Happy Hump Day friends! It’s been an incredible first week
in Richmond, filled with embroidered towels, Smithfield ham, a costume party,
counting t-shirts, soccer and lots and lots of Nike gear! But we will get to
that.
In less than one week’s time I made the decision to pack my
things and travel to Richmond, Virginia for four months. Not knowing anyone, I
was connected with a possible host family that offered to house me during my
time here in “RVA”. Believe it or not, this is the first time I have ever lived
with a host family…and I know hit the jackpot. But it’s weird, right?? Waltzing
into someone’s home, eating their food, sleeping in their rooms and watching
their TV. I don’t think I had time to
process or even second-guess the situation.
While the idea of being placed in an environment with people
I do not know made me nervous, it also gave me a sense of adventure. The potential to break out of my shell and
share this experience with a new family was exhilarating. I believe that is something everyone should
seek out in their lifetime, and as much as they can. Ways to push the
boundaries and step outside comfort zones. In just seven short days, my RVA host family has made this dream a reality, and I cannot wait to see what
else is in store during this adventure.
I remember getting in my car and just driving, not knowing
what I got myself into, but that Richmond was the destination. And man I am lucky! My host family has made this transition much
easier than I could have ever imagined. They instantly accepted me as one of
their own, and I can honestly say that I already feel like a part of the
family. Amazing does not even sum them up, I mean who gives you personally embroidered towels?? And that was only Day 2!
This week has been filled with getting to know each other,
cooking lessons, late night baseball (watching my Royals make it to the World
Series!!!), and sharing our mutual love for ice cream!
Last Saturday my RVA family hosted their annual Halloween party,
mandatory costumes. I loved meeting all
of their close friends, but I felt pretty lame out of costume. So now I am on a
mission to find the best costume for Halloween. I am now taking any and all
possible costume suggestions. Please help me out! I do not want to be the child that embarrasses the family. So far the top contenders are, Nicki
Minaj, a bag of Eminems (yes the rapper….get it?), or a piece of pizza.
In addition to my wardrobe dilemma, I learned a lot of great
recipes and I got my first taste of Smithfield ham. Needless to say after
Saturday, I feel fully capable of catering a wedding if necessary.
Being a newly adopted host-child, I have learned a lot about
all of my new host-siblings and host-parents during our first week together. One
day last week, I spent an entire evening with my host-sister, who is in 6th
grade, ordering pizza and having a “Say Yes To The Dress” marathon. Who knew
watching women spend money on a wedding dress the price of a car could be so
entertaining?
My new sister loves gymnastics, is a
mini Rachel Ray and is more mature than I may ever be. We’re still working on
my floor routine for Rio 2016. My host-brother might as well be a ghost, as he
is on the soccer team, involved in the school play, class president and in the
band. Needless to say he’s pretty average J.
Although he has not been home too much, we tend to spend most nights sharing
late dinners and talking soccer.
My host parents are incredible and would do anything to make
sure I am comfortable during my stay. My host-mom’s cooking may be just enough
to make me stay forever and my host-dad is the corny jokester who always gives
you a good laugh. Needless to say, it’s been a jam-packed week of good times
with my new family! (Mom & Dad don’t
be jealous)
On Sunday I got to explore a little bit of downtown
Richmond. I walked around the State Capitol and took a lot of artsy pictures of
myself, because did you really do it if you don’t post it on Instagram?? J I’ve started to create
my “Richmond Bucket List”, including things like go to the beach, hike part of
the Appalachian Trail, visit Monticello and take the train to D.C.
As for the job, well obviously my co-workers are absolutely
amazing and no they don’t edit this blog before it posts or anything J. You are getting 100%
Shea! But honestly, after only one week
I have already learned so much. The fast-paced learning process has pushed me
to be creative and adapt quickly. Two very important
tools you need to help reach your goals.
I've foreseen myself growing and developing a great deal
throughout this experience, as my colleagues will continue to challenge me and
push me. This week my counting skills were put to the test as I created a
donation inventory catalog that logs all of the items that are in stock. In a
nutshell, I counted a lot of t-shirts and folded a lot of Nike soccer socks,
but believe me it is more difficult than it sounds.
I’ve been working on a lot of new projects and my co-workers
have given me a lot of responsibility.
This position gives me the freedom to express my opinion with the staff
and contribute to the mission of the league.
This is turning out to be a better fit for me than I could
have ever expected. Oh, and I’ve been showered in an endless amount of Nike
gear, so this athletic gear hoarder is in heaven!
Overall, I have really enjoyed my first week in Richmond. I
had the opportunity to play some good soccer with the Richmond Strikers, dragged
myself to the gym to people watch, participated in touristy activities, ate a
lot of good food and just settled into my new home! Still looking for my
Richmond is for Lovers t-shirt, but I’ll keep you posted.
Tune in next Wednesday to see what fuels my fire and the
goals I have for my future both on and off the field! Have a great rest of the
week, oh and go Royals!
Also, don’t forget to post your great costume ideas and
possible RVA bucket list suggestions in the comment box below!
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