Another week

Monday:  The weekend went by too quickly.  I’m ready for another break from school.  It rained today and the children had to stay inside for one of their outdoor times.  This makes for a long Monday as they were not able to run off their energy.  I am thankful that I was able to bring playdough back for my students to use on these rainy days. 

Tuesday: Today was a long day, because of the rain.  It was also a student’s birthday.  I love birthdays because my students bring in cake and ice cream and sometimes other goodies as well.  This is about the only time I enjoy desert here on the island.  In fact, Abby and I always bring some home for each other if possible so we both benefit like having birthdays.  Between the two of us we have about 60 birthdays this school year to celebrate.  Yum!  I have to take care of my sweet tooth somehow.  Tonight I watched Bachelor and saw Rhett one last time.  He leaves tomorrow which makes me kind of sad, although I’m happy for him and hope that his travel all goes well tomorrow.

Wednesday: This morning Abby and I ran to the bank and finally picked up our credit cards.  We were able to do this during our snack and outdoor time this morning, so the bank was less crowded than normal.  Going to the bank, while easy to take money out (we use the ATM), is not easy quick have to see a banker.  Our “quick” run to the bank even though not busy, took us about 45 minutes.  I miss being able to go in and get help within 10 minutes, but that’s not reality here.  Also banks are only open Monday-Thursday until 2 and Friday until 6.  Everyone goes on Fridays though so if possible we sneak out during school to accomplish what is needed.  Tonight was piano and it went smoothly. Guitar… not so much.  I need to practice more.

Thursday: A normal day of teaching, but afterwards had to stay for a workshop on Microsoft Powerpoint, meaning I didn’t leave school until after 5. 

Friday:  Today was alright.  We had a birthday in my classroom again, but this time the celebration was a bit over the top with noise makers and party hats and all.  For birthdays we only sing to the student and then get back to work (only about 5 minutes out of the day), well this one lasted at least 15. Oh well! It’s Friday.

I’ll be honest and say that parts of this week were really frustrating.  A week and a half ago I sent things to the office to be copied and I still have yet to get them.  So much for being organized!  This made it difficult this week to teach, as some of the lessons I had to improvise the follow-up activity on since my worksheets weren’t done.  Hopefully I have my copies by Monday, as next week is parent observation week and the students must be kept busy. 

Tonight was CIA which was nice.  Casey met Abby and I at the house and took the bus with us to the Cinema where Abby and I met Pastor Bram who brought us the rest of the way to church. Our topic was about social media and afterwards we played a small game of guess the playdough creation. 

Saturday: Ah I got a full nights sleep and feel very refreshed and ready to go.  So refreshed that I actually got up around 8:30 and cleaned my room and bathroom.  Afterwards Abby and I made pancakes and sat down for our regular Saturday morning devotion.  The rest of the day was relaxing as I watched some TV and headed to the beach.  On the way to the beach we stopped and got Felly Belly (this is seriously my new weakness).  While the beach was a bit busy and the water a bit cold, it was still nice and refreshing and a great way to spend the day.  After the beach we met my assistant teacher, Najma, at Razmataz for happy hour.  I tried naan bread which was delicious!  I’m so thankful for Najma both in school and outside of it.  Hanging out with her is very nice and we all enjoy it.  After making sure that Tanya got home ok, Casey and Kerne picked Abby and I up and we walked to Pastor Brams for Catan.  With the help of Pastor and Sheena, I ended up winning the first round.  I’m still trying to catch on to the game, but its getting easier.  While a fun night, I was definitely ready for bed at midnight when we got home.

Sunday: Getting up for church is something that I don’t mind at all.  Some people may think I’m crazy because I’m missing out on sleep, but I love worshiping with the people at church.  I love the services and love making connections with the people there.  Today I taught Sunday school which while not completely prepared, turned out ok.  Jason is 4 and was my only student which made for a nice and relaxed setting.  Before Sunday School however, I did a short piano lesson with Jason.  Our goal is that he looks at the piano and doesn’t just bang on it, but realizes that there is value to it.  After church we made a run to Mega J’s where I spent way to much money on bulk items, all necessary though.  This afternoon I took a nap and while we could have gone to the east coast with Pastor, Jen, and Ian, Abby and I opted to stay here and relax a bit more.  Last night took its toll on us.  Around 6 we headed over to Pastor and Jen’s for a quick piano lesson with Ian, as well as pizza and movie night.  I am so glad that these have started up again.  I’ve missed heading over to their house.  

Razmataz with Najma :)