clearer now that summer has arrived and I feel really optimistic about the possibilities for next year.

Currently my internet is broken and I'm writing this from a Starbucks, so when I move in a few weeks and have better access to a computer I'll post more of the pictures from my bday and saying goodbye to my lil cuties at school. I know I've been extremely bad at staying in touch with people and replying to emails so hopefully I'll get around to that during my 10 day vacation at the end of the month as well.

I hope everything is going great with you all at home or wherever you may be. Miss you and love you!