I love Christmas time! It is chaos, but it is beautiful...even in Panama where you are hot and sweaty. In the past I felt I was happy for Christmas day and the reason for it, but now, I'm just loving the season. I like the decorations, the tacky apparel, the spirit, songs, the gratefulness shown and the love. I think it's my favorite holiday. It also is the season that allows me to go home.
Even though it has only been about five months, it feels like forever since I've been home. So many things have happened, so many ups and downs, that I'm just ready to be with my family and get a break. As the day gets closer, I get more and more anxious. I'm quite sensitive.
The time is moving quickly-slow...and however weird that may be and however much you want to English correct me, you know it is completely true. I have been ridiculously busy, but being busy keeps the time moving so I don't mind. Highlight: A few days ago we went to one of our student's dance recitals. It was awesome! Way better then any of our dance recitals. It was flippin' freezing in the building (which was also amazing) and during intermission I found myself rocking, which apparently is now something I do as Rebecca said I'd done it the day before. Either my rocking was annoying or the man beside me felt sorry for me, but either way he gave me his sweater. It was very sweet. Don't get any ideas people, he was an older gentleman with a wife by his side. Also, please do not fill out an application to a ward quite yet, my body is just getting used to changing temperatures.
We're having a Cookie party tomorrow that I'm so excited about. I have never been more excited about a party in my life! I truly am a Cookie Monster. My father has raised me well, but I'll probably grow old with diabetes and a gut...probably turn blue, too...as in, depressed.
I am leaving many things out, but will be able to sit down and chat face to face with many of you. I am very much looking forward to that. Pray for safe travels, not really for me but my friends traveling to snowy, cold places. Pray for sanity the last two days of school. Pray for that day before I get to leave that I don't go back to my 'rocking' ways.
Love you guys and I'm happy to be coming home.
P.S. I wrote 'intend to stay' and pray for Peru
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Saturday, December 3, 2011
It just never ends!
Grrr...!
Grading/editing papers is the worst! It's probably what they have you do in hell! It's horrible. I get through a stack, feel pretty good about it then go to school and there is a whole notha' stack! Not to mention when fools turn in there stuff way late...I sift through papers like it's cat litter, why do I want to dig up an old tu...[deep breaths].
Quite a few ups and downs this week, well...also the past few weeks, since I'm not so good at posting regularly.
Thanksgiving was nice. A lot of food! We were warned before hand that there would be close to 100 people at the gathering; we were told to try to double our dish. I was making mom's Jello fruit salad so I thought mine was enough. It definitely was! The next day, Black Friday, we went to a black sand beach. It wasn't intentional, it was just for some beachy fun...or, beach-ing fun. (See what I did there? It's kinda, almost a curse word! Hahahah!) It was an excellent beach, probably the best one yet. It was great, until it started raining. Having fun in the water, then sitting out because of a rainstorm will make anyone freezing, even if you are in the tropics.
Been a bit frustrated at school because I am realizing just how different I am. It's not necessarily a bad thing, but it makes the lonely that much more present...quickly moving on. Some of my kids got to know Angry Cheryl this past week. It was a lot of fun (sarcasm). It takes a lot to push me to that level, but I was proud of the way I handled the situations. I never once yelled, it was just angry voice [Mom, you know what I'm talkin'bout] the class has never been so quiet and their little shocked faces were priceless! I really wished I had my camera out, but I think that would have been A) Unprofessional B) They would have thought me bipolar C) My anger would have lost its punch. I don't think it was bad at all they saw that side of me, it just took a while for it to get to that point, they need to know they can make me upset. I was so drained I came home and passed out at 8:30! I'm such a wuss!
All my other activities are going well, so much is in my plans that these next few weeks should fly by, except for the weekends...like now. Please pray for me--as I am having a lot harder time with things than I think I lead on and the students--as they are ready for break (as am I) and making class harder (if that's possible). Love yas.
Grading/editing papers is the worst! It's probably what they have you do in hell! It's horrible. I get through a stack, feel pretty good about it then go to school and there is a whole notha' stack! Not to mention when fools turn in there stuff way late...I sift through papers like it's cat litter, why do I want to dig up an old tu...[deep breaths].
Quite a few ups and downs this week, well...also the past few weeks, since I'm not so good at posting regularly.
Thanksgiving was nice. A lot of food! We were warned before hand that there would be close to 100 people at the gathering; we were told to try to double our dish. I was making mom's Jello fruit salad so I thought mine was enough. It definitely was! The next day, Black Friday, we went to a black sand beach. It wasn't intentional, it was just for some beachy fun...or, beach-ing fun. (See what I did there? It's kinda, almost a curse word! Hahahah!) It was an excellent beach, probably the best one yet. It was great, until it started raining. Having fun in the water, then sitting out because of a rainstorm will make anyone freezing, even if you are in the tropics.
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| Probably the best picture I have ever taken... |
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| Look closely...that is not a sandal. |
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| I fell. |
All my other activities are going well, so much is in my plans that these next few weeks should fly by, except for the weekends...like now. Please pray for me--as I am having a lot harder time with things than I think I lead on and the students--as they are ready for break (as am I) and making class harder (if that's possible). Love yas.
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| This is a few blocks from our house. It's very pretty. |
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| I fell, again. |
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Break please
Let's see...let me tell you all the things I've done since I last saw you...
School is getting to be a bit trying, I'm very much ready for the coming Christmas break. Thursday is Thanksgiving, which is a nice little break, but I'd rather have a longer Christmas break then a few days in the middle of it all. It's very frustrating. Kids are fine, just a lot of baggage coming from them and I am having a hard time 'trying' (get it, from above...) to manage. You would not believe how much drama can be in a middle school classroom!
With all my stress, plus the stress of managing some kiddos problemos, I feel I've been a pretty consistent sicko (meaning, I've been sick). I had this horrible mucus cough a couple of weeks ago that managed to clear up on its own. And now, not to get into too much detail, I've got a belly button infection! You may be asking yourself, 'that happens?' Yes, it does happen. I went to the nurse at school yesterday and explained; she knew exactly. She said that living in the tropics comes with a lot of those ailments. She said it would clear up with some Neosporin-like creme. She then said, "Welcome to Panama!"
We went on another Outreach orphanage trip this past Wednesday. I feel I've been having an inner battle with this. On one hand I feel that it's very important to be there (just be there) for those kids, they need interaction (which is very true) and it is pleasing to God. On the other hand, when I get there I can be jovial and lively, but I'd just rather not be. I like little kids, but I'm frustrated that I can't really speak to them and they understand, that when I push them (on a swing) or play with them I still don't feel happy and that, occasionally, they pee in their pants and we still have to play with them like that. I think a part of me feels so much pity and sadness for these kids that the other part of me has shut down. Needless to say, I don't really enjoy going. This past time I had picked up a little girl and had her sitting on my lap; she hardly moved at all, just sat there, leaning back on me. When it was time to go I had to set her down, but she wanted to be held. She cried, strained her arms and even attempted to climb me. She wrapped herself around my leg and just bawled. I kept saying "If we're supposed to leave, can we leave, please," but no one seemed to be in a rush.
The middle school teachers gave out a harsh punishment this past week, a student came into my room and permanent markered over my white board. She was able to get most of it off. After some consideration we have decided she will be cleaning toilets. Our measly lunch detentions, where nothing happens, is not deterring bad behavior. This should be interesting.
I am eager to be home and irritated when I look at the calendar and realize it's not as soon as I would like. I just need a break.
School is getting to be a bit trying, I'm very much ready for the coming Christmas break. Thursday is Thanksgiving, which is a nice little break, but I'd rather have a longer Christmas break then a few days in the middle of it all. It's very frustrating. Kids are fine, just a lot of baggage coming from them and I am having a hard time 'trying' (get it, from above...) to manage. You would not believe how much drama can be in a middle school classroom!
With all my stress, plus the stress of managing some kiddos problemos, I feel I've been a pretty consistent sicko (meaning, I've been sick). I had this horrible mucus cough a couple of weeks ago that managed to clear up on its own. And now, not to get into too much detail, I've got a belly button infection! You may be asking yourself, 'that happens?' Yes, it does happen. I went to the nurse at school yesterday and explained; she knew exactly. She said that living in the tropics comes with a lot of those ailments. She said it would clear up with some Neosporin-like creme. She then said, "Welcome to Panama!"
We went on another Outreach orphanage trip this past Wednesday. I feel I've been having an inner battle with this. On one hand I feel that it's very important to be there (just be there) for those kids, they need interaction (which is very true) and it is pleasing to God. On the other hand, when I get there I can be jovial and lively, but I'd just rather not be. I like little kids, but I'm frustrated that I can't really speak to them and they understand, that when I push them (on a swing) or play with them I still don't feel happy and that, occasionally, they pee in their pants and we still have to play with them like that. I think a part of me feels so much pity and sadness for these kids that the other part of me has shut down. Needless to say, I don't really enjoy going. This past time I had picked up a little girl and had her sitting on my lap; she hardly moved at all, just sat there, leaning back on me. When it was time to go I had to set her down, but she wanted to be held. She cried, strained her arms and even attempted to climb me. She wrapped herself around my leg and just bawled. I kept saying "If we're supposed to leave, can we leave, please," but no one seemed to be in a rush.
The middle school teachers gave out a harsh punishment this past week, a student came into my room and permanent markered over my white board. She was able to get most of it off. After some consideration we have decided she will be cleaning toilets. Our measly lunch detentions, where nothing happens, is not deterring bad behavior. This should be interesting.
I am eager to be home and irritated when I look at the calendar and realize it's not as soon as I would like. I just need a break.
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| Here are the cutting ninjas/Despicable Me sidekicks |
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| Gotham...err, I mean Panama City from a mountain I hiked |
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Cada Elegante
Watched a movie last night with Spanish subtitles, I couldn't stop laughing/giggling to myself about the "cada elegante"...it was awesome. I hope to use it in everyday conversations, but am not sure when this can occur.
Been a very frazzled past couple of weeks, not much time to breath, so therefore I am sick-ish (yet again). This weird cough that comes from deep down (in my soul), very unusual. Hasn't knocked me out yet, so I can continue forth in my frazzleness. It's not good though, in the morning I can hardly speak.
This next week we are celebrating Panama/it's Spirit week. Monday and Tuesday we have school, the rest of the week was suppose to be vacation, but no. Wednesday we have off, completely off, which will be weird. Thursday we have stuffs for two hours and then have a Family Fun Fair until 12pm, where I was forced to have a game booth. (I am miffed <---new favorite word) My very rowdy, loud, frustrating 7th graders and I (plus sweet Shelley who willingly offered to help with this group) decided on a water balloon take of Angry Birds, we're calling it Angry Balloons. Here are the problems:
*Many pieces have to be present, which I'm not sure they will.
*Who knows how successfully active/athletic these kids will be
*Who knows how many people will show as this is somewhat last minute, on a supposed-to-be holiday, and also on a day where a parade will be blocking traffic.
*Lastly, I have 7th graders
Not only am I not looking forward to the added pressure of having to do this booth, but apparently there will be a pie throwing at a teacher booth, which I am thinking one will be marked for me. : / Why would it be me you ask? Well, good question; I have accidently (on purpose) thrown someone on the ground, and jumped on them to try and get my stolen cookies back (at Crossfire--not school), I have laughed extremely hard and almost wet my pants at someone who ran into a desk with glee, rolled over and hit his head on the underside of a desk, then was tripped after I'd given him a nickel-sized piece of candy. I've red-inked all over papers where it did look like my pen had broken. However, through all that, this pie would probably be more out of love (which I'm ok with).
On that note, I have noticed an alarming difference in my compassion and outward expressing of feelings. Before when these fool kids would give me hugs I'd give pats on the shoulder. In the past few weeks I've noticed a shift in their desire to make me laugh, a want to hug and be near and an unusual expression of love (the little notes they leave me I post on my wall). My feelings, as most of you know, have always been very maintained and inwards, I was not one to give hugs, and definitely not one to touch you...really ever. I have been praying that God give me the want to be able to do that because through these things I am involved in and teaching, I felt that needed to be present. So here it is and I am amazed. The love is overwhelming, even if that love is shown by killing me off in their writings. hahahah!
I went on a woman's retreat last weekend, it was held at a beautiful resort in Gamboa. I sat hanging in our hammock and couldn't believe where I was:
It was great. I felt so fancy.
Mami and I's after school dance class seems to be going very well, we have seven or eight girls (range from 5th grade to 7th) and they are very eager. It was interesting how quickly that dance team mentality came back to me. When they would stop or goof off, like normal young girls, I found myself being, 'let's get back to work.' That strict structure returned, and I didn't even realize I had it! It is a lot of fun, but I am finding myself telling myself to 'just relax, it's for fun.' Oh, dance team days...you are so far away :D Mami and I really do enjoy it though, it's a lot of fun making up the dance, then teaching it to those willing girls and them wanting more, it's great.
I should probably do something productive now, I have over 30 short stories I should be reading. 'Should' being the key word here.
Thanks for reading. I'll see many of you very soon, holidays are less then two months away. I am eager to come back for the break, but I also need a recharge...please don't try and hug me though :D Hahah! Just kidding, I may just hug you back! Then you really wouldn't know who I am.
Love you guys.
-C
Been a very frazzled past couple of weeks, not much time to breath, so therefore I am sick-ish (yet again). This weird cough that comes from deep down (in my soul), very unusual. Hasn't knocked me out yet, so I can continue forth in my frazzleness. It's not good though, in the morning I can hardly speak.
This next week we are celebrating Panama/it's Spirit week. Monday and Tuesday we have school, the rest of the week was suppose to be vacation, but no. Wednesday we have off, completely off, which will be weird. Thursday we have stuffs for two hours and then have a Family Fun Fair until 12pm, where I was forced to have a game booth. (I am miffed <---new favorite word) My very rowdy, loud, frustrating 7th graders and I (plus sweet Shelley who willingly offered to help with this group) decided on a water balloon take of Angry Birds, we're calling it Angry Balloons. Here are the problems:
*Many pieces have to be present, which I'm not sure they will.
*Who knows how successfully active/athletic these kids will be
*Who knows how many people will show as this is somewhat last minute, on a supposed-to-be holiday, and also on a day where a parade will be blocking traffic.
*Lastly, I have 7th graders
Not only am I not looking forward to the added pressure of having to do this booth, but apparently there will be a pie throwing at a teacher booth, which I am thinking one will be marked for me. : / Why would it be me you ask? Well, good question; I have accidently (on purpose) thrown someone on the ground, and jumped on them to try and get my stolen cookies back (at Crossfire--not school), I have laughed extremely hard and almost wet my pants at someone who ran into a desk with glee, rolled over and hit his head on the underside of a desk, then was tripped after I'd given him a nickel-sized piece of candy. I've red-inked all over papers where it did look like my pen had broken. However, through all that, this pie would probably be more out of love (which I'm ok with).
On that note, I have noticed an alarming difference in my compassion and outward expressing of feelings. Before when these fool kids would give me hugs I'd give pats on the shoulder. In the past few weeks I've noticed a shift in their desire to make me laugh, a want to hug and be near and an unusual expression of love (the little notes they leave me I post on my wall). My feelings, as most of you know, have always been very maintained and inwards, I was not one to give hugs, and definitely not one to touch you...really ever. I have been praying that God give me the want to be able to do that because through these things I am involved in and teaching, I felt that needed to be present. So here it is and I am amazed. The love is overwhelming, even if that love is shown by killing me off in their writings. hahahah!
I went on a woman's retreat last weekend, it was held at a beautiful resort in Gamboa. I sat hanging in our hammock and couldn't believe where I was:
Mami and I's after school dance class seems to be going very well, we have seven or eight girls (range from 5th grade to 7th) and they are very eager. It was interesting how quickly that dance team mentality came back to me. When they would stop or goof off, like normal young girls, I found myself being, 'let's get back to work.' That strict structure returned, and I didn't even realize I had it! It is a lot of fun, but I am finding myself telling myself to 'just relax, it's for fun.' Oh, dance team days...you are so far away :D Mami and I really do enjoy it though, it's a lot of fun making up the dance, then teaching it to those willing girls and them wanting more, it's great.
I should probably do something productive now, I have over 30 short stories I should be reading. 'Should' being the key word here.
Thanks for reading. I'll see many of you very soon, holidays are less then two months away. I am eager to come back for the break, but I also need a recharge...please don't try and hug me though :D Hahah! Just kidding, I may just hug you back! Then you really wouldn't know who I am.
Love you guys.
-C
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| Look Lena they have Australian, Little Penguin wine here, too. |
Saturday, October 15, 2011
This and This
Hello Trolley People,
I'm closing out a week and as Mom searches for my plane ticket back I get more and more eager to return. We went to Pricesmart today and Christmas is in town-at least there-I have mixed feeling because on one hand I'm eager to dance around the store; on the other I feel blue because I realize how early they are and it's not time yet.
Deceptive Pricesmart! You are cruel to foreigners!
The weeks go by pretty quickly. Not this past one though, we had a conference inside an ice cube. I luckily brought with me papers to grade. I also stole many pens and candy so at least I had a semi-sugar/ink high. It back-fired a bit though because then I was all fidgety in my seat and my attention wavered. We had plans for Friday to go to an artisan market, but last minute after the conference we were told we were going to immigration. We are semi-legit. We have a temporary picture card, however there is still paperwork that needs to be done in order to leave for the holidays :/ Not there yet. I think everyone's in agreement that we all want to punch someone over immigration issues.
Lots of work to do this weekend...you'd think having three days off from school for conference would allot some time for work, but...no. I'm actually eager for this week with the 7th graders! Believe me, I'm as surprised to hear and write that as many of you are! We're working on Folk/Fairy tales and I just love reading all the crazy grim Grimm stories (I had to add that other grim in...their name is so befitting). Priceless. Today I got to take a break and we had a Fall party. I think there was maybe 10 different soups? I tried them all...I am full. Great night, lots of laughs. As always.
It has been a while since I've posted, so I'll include a few pictures as to what's been happening. Enjoy! Love you guys!
I'm closing out a week and as Mom searches for my plane ticket back I get more and more eager to return. We went to Pricesmart today and Christmas is in town-at least there-I have mixed feeling because on one hand I'm eager to dance around the store; on the other I feel blue because I realize how early they are and it's not time yet.
Deceptive Pricesmart! You are cruel to foreigners!
The weeks go by pretty quickly. Not this past one though, we had a conference inside an ice cube. I luckily brought with me papers to grade. I also stole many pens and candy so at least I had a semi-sugar/ink high. It back-fired a bit though because then I was all fidgety in my seat and my attention wavered. We had plans for Friday to go to an artisan market, but last minute after the conference we were told we were going to immigration. We are semi-legit. We have a temporary picture card, however there is still paperwork that needs to be done in order to leave for the holidays :/ Not there yet. I think everyone's in agreement that we all want to punch someone over immigration issues.
Lots of work to do this weekend...you'd think having three days off from school for conference would allot some time for work, but...no. I'm actually eager for this week with the 7th graders! Believe me, I'm as surprised to hear and write that as many of you are! We're working on Folk/Fairy tales and I just love reading all the crazy grim Grimm stories (I had to add that other grim in...their name is so befitting). Priceless. Today I got to take a break and we had a Fall party. I think there was maybe 10 different soups? I tried them all...I am full. Great night, lots of laughs. As always.
It has been a while since I've posted, so I'll include a few pictures as to what's been happening. Enjoy! Love you guys!
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| I'm pretty happy with this one...it came out super nice. I feel like it depicts my life right now quite nicely. This is the canal taken while driving over the Centennial Bridge (don't worry I wasn't driving) |
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| Proof that I'm actually in Panama |
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| Conference art work |
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Some Pics
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| Panama's National Flower-Orchid Exhibit |
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| It's called the Holy Spirit Orchid because of this little guy sitting in the middle |
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| These were just pretty |
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| Panamanian Orchid Mola |
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| Our amazing desserts at Crepes & Waffles, that's mine on the bottom left--it was a coffee, caramel mini-waffle |
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| Isle Mamey |
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| Isle Mamey, but auntie...I'm owling for you! |
It's all packed in
Hello Blogger Peoples,
This past week was much better than the week before. Still very trying and frustrating, but in comparison it was much better. God is helping me become more assertive. Thank you all for your prayers please keep praying because I'm feeling a little torn down and not so much a good teacher.
Was told this past week that I have some tics by the kids. Apparently when I have to yell to be heard I comfort myself by rubbing my arm. Also, it seems I keep my hands straight and never point, but do this karate-type movement. I don't mind so much the latter, I think it's pretty funny (it's true, I hate to point), but the other one I'm not too happy with. I think they just caught me at a bad time because I was sun burnt and my arms were sore...I'm going to say that was it. Also, it seems there is to be a fundraising show where they imitate some of the teachers, I've already been told I was a go. I've noticed the kids are picking up the random things I say, with even the same inflection-I don't know what to think of that. It may be dangerous.
Went to the orphanage this past Wednesday, it went very well once we got past the procrastinating Panamanians. The orphanage was under construction so half of the kids were somewhere else. The other half were toddlers and babies and when we (our group of 12) arrived they were asleep. We ended up cleaning a mildewy wall with the three brushes they gave to us, which meant (for a time) nine people were standing around cheering the three on. Very unproductive, but eventually we were able to go in and play with some of the toddlers (not the babies-only about 7-8 toddlers). It was sad to go, one of the little boys was giving huge smiles as we were walking out and throwing hugs and arms out...hard to walk away. I was very emotionally tired when we left. Funny story, when we finally got word of a task we all walked out following the head lady. I had no idea what was happening as I was at the back so I asked Abby (haha...Asked Abby) what was happening. She said, "We're following the heffa." As if I could change what was said, I piped up in shock, "Whoa, Whoa, Whoa!" [Which apparently is becoming my trademark of sorts as I say it often when I feel someone else may have been wronged--you can ask me when I puked/drooled after a confrontation and saying my motto another time] My shocked face must have made Abby explain further and the few 11th & 12th graders near were baffled by their unknowing of what must have been going on in my head. Abby linked it pretty quick and said, "Heffa, like the boss lady." I responded with cupping my mouth and laughing. She then explained to the others why I'd gotten upset by telling them that I thought she had just called the lady a heifer, which was a cow. Had a really good laugh and I still am giggling about it as I write.
Crossfire group went well, the girls were chatty and we definitely didn't have any awkward silences. They were sweet. I asked if there was anything that I could do to make the group run the way they wanted and they said, 'No, just be you.' I don't think they realized how sweet it was.
Game night Friday night, where I did laugh until I cried. Had a great Saturday with the Louderbacks + friends. Went to a locally-known private beach. Was actually pretty close to the other one we went to, it was very nice. We could swim out and look straight to the bottom. I saw a starfish and a bunch of little fishies. I didn't have any goggles. I brought a pair with me from the US that somehow are missing the rubber ring around one eye. They wouldn't be very helpful. I need to buy a new pair if we go again. Fun day. Then today it was work work work then a little play at a dinner party at the Richardsons where I made chili, cheese dip (I think it was a hit).
Thanks all for keeping tabs on me. And thanks, too, for reading these long rants about my days!
Love you!
This past week was much better than the week before. Still very trying and frustrating, but in comparison it was much better. God is helping me become more assertive. Thank you all for your prayers please keep praying because I'm feeling a little torn down and not so much a good teacher.
Was told this past week that I have some tics by the kids. Apparently when I have to yell to be heard I comfort myself by rubbing my arm. Also, it seems I keep my hands straight and never point, but do this karate-type movement. I don't mind so much the latter, I think it's pretty funny (it's true, I hate to point), but the other one I'm not too happy with. I think they just caught me at a bad time because I was sun burnt and my arms were sore...I'm going to say that was it. Also, it seems there is to be a fundraising show where they imitate some of the teachers, I've already been told I was a go. I've noticed the kids are picking up the random things I say, with even the same inflection-I don't know what to think of that. It may be dangerous.
Went to the orphanage this past Wednesday, it went very well once we got past the procrastinating Panamanians. The orphanage was under construction so half of the kids were somewhere else. The other half were toddlers and babies and when we (our group of 12) arrived they were asleep. We ended up cleaning a mildewy wall with the three brushes they gave to us, which meant (for a time) nine people were standing around cheering the three on. Very unproductive, but eventually we were able to go in and play with some of the toddlers (not the babies-only about 7-8 toddlers). It was sad to go, one of the little boys was giving huge smiles as we were walking out and throwing hugs and arms out...hard to walk away. I was very emotionally tired when we left. Funny story, when we finally got word of a task we all walked out following the head lady. I had no idea what was happening as I was at the back so I asked Abby (haha...Asked Abby) what was happening. She said, "We're following the heffa." As if I could change what was said, I piped up in shock, "Whoa, Whoa, Whoa!" [Which apparently is becoming my trademark of sorts as I say it often when I feel someone else may have been wronged--you can ask me when I puked/drooled after a confrontation and saying my motto another time] My shocked face must have made Abby explain further and the few 11th & 12th graders near were baffled by their unknowing of what must have been going on in my head. Abby linked it pretty quick and said, "Heffa, like the boss lady." I responded with cupping my mouth and laughing. She then explained to the others why I'd gotten upset by telling them that I thought she had just called the lady a heifer, which was a cow. Had a really good laugh and I still am giggling about it as I write.
Crossfire group went well, the girls were chatty and we definitely didn't have any awkward silences. They were sweet. I asked if there was anything that I could do to make the group run the way they wanted and they said, 'No, just be you.' I don't think they realized how sweet it was.
Game night Friday night, where I did laugh until I cried. Had a great Saturday with the Louderbacks + friends. Went to a locally-known private beach. Was actually pretty close to the other one we went to, it was very nice. We could swim out and look straight to the bottom. I saw a starfish and a bunch of little fishies. I didn't have any goggles. I brought a pair with me from the US that somehow are missing the rubber ring around one eye. They wouldn't be very helpful. I need to buy a new pair if we go again. Fun day. Then today it was work work work then a little play at a dinner party at the Richardsons where I made chili, cheese dip (I think it was a hit).
Thanks all for keeping tabs on me. And thanks, too, for reading these long rants about my days!
Love you!
Friday, September 16, 2011
Hard Week...
I am so grateful that the week has concluded. I think this past week was probably my most difficult to date while being in Panama.
It was a combination of many many things. I told God I had too much on my plate, but I guess he thought I was secretly still hungry for more because he piled it too high. I'm sick, full and ready to spew (I, literally, was feeling sick today with the weight I was carrying, causing a headache, which in turn caused the nauseated feeling-Lovely) It is not that I have taken on too much, I am managing. It is the unforeseen circumstances and difficulties that arise from those. I realize many of you are reading this and probably thinking, "Quit being so vague!" I will not. All I ask for is prayer, at this time. Now that this week is done, I'm hoping the next weeks can't really be any worse...so, there's my bright side.
Quite a few funnies this week and a sweet, sweet compliment that I needed at just the right time. The compliment was from a student that was telling me her goals for the future today. She said she wanted to be a teacher. I asked for what. She said, "...a teacher like you, that teaches English and Writer's Workshop." The full impact of what she said didn't hit me until I got home and could recuperate from the day, but it was just the right words.
I'll share a couple of the funnies...
*Many students this week decided their goal was to throw as much stuff towards the trash can as possible. At the end of my tether I eventually told a student to go outside. As soon as I let those words out, I followed up by saying, "...and go stand in the sun!" The mental picture that came rushing to my head was priceless and instead of maintaining my composure I lost it and laughed hysterically. As I looked up and saw the student's confused/baffled face, I laughed even harder. He ended up not going outside because I just couldn't compose myself to be serious. [It was the last class of the day and one of the harder ones yesterday]
*One student felt his hand needed to be up in the air for much of the period and at one point when I'd had enough of the questions I told him, "Put your hand down or I'll cut it off." Probably not the best thing to say to a 6th grader...may need to keep those comments on the down low.
*Another 'I can't believe I had to say that...': Direct quote: "...Put your shirt down and get to work!"
*Lastly, I've picked up this very entertaining (at least to me) habit of when a student is hunched over (too far over) in there desk and they don't realize I'm there, I lightly place a finger right at the edge of their hair. Again, this is very entertaining...the trick is to do it just long enough that the student is perturbed and realizes there's something happening to his hairs, but not long enough that he then has a chance to look up at you with a questioning look.
I'm a great teacher! (I'm sarcastic and I definitely am not)
Love you all!
It was a combination of many many things. I told God I had too much on my plate, but I guess he thought I was secretly still hungry for more because he piled it too high. I'm sick, full and ready to spew (I, literally, was feeling sick today with the weight I was carrying, causing a headache, which in turn caused the nauseated feeling-Lovely) It is not that I have taken on too much, I am managing. It is the unforeseen circumstances and difficulties that arise from those. I realize many of you are reading this and probably thinking, "Quit being so vague!" I will not. All I ask for is prayer, at this time. Now that this week is done, I'm hoping the next weeks can't really be any worse...so, there's my bright side.
Quite a few funnies this week and a sweet, sweet compliment that I needed at just the right time. The compliment was from a student that was telling me her goals for the future today. She said she wanted to be a teacher. I asked for what. She said, "...a teacher like you, that teaches English and Writer's Workshop." The full impact of what she said didn't hit me until I got home and could recuperate from the day, but it was just the right words.
I'll share a couple of the funnies...
*Many students this week decided their goal was to throw as much stuff towards the trash can as possible. At the end of my tether I eventually told a student to go outside. As soon as I let those words out, I followed up by saying, "...and go stand in the sun!" The mental picture that came rushing to my head was priceless and instead of maintaining my composure I lost it and laughed hysterically. As I looked up and saw the student's confused/baffled face, I laughed even harder. He ended up not going outside because I just couldn't compose myself to be serious. [It was the last class of the day and one of the harder ones yesterday]
*One student felt his hand needed to be up in the air for much of the period and at one point when I'd had enough of the questions I told him, "Put your hand down or I'll cut it off." Probably not the best thing to say to a 6th grader...may need to keep those comments on the down low.
*Another 'I can't believe I had to say that...': Direct quote: "...Put your shirt down and get to work!"
*Lastly, I've picked up this very entertaining (at least to me) habit of when a student is hunched over (too far over) in there desk and they don't realize I'm there, I lightly place a finger right at the edge of their hair. Again, this is very entertaining...the trick is to do it just long enough that the student is perturbed and realizes there's something happening to his hairs, but not long enough that he then has a chance to look up at you with a questioning look.
I'm a great teacher! (I'm sarcastic and I definitely am not)
Love you all!
Monday, September 5, 2011
Many things
Hi all,
School is engulfing me. I feel constantly busy, which isn't necessarily a bad thing. This week we'll be having parent/teacher conferences and I'm so lucky that my list seems to be the fullest! [That was dripping wet with sarcasm]. I'm very nervous and frustrated.
Kids at school are going ok. I feel I'm challenging in a good way, but I'm starting to see the flair and interest begin to sag. Lots of complaining from the kids, too. Cheryl is not liking it.
Kinda funny story, as I'm drowning in edits and grading I find myself trying to encourage on their papers by wanting to just say 'Like.' Funny how FB is overtaking our minds and thoughts. I'm not 'Liking' my want to 'Like' on their papers! There is no button!
Oh, I'm driving now...and if I do say so myself I am quite excellent at it.
I ran out of school so fast today that I completely forgot my power supply and also my Bible! So, I'm cutting this short. Love you all.
OH! I have pictures...just a few though, I've got work to do.
School is engulfing me. I feel constantly busy, which isn't necessarily a bad thing. This week we'll be having parent/teacher conferences and I'm so lucky that my list seems to be the fullest! [That was dripping wet with sarcasm]. I'm very nervous and frustrated.
Kids at school are going ok. I feel I'm challenging in a good way, but I'm starting to see the flair and interest begin to sag. Lots of complaining from the kids, too. Cheryl is not liking it.
Kinda funny story, as I'm drowning in edits and grading I find myself trying to encourage on their papers by wanting to just say 'Like.' Funny how FB is overtaking our minds and thoughts. I'm not 'Liking' my want to 'Like' on their papers! There is no button!
Oh, I'm driving now...and if I do say so myself I am quite excellent at it.
I ran out of school so fast today that I completely forgot my power supply and also my Bible! So, I'm cutting this short. Love you all.
OH! I have pictures...just a few though, I've got work to do.
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| Why Smurfs is called Los Pitufos I have no idea, but I do really like the name. I like to think Los Pitufos could be translated to: tiny, blue fat men (plus, a lady). |
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| Yes, those are all Pinas. Went to a fruit & veggie market this weekend with the lovely Louderbacks. We were exposed to the underside of the backside of the massive Albrook Mall. |
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| We stopped and stared at this man and questioned his behavior. Those are beans he is poring into another bucket. Some of us just couldn't understand why he wouldn't just pour them a little lower instead of having the balance and aim of a magician...The picture doesn't capture this, but there is dust and other dust stuffs flying out while he is pouring, which was the intention. Smarty Rebecca figured that out. Great picture though, so big thanks to Tina for encouraging me to be the typical tourist. |
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| These are lynchees. Quite a few of them too. You bite into the outer shell, then pull this grape-type fruit out and suck on it. It is slimy like a grape without its skin, but it's tasty! I was impressed with the amount in the back of this truck. |
Monday, August 29, 2011
I'm writing from this squiggle of a country. You're probably thinking
A) 'Oh good, she's alive' because you were fearing from my lack of posts
or
B) '...when did I sign up to get alerts from...OHHhhh!' because it has been too long since my last post.
I'm sorry for the delay, but I am alive and thriving (teehee, that word makes me laugh) and also, if you've forgotten who I am...my name is Cheryl, we may or may not have been friends at some point, or we're possibly family. I'm currently living in Panama and being submerged in English...not in water (yet).
Moving on. Things are going well. I'm getting involved and am feeling very used by God. I like feeling used (in the appropriate way), especially for God. :) There is a lot of work to be done and it tends to get frustrating when I see just how much needs to happen for these middle school kiddies. Working with ESL students is very frustrating at times, but I see how I can make a difference...even if it ends up only being a small one. I tend to want to jump in and be the Superhero English teacher, but I don't have a cape and I left my tights back at home.
Please pray I don't get frustrated with these students. I do so much want to help, but I can feel the frustration bubble.
I've made up a new discipline policy that seems to be working for my classes. It gives them strikes for talking that would then lead to the most dreaded, horrible punishment of having to write and be graded for grammar and spelling. They hate that...so, it's perfect :D I feel I'm pretty strict in 6th grade, but that they are also needing it...it surprises me how easy it is for me to switch demeanor between grade levels. I've got mad skills.
Love you all!
P.S. The delay in writing was due in large part to my inability to write a sentence of my own without trying to fix grammatical errors. I am pathetic and even write carrot commas in my own journal book. Please note: Anytime anyone sends me anything...I am looking at your grammar and sentence flow and judging/grading you by it.
Hahahah! Kidding...
Or am I?
A) 'Oh good, she's alive' because you were fearing from my lack of posts
or
B) '...when did I sign up to get alerts from...OHHhhh!' because it has been too long since my last post.
I'm sorry for the delay, but I am alive and thriving (teehee, that word makes me laugh) and also, if you've forgotten who I am...my name is Cheryl, we may or may not have been friends at some point, or we're possibly family. I'm currently living in Panama and being submerged in English...not in water (yet).
Moving on. Things are going well. I'm getting involved and am feeling very used by God. I like feeling used (in the appropriate way), especially for God. :) There is a lot of work to be done and it tends to get frustrating when I see just how much needs to happen for these middle school kiddies. Working with ESL students is very frustrating at times, but I see how I can make a difference...even if it ends up only being a small one. I tend to want to jump in and be the Superhero English teacher, but I don't have a cape and I left my tights back at home.
Please pray I don't get frustrated with these students. I do so much want to help, but I can feel the frustration bubble.
I've made up a new discipline policy that seems to be working for my classes. It gives them strikes for talking that would then lead to the most dreaded, horrible punishment of having to write and be graded for grammar and spelling. They hate that...so, it's perfect :D I feel I'm pretty strict in 6th grade, but that they are also needing it...it surprises me how easy it is for me to switch demeanor between grade levels. I've got mad skills.
Love you all!
P.S. The delay in writing was due in large part to my inability to write a sentence of my own without trying to fix grammatical errors. I am pathetic and even write carrot commas in my own journal book. Please note: Anytime anyone sends me anything...I am looking at your grammar and sentence flow and judging/grading you by it.
Hahahah! Kidding...
Or am I?
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
WW Sharing
It seemed sharing my creative kids' writings was a hit, so I thought I'd quickly share the happenings of today.
In writing there are 6 traits that must be present in your writing. These 6 traits are what teachers look for in grading an essay. They include: Idea, Organization, Voice, Word Choice, Sentence Fluency & Conventions (which is grammar and such).
Now, ordinarily a teacher would lecture each trait individually and then combine later. However, as I am not ever the norm, I decided that by throwing creative juice at it I could make it fun (which, I'm sure you are thinking is impossible), creative and informative.
Today the students were given a project where they had to create a character who had a dilemma that would need to go through all these traits or setbacks in order to conclude the dilemma. After the shocked, frustrated, unknowing, sad faces I decided that in order for my lovely, creative seat-fillers to grasp this project correctly I was going to have to give a good example. So, together, as a class, we created this lovely layout of a story...
A flying horse named Sir Prize has had his teeny, tiny pony, Brocco Lee, stolen. He must save him. He plans and has the 'Idea' to gather an Army to attack the pony-nappers. He 'Organizes' a 100 man Smurf (trademark) Army. The defense this Smurf Army uses is their sing-song high-pitched 'Voice's, which they use to kill off (or, make their enemies pass out as we are a Christian school) their opponents. Their 'Word Choice' for these sing-song killings is Justin Bieber songs. Now, as our Smurfs trek through a forest land to save Brocco Lee they'll come upon a river (which is where our 'Sentence Fluency' comes in...get it, flow...like a river?) which they'll have to cross. Each stepping stone they jump on to cross is a word part of a sentence. As they prepare for a singing duel, they are armed with 'Conventions' (aka weaponry). They throw punctuation marks at their opponents and have exclamation and question mark swords and armory.
I really wish 1) I would have had decent writing to have been able to take a picture and show you the map we created and 2) Been able to remember all the other ideas those weirdos threw at me. Ultimately, the highlights we hit were not necessary the best out of the ones thrown, but helped the story move along and made it easier to connect our story with the 6 Traits.
Thursday I have a separate WW class...we'll see what they create.
Love you all! Pray for tomorrow as it's Meet the Teacher for Parents and I'm nervous. Luckily each period has only 7 minutes with parents so it won't be too long me fumbling for words.
Que te vaya bien.
In writing there are 6 traits that must be present in your writing. These 6 traits are what teachers look for in grading an essay. They include: Idea, Organization, Voice, Word Choice, Sentence Fluency & Conventions (which is grammar and such).
Now, ordinarily a teacher would lecture each trait individually and then combine later. However, as I am not ever the norm, I decided that by throwing creative juice at it I could make it fun (which, I'm sure you are thinking is impossible), creative and informative.
Today the students were given a project where they had to create a character who had a dilemma that would need to go through all these traits or setbacks in order to conclude the dilemma. After the shocked, frustrated, unknowing, sad faces I decided that in order for my lovely, creative seat-fillers to grasp this project correctly I was going to have to give a good example. So, together, as a class, we created this lovely layout of a story...
A flying horse named Sir Prize has had his teeny, tiny pony, Brocco Lee, stolen. He must save him. He plans and has the 'Idea' to gather an Army to attack the pony-nappers. He 'Organizes' a 100 man Smurf (trademark) Army. The defense this Smurf Army uses is their sing-song high-pitched 'Voice's, which they use to kill off (or, make their enemies pass out as we are a Christian school) their opponents. Their 'Word Choice' for these sing-song killings is Justin Bieber songs. Now, as our Smurfs trek through a forest land to save Brocco Lee they'll come upon a river (which is where our 'Sentence Fluency' comes in...get it, flow...like a river?) which they'll have to cross. Each stepping stone they jump on to cross is a word part of a sentence. As they prepare for a singing duel, they are armed with 'Conventions' (aka weaponry). They throw punctuation marks at their opponents and have exclamation and question mark swords and armory.
I really wish 1) I would have had decent writing to have been able to take a picture and show you the map we created and 2) Been able to remember all the other ideas those weirdos threw at me. Ultimately, the highlights we hit were not necessary the best out of the ones thrown, but helped the story move along and made it easier to connect our story with the 6 Traits.
Thursday I have a separate WW class...we'll see what they create.
Love you all! Pray for tomorrow as it's Meet the Teacher for Parents and I'm nervous. Luckily each period has only 7 minutes with parents so it won't be too long me fumbling for words.
Que te vaya bien.
Monday, August 15, 2011
Oh my goodness, I'm posting!
Hola Ya'll
If you guys want some pictures...Look at Rebecca's Facebook or...
Sorry for the delay in posting...I've been a busy girl!
I've gotten through my first week of teaching and am now on to the second. We had an unknown holiday today, Fundacion de Panama. It's great! I love random holidays! Feeling ok going into the second week...have a lot of fun/interesting projects lined up that'll be very interesting once they get under toe. Have to be the bad guy going back to school tomorrow. Lay down the law with a couple of groups to minimize the chatter. Writer's Workshop is dragging along. Mean Ms. Jones has to show her wrath (aka: the vampire) after two sets of WW's poked the bear (the bear is me). One group left before the bell, so now I get to keep them (I've got a wicked evil, cackle grin on) and the other just wouldn't shut their mouths! But all bad things have a bright side and after I made one group write me 'Why it's inappropriate to talk when someone else is talking', I got some very entertaining answers.
Here's a few of my favorites:
*One student turned me into a vampire, hence the call out above
*Many of them call me "Ma'am" & apologized
"We must NOT interrupt you ma'am, you will get very angry"
*One kid blamed it on a couple other students
*Many of the reasons not to was because, "It'd make Ms. Jones mad"
*And my all time favorite: "We cannot talk at the same time as another because the teacher will get confused and won't know what we are saying. She won't understand and none will get what they want. Also because it is annoying and bad and other classes will hear us and be angry and tell it to the principal. Then Ms. Jones won't work here and will get another job and then die because she will miss us a lot and a magic doctor will bring her back to life and she will teach in our school again."
At least I'm being entertained by the rising amount of writings I have to read. Hahah!
Bananananas Resort was very nice. Took a boat out to a remote island, got to swim in the Caribbean, climb a very steep mountain. Very beautiful, fun and relaxing just to get away for a little bit.
Lots of other stuff going down down here, but I've still got quite a bit of work to get done. I hope everyone is well...I'm attempting to keep up to date with all of you as far as Facebook stalking, but forgive me that I've not written a whole bunch. I might as well be beaten at school with a yardstick the way I come home so tired. I love you all! Thank you for your prayers and curiosity in reading this bloggy.
Best part of the day: Standing in the Asian grocery store letting Mami shop. I poking and prodding random things as I do. I find a wall of soaps and start sniffing. I walk a little further and find what looks like sparklers and with excited glee yelp, "Fireworks! No, sparklers!" Abby looks at my findings and says, "Incense" and cracks up. I still got a pretty good giggle, but I was definitely disappointed they weren't selling sparklers along a wall in a grocery store. Also, I found myself picking up galleta jellies and jumping to Abby saying, "Poke this!"
If you guys want some pictures...Look at Rebecca's Facebook or...
Sorry for the delay in posting...I've been a busy girl!
I've gotten through my first week of teaching and am now on to the second. We had an unknown holiday today, Fundacion de Panama. It's great! I love random holidays! Feeling ok going into the second week...have a lot of fun/interesting projects lined up that'll be very interesting once they get under toe. Have to be the bad guy going back to school tomorrow. Lay down the law with a couple of groups to minimize the chatter. Writer's Workshop is dragging along. Mean Ms. Jones has to show her wrath (aka: the vampire) after two sets of WW's poked the bear (the bear is me). One group left before the bell, so now I get to keep them (I've got a wicked evil, cackle grin on) and the other just wouldn't shut their mouths! But all bad things have a bright side and after I made one group write me 'Why it's inappropriate to talk when someone else is talking', I got some very entertaining answers.
Here's a few of my favorites:
*One student turned me into a vampire, hence the call out above
*Many of them call me "Ma'am" & apologized
"We must NOT interrupt you ma'am, you will get very angry"
*One kid blamed it on a couple other students
*Many of the reasons not to was because, "It'd make Ms. Jones mad"
*And my all time favorite: "We cannot talk at the same time as another because the teacher will get confused and won't know what we are saying. She won't understand and none will get what they want. Also because it is annoying and bad and other classes will hear us and be angry and tell it to the principal. Then Ms. Jones won't work here and will get another job and then die because she will miss us a lot and a magic doctor will bring her back to life and she will teach in our school again."
At least I'm being entertained by the rising amount of writings I have to read. Hahah!
Bananananas Resort was very nice. Took a boat out to a remote island, got to swim in the Caribbean, climb a very steep mountain. Very beautiful, fun and relaxing just to get away for a little bit.
Lots of other stuff going down down here, but I've still got quite a bit of work to get done. I hope everyone is well...I'm attempting to keep up to date with all of you as far as Facebook stalking, but forgive me that I've not written a whole bunch. I might as well be beaten at school with a yardstick the way I come home so tired. I love you all! Thank you for your prayers and curiosity in reading this bloggy.
Best part of the day: Standing in the Asian grocery store letting Mami shop. I poking and prodding random things as I do. I find a wall of soaps and start sniffing. I walk a little further and find what looks like sparklers and with excited glee yelp, "Fireworks! No, sparklers!" Abby looks at my findings and says, "Incense" and cracks up. I still got a pretty good giggle, but I was definitely disappointed they weren't selling sparklers along a wall in a grocery store. Also, I found myself picking up galleta jellies and jumping to Abby saying, "Poke this!"
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
I am Le Tired so this won't be long (coughcough it's not even 9)
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| Look at all those Bananas or Plantains |
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| This awesome tagged sign was more inappropriate before I put my Photoshop skills to work. I love the top hat and cane though. The fart cloud is a bonus. |
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| Just some random Indians playing in the street |
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| After a pouring rain and yummy bagels we stopped to pick Einstein's nose. |
Things have been tricky what with not having Internet at the house (until recently), almost all my clothes are dirty (but we ARE going to laundromat tomorrow), then at school Internet cutting in and out on me, my computer not connecting to print, my files not converting right on another computer, plus the chaos of having a full teaching day! Yowza! Today was much better though. Glad it's done and so thankful tomorrow is a half day. Hahah! I need a breather, already! Maybe not a great sign, but I'm reassured by all my lovely colleagues that it'll only get easier. Classes are chatty, but do-able. Writing Workshop is going to be a challenge. I have 24 seats in my classroom, 25 counting mine; one WW has 23 students the other has a full-fledged 24. They are all so eager to be creative, but it's going to be a challenge to combine the creative/fun aspect of writing with the technical/boring. Let's pray I manage. God's gotten me this far. I know I was meant to be here, so at least I've got that on my belt.
Last weekend was interesting. To sum up, Rebecca and I were in three different worlds (practically) in one day. We hit Central, where we had a native look as well as a pack of sexual dogs and a schizo crazy lady with shorts up her bottom; we had the eclectic/Canadian villa bagel shop stop; and then the uber-Americano PriceSmart (aka Costco) run. I am constantly having to remind myself where I am...it's easy to become discombobulated here.
HUGE Hooray! We're going to the beach this coming weekend for a small resort retreat. We're staying at the awesomely named: Bananas Resort on Isla Grande. It should be a pretty good sized group of teachers going, so I'm pretty excited. PLUS, there will be snorkeling and it looks like from some pictures there will be sitting on rafts to peddle boat things! I'm so excited and I don't even know what they are!
I hope everyone is well. Thank you for your prayers as I was trying to get through my first few days and trying to keep my head. Please continue to pray for me, this will be a good year/experience all round, but it's going to be very hard.
Thanks guys! Love Ya!
P.S. If you didn't see on Facebook, best line to date in class: "Have you been writing anything or just smelling your armpits the whole time?"--It was a completely serious question.
Friday, August 5, 2011
Internet is Still Out!
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| Here's My Classroom |
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| And my bathroom pass |
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| And this is for you Momma! |
Hello All!
Hooray, I've managed to write something!!! Yesterday went pretty well. Kids were very curious, overwhelming and fun. My homeroom--7th graders--will be a handful. They are chatty and tend to get a little crazy, but in comparison to what I had during my student teaching, they are great. In comparison to the other grades, 6th and 8th, they are lacking. Hah! Eighth graders are AWE-some! They laugh at my jokes, they want to share themselves, they're smart and very witty. Sixth graders are good. Ask A LOT A LOT of questions. So many! They raise their hand to ask a question, put it down for a second, then shoot it up again for another. I like them though, just have to figure out how to manage that little...trait. They're so cute though. They think I know Spanish cause they asked "Por que," not thinking I knew what they said, but I answered. Hahah! Overall I felt good about the past few days. I found myself shifting from grade levels pretty seamlessly, which I was worried about. I mean, I communicate with each group differently. I think I'm going to really like my creative writing class. There are only eight of them and two were absent. We'll get to know each other very well. They are excited about poetry! I told them it'll be a good introduction to college life (as they are Juniors and Seniors). They seem like the type of group that's going to work really hard...I hope I'm able to push them creatively...I want to be good at teaching, especially at Creative Writing teaching.
After school yesterday, Rebecca and I got back to the apartment and our Internet was out. I tried all of my techy skills to no avail...literally everything you could think of, but both our phone and Internet was out. We'd found a bill under our stairs the day before and had given it to the proper guy at school because we weren't to pay that one. So, I thought it had something to do with that...told him today and he said that this often happens here in Panama. So, we are stuck for we don't know how long. Luckily our friends have been awesome and said we could come over for the weekend. They also said we could come over for laundry! Since our spin cycle is kaput and our dryer is currently lacking. Yeah! For Wonderful People!
Yesterday after school and after I realized we were out of Internet, I took a small nap then went for a small walk with Rebecca. We took some pictures around where we were, so enjoy those.
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| Here is our cat, Tic Toc |
Yay! Next week we're going to the beach! Look forward to those pictures, I am! Also, I'm going to try and join some concerto choir program...I'll be singing. English, Spanish and Kuna. More updates to come on that.
K, I'm done. Sorry this one was so long, but hopefully you enjoyed the pics!
On to the 2nd...
Had our Internet turned off at the apartment so I wasn't able to give an update and rehash my day. I'll attempt to do that later and hopefully it gets turned back on by the end of today.
Hooray for the almost weekend!
Hooray for the almost weekend!
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Migracion! Ahh!
A bit of a praise...Rebecca and I decided to go for a swim when we finally got back. We were hesitant at first because we knew we had a lot to do, but decided it'd be a good stress reliever. When we were in the pool we heard some fellow English speakers! So, we asked where they were from. Turns out they are also teachers who have come to start at the new school being built near here. One is from Texas and the other is from Ireland (she is a newbie), but the one from Texas has been here for 2 years, just in another location. Somehow we got around to talking about churches and she, the Texan, goes to an International church that isn't too far from where we are and she invited us. We now just have to figure out how to get there. We can walk, but it's an hour's walk at a fast pace. What's miraculous about the situation is that 1) she's not teaching at a Christian school 2) Rebecca and I were just talking about how we wanted to meet other people. We love all the people we've met so far, but we were just wanting another group to experience different things. So, praise the Lord...there they were in the pool! Hahah. We swapped numbers and the service she goes to is an evening service so potentially we could go to both. She also said that she was thinking of getting out of town soon to go to the valley and maybe we could go too. Hooray.
In other news, I hate ingrown toenails.
This evening I made tacos...they turned out great and they were good enough that I'm empowered to try other things.
I do have a prayer request: I've been so bogged down with everything, that I don't think I've been able to grasp the full impact of my being here. I have mentioned numerous times how overwhelmed I am, but all in all it seems I've been able to handle everything. I've only teared up once...and Mom made me do it. Many of the teachers ask how I am doing and I am so glad they are asking. I say I'm fine, but honestly, I'm not feeling like myself so much. I'm here, but I guess because I'm soooo far out of my comfort zone I don't know what being here is? I don't know, but some people weren't likin' it. And, it's me. I just want to be ok. Be ok. Be ok.
I am continuing my quest through the Old Testament so please enjoy this snippet:
2 Samuel 12: 4-5: "...So Hanun seized David's men, shaved off half of each man's beard, cut off their garments in the middle of the buttocks, and sent them away...they were greatly humiliated..."
I really do appreciate how God is guiding me through the Bible. As I go through the Scripture I'm getting the encouragement I need as well as a little giggle every once in a while :D
What I've learned about Panama:
*They are VERY superstitious-Apparently one is never to walk in the rain, because you most assuredly will catch pneumonia and die. Also, around New Years you are to wear yellow underwear because it'll bring you good fortune. I am planning to do this.
*Best phrase ever: "Puede hablar mas despacio, por favor."
*Laundromats are only .50 for a wash and .75 for a dry! Take that L.A.
*I've not learned this, but I saw it...there was a HUGE cargo boat that went through the Miraflores locks today...it was huge!
*I hate mold.
That's all today folks.
Love you all!
Saturday, July 30, 2011
Work Work Work
I'm swamped, but not yet drowning. I've got so much to do in just a few amount of days! So, pray for me all...I need it. I really want to be a good teacher, so at least I've got that going for me. I've been narrowing it down, figuring out what I'm wanting to teach and books, but...gurgle gurgle...yikes!
Panama is rainy. Again. It pretty much rained all day today. We went for a walk on the causeway, which connects a few islands. The road/bridge was actually made with the mountain and rubble from the digging out of the canal. Pretty interesting tidbit (hahah Shanna) from our new friend Abby. Walk was nice and refreshing, but very wet. Soaked all the way through.
More exploring of our grocery stores. You can get absolutely anything, but anything normal from the US is significantly more expensive. Rebecca and I are aiming for as cheap as possible, but we still have much to learn.
Panamanians are restless creatures. They are in a hurry, especially when driving. If you can think of the worst traffic jam in L.A...it's no where near that. So bad! Also, lots of honkies. And we're slowly, but surely learning the language of the honks. There's the impatient 'move' honk. There's the double tap 'I see you' honk; also, taxis will use this one to let you know they don't mind picking you up. There's also a double tap 'thank you' honk. There's a constant beeping that can be translated 'Heyyy!' [eyebrow wiggle]. There's many more.
Please pray for me, especially these next few days coming up. I'm overloaded and feeling a bit stressed, but God is good and not allowing me to feel the full impact. I am incredibly thankful for that as well as the wonderful WONDERFUL people down here who care so much.
Love you guys!
Panama is rainy. Again. It pretty much rained all day today. We went for a walk on the causeway, which connects a few islands. The road/bridge was actually made with the mountain and rubble from the digging out of the canal. Pretty interesting tidbit (hahah Shanna) from our new friend Abby. Walk was nice and refreshing, but very wet. Soaked all the way through.
More exploring of our grocery stores. You can get absolutely anything, but anything normal from the US is significantly more expensive. Rebecca and I are aiming for as cheap as possible, but we still have much to learn.
Panamanians are restless creatures. They are in a hurry, especially when driving. If you can think of the worst traffic jam in L.A...it's no where near that. So bad! Also, lots of honkies. And we're slowly, but surely learning the language of the honks. There's the impatient 'move' honk. There's the double tap 'I see you' honk; also, taxis will use this one to let you know they don't mind picking you up. There's also a double tap 'thank you' honk. There's a constant beeping that can be translated 'Heyyy!' [eyebrow wiggle]. There's many more.
Please pray for me, especially these next few days coming up. I'm overloaded and feeling a bit stressed, but God is good and not allowing me to feel the full impact. I am incredibly thankful for that as well as the wonderful WONDERFUL people down here who care so much.
Love you guys!
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Rain & Panamanians
Panamanians really want to learn English. However, they are not the type of people to try very hard to accomplish that goal. They will not slow down for you or attempt to use a different word to make it easier. There is no working with them it seems. Also, I am feeling like a small giant here in comparison to the people here in Panama, not horribly small, but definitely smaller then me. I'm not sure what is in the water that seems to have stunted their growth. I will investigate this predicament.
Today we had quite the full day. Had to travel back to the mall to take a photo for our missionary Visas. Went through materials in my classroom, which made me want to curl up in a ball and rock back and forth. There is just so much stuff! And, it seems, most is not used! I'm taking it bit by bit. Today I went through the books and narrowed down the ones we will read in class; tomorrow I'll figure something else out. Later we got to go grocery shopping! It was overwhelming, as seems to be the case with everything. I should definitely learn the word for overwhelming in Spanish. Things are expensive but I also haven't gotten paid yet so I'm hoping once that happens I'll feel a bit better spending money on nourishment for my body. Hahah!
Very tired today and it's only going to get worse. Tomorrow after school we're headed to get a cheapy phone.
Love you all!
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Wait!!!!...
P.S. We didn't take this picture, I found it online.
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