Friday 12 August 2011

The other side of the world

Kristen,

I'm here! I'm safe! I'm having a good time! I think I'm in the first stage of culture shock but that's OK because it's a good stage!

I start orientation today, including a walking tour of Tbilisi. Then five hardcore days of Georgian language, culture and pedagogy classes. I can't wait to get started! I want to learn as much Georgian as possible and become completely fluent and meet my host family and get to know my new home! CULTURE SHOCK IS THE BEST!

My first night here, I went out alone for dinner (khatchapuri and Georgian wine). I met three middle-aged Georgian men with OK English skills, who bought me an ice cream sundae and Georgian "champagne", taught me a little Georgian, and asked me all manner of personal questions. It was a fantastic introduction to the Georgian love of guests. (Have I mentioned the Georgian proverb, "An unexpected guest is a gift from God"? That was on full display.)

Bit of blog business: I've added a widget on the right-hand side that will allow you to subscribe to my blog. Enter your email address and you'll receive an email whenever I have a new post.

In conclusion, jet lag!

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