Beginning in Bergen

So today I saw five wire-haired daschunds. Each being walked by someone different, so I know they weren’t all the same one. And yesterday I saw another three, last weekend I saw at least six others. I’m not kidding, I’ve never seen so many daschunds in my life, let alone in one small town.

Welcome to Bergen, Holland. Not to be confused with its Norwegian namesake associated with fjord cruises. Way up in the North of the country, its been described as the Hamptons with clogs. Which is at times understandable. Like when I wander through the village and visit the boutiques; a sweater for 180 euros, a jacket for 265, a scarf will set you back 185. But it is made of Italian wool, the label had me know. There was a Ferrari parked outside the organic food store, last week there was a Maybach in its place. Sunlight reflects off expensive sunglasses on mild Fall afternoons as people have lazy lunches at outdoor restaurants.

But its not all it seems. Underneath the pretentious exterior is a friendly town that is actually more of a village. I’ve been asked countless times if I’m ok as I hobble about, and been wished to get better soon. And its beautiful; cobbled streets, medieval buildings, a church with bells that ring melodically on the hour. I’ve sat at a cafe in the early autumn sun, watched families pass, bikes with the dogs in baskets, and just a few folk carrying bags from those boutiques.

And what about school? The last month has been a flurry of excitement, stress and quick learning. I’m probably doing more problem solving than the kids, but I guess its all part of the process. Being in charge of 26 young people all day is pretty exhausting, and I always come home tired, but in that nice way. Especially after those days when you’ve been told you’re the best teacher ever, or a kid who was struggling seems to be getting something. But even on those meh days, so far, its for me.

My place is one of the old town houses; I have a view of goings-on from the front and in the back there’s a long garden, where birds sing in the evenings and the setting sun lights up the leaves in golden hues. Planes fly low overhead, reminding me this is where I’m beginning, who knows where I’ll go. But for now at least, it seems like a good place to start.

I know, crazy to think the first month in my first job is over, and to think I used to complain about four week placements! Enjoy the weekend, and the more autumnal feeling in the air!