Karen Z. Hendin writes at Iamkaren23, a blog I’ve been following for awhile now.
I initially came to Mexico teach ESL.
I wanted a simple name for my blog…………iamkaren23………..23 is my birthday. The area and topics vary according to where I am living and what that particular place has to offer. I am currently in Mazatlan so the focus is primarily on what is happening there. I also write the occasional blog that may be more thought provoking, such as why my son calls me a nomad or where do I actually call home. I occasionally write about family.
Originally I started blogging once I moved away from Canada so that my friends could have some insight as to my life in Mexico. However I’ve met a lot of people in my travels in Mexico, and they have now become my readers as well. Right now I’m leaving my blog the way it is. I’m focusing more now on writing a novel.
It’s hard to pick my favorite blog post. Maybe some of the posts I’ve written about my family referring to events like Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. The most difficult to write about have been probably the posts about what I do and why I do what I do. A lot of people just don’t understand my way of life.
My first year in Mexico I taught in Culiacan. I became friends with another teacher and he and his wife and all their extended family adopted me. Their kids call me abuelita (grandma). That was the best experience I’ve had in Mexico.
The worst experience I’ve had in Mexico was moving to Irapuato to teach. The school flew me down there, but then changed all the rules about hours, job description, etc. once I got there. They didn’t help with my work visa as promised and no promised healthcare was ever arranged. Needless to say, I didn’t stay long at that school.
Before moving to Mexico, do your research. If possible, travel around and scout out the area where you want to be. Every city is different. The climate varies. The insects vary. If you’re offered a job, check it out carefully.
I’m currently on vacation visiting a friend in the USA for the summer. But I’ll be back in Mexico in the fall. I plan to stay in Mexico indefinitely.
I can be found at:
Surviving Mexico 