I'll miss you
Valmir's own goodbye...
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Feelin' the Love
Today, I felt lots love. It was our last day with kids.
As usual, I stood at the door to welcome everyone. I was greeted by the usual hellos, how are yous and several sweet gifts which included a silver shiny lotus flower candle holder (cuz you're moving to India and that's like their flower), a Sobral Cobacabana inspired ring, a mug with Portuguese writing and a Korean wallet which reminds me of the hanboks I saw in shop windows.
After morning meeting, we started the day celebrating their memoir writing. Erica and I combined both classes memoirs into one third grade book. Each trio of authors shared their stories followed by two compliments from their peers. Then of course there had to be an autograph session for the authors to sign each others work.
We celebrated the end of the year with an ice cream party outside behind our classrooms before field day. Team M (my team) rotated around to seven different stations "competing" against other teams along the way. The teams were a mix of all grade levels and classes making them a fun mix of kids. I had two former students along with new faces in my group.
After field day, the kids returned to the classroom where I had compiled their Top Ten of third grade into a Wordle document. The Cool V.I.K.s loved (counting down):
10. Field Day, New Books Arrived (they had fundraised and I brought back about 30 books at semester) and Read-A-Thon
9. Book Fair (kids perform and also buy books)
8. Book Clubs
7. Miss Megan Returned (from my surprise trip to the U.S.)
6. Brasilia Field Trip (saw the sights and learned about the city's unique history)
5. Silent Ball (gotta love a game of toss where one of the rules is you have to remain silent).
4. GleEAB (mentioned on previous post)
3. First Day of School
2. My parents visit to Brasilia (that one really made me smile)
1. Nex (field trip to Jaguar sanctuary where we saw rescued jaguars, ocelots, panthers and pumas and cooled off under a waterfall).
The kids got a chance to trace their top ten and then gather email and Skype addresses. I have four students and myself leaving EAB. You all know where I'm headed. The students are going to: the U.S., Malayasia, Sweden and Spain. While they were gathering this important info, two parents stopped by. Both started by telling me that they knew I was going to hear that I was their child's favorite teacher but they really meant it.
One mother, told me that her son loves me and that with my care and attention, he's become a better person this year. He loves school and has felt so comfortable. She told me that he's been sad for weeks that I'm going and that she hopes I'll visit and if I do, I need to stay with them. This mother has been such a supporter all year long and just wonderful to work with. I had to say goodbye to this student before the end of the day and was just heart-broken as he's been such a light this year.
The second mother and I have had our ups and downs. She and I see a lot of things similarly but she's got high expectations but has a realistic picture of her son. Her son's just an amazing child who has so much potential. He spent K - 2 being the class clown for attention and does have a great sense of humor but doesn't love school so much. We've worked ALOT on his behavior, attitude, responsibility for actions and self-control. I'm so proud of him and today I learned what this work meant to her. She came into the room, saw me in tears and began to cry which shocked me. I quickly looked around for her son who then I realized I'd sent back to the bathroom to rewash his face (he had black face paint on it from field day). My heart sunk until she came and hugged me. She shared that I'd made the biggest difference in her son's life this year and that with my help, he'd started to become the boy she always knew he could be. He just needed someone to be tough to show him he could do it.
I was now full-on snotty, gross, crying teacher. I let the kids work for a bit more and then pulled them together.
We had a final game of frogger which is a class favorite. For my teacher readers, frogger is a game where one child is a frog who's rather hungry. To eat, the frog sticks out their tongue quickly at the remaining students who are flies. By doing this, they are eaten and die usually a rather painful overly dramatic death. All of this happens while a fellow classmates tries to guess the frogs identity.
To end the day, we sat in our same circle we'd sat 200 days so far and gave all of the kids a chance to share about this year, their feelings and what they just thought in the moment. Here are a few highlights:
"This year my parents got divorced. It was hard. Lots of you know what it's like and you made me feel better. You could tell when I was sad and you made me happy with hugs and nice things you told me."
"So, you guys know that sometimes I'm not very nice. I can be mean especially when we play games and especially soccer. I'm a bad sport sometimes. And you guys even after I was mean would ask me to play again. I just wanna say thanks for being my friends. I wish you lotsa luck in your new schools and in the future."
"Miss Megan. We could fill a swimming pool with all of the tears in here."
Out of the 18 present, more than half were in tears. I was teary but wanted to end with something positive. We did a final huddle and yelled "VIKs" and then dismissed the kids a few at a time for a final hug, handshake or high five. Mostly hugs.
I had a few more special moments after school with kids and I could share those but what really struck me is that this has probably been my second most challenging class of my career. Today made all of the blood, sweat, tears, beers, complaining, work, consuling, emails, meetings and more worth it. This class has a special bond that I felt like will be important for them for a long, long time.
One of these moments included a particular girl. One who started the year in a pretty mean way. She complained. She was rude to teachers and students. She moaned and groaned. She avoided work and blamed everyone for her mistakes. This girl though, has made major strides. She problem-solves. She helps others without being asked. She gives hugs even when she doesn't want to but knows her classmate has asked and needs it. She sobbed after school. I gave her a long, hard hug. I told her (please know that after the work we've done I was being honest due to the types of conversations we've had) that at the beginning of the year she was mean. She was rude and people were frustrated with her a lot. I squeezed her tighter and told her as I touched her heart. I said that this, her heart, is what changed this year. She let people in. I told her I knew it was hard and that even though her report card didn't show it that the work she'd done was some of the most difficult of all. I told her she now was loving and kind and that by opening her heart her classmates liked her. I told her that sometimes opening her heart actually made her hurt more but that she had to leave it open so others could learn what a wonderful, compassionate kid she is. I told her I was so proud of her and that I loved her. While I was telling her this, her mom was standing nearby. Her mom speaks just a bit of English so another parent translated what I said. Her mom started to cry too.
Wow. I realize this is a really long post. I want these documented so when I have a tough day in the future, I can be reminded of why what I do is so important. It's not a perfect post and it lacks some of the details but to me today couldn't have been a more perfect last day with my students. This year I loved my kids hard and today the love was sent right back.
As usual, I stood at the door to welcome everyone. I was greeted by the usual hellos, how are yous and several sweet gifts which included a silver shiny lotus flower candle holder (cuz you're moving to India and that's like their flower), a Sobral Cobacabana inspired ring, a mug with Portuguese writing and a Korean wallet which reminds me of the hanboks I saw in shop windows.
After morning meeting, we started the day celebrating their memoir writing. Erica and I combined both classes memoirs into one third grade book. Each trio of authors shared their stories followed by two compliments from their peers. Then of course there had to be an autograph session for the authors to sign each others work.
We celebrated the end of the year with an ice cream party outside behind our classrooms before field day. Team M (my team) rotated around to seven different stations "competing" against other teams along the way. The teams were a mix of all grade levels and classes making them a fun mix of kids. I had two former students along with new faces in my group.
After field day, the kids returned to the classroom where I had compiled their Top Ten of third grade into a Wordle document. The Cool V.I.K.s loved (counting down):
10. Field Day, New Books Arrived (they had fundraised and I brought back about 30 books at semester) and Read-A-Thon
9. Book Fair (kids perform and also buy books)
8. Book Clubs
7. Miss Megan Returned (from my surprise trip to the U.S.)
6. Brasilia Field Trip (saw the sights and learned about the city's unique history)
5. Silent Ball (gotta love a game of toss where one of the rules is you have to remain silent).
4. GleEAB (mentioned on previous post)
3. First Day of School
2. My parents visit to Brasilia (that one really made me smile)
1. Nex (field trip to Jaguar sanctuary where we saw rescued jaguars, ocelots, panthers and pumas and cooled off under a waterfall).
The kids got a chance to trace their top ten and then gather email and Skype addresses. I have four students and myself leaving EAB. You all know where I'm headed. The students are going to: the U.S., Malayasia, Sweden and Spain. While they were gathering this important info, two parents stopped by. Both started by telling me that they knew I was going to hear that I was their child's favorite teacher but they really meant it.
One mother, told me that her son loves me and that with my care and attention, he's become a better person this year. He loves school and has felt so comfortable. She told me that he's been sad for weeks that I'm going and that she hopes I'll visit and if I do, I need to stay with them. This mother has been such a supporter all year long and just wonderful to work with. I had to say goodbye to this student before the end of the day and was just heart-broken as he's been such a light this year.
The second mother and I have had our ups and downs. She and I see a lot of things similarly but she's got high expectations but has a realistic picture of her son. Her son's just an amazing child who has so much potential. He spent K - 2 being the class clown for attention and does have a great sense of humor but doesn't love school so much. We've worked ALOT on his behavior, attitude, responsibility for actions and self-control. I'm so proud of him and today I learned what this work meant to her. She came into the room, saw me in tears and began to cry which shocked me. I quickly looked around for her son who then I realized I'd sent back to the bathroom to rewash his face (he had black face paint on it from field day). My heart sunk until she came and hugged me. She shared that I'd made the biggest difference in her son's life this year and that with my help, he'd started to become the boy she always knew he could be. He just needed someone to be tough to show him he could do it.
I was now full-on snotty, gross, crying teacher. I let the kids work for a bit more and then pulled them together.
We had a final game of frogger which is a class favorite. For my teacher readers, frogger is a game where one child is a frog who's rather hungry. To eat, the frog sticks out their tongue quickly at the remaining students who are flies. By doing this, they are eaten and die usually a rather painful overly dramatic death. All of this happens while a fellow classmates tries to guess the frogs identity.
To end the day, we sat in our same circle we'd sat 200 days so far and gave all of the kids a chance to share about this year, their feelings and what they just thought in the moment. Here are a few highlights:
"This year my parents got divorced. It was hard. Lots of you know what it's like and you made me feel better. You could tell when I was sad and you made me happy with hugs and nice things you told me."
"So, you guys know that sometimes I'm not very nice. I can be mean especially when we play games and especially soccer. I'm a bad sport sometimes. And you guys even after I was mean would ask me to play again. I just wanna say thanks for being my friends. I wish you lotsa luck in your new schools and in the future."
"Miss Megan. We could fill a swimming pool with all of the tears in here."
Out of the 18 present, more than half were in tears. I was teary but wanted to end with something positive. We did a final huddle and yelled "VIKs" and then dismissed the kids a few at a time for a final hug, handshake or high five. Mostly hugs.
I had a few more special moments after school with kids and I could share those but what really struck me is that this has probably been my second most challenging class of my career. Today made all of the blood, sweat, tears, beers, complaining, work, consuling, emails, meetings and more worth it. This class has a special bond that I felt like will be important for them for a long, long time.
One of these moments included a particular girl. One who started the year in a pretty mean way. She complained. She was rude to teachers and students. She moaned and groaned. She avoided work and blamed everyone for her mistakes. This girl though, has made major strides. She problem-solves. She helps others without being asked. She gives hugs even when she doesn't want to but knows her classmate has asked and needs it. She sobbed after school. I gave her a long, hard hug. I told her (please know that after the work we've done I was being honest due to the types of conversations we've had) that at the beginning of the year she was mean. She was rude and people were frustrated with her a lot. I squeezed her tighter and told her as I touched her heart. I said that this, her heart, is what changed this year. She let people in. I told her I knew it was hard and that even though her report card didn't show it that the work she'd done was some of the most difficult of all. I told her she now was loving and kind and that by opening her heart her classmates liked her. I told her that sometimes opening her heart actually made her hurt more but that she had to leave it open so others could learn what a wonderful, compassionate kid she is. I told her I was so proud of her and that I loved her. While I was telling her this, her mom was standing nearby. Her mom speaks just a bit of English so another parent translated what I said. Her mom started to cry too.
Wow. I realize this is a really long post. I want these documented so when I have a tough day in the future, I can be reminded of why what I do is so important. It's not a perfect post and it lacks some of the details but to me today couldn't have been a more perfect last day with my students. This year I loved my kids hard and today the love was sent right back.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
One Sister for Sale!
Today for some reason reminds me of the Shel Silverstein poem, "One Sister for Sale!"
One of the lines goes something like this..."Do I hear a dollar? A nickel A penny? Oh isn't there, isn't there, isn't there any one kid who'll buy this old sister for sale?"
No, I'm not selling the Goo but I had my Looney Sale here in Brazil. I sold things like my microwave, lamps, kitchen stuff, garbage cans, etc. I sold a lot of it. This is great so I can have some money this summer to use toward buying things for India, like a new queen bed. Ahhh, that makes me happy just thinking about it.
People are picking up their items this evening. So far three people have come and they've all been just lovely. Sharing stories and chatting.
There are supposed to be 5 more people coming. And they are supposed to come in the next 15 minutes.
Any bets on whether they'll come or not?
Alright, off to do one final bank email and then some packing. I've procrastinated long enough tonight but on a positive note have caught up on some emails and arranged two more shippers to come and give me estimates in late June. More soon...
One of the lines goes something like this..."Do I hear a dollar? A nickel A penny? Oh isn't there, isn't there, isn't there any one kid who'll buy this old sister for sale?"
No, I'm not selling the Goo but I had my Looney Sale here in Brazil. I sold things like my microwave, lamps, kitchen stuff, garbage cans, etc. I sold a lot of it. This is great so I can have some money this summer to use toward buying things for India, like a new queen bed. Ahhh, that makes me happy just thinking about it.
People are picking up their items this evening. So far three people have come and they've all been just lovely. Sharing stories and chatting.
There are supposed to be 5 more people coming. And they are supposed to come in the next 15 minutes.
Any bets on whether they'll come or not?
Alright, off to do one final bank email and then some packing. I've procrastinated long enough tonight but on a positive note have caught up on some emails and arranged two more shippers to come and give me estimates in late June. More soon...
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Today I...
- Went to bed at 1:30 a.m. after ending a work conference Skype call at 12:15.
- Takes some time to wind down after talking about writing for an hour with my new boss, new reading specialist and a writing consultant. I got the shaft in the time zones.
- Proctored a math test covering decimals and the kids did great,
- Said goodbye to my amazing and wonderful maid Davina because unfortunately ans sadly her mother passed away (done during the test),
- Determined placements for my students into their 4th grade classes,
- Don't like this one for many different reasons. The biggest one is that I won't be here or with them next year.
- Watched third graders create decorations for a baby shower,
- Blue monkeys? Well, he is a boy...duh!
- Helped a third grader to realize that when your water bottle falls off your desk 4 times that there's gotta be a better location for it,
- In my room the sound is awful so this is just so loud and interrupts everything but it's really annoying when it's 4 times in a 5 minute time span.
- Wrote my final parent email of the year,
- Called the Indian Embassy,
- Read my other blog if you want to learn more about this call.
- Met with a student book club for the last time,
- We had such an awesome, easy and intelligent discussion.
- Was amazed by my teaching assistant's McGyver skills as he constructed the perfect sponge device for washing 42 brand new water bottles for the third graders to take on tomorrow's field trip,
- Three dowl rods, one sponge, hot glue and staple gun = pretty awesome bottle washer.
Reviewed,Shared, Tried to share information for our field trip tomorrow to the jaguar sanctuary we visited last year,- The kids are so excited and it's the end of the year but why would I do this at 2:45?
- Broke up a third grade kicking fight on the soccer field,
- Yup. I'm cool. But to be completely honest when there's a third grade you really just have to say, "Stop that! You two come here now," and they do and then you start the process of figuring out what happened.
- Shared a banana and chocolate crepe with Erica while talking about silly school stuff like what kids "accidentally" google when they're supposed to be looking for jaguar information,
- It starts with an "s" and rhymes with hex.
- am headed to a final EAB end-of-year celebration at a local pizza place with everyone
- It's chilly here, like in the 60s, so I'm wearing a fleece and jeans and a scarf.
Saturday, May 28, 2011
This Week in Photos
Images from my life this week...
Jack Johnson live in Brasilia with friends. My first and only concert in Brazil. One of the best shows I've ever been to because he's so wonderful live! They even mixed in Brazilian tunes to his music.
Jack Johnson live in Brasilia with friends. My first and only concert in Brazil. One of the best shows I've ever been to because he's so wonderful live! They even mixed in Brazilian tunes to his music.
The utility building outside my apartment's been painted. The Brazilian flag is gone. So sad. I think I'm taking this harder because of my transition. Wonder how long till the new graffiti arrives...
The GleEAB concert and my students singing a Sound of Music Medley. My cheeks hurt from smiling so much.
How can you not love this? I felt so proud as a teacher but just the joy they brought to the entire audience was amazing.
Makin' smores during my Savvy sleepover. We cooked over my gas stove, one burner each. They were delic!
Festa Junina, a Brazilian kinda wedding/harvest/bumpkin party hosted at school. There are food booths and also game booths while a band plays forro music all evening. It has been one of my favorite EAB evenings. The kids all dress up for it as do the adults too. Ellie and friend Fiona.
Savvy and Amanda, two of my former students enjoying the night. AP, KD and I took the Wolvie girls since their parents are in Buenos Aires after taking 16 bags for their move.
KD and I.
Andrea and I post bbq chicken and canjica.
14 days till departure.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Better Together
Tonight I'm off to see Jack Johnson with AP, Erica and Jamey. Valmir and his lovely wife Camila will also be there.
We're sitting in the premeir section which means we're really close to the stage. It's a mid-grade ticket versus the $350 USD all you can drink option. I'm happy with our mid-grade choice.
Valmir picked up his tickets last night and said the box office told him that they didn't sell as many as they'd hoped so they were shrinking the seating area. That means fewer people squeezing into the parking lot stadium. Yay!
I'm soo looking forward to some great tunes with some wonderful friends outside on this starry 60 degree night.
We're sitting in the premeir section which means we're really close to the stage. It's a mid-grade ticket versus the $350 USD all you can drink option. I'm happy with our mid-grade choice.
Valmir picked up his tickets last night and said the box office told him that they didn't sell as many as they'd hoped so they were shrinking the seating area. That means fewer people squeezing into the parking lot stadium. Yay!
I'm soo looking forward to some great tunes with some wonderful friends outside on this starry 60 degree night.
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Bittersweet
Excited for new adventures ahead as well as lots of qt with my family and friends in just three weeks but at the same time I'm feeling very blue today.
Trying to live in 3 continents simutaneously isn't as chique as it sounds...
South America
North America
Trying to live in 3 continents simutaneously isn't as chique as it sounds...
South America
- packing,
- paperwork,
- spending times with friends at spas, dinners, for birthdays and good food = wonderful
- finally got a hold of the Indian Embassy and will turn in things on Tuesday morning at 11 a.m.
- 4 hour trips to governmental agencies (Monday) and
- friends leaving for last minute trips makes me feel blue.
North America
- plans with friends - check,
- plans with family - in the works
- online ordering for clothes and tech and books and fun,
- organizing shippers - "Yes, I realize that you can't come and complete a survey because I'm living in South American and yes, I also realize that June is your busiest month but can't a quote be a quote? Then when you actually pack me then you give me the final price? I'll make as complete a list as I'm able now..."
- banks and trying to get reimbursed is a pain so I'm
- feeling excited to see everyone but realizing that my time is short, jam-packed six weeks is an understatement.
- organizing shippers is a pain,
- my school is great about communication in regards to banking and shipping and visas,
- starting to think about my new job is exciting but overwhelming too,
- excited for new friendships but also sad because I'm leaving good friends in Brazil
- wondering why am I going to India since it seems each place I live internationally teaches me new things...Korea - what's important in life (family and friends), Brazil - i've always thought life is a journey not a destination but it's reminded me how i need to be in the journey more, India - ???
Thursday, May 19, 2011
quotes
Figure a little humor's needed this time of year so I'm sharing a couple of quotes from today with you.
"Knowledge is like ice cream; it tastes delicious," said a third grade student who was explaining her Lewis and Clark mind map to me today. If only you all could meet said child, you would know so much more to this statement.
"Can't we please listen to "It's Raining Men?" begged another third grade student. If only you knew his family...
Hope your learning and living brings you smiles today.
"Knowledge is like ice cream; it tastes delicious," said a third grade student who was explaining her Lewis and Clark mind map to me today. If only you all could meet said child, you would know so much more to this statement.
"Can't we please listen to "It's Raining Men?" begged another third grade student. If only you knew his family...
Hope your learning and living brings you smiles today.
Monday, May 2, 2011
My 34th Birthday Bonanza!
This year I was completely spoiled.
Completely spoiled. From even before the beginning of the day till the end of the real day. Home highlights:
- Being able to celebrate early at home with my parents and the Goo in my parents' kitchen
- Cake 1 was Portillo's
- The Goo sang "Happy Birthday Dad" when she was supposed to say Megan or Sister. She's never living that down.
- A 6:45 birthday call from my parents who sang it not once but twice and the second time with feeling,
- Arriving to school and finding a clue on my desk,
- A birthday scavenger hunt that led me from friend to friend who passed on wonderful gifts that my mom had sent. Thank goodness the bras weren't part of the mix as I had to open up things in front of everyone.
- The clues were written by each person so some were more easily determined than others. Being my usual overanalytical self I had trouble starting but once I got rolling, it got easier. In most rooms I had to complete a task to earn my present. Tasks included: listing all of the Character Counts Pillars, taking a trig quiz (brought up my math phobia) and also a quiz where I had to determine HS students' nationalities by only asking 5 questions.
- Getting lots of great treats from my family including Reese's, Amazon cards for more books for my Kindle, cute shirts, a book sharing Mumbai fables and some really cool glasses
- Having an extra long lunch with my wonderful teaching partner at Tribo. Amazing.
- Having my students surprise me with notes and a lovely cake and loads of presents including lots of beautiful flowers
At just about 6:30 I headed over to Wolvies where my presence had been requested. This is where the birthday bonanza went to a whole new level.
The evening was titled "Fun and Funky" because they said those words that describes me. It included:
- A Fun and Funky dinner with with dishes like exploding salad, deviled egg boats, asparagus with proscuitto, meatloaf and mashed potato cupcakes, ants on a log, mini-cheese burgers and ice cream cupcakes for dessert
- A FLASHMOB! A personalized flashmob just for me. I've always wanted to be in one and my friends here practiced in their homes and arm chairs and performed one to Katy Perry's Firework just for me. They changed the word "Baby" to "Megan" to personalize it even more. The flashmob began with Erin asking me the question, "Do you ever feel like a plastic bag floating in the wind?" and then Sam following up with "Do you ever feel already buried deep six feet under scream but no one hears a thing?" At this point I recognized song lyrics. I said that and then Erin said one more line before she and Ellie jumped up with plastic bags and began dancing. Soon Jamey joined, then Sam and Andrea and Kathy and finally Erica. It was amazing. I still shake my head just thinking about it.
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Balloons over BSB
Last week on my way home from school, Sam called. I'd seen 'em too but he said if I walked a bit further than my apartment, I'd get a better view. So I went. It was worth it.
Not sure why they were out. It was right before Brasilia's birthday so our best guess is that they were connected somehow but regardless, made for a fun walk home.
Some dipped pretty low. You can see one yellow balloon through the low trees. A man selling honey approached me because he saw me taking photos. He told me that if I went under the road (you can see there's an underpass) that I'd get a better view. He was going there and asked if I wanted to go with him. It was a nice offer but I just wanted to get home so I politely said no thanks. Then he asked if I wanted to buy one of his honey pockets. Again, polite no thanks. At least he waited to ask until after sharing the info.
A nice surprise on the way home.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Brrrr!
You know you've lived in a warm country too long when you are freezing even while wearing a fleece sweatshirt, socks, sipping Starbucks instant coffee and are covered in a blanket when the temperature outside is 63 degrees. Brrrr!
Stay warm Chicago!
Stay warm Chicago!
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Pillow Fighters Unite!
As we descended from the National Museum ramp (which looks like you've just landed on Earth from a large white spaceship) we noticed that there was a large group of late teen and early twenty-somethings hanging out by the National Library. We additionally noticed that many in this group were yielding pillows.
So being the tourists we are, we stopped to ask what was going on. Andrea asked a nice couple in Portuguese what was happening. They replied in Portuguese, "a pillow fight." We all then said in unison in English, " a pillow fight?" And they replied, "Yes, a pillow fight," in English. Andrea then asked what time it was going to start. It's supposed to start at 5:00.
That's now we all thought. So we sat down on some bench-like structures. As we watched people wait for the fight to begin we watched some amazing roller bladers weaving in and out of tiny cones testing their skills while simutaneously our bench was being jumped by skateboarders. A young man approached our group and in English asked if we wanted to borrow a pillow. He had an extra. And that's where our fun began...
 |
| You show 'em Ellie |
 |
| Our friends who told us about the fight |
 |
| Preparing for battle |
 |
| Andrea getting in some hits |
 |
| Mickey and friend making their getaway |
 |
| Girls only! |
 |
| E running out of the fight |
 |
| One of the organizers |
 |
| Families joined the fun |
 |
| Baby's first pillow fight! |
We got to join in the fun and let me tell you, it was a great time even when the fluff had landed..
Thursday, February 24, 2011
The Goo
My sister rocks and here's one reason why. Can you find her???
Stay tuned for more Looney mobs...
Stay tuned for more Looney mobs...
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
I Loathe Brazilian Buracrazy
Anyone else want a button? Because I'm going to begin printing them this week. Since so many of you live so far from here and the post office is taking eons for mail they are going to say, "I Loathe Brazilian Buracrazy!" I'm not sure how that quite translates into Portuguese but that's fine with me. It'll just add to the burcracy I've been dealing with here.
Valmir will not be returning to EAB anytime soon. He got the official okay from his doctor last Sunday (February 13). His hand was completely healed. He called to share the good news and learned he would be able to return after a few extra visits, aka buracracy, (I just accidentially typed buracrazy and hence my blog post cuz it's kinda funny) on Monday (February 14).
After school on Monday, Valentine's Day, my phone rang and when I saw it was Valmir, I knew it couldn't be good. He wasn't able to see all three doctors needed to return to work. You might be thinking, 3 doctors. My goodness, that's a lot. Well, it is but you need to be cleared by:
Dr 1 - the doctor who treated you
Dr 2 - the school's doctor
Dr 3 - the social security adminstration's dr
He was cleared by #1 and then proceeded to see #2. #2 then said he wouldn't clear him unless he saw dr # 3. When he went to try and see dr #3, the receptionist told him there aren't any appointments until March 17th. He said, "But I'm healed and ready to return." The receptionist laughed and replied, "You're the first person to ever say that." This should give you a little hint into this system.
That was Monday after school. He hoped he'd be able to squeeze in on Tuesday afternoon but unfortunately dr #2 shut him down again. I was just a little frustrated to get this call. I know it's not Valmir's fault but didn't understand why the school wasn't helping him.
I then learned that they won't help him because they are worried about being sued. If they help him, the government will view it as a push back to work. The funny thing is that he's healed. Completely better.
Another funny thing is that since Valmir had to visit the SSA (Social Security Admin) since he missed over 15 days of work, that they are paying both Valmir and EAB for his time off. Yup. They're double paying. So Dilma, I've heard you want to cut the govt's budget, well, silly things like this would help ALOT!
And it wouldn't just help the budget, it would also help, um, let me think, children. 22 of them to be exact. It would help 1 teacher. It would help countless other people as well. Grrr!!!
In the meantime, I'm sharing an assistant with Erica. It's fine and all but it's when you are used to things being one way and then for a really dumb reason the change, it's annoying. For a girl who's trying really hard to focus on just her class and grade level, there sure are a lot of things interfering with my plan. Silly, silly buracrazy. Silly, silly adults.
My solution? If we just listened to my 8-year-old students who said simutaneously in two different languages, English and Portuguese, "That's just dumb," then maybe we'd be a whole lot smarter.
* This post has been rewritten about seven times since starting it last week so I apologize if it doesn't flow so well.
** This post has additionally been rewritten about seven times since last week as it's taken me that long to calm down and accept the buracrazy.
Valmir will not be returning to EAB anytime soon. He got the official okay from his doctor last Sunday (February 13). His hand was completely healed. He called to share the good news and learned he would be able to return after a few extra visits, aka buracracy, (I just accidentially typed buracrazy and hence my blog post cuz it's kinda funny) on Monday (February 14).
After school on Monday, Valentine's Day, my phone rang and when I saw it was Valmir, I knew it couldn't be good. He wasn't able to see all three doctors needed to return to work. You might be thinking, 3 doctors. My goodness, that's a lot. Well, it is but you need to be cleared by:
Dr 1 - the doctor who treated you
Dr 2 - the school's doctor
Dr 3 - the social security adminstration's dr
He was cleared by #1 and then proceeded to see #2. #2 then said he wouldn't clear him unless he saw dr # 3. When he went to try and see dr #3, the receptionist told him there aren't any appointments until March 17th. He said, "But I'm healed and ready to return." The receptionist laughed and replied, "You're the first person to ever say that." This should give you a little hint into this system.
That was Monday after school. He hoped he'd be able to squeeze in on Tuesday afternoon but unfortunately dr #2 shut him down again. I was just a little frustrated to get this call. I know it's not Valmir's fault but didn't understand why the school wasn't helping him.
I then learned that they won't help him because they are worried about being sued. If they help him, the government will view it as a push back to work. The funny thing is that he's healed. Completely better.
Another funny thing is that since Valmir had to visit the SSA (Social Security Admin) since he missed over 15 days of work, that they are paying both Valmir and EAB for his time off. Yup. They're double paying. So Dilma, I've heard you want to cut the govt's budget, well, silly things like this would help ALOT!
And it wouldn't just help the budget, it would also help, um, let me think, children. 22 of them to be exact. It would help 1 teacher. It would help countless other people as well. Grrr!!!
In the meantime, I'm sharing an assistant with Erica. It's fine and all but it's when you are used to things being one way and then for a really dumb reason the change, it's annoying. For a girl who's trying really hard to focus on just her class and grade level, there sure are a lot of things interfering with my plan. Silly, silly buracrazy. Silly, silly adults.
My solution? If we just listened to my 8-year-old students who said simutaneously in two different languages, English and Portuguese, "That's just dumb," then maybe we'd be a whole lot smarter.
* This post has been rewritten about seven times since starting it last week so I apologize if it doesn't flow so well.
** This post has additionally been rewritten about seven times since last week as it's taken me that long to calm down and accept the buracrazy.
Monday, February 21, 2011
Monday Night
Tonight I...
- got a Valentine's Day package from my mom and dad filled with cute heart covered p.j.s, peanut butter hearts, an InStyle magazine, several baking mixes, peanut butter, sunflower seeds, peanut butter hearts (small ones this time) and a cute t-shirt which were all wrapped in fun Valentine tissue paper,
- got soaked walking home in a rainstorm (I was just over halfway when the skies literally opened) while carrying above package and my netbook,
- chatted with my dad who's extra healthy today,
- walked for an hour with Hayes for my physical and mental health,
- took a hot shower (it's a miracle to have hot water!),
- ate yummy taco soup and Parmesan baguette slices from Boulangerie for dinner,
- watched a rerun of Law and Order SVU,
- covered up with a blanket while sipping tea because it's a chilly 70 degrees here tonight,
- read two emails from teachers in India who welcomed me,
- signed up for a summer laptop conference in Memphis (Graceland anyone?),
- listened to crickets chirping and
- will read more of Maximum City (a book about Mumbai) on my Kindle snuggled up under blankets before I go to bed early.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Casting Update
In case you were wondering. Valmir's still out. At least one more week. Sigh.
Each day my students and I are crossing more body parts for good luck than I knew possible. In case you were wondering, third graders also think crossing lips and elbows will help. At this point, they can cross whatever they want as long as it gets Valmir back quickly!
Each day my students and I are crossing more body parts for good luck than I knew possible. In case you were wondering, third graders also think crossing lips and elbows will help. At this point, they can cross whatever they want as long as it gets Valmir back quickly!
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Who's On First?
Yesterday I went to play softball for the first time in about god only knows how many years with a group of female teachers and expats against the EAB girls' softball team. I'm definitely sore (my back, arm) today but it's a good sore and playing was a lot of fun.
Dad - You'd be bummed by my stats. 1 walk. 1 pop out and 1 hit. I just wanted to hit the ball!
Our teacher team was a hodge-podge of players: 5 EAB teachers, 1 American Embassy consulate officer, 1EAB fifth grader (coach's son) and 2 EAB teacher assistants (one is the assistant coach). One of the teacher assistants had never played softball and actually wanted to just come and watch. She was convinced to play by Nickie's (Kindergarten teacher) son, Teague, a 4-year-old. He told her that you just gotta try your best.
She asked lots of great questions about the game. Things that you forget about...strike zone, how to hold a bat, what's a hit, where to run, etc. Her first time to bat she got a hit. Not bad for the first time.
This assistant has been immersing herself in American culture. She came to watch the Bears v Packers a couple of weeks ago and tried to learn about American football. She's going tonight to the Super Bowl bash. Now she's learning softball and I'm not sure what else. It's great! There's one part of American culture baseball/softball culture that we need to teach her about. It's about bases. Yesterday, she was excited about her play and posted the following on facebook, "I made it to first base!" And yes, that's true but being an American and since there's no other context applied, that has a second meaning. Tomorrow, I'm gonna provide a follow up lesson that "making it to first" can imply something completely different.
Dad - You'd be bummed by my stats. 1 walk. 1 pop out and 1 hit. I just wanted to hit the ball!
Our teacher team was a hodge-podge of players: 5 EAB teachers, 1 American Embassy consulate officer, 1EAB fifth grader (coach's son) and 2 EAB teacher assistants (one is the assistant coach). One of the teacher assistants had never played softball and actually wanted to just come and watch. She was convinced to play by Nickie's (Kindergarten teacher) son, Teague, a 4-year-old. He told her that you just gotta try your best.
She asked lots of great questions about the game. Things that you forget about...strike zone, how to hold a bat, what's a hit, where to run, etc. Her first time to bat she got a hit. Not bad for the first time.
This assistant has been immersing herself in American culture. She came to watch the Bears v Packers a couple of weeks ago and tried to learn about American football. She's going tonight to the Super Bowl bash. Now she's learning softball and I'm not sure what else. It's great! There's one part of American culture baseball/softball culture that we need to teach her about. It's about bases. Yesterday, she was excited about her play and posted the following on facebook, "I made it to first base!" And yes, that's true but being an American and since there's no other context applied, that has a second meaning. Tomorrow, I'm gonna provide a follow up lesson that "making it to first" can imply something completely different.
Friday, February 4, 2011
Casting
The past two weeks I've been without Valmir, my teaching assistant. Why you might ask? Well, he's in a cast.
He broke his pinky finger while swimming in the ocean over Winter Break. I was surprised when I returned to see him wearing a splint on his pinky finger. I of course teased a bit because he could quite properly drink tea with his finger being forced erect in this splint.
He returned the first week or so and then went back to the dr on a Sunday evening after having worked for 5 days including 3 with students because he was still in some pain. After watching the sad end to the Bears v Packers game, I got home and talked to my parents. I noticed that Valmir had called twice and not left a message. While I was talking with my parents, I heard the phone ring a third time and finally the "beep, beep" signaling that he left a voicemail, I was able to hear that unfortunately the dr casted his hand. That's pretty normal round here and maybe anywhere for a broken finger.
Here's the unique part. In Brazil, if you are wearing a cast you cannot work. Simply cannot. You have a paid medical leave. So Valmir's home for a broken pinky finger for 2 weeks. The dr originally wanted three weeks but Valmir talked him into 2. Seriously he cannot come to work for 2 weeks or he could get into trouble. Please cross your fingers as he returns to the dr tomorrow that he will be back because I need the ying to my yang again.
Think about the trouble I'd be in if that was law in the U.S. So, if you're looking for some paid vacation, come work in Brasil! If you're willing to break a limb, this is the place to live. Wonder how many people break their limbs on purpose because of this law. I will not be one of those either accidental or otherwise.
He broke his pinky finger while swimming in the ocean over Winter Break. I was surprised when I returned to see him wearing a splint on his pinky finger. I of course teased a bit because he could quite properly drink tea with his finger being forced erect in this splint.
He returned the first week or so and then went back to the dr on a Sunday evening after having worked for 5 days including 3 with students because he was still in some pain. After watching the sad end to the Bears v Packers game, I got home and talked to my parents. I noticed that Valmir had called twice and not left a message. While I was talking with my parents, I heard the phone ring a third time and finally the "beep, beep" signaling that he left a voicemail, I was able to hear that unfortunately the dr casted his hand. That's pretty normal round here and maybe anywhere for a broken finger.
Here's the unique part. In Brazil, if you are wearing a cast you cannot work. Simply cannot. You have a paid medical leave. So Valmir's home for a broken pinky finger for 2 weeks. The dr originally wanted three weeks but Valmir talked him into 2. Seriously he cannot come to work for 2 weeks or he could get into trouble. Please cross your fingers as he returns to the dr tomorrow that he will be back because I need the ying to my yang again.
Think about the trouble I'd be in if that was law in the U.S. So, if you're looking for some paid vacation, come work in Brasil! If you're willing to break a limb, this is the place to live. Wonder how many people break their limbs on purpose because of this law. I will not be one of those either accidental or otherwise.
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Guinea Pig Anyone?
You know you live in Brazil when a wild guinea pig (called a prea in Portuguese) runs into your classroom. Not mine but my 1st grade friend Erin. This is what it looked like. I saw it!
It's now in a cage in the science lab. At least they don't eat guinea pigs in Brazil like they do in Peru! I just read that they are hard to capture. Not in Erin's room. Erin had already evacuated herself and her students. Her brave teaching assistant used her will and a cardboard box to trap said rodent.
The funniest part of this is that moments after the guinea pig's arrival, the lockdown drill began. Erin's students thought that the reason for the lockdown was the guinea pig. They thought it might have rabies and that's why they had to take cover. I guess some didn't want to lay down on the floor after it entered. Can't really blame them!
I had never heard of this animal until today. I mean, you hear of large rodents like capybara and rats but wild guinea pigs, who knew?
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Obama's Coming to Brazil?
I didn't watch last night's State of the Union address but I guess I may have company in a few weeks. Obama's coming to Brazil as well as "to forge new alliances for progress in the Americas" with Chile and El Salvador. Just hope it's NOT during Carnaval (March 5-10) and that I can find a way to hear him speak. Hopefully there will be some sort of public event.
When G. Bush came to BSB a few years ago, he did speak publicly and one of Andrea's Kindergarten teacher friends got kicked out of the event for a t-shirt she made (I believe it was related to getting out of Iraq). Hopefully, it'll happen. Hopefully it'll be reasonable to hear him speak. But I have to be honest and don't put it past me that I won't review what jobs my American students' families have at the embassy.
P.S. After doing some investigating, Dilma was supposed to visit the U.S. during that month originally. The dates between the two are still being confirmed so this could be a total hoax. I also just spent about 15 minutes skimming his address and didn't find anything. Balloon most likely will burst.
When G. Bush came to BSB a few years ago, he did speak publicly and one of Andrea's Kindergarten teacher friends got kicked out of the event for a t-shirt she made (I believe it was related to getting out of Iraq). Hopefully, it'll happen. Hopefully it'll be reasonable to hear him speak. But I have to be honest and don't put it past me that I won't review what jobs my American students' families have at the embassy.
P.S. After doing some investigating, Dilma was supposed to visit the U.S. during that month originally. The dates between the two are still being confirmed so this could be a total hoax. I also just spent about 15 minutes skimming his address and didn't find anything. Balloon most likely will burst.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Patience is a Virtue and I Lost Mine Today
at two different grocery stores.
After much debating, a little beer last night, and a chat with my dear friendly neighborhood gourmet chef Andrea, I've decided to attempt a veggie pizza for today's Bears v Packers game. I had brought some dill from home (it was in a weird cupboard and while looking for juice found it) and they have a version of pizza crust here.
This morning I ventured out to the store. The past few times the market I go to has had awful produce but I thought with it being the weekend, perhaps they would have gotten more in. Alas no. This store however, is more like a traditional American store and have things like cream cheese, mayo, the pizza crust and so on. So I actually ran there first. I really ran thinking I'd get some exercise in at the same time. I arrrived and went to the produce department first. Again, crappy produce. I quickly realized I'd be visiting a second smaller more produce-based market as well which was fine.
The point of this post is that in both stores, I waited in the checkout line for over 20 minutes. The hilarious part is that in the first line there were only 4 people ahead of me and we were in the 10 items or less line. The second line is explained more below. That's 40 minutes I spent in lines today. Nobody else seems to bother. That's the thing here. Brazilians could care less about the lines. What's interesting to me too is that they're never on their cell phones and rarely read magazines to kill the time. I wonder when Brazilians travel to the U.S. and they visit grocery stores what they think of the pace of the check-out process.
Now, of course while I was trying to fight my line rage I analyzed why it took so long. Here are a few reasons:
1. people forget something and must go back so the entire line waits for 5 minutes,
2. checker doesn't care about speed,
3. size of bags is minscule so bagging takes longer,
4. checker doesn't know code for a type of produce,
5. a manager of sorts comes during the middle of the line to count the checker's cash box,
6. people obtaining a nota fiscal (a financial note) *
I thought I'd gotten used to the lines and it wasn't even like I needed a quick trip but seriously 40 minutes? I spent more time in line than actually shopping in either store. I spent about 50 minutes total walking between the stores and my apartment. I guess I'm gonna have to work on my line patience again. Maybe I should just have a drink before I go to take the edge off.
* My second line was delayed due to this. 3 people ahead of me. 2 chose this option. Brazilians can claim food as a deduction on their taxes. I really don't understand why they are able to do so but usually the process is quick and they just say their Federal ID number to the clerk. UNLESS...you are in a line that is a "manual nota fiscal" not an automatic one. Sometimes you don't realize why this is happening until the sign which notes this is seen on the metal stand which holds the debit/credit card/keyboard for the cashier. That makes the line even more annoying. The cashier physically on carbon paper writes down their ID number, name, the total of the groceries and some other things that I couldn't understand.
After much debating, a little beer last night, and a chat with my dear friendly neighborhood gourmet chef Andrea, I've decided to attempt a veggie pizza for today's Bears v Packers game. I had brought some dill from home (it was in a weird cupboard and while looking for juice found it) and they have a version of pizza crust here.
This morning I ventured out to the store. The past few times the market I go to has had awful produce but I thought with it being the weekend, perhaps they would have gotten more in. Alas no. This store however, is more like a traditional American store and have things like cream cheese, mayo, the pizza crust and so on. So I actually ran there first. I really ran thinking I'd get some exercise in at the same time. I arrrived and went to the produce department first. Again, crappy produce. I quickly realized I'd be visiting a second smaller more produce-based market as well which was fine.
The point of this post is that in both stores, I waited in the checkout line for over 20 minutes. The hilarious part is that in the first line there were only 4 people ahead of me and we were in the 10 items or less line. The second line is explained more below. That's 40 minutes I spent in lines today. Nobody else seems to bother. That's the thing here. Brazilians could care less about the lines. What's interesting to me too is that they're never on their cell phones and rarely read magazines to kill the time. I wonder when Brazilians travel to the U.S. and they visit grocery stores what they think of the pace of the check-out process.
Now, of course while I was trying to fight my line rage I analyzed why it took so long. Here are a few reasons:
1. people forget something and must go back so the entire line waits for 5 minutes,
2. checker doesn't care about speed,
3. size of bags is minscule so bagging takes longer,
4. checker doesn't know code for a type of produce,
5. a manager of sorts comes during the middle of the line to count the checker's cash box,
6. people obtaining a nota fiscal (a financial note) *
I thought I'd gotten used to the lines and it wasn't even like I needed a quick trip but seriously 40 minutes? I spent more time in line than actually shopping in either store. I spent about 50 minutes total walking between the stores and my apartment. I guess I'm gonna have to work on my line patience again. Maybe I should just have a drink before I go to take the edge off.
* My second line was delayed due to this. 3 people ahead of me. 2 chose this option. Brazilians can claim food as a deduction on their taxes. I really don't understand why they are able to do so but usually the process is quick and they just say their Federal ID number to the clerk. UNLESS...you are in a line that is a "manual nota fiscal" not an automatic one. Sometimes you don't realize why this is happening until the sign which notes this is seen on the metal stand which holds the debit/credit card/keyboard for the cashier. That makes the line even more annoying. The cashier physically on carbon paper writes down their ID number, name, the total of the groceries and some other things that I couldn't understand.
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Trying to Bear Down
Tomorrow the Chicago Bears play the Green Bay Packers to decide who'll be going to the Super Bowl. And yes, the Chicago and Wisconsin EAB representatives are watchin' the game starting tomorrow evening LIVE at 5:30 p.m. at Kathy's apartment. The IL reps outnumber the WI supporters but I have a feeling the Pack fans that will be in attendance are pretty hardcore.
Kathy's got a Slingbox which allows her to be able to watch t.v. using her sister's cable box in New York. The Slingbox redirects the t.v. signal anywhere. It also means that if somebody's watching t.v. in New York that Kathy would have to watch what they're watching but don't worry, we've got it reserved. Pretty cool.
But here's my problem. I've been trying to work on a recipe to bring to the game tomorrow. Our hosts, Andrea and Kathy are supplying us with pulled pork sandwiches and dessert. I've been trying to come up with a side. First I tried to be really creative and work on some Chicago inspired item. Well, the problem is, every single recipe I find, I can't do here. We don't have: dill, any type of pre-made roll, sauces and mixes, particular veggies and breads, etc. Even the non-Chicago inspirations are hard. It's just a pain and probably doesn't help because I'm pretty basic when it comes to cooking. So, if anybody has a suggestion, please pass it my way.
And of course, GO BEARS!
Kathy's got a Slingbox which allows her to be able to watch t.v. using her sister's cable box in New York. The Slingbox redirects the t.v. signal anywhere. It also means that if somebody's watching t.v. in New York that Kathy would have to watch what they're watching but don't worry, we've got it reserved. Pretty cool.
But here's my problem. I've been trying to work on a recipe to bring to the game tomorrow. Our hosts, Andrea and Kathy are supplying us with pulled pork sandwiches and dessert. I've been trying to come up with a side. First I tried to be really creative and work on some Chicago inspired item. Well, the problem is, every single recipe I find, I can't do here. We don't have: dill, any type of pre-made roll, sauces and mixes, particular veggies and breads, etc. Even the non-Chicago inspirations are hard. It's just a pain and probably doesn't help because I'm pretty basic when it comes to cooking. So, if anybody has a suggestion, please pass it my way.
And of course, GO BEARS!
Sunday, January 16, 2011
I'm Back!
I made it back to BSB safe and sound yesterday. In comparison to many of my friends here who endured: weather delays (3 friends), departing several days late (7 friends), mechanical errors (1 friend), long lines (all friends) and I'm sure I'm forgetting some of their pain and suffering, I really had it easy. Flights departed either early or only 15 minutes late. No long lines and only one surprise when my final flight changed from assigned seats to open/cattle call. I have no complaints and luckily didn't have to use the extra pair of undies I'd packed.
When I got back, Andrea picked Sam (he found me in connections line in Sao Paulo) and I up and dropped me off at my apartment. I went over to Wolvies to catch up, eat some yummy dinner, talk about X-mas presents and follies, play some Wii and just relax. I got home around 1. I tried to sleep and when that didn't work read and watched T.V. till 3. See, the time change thing is a problem. My body thought 3 a.m. was only 11 p.m. My 3 a.m. bedtime had the effect of a 12 p.m. wake up. Yep. I woke up at noon. I think college was the last time I did this and then it was due to a late night of fun, not jet lag.
Today I'm taking things slow. Alright, I'm just being lazy. I've put things away in my clean apartment (thank you Davina!) and went for a walk. Tomorrow it's back to the grind. Well, the kids don't come till Wednesday so it's more like a warm-up but regardless I have to be at EAB at 7:45 which will feel like 3:45 a.m. I know, I shouldn't complain when most of my readers have been back at work or worked my entire break. After rereading this post for typos I realize I sound ridiculous but again, as you all know, posting's one of the ways I procrastinate (avoiding putting away my clothes) so there you have it. All's well. More adventures or interests to share soon.
When I got back, Andrea picked Sam (he found me in connections line in Sao Paulo) and I up and dropped me off at my apartment. I went over to Wolvies to catch up, eat some yummy dinner, talk about X-mas presents and follies, play some Wii and just relax. I got home around 1. I tried to sleep and when that didn't work read and watched T.V. till 3. See, the time change thing is a problem. My body thought 3 a.m. was only 11 p.m. My 3 a.m. bedtime had the effect of a 12 p.m. wake up. Yep. I woke up at noon. I think college was the last time I did this and then it was due to a late night of fun, not jet lag.
Today I'm taking things slow. Alright, I'm just being lazy. I've put things away in my clean apartment (thank you Davina!) and went for a walk. Tomorrow it's back to the grind. Well, the kids don't come till Wednesday so it's more like a warm-up but regardless I have to be at EAB at 7:45 which will feel like 3:45 a.m. I know, I shouldn't complain when most of my readers have been back at work or worked my entire break. After rereading this post for typos I realize I sound ridiculous but again, as you all know, posting's one of the ways I procrastinate (avoiding putting away my clothes) so there you have it. All's well. More adventures or interests to share soon.
Friday, January 14, 2011
More Lessons
A quick update...
I was reminded after yesterday's post that actually I'm not that old after all. Ansley told me last week that I was still young. 4-year-olds are pretty honest, especially Ansley, so I'll take that and remember age is more about how you feel than what's changing elsewhere and if the people around you think you're young, then you must be playing things right.
I'm off to Brazil tonight. Weather's looking good in both countries, no rain or snow, so I should arrive back to Brasilia around 4:30 p.m. tomorrow. It's definitely been a good break and I'm feeling relaxed going into second and my final semester in Brazil.
Somebody asked me the dreaded vacation question earlier this week. And no at that time I didn't share about my age but about how relaxed and good I feel mentally. After a crazy first semester, I'd say my break was perfect. I accomplished exactly what I wanted to do. Time with family. Time with friends. Time to work on the job hunt and grad school. Lots of Starbucks and yummy food (clothes are gonna be a bit tight for a while). So on Monday morning when my alarm goes off at an obnoxiously early hour (remember BSB's 4 hours ahead right now so it'll feel like 1 a.m. to me) I can honestly say I'm excited and looking forward to this final 18 weeks because I just had four weeks of bliss.
Now, if somebody could just get me off this couch to pack...bye for a few!
I was reminded after yesterday's post that actually I'm not that old after all. Ansley told me last week that I was still young. 4-year-olds are pretty honest, especially Ansley, so I'll take that and remember age is more about how you feel than what's changing elsewhere and if the people around you think you're young, then you must be playing things right.
I'm off to Brazil tonight. Weather's looking good in both countries, no rain or snow, so I should arrive back to Brasilia around 4:30 p.m. tomorrow. It's definitely been a good break and I'm feeling relaxed going into second and my final semester in Brazil.
Somebody asked me the dreaded vacation question earlier this week. And no at that time I didn't share about my age but about how relaxed and good I feel mentally. After a crazy first semester, I'd say my break was perfect. I accomplished exactly what I wanted to do. Time with family. Time with friends. Time to work on the job hunt and grad school. Lots of Starbucks and yummy food (clothes are gonna be a bit tight for a while). So on Monday morning when my alarm goes off at an obnoxiously early hour (remember BSB's 4 hours ahead right now so it'll feel like 1 a.m. to me) I can honestly say I'm excited and looking forward to this final 18 weeks because I just had four weeks of bliss.
Now, if somebody could just get me off this couch to pack...bye for a few!
Thursday, January 13, 2011
What I Learned on my Winter Vacation
You all know those lunchroom conversations you have after a break away from work. You know that one of the first questions that's passed round the table is, "So, how was your break?" or "What did you on vacation?" While some of my colleagues will share adventures, travels, relaxation stories, I'm planning on sharing that I learned I'm getting old.
I know I'm getting older because:
1. I found my first gray hair (which you already know).
2. I have mature skin.
Well, that's according to my dermatologist. When I was leaving my annual appointment, I was handed the usual mole check sheet that reminds me how often and what I should look for with moles but in addition to this, I was handed a new pamphlet. This one was titled, "Mature Skin." This pamphlet detailed how skin changes and the different types of spots that appear as one grows older. The skin definitely didn't look like my own skin but that of an older individual but I guess I must be in that category now.
So, while initially this whole gray hair thing freaked me out a bit, the skin thing didn't. Maybe I'll be able to accept growing old gracefully more than I thought. Now, hold onto those comments older readers. It's not that I think I'm old, it's the irony of these events. I have never thought of 33 as old and to find out in two very physical ways that apparently I am growing older in some ways but what I've learned and really is most important is I don't feel it and that's pretty amazing.
I know I'm getting older because:
1. I found my first gray hair (which you already know).
2. I have mature skin.
Well, that's according to my dermatologist. When I was leaving my annual appointment, I was handed the usual mole check sheet that reminds me how often and what I should look for with moles but in addition to this, I was handed a new pamphlet. This one was titled, "Mature Skin." This pamphlet detailed how skin changes and the different types of spots that appear as one grows older. The skin definitely didn't look like my own skin but that of an older individual but I guess I must be in that category now.
So, while initially this whole gray hair thing freaked me out a bit, the skin thing didn't. Maybe I'll be able to accept growing old gracefully more than I thought. Now, hold onto those comments older readers. It's not that I think I'm old, it's the irony of these events. I have never thought of 33 as old and to find out in two very physical ways that apparently I am growing older in some ways but what I've learned and really is most important is I don't feel it and that's pretty amazing.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Going Looney in Brazil @ EAB
Way back in October (gosh that's over 8 weeks ago now) my parents came to visit me. It truly couldn't have come at a better time. We had a great time, lots of adventures and I loved for them to see my life here. So, without further ado, here are a few highlights from their visit to BRAZIL!
Time at the American School
Field Trip 'Round the City
Our final stop was JK's (the president at the time Brasilia was built 51 years ago) home outside the city. There we ate lunch while monkeys watched and my mom helped all of the kids sip from a fresh spring. I chose not to participate as I didn't want to get sick. Did that stop my mom? Nope!
The day before the trip, Erica and I asked the kids to preference groups. What other third graders did they want to be with throughout the day? They wrote down their choices and we did our best to accomodate them and at the same time tried to ensure that the combinations would be fun for all (students and adults). One of my students requested to be with my mom for the day. That was pretty fun to see that request. I don't feel I can write specifics about the groups here for confidentiality but definitely, if you see my parents and haven't heard about their groups, ask. Each group definitely, well, mostly some of the kids, had a distinct personality.
They also came back to EAB the next day for Halloween. Oh yes, Erica and I packed it in! We did the usual Halloween activities with a fairly regular schedule in the morning but in the afternoon, we had a fairly tame (much improved from last year) Halloween parade and party. The parade looped around the back court since it was super hot and shade was needed. It was perfect as each class took their turn walking round to spooky music. After watching the parade, we again put my parents to work while they ran a game during the party. The kids rotated in three group between both classrooms. They played Bozo buckets (which my parents ran enthusiastically), a target throwing game
and something else. I'm sure if I asked my parents or Erica they'd remember but honestly, I was only focused on the things happening in my room. The kids LOVED it and it was a great way to celebrate. The video's of one of my students enjoying the music. The video and his costume both are definitely representative of his personality. I'm so glad they were able to see EAB, meet my class and have some time to get to know what work's like there for me. I think the two days they "happened" to visit game them a huge taste!
Time at the American School
Field Trip 'Round the City
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| My group at the bottom of the tower |
So, when you know your parents are coming to visit you in Brasilia, it seems like the perfect time to plan your first field trip of the school year. A tour of the city and learning about how it was created!
On their second full day, we got them settled into third grade culture right away by inviting them to be chaperones on our trip. Erica and myself quickly planned our groups the morning of the trip. We of course made sure we had our "special" friends in our groups and also made sure that my parents had groups that were pretty low maintenance or so we thought.
At one point during our trip, I heard my dad's voice. You know that voice we all hear our parents use when we're in trouble. I actually thought to myself, "What'd I do?" Then I suddenly realized, it wasn't me, it was one of my dad's "special" friends in his group. Whew!
At one point during our trip, I heard my dad's voice. You know that voice we all hear our parents use when we're in trouble. I actually thought to myself, "What'd I do?" Then I suddenly realized, it wasn't me, it was one of my dad's "special" friends in his group. Whew!
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| View from top |
Some of the places we visited included:
Brasilia's TV Tower
Brasilia's TV Tower
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| Both classes outside the cathedral |
The Cathedral.
You'll notice less than our usual 44 students as several were on the bus for not listening to their grown-up. They learned my dad's tone quickly. It really wasn't that bad, just a little rough at the beginning. We've got 44 students who are great kids but many are used to ruling the roost so listening to directions and actually following them (like from an adult) is a new concept.
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| Mom in action at the spring |
The day before the trip, Erica and I asked the kids to preference groups. What other third graders did they want to be with throughout the day? They wrote down their choices and we did our best to accomodate them and at the same time tried to ensure that the combinations would be fun for all (students and adults). One of my students requested to be with my mom for the day. That was pretty fun to see that request. I don't feel I can write specifics about the groups here for confidentiality but definitely, if you see my parents and haven't heard about their groups, ask. Each group definitely, well, mostly some of the kids, had a distinct personality.
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| CJ's photo of my mom and I |
Halloween
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| A witch, ant, costume my dad bought in America and vampire. |
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| Ninjas, Indiana Jones (who regularly comes to school as him) and super hero. |
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| Two friendly witches and a dead, vampire witch |
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| My class if it's hard to capture them for a photo, then just imagine a regular day... |
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
So, how's Brazil?
This has to be one of the most common questions I get living in Brazil when I come to the U.S. for a visit.
Friends, dentists, doctors and hair stylists ask it. Even random store big box clerks when I answer the question, "Would you like to share your email address so you can receive a bazillion email coupons for a measly 5% off?" and I politely answer "No thanks," and have to follow up with an "I live in Brazil" because that polite no's never quite strong enough.
But what's funny to me is does anybody ever ask you, "So how's America?" They don't? You never get a "How's the USA doin'?" Hmmmmm...
One thing about this question that strikes me is no one gets more specific than that. Never a "So, how's Brasilia?" or a "How's Brazil's soccer team?" or a "Hey what about that new lady president?" I know that people ask THE question because they don't know what else to ask. I think some people believe that life in another country just can't be like life here. Reality is for the most part, it is.
So my advice to my readers who are my friend or you have a friend who lives abroad, living overseas, yes we do get to travel to amazing places and the grocery store's got a few different items but just ask about the usual things...weather, work, holidays; the things you'd ask if we lived right down the street. We really do appreciate the effort but after answering it a few extra times today, I feel the need to help coach the question a bit. Now I just need to find a way to spread the word to the big box clerks...
Friends, dentists, doctors and hair stylists ask it. Even random store big box clerks when I answer the question, "Would you like to share your email address so you can receive a bazillion email coupons for a measly 5% off?" and I politely answer "No thanks," and have to follow up with an "I live in Brazil" because that polite no's never quite strong enough.
But what's funny to me is does anybody ever ask you, "So how's America?" They don't? You never get a "How's the USA doin'?" Hmmmmm...
One thing about this question that strikes me is no one gets more specific than that. Never a "So, how's Brasilia?" or a "How's Brazil's soccer team?" or a "Hey what about that new lady president?" I know that people ask THE question because they don't know what else to ask. I think some people believe that life in another country just can't be like life here. Reality is for the most part, it is.
So my advice to my readers who are my friend or you have a friend who lives abroad, living overseas, yes we do get to travel to amazing places and the grocery store's got a few different items but just ask about the usual things...weather, work, holidays; the things you'd ask if we lived right down the street. We really do appreciate the effort but after answering it a few extra times today, I feel the need to help coach the question a bit. Now I just need to find a way to spread the word to the big box clerks...
Monday, January 3, 2011
Reality Happens When You're Getting Caught Up With Reality T.V.
A lot can happen when you decide to spend a few days getting caught up on American reality t.v.
1. You can find your first gray hair.
And of course mine happens to be right in front in the middle of my bangs. For those of you who are going to try and look for it, sorry to tell you that as of 2 p.m. tomorrow it's gonna be hidden away for a long time by my colorist.
2. The country you reside in welcomes a new president.
Thinking back to Obama's inauguration two years ago makes me realize that when you straddle two countries as home, that sometimes you miss major events and sadly don't realize it for a few days. Living in the U.S. when Obama was sworn in, weeks up to the event, that's all we heard about on the news. What clothes Michelle was wearing, who (including colleagues) was going to attend in D.C., the promises he was going to make and so on. I, until I read one of my usual Brazil blog reads, had forgotten about my other home, Brazil.
On January 1st, Brazil's new president, Dilma Rousseff was sworn in as president. Dilma's promised to take protect those in society who can't protect themselves. She's also sworn to "eradicate poverty." She's got big shoes to fill, a World Cup and Olympics to prepare for and an emerging nation to nurture.In her inauguration speech, Dilma opened by stating how proud Brazilians should be because this is the first time a woman is president. I have to say I liked how her Rolls was surrounded by her top six female body guards. I wondered who they were when I saw pics and wonder in a society that is so dominated by males, how she will use her gender to her advantage.
I feel like this, my second year in Brazil, I'm more comfortable asking my colleagues about their opinions in regards to things like politics. Some voted for her. Some didn't vote at all because they felt (middle class, their SES) wasn't being represented at all. Some voted for her because they believed she was the right choice at the time.
I'm happy to be home but seeing the photos and realizing that these only took place down the street, about a 25 minute walk, from my apartment, is kinda a bummer. Timing can't be perfect but the weather wasn't either as you can see. I'm sure it was an exciting few days in Brasilia. 
I have no idea how things will turn out for her. What I do know in typical media, whether it be American or Brazilian style, that somebody had to show her up. In Dilma's case, her vice-president's wife, a mere 43 years younger than her husband, looked amazing, which they're right she does but she's taking center stage. Wonder whether when I return if at the lunch table we'll talk about Marcela or Dilma.And a final wonder is not whether or not the pastry chef or drug addict or housewife will be the latest gossip, it's actually whether or not the people I've just mentioned above have relatives or children or grandchildren at my school. A show about that would make for much more interesting reality t.v. Much more than me getting my first gray hair is.
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Happy New Year!
Just a quick post to say Happy 2011!
I celebrated the arrival of 2011 twice last evening. The first celebration included tiaras, two countdowns and blowing horns. 2011 arrived first in DeKalb, IL at 8:30 p.m. central standard time. My second, more traditional (champagne and hugs) countdown, was celebrated at midnight. The two celebrations didn't occur because we were celebrating it as each city to our east rang in the new year. That wouldn't make much sense anyway since our first celebration was on the half hour.
It's a perk when you ring in the new year with an enthusiastic 4 year-old who desperately wants to hang out with the big girls but needs to still go to bed at a decent hour. Ansley truly is the hostess with the mostess as she also completed three outfit changes (one was pjs) and served us the healthy snacks of cheese and crackers because that's what princesses do...serve food, sit in straight chairs and wear tiaras.
Wishing you all a wonder-filled 2011 that's filled with lots of healthy snacks, celebrations, dancin' and time with those special people in your life.
I celebrated the arrival of 2011 twice last evening. The first celebration included tiaras, two countdowns and blowing horns. 2011 arrived first in DeKalb, IL at 8:30 p.m. central standard time. My second, more traditional (champagne and hugs) countdown, was celebrated at midnight. The two celebrations didn't occur because we were celebrating it as each city to our east rang in the new year. That wouldn't make much sense anyway since our first celebration was on the half hour.
It's a perk when you ring in the new year with an enthusiastic 4 year-old who desperately wants to hang out with the big girls but needs to still go to bed at a decent hour. Ansley truly is the hostess with the mostess as she also completed three outfit changes (one was pjs) and served us the healthy snacks of cheese and crackers because that's what princesses do...serve food, sit in straight chairs and wear tiaras.
Wishing you all a wonder-filled 2011 that's filled with lots of healthy snacks, celebrations, dancin' and time with those special people in your life.
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