I must be adjusted to Palau weather. Krista is sitting on the floor, sweating and complaining about the heat, and I feel pretty comfortable. We went to potluck today so Krista could experience taro (something like a very starchy potato). “It tastes like nothing, but it tastes like something, and it’s not necessarily good.” A very accurate description.
It has been fun having Krista here already. She flew in Thursday night from Guam, along with Tanner’s (another SM) mom. We are enjoying showing off the sights of Palau, and we have lots more sightseeing planned for next week. Krista slept in Friday morning and came into school around 10:30. I had told my kids she was coming, and you should’ve seen their faces when she walked in! Big eyes, open mouths, gasps, and “Wow, you’re pretty!” I am greeted every morning with, “Ahhhhhhh!” like I’m Godzilla or something. Some things in life just aren’t fair. ; )
To back up a bit, our chapel went fairly well. We did a skit on the story of Elijah, and overall I was very impressed with the kid’s performance. It was far from perfect, and some of the kids just would not listen, but overall it went well. I was so dead after chapel – I put a lot of energy into it, and I was so relieved it was over!
Friday we practiced for the Christmas play, and that was draining as well. The Christmas play itself went smoothly on Sunday, but you wouldn’t have known it by practice on Friday. The kids were everywhere! I finally took them back to the classroom, and instead of walking nicely like they’ve been taught, they ran and screamed through the gym, interrupting the actors on stage. I love em, but sometimes they drive me crazy.
My aunt sent a mechanical pet hamster for my class, and the kids love it. It has a wheel that they love watching it run in, and they also love carrying it around and petting it. We named it on Thursday, and they chose Jackson (as in Michael Jackson – go figure).
The last week of school crawled by at a snail’s pace. Counting the days only made them last longer. It felt like it took forever, and now that I’m finally done I hardly believe it.
We've learned that we'll be losing two SMs, Erinn and Daniel Snyder, in February. We are all sad that they have to leave - the devil has been working really hard to keep them from teaching. Erinn has been having a lot of random health problems, and on top of this recent news i know it's Satan. A call has been put out for two more SMs, and we are praying that God will lead the right ones here. Please keep us in your prayers, and also the missionaries in Saipan. There has been a lot of issues there, and most of the SMs have had to return home. It has been a hard year for the Micronesian missionaries, but I know that God must be coming soon.
Thursday we had a staff Christmas party. We had a big dinner and then did a ‘white elephant’ gift exchange. I got a lot of good gifts – iPod speakers, pin drive, chocolates – and then got them all stolen. I ended up with a phone card, which was useful though not as exciting.
The kids all said, “Merry Christmas” as they left on Friday, and it really feels nothing like Christmas. Krista commented on that, too, that at home it felt like Christmas but here it doesn’t at all. I don’t really mind though. I complain a little (ok, a lot), but my heart isn’t in it. I love being here, and although I miss everyone at home, I am enjoying this time. Happy Holidays to everyone from Palau. May you have a white Christmas - I'll be thinking of you while I'm on the beach in the Palauan sun.
P.S. Photos will be posted soon.
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Friday, December 4, 2009
My cup(board) overflows
My life suddenly got very busy in these past couple of weeks. Since my last blog, a lot has happened (as you can tell, blogging was not one of them).
The first big thing that happened many of you probably know about already. On Nov. 18, Kirsten Wolcott, an SM in Yap, was murdered while jogging before school. When she didn’t show up for worship, they sent people out to look for her and found her body. Pastor called us all over to his house that afternoon, and we knew something had happened. We were all saddened by the news and have been praying for the SMs in Yap as well as Kirsten’s family and friends. Some of the SMs in Yap have returned to the States, and others are coming to take their place. The man who did it was found and caught, but that it about the extent of my knowledge. Gordon Bietz, President of Southern, and the Biggers from Walla Walla have both stopped by en route to Yap. Since the news, we have been much more careful about going out in groups and not taking chances. The guys have also become more protective (although they still leave us when we’re having trouble with the Maggot. We’re working on that ;) ). We spent a lot of time as a group, and Kirsten’s death has knit our group closer together.
The week before Thanksgiving Pastor left to go home for the holidays. Since the Martins are gone, there has been a temporary change in leadership until they get back. There have been a few bumps, as there usually are with a change in leadership, and although things are going fine we will all be happy when things return to normal.
We had the day off for Thanksgiving, and what a Thanksgiving it was! The SMs all gathered at PMA to cook up a traditional American Thanksgiving feast. We had everything except the turkey – mashed potatoes and gravy, stuffing, green bean casserole, dinner roast, special k loaf, ketchup loaf, enchiladas (for the Mexican SMs), salad, yams, cranberry sauce, pumpkin pie, home-made rolls, you name it. The day was even more complete for me after we played a game or two of Round Robin ping-pong – an Au Sable tradition for the Tait-Doering clan. It wasn’t the same as a home Thanksgiving – for one thing, there was no football. But it was cool (for Palau) - in the high 70s and drizzly. And a sense of family was there too, as the other SMs have become like family. We went around and said what we were thankful for, and I know we were all thankful for God’s protection. The day was spent enjoying each other’s company and watching a football movie since we couldn’t watch a game. We left full and tired, but relaxed.
Unfortunately, there was school on Friday. I had a movie and snacks planned for the last bit of school since they had reached that reward in the bean bank. You’d think kids would love that, but trust my class to be bored! It was hard because I played it on my laptop and it was hard to hear. But at least it was easier than doing class work, and my kids enjoyed the ice cream and cookies (I brought carrots, pretzels, and granola bars too in an attempt to balance out the unhealthiness. The kids were a little wary of the carrots, so I ate those while they ate everything else).
I got to talk to the Tait side of the family on Saturday morning, and that was really special to see everyone. It was bittersweet, since I’m not there enjoying Thanksgiving with them, but it was good to see and talk with them nonetheless.
A few weeks ago I had decided to live in the present and enjoy my time in Palau. Just recently I realized how well I had succeeded. It hit me one day after school – I actually love my kids. I want to go home, yes, but I also want to stay here and finish my job, and I know that it will be hard to leave at the end of the year. I don’t dread going to school each morning, and some mornings I even get excited to teach. My kids are still a handful, but I love them. Each and every one.
I have received more packages the last few weeks, and my shelves (I had to expand) are full of goodies. The girls laugh and say I have a store, and it is almost true! Thank you everyone for the goodies and the notes. They have been cheering me and the rest of the girls (I’ve been sharing since I physically cannot eat everything).
We passed the mid-quarter mark this Monday. Time just keeps flying. I have fallen into a rhythm and don’t notice the passage of time. Which is why I accidentally procrastinated on planning chapel for next week. I pulled a few late nights writing a script (and worrying), and have been working hard with my kids this week. I was getting really nervous, tense, and frustrated after two days of practice. My kids, being themselves, were not cooperating, and I, being myself, was getting really worried and generally freaking out. I felt God telling me to trust Him, and I kind of tried, but there was just too much to worry about. And once again, God stepped in to teach me a lesson through staff worship. Thursday morning the worship was taken from something in Ellen White, and it was like God was speaking directly to me. It talked about discouragement and worry (Do you feel like your load is too hard to bear? Look to Jesus.), and reminded me to stop focusing on my problems and start trusting God to take care of it. I was thoroughly chastened, and I finally caved and stopped worrying on Thursday night. Friday morning I had staff worship, and I talked about 1 Corinthians 13 and about real love. As I went into class and thought about what to do for worship, I decided to do something other than the worship book that I normally use. So I talked about love, real love, with my kids. And I told them how glad I am to be here, teaching them. Then I apologized for getting upset with them, but told them why I was, and basically said I really need you to start cooperating or there will be serious consequences. And surprise of all surprises, they were almost perfect for me all day. The only punishments I had to give out were to two of my kids who were supposed to be lying on the floor, dead, but were rolling around and kicking people. God showed me again how much better His ways are then mine, and how sweet it really is to trust in Jesus.
Our chapel is on Wednesday, and there is still a lot to pull together for that. The Christmas play is also coming up soon, and we had our first full run-through on Friday. Each grade is doing a different song, and Mr. Alwyn and the kids did an incredible job. I hope to get a video posted up on Facebook of the actual play, which will take place on the 13th.
It is so weird to see Christmas decorations here! The temperatures are still hot and humid, but red and green garland and Christmas lights are everywhere. WCTC and Surangels, two of the big supermarkets here, have nativity scenes and flashing lights on their storefronts and Christmas music playing in the stores (it’s a sad but true fact – I was sitting in Surangel’s waiting for the other SMs to finish grocery shopping, and something about Christmas music and the ‘ching’ of cash registers reminded me of home). I handled a warm Thanksgiving fine, but I don’t think Christmas will really be Christmas without snow. I just learned that my sister will be coming out for part of Christmas break, and I am really excited about that. The majority of the SMs are staying here, and we have all kinds of fun stuff planned.
I had the opportunity to visit PPR, Palau Pacific Resort, this week with Kaitlynn and Jolene. The dad of one of Kaitlynn’s kids works there, and they invited her and a few friends to attend a Christmas tree lighting. We drove to what I would call the “tourist section” of Palau, where all the resorts are, and it was like entering a different world. Everything at PPR reminded me of a resort in the States, and it was gorgeous along the beach. I felt very out of place and underdressed, and I realized that I will have to get used to dressing up again when I come home. It was a fun night, and Kaitlynn’s student was a talkative and energetic tour guide.
I’ve also been going swimming this past week at a pool almost literally in the ocean. It is a freshwater open-air pool, and it is actually quite nice. Memberships are pretty cheap, so some of us girls are hoping to start going regularly.
We have two weeks left of classes, and I am counting down the days. I still have to work on my Independent Studies over break, but I am excited to only be in charge of myself for a few weeks.
Random Things: *Our band performance was well received (we decided it was because they don’t hear band music often and don’t know what it should sound like) and we are playing again next Sabbath. We are trying to bring glory to God, even if we aren’t very good. *I am now up to 24 cockroaches. *The door on the Maggot (our van) will no longer open, so we have to jump in through the windows or climb over the front seat. First gear and reverse have been sketchy and are getting worse, so going anywhere is always a bit of an adventure. *You can get a huge plate of fried rice at a nearby bakery for $3.50, and when the SMs go we all order fried rice since it is so cheap. *You can buy real Christmas trees, although they cost a lot. Interestingly, Palau has some species of pine tree that naturally grows here. *I decorated my class for Christmas on Sunday, and when the kids came in on Monday they were all freaking out. One of my girls told me she loved me “because you decorated the classroom”. I guess I should decorate more often! I love second grade logic. *My kids also love to rub the “sprinkles” (sparkles) off the snowflakes and put them on their faces. The boys haven’t learned that sparkles aren’t cool yet. : )
The first big thing that happened many of you probably know about already. On Nov. 18, Kirsten Wolcott, an SM in Yap, was murdered while jogging before school. When she didn’t show up for worship, they sent people out to look for her and found her body. Pastor called us all over to his house that afternoon, and we knew something had happened. We were all saddened by the news and have been praying for the SMs in Yap as well as Kirsten’s family and friends. Some of the SMs in Yap have returned to the States, and others are coming to take their place. The man who did it was found and caught, but that it about the extent of my knowledge. Gordon Bietz, President of Southern, and the Biggers from Walla Walla have both stopped by en route to Yap. Since the news, we have been much more careful about going out in groups and not taking chances. The guys have also become more protective (although they still leave us when we’re having trouble with the Maggot. We’re working on that ;) ). We spent a lot of time as a group, and Kirsten’s death has knit our group closer together.
The week before Thanksgiving Pastor left to go home for the holidays. Since the Martins are gone, there has been a temporary change in leadership until they get back. There have been a few bumps, as there usually are with a change in leadership, and although things are going fine we will all be happy when things return to normal.
We had the day off for Thanksgiving, and what a Thanksgiving it was! The SMs all gathered at PMA to cook up a traditional American Thanksgiving feast. We had everything except the turkey – mashed potatoes and gravy, stuffing, green bean casserole, dinner roast, special k loaf, ketchup loaf, enchiladas (for the Mexican SMs), salad, yams, cranberry sauce, pumpkin pie, home-made rolls, you name it. The day was even more complete for me after we played a game or two of Round Robin ping-pong – an Au Sable tradition for the Tait-Doering clan. It wasn’t the same as a home Thanksgiving – for one thing, there was no football. But it was cool (for Palau) - in the high 70s and drizzly. And a sense of family was there too, as the other SMs have become like family. We went around and said what we were thankful for, and I know we were all thankful for God’s protection. The day was spent enjoying each other’s company and watching a football movie since we couldn’t watch a game. We left full and tired, but relaxed.
Unfortunately, there was school on Friday. I had a movie and snacks planned for the last bit of school since they had reached that reward in the bean bank. You’d think kids would love that, but trust my class to be bored! It was hard because I played it on my laptop and it was hard to hear. But at least it was easier than doing class work, and my kids enjoyed the ice cream and cookies (I brought carrots, pretzels, and granola bars too in an attempt to balance out the unhealthiness. The kids were a little wary of the carrots, so I ate those while they ate everything else).
I got to talk to the Tait side of the family on Saturday morning, and that was really special to see everyone. It was bittersweet, since I’m not there enjoying Thanksgiving with them, but it was good to see and talk with them nonetheless.
A few weeks ago I had decided to live in the present and enjoy my time in Palau. Just recently I realized how well I had succeeded. It hit me one day after school – I actually love my kids. I want to go home, yes, but I also want to stay here and finish my job, and I know that it will be hard to leave at the end of the year. I don’t dread going to school each morning, and some mornings I even get excited to teach. My kids are still a handful, but I love them. Each and every one.
I have received more packages the last few weeks, and my shelves (I had to expand) are full of goodies. The girls laugh and say I have a store, and it is almost true! Thank you everyone for the goodies and the notes. They have been cheering me and the rest of the girls (I’ve been sharing since I physically cannot eat everything).
We passed the mid-quarter mark this Monday. Time just keeps flying. I have fallen into a rhythm and don’t notice the passage of time. Which is why I accidentally procrastinated on planning chapel for next week. I pulled a few late nights writing a script (and worrying), and have been working hard with my kids this week. I was getting really nervous, tense, and frustrated after two days of practice. My kids, being themselves, were not cooperating, and I, being myself, was getting really worried and generally freaking out. I felt God telling me to trust Him, and I kind of tried, but there was just too much to worry about. And once again, God stepped in to teach me a lesson through staff worship. Thursday morning the worship was taken from something in Ellen White, and it was like God was speaking directly to me. It talked about discouragement and worry (Do you feel like your load is too hard to bear? Look to Jesus.), and reminded me to stop focusing on my problems and start trusting God to take care of it. I was thoroughly chastened, and I finally caved and stopped worrying on Thursday night. Friday morning I had staff worship, and I talked about 1 Corinthians 13 and about real love. As I went into class and thought about what to do for worship, I decided to do something other than the worship book that I normally use. So I talked about love, real love, with my kids. And I told them how glad I am to be here, teaching them. Then I apologized for getting upset with them, but told them why I was, and basically said I really need you to start cooperating or there will be serious consequences. And surprise of all surprises, they were almost perfect for me all day. The only punishments I had to give out were to two of my kids who were supposed to be lying on the floor, dead, but were rolling around and kicking people. God showed me again how much better His ways are then mine, and how sweet it really is to trust in Jesus.
Our chapel is on Wednesday, and there is still a lot to pull together for that. The Christmas play is also coming up soon, and we had our first full run-through on Friday. Each grade is doing a different song, and Mr. Alwyn and the kids did an incredible job. I hope to get a video posted up on Facebook of the actual play, which will take place on the 13th.
It is so weird to see Christmas decorations here! The temperatures are still hot and humid, but red and green garland and Christmas lights are everywhere. WCTC and Surangels, two of the big supermarkets here, have nativity scenes and flashing lights on their storefronts and Christmas music playing in the stores (it’s a sad but true fact – I was sitting in Surangel’s waiting for the other SMs to finish grocery shopping, and something about Christmas music and the ‘ching’ of cash registers reminded me of home). I handled a warm Thanksgiving fine, but I don’t think Christmas will really be Christmas without snow. I just learned that my sister will be coming out for part of Christmas break, and I am really excited about that. The majority of the SMs are staying here, and we have all kinds of fun stuff planned.
I had the opportunity to visit PPR, Palau Pacific Resort, this week with Kaitlynn and Jolene. The dad of one of Kaitlynn’s kids works there, and they invited her and a few friends to attend a Christmas tree lighting. We drove to what I would call the “tourist section” of Palau, where all the resorts are, and it was like entering a different world. Everything at PPR reminded me of a resort in the States, and it was gorgeous along the beach. I felt very out of place and underdressed, and I realized that I will have to get used to dressing up again when I come home. It was a fun night, and Kaitlynn’s student was a talkative and energetic tour guide.
I’ve also been going swimming this past week at a pool almost literally in the ocean. It is a freshwater open-air pool, and it is actually quite nice. Memberships are pretty cheap, so some of us girls are hoping to start going regularly.
We have two weeks left of classes, and I am counting down the days. I still have to work on my Independent Studies over break, but I am excited to only be in charge of myself for a few weeks.
Random Things: *Our band performance was well received (we decided it was because they don’t hear band music often and don’t know what it should sound like) and we are playing again next Sabbath. We are trying to bring glory to God, even if we aren’t very good. *I am now up to 24 cockroaches. *The door on the Maggot (our van) will no longer open, so we have to jump in through the windows or climb over the front seat. First gear and reverse have been sketchy and are getting worse, so going anywhere is always a bit of an adventure. *You can get a huge plate of fried rice at a nearby bakery for $3.50, and when the SMs go we all order fried rice since it is so cheap. *You can buy real Christmas trees, although they cost a lot. Interestingly, Palau has some species of pine tree that naturally grows here. *I decorated my class for Christmas on Sunday, and when the kids came in on Monday they were all freaking out. One of my girls told me she loved me “because you decorated the classroom”. I guess I should decorate more often! I love second grade logic. *My kids also love to rub the “sprinkles” (sparkles) off the snowflakes and put them on their faces. The boys haven’t learned that sparkles aren’t cool yet. : )
Friday, November 13, 2009
I love Friday nights. The house is clean, surfaces shine, and Sabbath music plays comfortingly in the background. I love the slow setting of the sun, eating a special dinner, and having time to read and relax.
Tonight I got out my Bible, Prophets and Kings, and a book I brought from home on an impulse. I began writing in it, and then looked on the first page.
The inscription was from Aunt Meme for my 8th grade graduation, and I “got a little misty” as my mom would say. My great-aunt Meme (Wilma McClarty) was head of the English department at Southern and an outstanding woman. She passed away of cancer not long ago, and it was so cool to have something to remind me of her. The book is basically an autobiographical journal, and it is a fitting gift from one lover of English to another.
Parent-teacher conferences (PTC) were today. We had a half day Thursday to give us time to prepare, and by this morning my classroom was cleaned and ready. I was also spruced up and ready, although a little nervous. Everything went well, however, and I breathed a thank you as the last parent went out the door.
Three weeks have already gone by since the end of first quarter, and the time passes quickly. I am still working on disciplining lovingly, and each day I realize more clearly how flawed I am. Praise God that He still loves me.
Next week is our last full week before Thanksgiving. We only get Thursday off, which is a bummer. International Day is that Friday, which gives us a break from teaching on Friday at least. I am looking forward to the holidays approaching, although I am not sure that it will feel like a real Thanksgiving without chilly weather and fall colors.
Random things: *Cockroach count: Courtney, 20. Kaitlynn, 13. Brenda, 5. *Palau used to have about 50,000 residents before WWII. Since then, the population has stayed around 15,000. *The school gym is almost finished. The lighting has been going up this week, the music room is done, and the other two rooms are halfway finished. *Mrs. Yonathan, the 1A teacher, had her baby about 3 weeks ago. She and the baby are doing well, and another SM has taken over her class until after Christmas break. *The streets in Palau have red spots from people spitting beetlenut juice. It is an annoyance for shopkeepers, since the stains are hard to remove. *Palau is a man’s world, but the women chose the chiefs. *Men go first at potluck, followed by visitors and children. Pastor tells a story about a guy who tried to let the women go first only to be asked, “Are you woman?”
Tonight I got out my Bible, Prophets and Kings, and a book I brought from home on an impulse. I began writing in it, and then looked on the first page.
The inscription was from Aunt Meme for my 8th grade graduation, and I “got a little misty” as my mom would say. My great-aunt Meme (Wilma McClarty) was head of the English department at Southern and an outstanding woman. She passed away of cancer not long ago, and it was so cool to have something to remind me of her. The book is basically an autobiographical journal, and it is a fitting gift from one lover of English to another.
Parent-teacher conferences (PTC) were today. We had a half day Thursday to give us time to prepare, and by this morning my classroom was cleaned and ready. I was also spruced up and ready, although a little nervous. Everything went well, however, and I breathed a thank you as the last parent went out the door.
Three weeks have already gone by since the end of first quarter, and the time passes quickly. I am still working on disciplining lovingly, and each day I realize more clearly how flawed I am. Praise God that He still loves me.
Next week is our last full week before Thanksgiving. We only get Thursday off, which is a bummer. International Day is that Friday, which gives us a break from teaching on Friday at least. I am looking forward to the holidays approaching, although I am not sure that it will feel like a real Thanksgiving without chilly weather and fall colors.
Random things: *Cockroach count: Courtney, 20. Kaitlynn, 13. Brenda, 5. *Palau used to have about 50,000 residents before WWII. Since then, the population has stayed around 15,000. *The school gym is almost finished. The lighting has been going up this week, the music room is done, and the other two rooms are halfway finished. *Mrs. Yonathan, the 1A teacher, had her baby about 3 weeks ago. She and the baby are doing well, and another SM has taken over her class until after Christmas break. *The streets in Palau have red spots from people spitting beetlenut juice. It is an annoyance for shopkeepers, since the stains are hard to remove. *Palau is a man’s world, but the women chose the chiefs. *Men go first at potluck, followed by visitors and children. Pastor tells a story about a guy who tried to let the women go first only to be asked, “Are you woman?”
Saturday, October 31, 2009
ngeremlengui, olympics, sickness, and relief
Well, the last two weeks have been quite surprising. My kids have been consistently good. There is a good reason for this phenomenon, however - my biggest troublemakers have all been sick. I did not pray that God would keep them sick, but I must admit that I wasn't too disappointed when they didn't show up to school (as you can tell, I'm still working on getting that God-like love).
Molly and Bronson reviewing for a Science Test
This Friday was a really fun day. We barely did any normal schoolwork. After two quizzes and a worksheet, we visited Ecuador (everyone made it this time). We colored our manila envelope suitcases and put our first flag on the outside. I impressed my kids with my limited Spanish skills. I basically said, "hello", "my name is", and "how are you?" and the kids were so surprised. "You speak Spanish?" I thought about it, smiled, and said, "Yes, yes I do." What they don't know won't hurt them.
After Ecuador, we visited 2B for a joint spelling bee. Then came the highlight of the day: the 2A Olympics. The kids reached the next reward mark in the bean bank on Tuesday, 125 beans= games. I let them choose between four games, and they chose Olympics. We had two teams, purple and orange, and four events: relay race, fishing for marbles with your toes, three-legged race, and an obstacle course.
Fishing for marbles
three-legged race - orange team won
Obstacle Course
Momoka and I
The past two weekends have been a lot of fun. Last Saturday five of us SMs went to Ngaremlengui for church service. The room that they use is small but functional, and it was nice to have such a small, relaxed service (there were about 10 people there). Afterwards we drove to Ngardau for lunch. Pastor Martin's son Jeff was housesitting for Francis, the man with cancer, so we were able to have a relaxed Sabbath lunch in his house. The house was very cute, and the view was amazing. It sits on a tall hill (the drive up the rutted driveway is a little nerve wracking. Apparently Francis has a truck somewhere in the jungle because it slid over the edge.) with a commanding view of the coast and surrounding hills. This Sabbath, we went to the house again for Sabbath lunch. Evette, David, and Aldo made Mexican and Peruvian food, and it was amazing. I contributed dessert (thanks mom!). After lunch, we went out to a pier and took pictures. We also went impromptu swimming in our clothes since no Palauans were around. Hooray spontaneity!
Halloween was this Saturday, and all of the teachers have been discussing it with our classes. The opinions of the teachers vary, but the issue is one that the kids are curious about, especially the 7th and 8th graders. Please pray for them. They are seeking God, but they are also involved in a lot of bad stuff and need prayer. I had a discussion with my class, and it was very interesting.
I am working on two Independent Study classes from Andrews, and while I am enjoying them, they make it hard to have much fun on the weekends. I am trying to finish up before Christmas. I'm also brushing up on some musical skills. This Sabbath I am scheduled to play in a brass band with a bunch of the other SMs. Most of us haven't picked up our instrument since high school, so we're going to need a lot of practice. I am playing the sax, or at least trying to. We practiced on Monday, and let's just say we need a lot of work.
Molly and Bronson reviewing for a Science Test
After Ecuador, we visited 2B for a joint spelling bee. Then came the highlight of the day: the 2A Olympics. The kids reached the next reward mark in the bean bank on Tuesday, 125 beans= games. I let them choose between four games, and they chose Olympics. We had two teams, purple and orange, and four events: relay race, fishing for marbles with your toes, three-legged race, and an obstacle course.
I am used to most fun things I try to do as a counselor or peer flopping - I guess I am not charismatic enough. But the kids loved the games! Admittedly, they were getting out of class, but fun was had by all. After the Olympics ended with a 3-1 victory by the orange team, we had snacks and a mini party to send off Momoka. She is moving to the Philippines, and Friday was her last day. She was a sweet girl and a good student, and I am sad to see her go. So I am down to 12, as the student from first grade chose to remain there after all.
Ready for the relay race
Fishing for marbles
Obstacle Course
Momoka and I
I am working on two Independent Study classes from Andrews, and while I am enjoying them, they make it hard to have much fun on the weekends. I am trying to finish up before Christmas. I'm also brushing up on some musical skills. This Sabbath I am scheduled to play in a brass band with a bunch of the other SMs. Most of us haven't picked up our instrument since high school, so we're going to need a lot of practice. I am playing the sax, or at least trying to. We practiced on Monday, and let's just say we need a lot of work.
Wednesday was the end of the first quarter, and it feels good to have it behind me. I have grown a lot in the past three months, but I have a long way to go. I have been feeling very close to God lately, and it is a good feeling knowing that I am right where God wants me.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
love and anger
It is currently Friday morning, and I am sitting in my classroom listening to the hum of my fan and the sounds of construction in the background. My classroom is still littered with the pieces of paper, leftover lunches, sweaty napkins, and a few runaway marbles left over from the marble fiasco (two cups of marbles, all over the room) that speak volumes about the effectiveness of chore time. My lesson plans sit patiently, reminding me that they aren't finished, and the papers and workbooks are waiting their turn to be graded. This has, in effect, become my life. I no longer find it strange that I am in this classroom most of my waking hours, and the speed at which I have adjusted surprises me.
Week 9 has successfully passed, but like any week it has had its challenges. Last week, the students were good, and we hit the first reward mark in the bean bank (yay extra recess!). Monday was a good day too, perhaps because two of my biggest troublemakers were sick (it's sad when you are happy that your students are sick). Then Tuesday hit. I don't know what got into them, but they must've decided to try being bad for a while and see what happened. Well, what happened was Ms. Courtney got angry. Very angry. They were already rowdy when lunch hit, and then about an hour before school ended, a huge thunderstorm rolled in. Screams, rushes to the windows, 10 hands going up to go to the bathroom, and a total loss of control ensued. Try teaching seven-year-olds about the digestive system when there's a Noah-scale flood and rainstorm going on outside. I would've given up, and almost did, but I suppose I got stubborn and didn't want to let them enjoy the rain when they didn't deserve it. I yelled, threatened, sent to the principal, and generally put myself in a very bad mood and failed to be an effective teacher. That afternoon I never wanted to see my students again.
That week in staff worship, we had two thoughts that were really good. The first was that we are here to do battle for the Lord, and the second was that we should really love our students and stop counting down the days til Friday, Christmas, and Graduation. I wish I could say I remembered those sentiments on Wednesday afternoon, but it is often only after the fact that I remember. Perhaps God was trying to prepare me and give me a warning. I wish I had payed a little more attention.
Wednesday was a little better. I came in with a no mercy attitude, and after over half the class had their names on the board they got the message that we were not having a repeat of yesterday. I was praying for the strength to just survive until Friday, and it was granted. Thursday was a reasonably good discipline day. We practiced good posture in healthy class, and I had them practice walking in a line with good posture. Unfortunately, I locked myself out of the classroom, so we marched over to the office and had Mr. Nelson get us keys. I was laughing so hard at Blossom. She has enough attitude for two people, and she refused to stand up straight. She looked like an old man (no offense to any of those well endowed with years), slumping forward on purpose with a dour look on her face. I really couldn't help laughing, and I told her that she looked like an old man. She still refused to stay standing straight, just to spite me, but every time I looked at her I laughed because she looked so ridiculous.
I am trying to teach my kids a quote that I learned in elementary school:
Last week we went to Kenya (thanks Jared for the pictures!). It didn't go as well as last week - one or two refused to participate, and the kids were so rowdy! They can't sit anywhere near each other or else they start pushing and always, always, a hand goes up: "Tee-cher, so-and-so's bothering me". Most of the kids are still enjoying it. Next week is Ecuador.
We are having a few more job changes, more to come on that later since all of the switches aren't final yet. My only drama so far has been with my students, and I hope it stays that way.
To all of you have sent packages and emails, thank you so much! I feel so loved, blessed, and supported. The girls laugh at me because I love just opening the fridge and cupboard and looking at all my food - I guess it's a visible, tangible form of love when everyone is so far away.
I am still praying for real, deep love for my students. I want to able to discipline lovingly and not in anger. Until I get that God-like love, I am continuing to fight the good fight.
Week 9 has successfully passed, but like any week it has had its challenges. Last week, the students were good, and we hit the first reward mark in the bean bank (yay extra recess!). Monday was a good day too, perhaps because two of my biggest troublemakers were sick (it's sad when you are happy that your students are sick). Then Tuesday hit. I don't know what got into them, but they must've decided to try being bad for a while and see what happened. Well, what happened was Ms. Courtney got angry. Very angry. They were already rowdy when lunch hit, and then about an hour before school ended, a huge thunderstorm rolled in. Screams, rushes to the windows, 10 hands going up to go to the bathroom, and a total loss of control ensued. Try teaching seven-year-olds about the digestive system when there's a Noah-scale flood and rainstorm going on outside. I would've given up, and almost did, but I suppose I got stubborn and didn't want to let them enjoy the rain when they didn't deserve it. I yelled, threatened, sent to the principal, and generally put myself in a very bad mood and failed to be an effective teacher. That afternoon I never wanted to see my students again.
That week in staff worship, we had two thoughts that were really good. The first was that we are here to do battle for the Lord, and the second was that we should really love our students and stop counting down the days til Friday, Christmas, and Graduation. I wish I could say I remembered those sentiments on Wednesday afternoon, but it is often only after the fact that I remember. Perhaps God was trying to prepare me and give me a warning. I wish I had payed a little more attention.
Wednesday was a little better. I came in with a no mercy attitude, and after over half the class had their names on the board they got the message that we were not having a repeat of yesterday. I was praying for the strength to just survive until Friday, and it was granted. Thursday was a reasonably good discipline day. We practiced good posture in healthy class, and I had them practice walking in a line with good posture. Unfortunately, I locked myself out of the classroom, so we marched over to the office and had Mr. Nelson get us keys. I was laughing so hard at Blossom. She has enough attitude for two people, and she refused to stand up straight. She looked like an old man (no offense to any of those well endowed with years), slumping forward on purpose with a dour look on her face. I really couldn't help laughing, and I told her that she looked like an old man. She still refused to stay standing straight, just to spite me, but every time I looked at her I laughed because she looked so ridiculous.
I am trying to teach my kids a quote that I learned in elementary school:
Good, better, best
Never let it rest,
Until your good is better
And your better, best.
It is one of the few things I remember from elementary week of prayers, and I find that it sums up much of my attitude toward life. I am hoping that the point of the quote will get through to some of the students. It is a little above their heads, but after explaining it and leaving it up on the board I am hoping it will stick with them. My guess is that it will just make my good students better and my slow students won't care, but doing your best is so important in life that I am trying to plant the idea in their heads.Never let it rest,
Until your good is better
And your better, best.
Last week we went to Kenya (thanks Jared for the pictures!). It didn't go as well as last week - one or two refused to participate, and the kids were so rowdy! They can't sit anywhere near each other or else they start pushing and always, always, a hand goes up: "Tee-cher, so-and-so's bothering me". Most of the kids are still enjoying it. Next week is Ecuador.
We are having a few more job changes, more to come on that later since all of the switches aren't final yet. My only drama so far has been with my students, and I hope it stays that way.
To all of you have sent packages and emails, thank you so much! I feel so loved, blessed, and supported. The girls laugh at me because I love just opening the fridge and cupboard and looking at all my food - I guess it's a visible, tangible form of love when everyone is so far away.
I am still praying for real, deep love for my students. I want to able to discipline lovingly and not in anger. Until I get that God-like love, I am continuing to fight the good fight.
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Patience produces character
Sunday, October 4
Another week has passed, and for being a short week it was far from easy. I have discovered that discipline on the days right before holiday is almost useless at this point. The kids are even more talkative and distractible than usual, and I can punish all I want without effecting much change.
The two days off of school have been good to me, however. I have a new drive to give my kids the best I can, and I am determined to be a better teacher. The kids are hard to control, but I just need to try harder and keep on figuring out what works. I know that I will have parent complaints soon, but I am determined to teach these kids whatever it takes. I am going to do my part to the best of my ability, and the rest is up to God and the children themselves. Paul says that he boasts of his infirmities that God’s power may rest upon him. Teaching is far from my strength, but I know that if God brought me here, he can supply all that I lack.
Thursday and Friday we had no school in honor of Independence Day. Thursday there was a parade and fair complete with a random assortment of animals (one cow, 2 horses, and some ducks), martial arts demonstrations, Palauan and Polynesian Dances, and lots of food. For the parade there were quite a few people in cultural dress. Lets just say that we saw more than we really wanted to of a lot of people.
Parade
Some type of Palauan dance
Jasmine and Kaitlynn at the Japanese booth. The goal was to get 30 beans into the cup, and we all failed epically.
Friday afternoon were boat races by the causeway connecting Koror and Babeldaob. I only stayed for about an hour, since the races were not too exciting and I couldn’t understand any of the commentary given over the loudspeaker in Palauan. Many of the booths from Thursday relocated to right near the bridge, hawking souvenirs, coconuts, meat and rice in various forms, and ice candy for 25 cents. Ice candy is something like ice cream, except in a plastic tube. You bite off the top and suck out the contents like you do with go-gurt. So far I have had mocha, and it is amazing.
Wednesday, Oct. 7
Week 7 started out with the promise of promise of improvement and lots of optimism. It is now late Wednesday night, and I am tired. God has restored me, but I am fighting exhaustion and discouragement. I know that somehow God is going to turn this year around, but I still worry because I know I don’t have what it takes. God called me here for a purpose. He’s going to have to take it from here, because I’m not sure what else to do.
Highlights of my day: *I’ve learned that I’m losing one of my students in November as she’s moving to the Philippines. I am also gaining one from 1st grade. *I had guests come in today for Social Studies to talk about different countries (so far we’ve visited Canada, Mexico, and Tennessee). I had a talk with my students about respecting their teachers, and they were good for our guests but disrespectful to me as soon as the guests left. Laden turned around, actually angry, and said, “Why are we so quiet for the other teachers and so disrespectful to her? Huh? Why?” Exactly what I’d like to know. Then Noel pipes up, “Because we’re noisy”, and the moment was lost.
* Molly has proved to be one of my sweetest students, and she always wants to talk to me (we had drama yesterday about a loose tooth =). She was talking to me about her Pilipino friend. She said that her mom “was really pretty. Like you.”
Sunday, October 11
In hindsight, the past two weeks have gone fairly well. I can see myself slowly climbing upward on the learning curve, and I think I might be starting to see a light at the end of the discipline tunnel. After the discouragement of Wednesday, Thursday was an incredible surprise. Whether because of all the praying I did or something else (I am pretty sure it was prayer), my kids were (for them) angels. We started a new individual reward program in addition to the class-wide “bean bank”. I didn’t want to add on more rewards, since it feels like I am bribing them and I honestly believe that the satisfaction of doing a job well and following directions should be reward enough. But realistically, I needed it, and I can see it already starting to affect some of the students (Thanks Mrs. Good and Miss Jolene for the inspiration). The kids get marbles in their cup for good behavior, homework turned in, etc. and marbles removed for bad behavior. Once the cup is filled, they get to choose a prize. The cups are clear, and I can see them staring at the marbles and counting how many they have in comparison with everyone else.
Mmm, garlic bread!
Looking good. From back left clockwise: Madraisau, Bronson, Avery, Noel, Laden, Alfons, Jerome, Miss Courtney, Marlynne, Aloisa, Molly, Kristen, Momoka, Blossom.
funny faces
Last week was also improved by the arrival of four packages. I have so much food now, and I finished the newest David book a day after I received it. I also devoured the magazines and AU newspaper – it is so nice to see something, anything, from home. I never realized how much I miss just seeing American news until I got that package. I also love opening my cupboard and seeing food there. We have received a $10 pay increase, and I have used it all on fresh fruits and veggies. Thanks to all who sent packages – you brightened my day. And mom, the cookies taste INCREDIBLE.
Apparently Palau was on a tsunami warning sometime last week. No worries, we’re fine. We definitely need prayers, however. PMA and Airai church are built on property that was donated many years ago by some church members. Apparently the paperwork wasn’t filled out correctly, so the families now own the land again. We are praying that they will redonate the land to the church instead of keeping it. The land that PMA is on is good land, and if the family decides to keep it, I don’t know what will happen. The church and the people who own the land are meeting on Thursday to discuss things, so please keep that in your prayers. We also have two church members very sick with cancer, and they need a lot of prayer.
I have been coming to a lot of spiritual realizations lately. The thoughts are not original, but they are just now beginning to be appropriated into more than just knowledge. I will share more when I update later this week, but some of the main things I have realized are these. God is not something to be trifled with. He is not a “tame lion” (C.S. Lewis), and He is greater than we could ever begin to understand. And this great, all-powerful, holiest of holies God, loves us weak, complaining, petulant, confused humans. It should be so simple. If we really remembered God’s love for us, we would live differently. Often we don’t trust God to help us conquer our sins and just give up without really letting God’s power into our lives and problems. Are we afraid to be great, to have the integrity of Joseph, the patience of Moses, the heart of God like David, to really live for God, no reservations? Are we are too content with our mediocre Christianity? I am praying that God will help me to not only desire greatness, but to live a real, vibrant faith like the heroes in the Old Testament.
I apologize for the long wait for a blog. I will attempt to do better.
Another week has passed, and for being a short week it was far from easy. I have discovered that discipline on the days right before holiday is almost useless at this point. The kids are even more talkative and distractible than usual, and I can punish all I want without effecting much change.
The two days off of school have been good to me, however. I have a new drive to give my kids the best I can, and I am determined to be a better teacher. The kids are hard to control, but I just need to try harder and keep on figuring out what works. I know that I will have parent complaints soon, but I am determined to teach these kids whatever it takes. I am going to do my part to the best of my ability, and the rest is up to God and the children themselves. Paul says that he boasts of his infirmities that God’s power may rest upon him. Teaching is far from my strength, but I know that if God brought me here, he can supply all that I lack.
Thursday and Friday we had no school in honor of Independence Day. Thursday there was a parade and fair complete with a random assortment of animals (one cow, 2 horses, and some ducks), martial arts demonstrations, Palauan and Polynesian Dances, and lots of food. For the parade there were quite a few people in cultural dress. Lets just say that we saw more than we really wanted to of a lot of people.
Parade
Some type of Palauan dance
Jasmine and Kaitlynn at the Japanese booth. The goal was to get 30 beans into the cup, and we all failed epically.
Friday afternoon were boat races by the causeway connecting Koror and Babeldaob. I only stayed for about an hour, since the races were not too exciting and I couldn’t understand any of the commentary given over the loudspeaker in Palauan. Many of the booths from Thursday relocated to right near the bridge, hawking souvenirs, coconuts, meat and rice in various forms, and ice candy for 25 cents. Ice candy is something like ice cream, except in a plastic tube. You bite off the top and suck out the contents like you do with go-gurt. So far I have had mocha, and it is amazing.
Week 7 started out with the promise of promise of improvement and lots of optimism. It is now late Wednesday night, and I am tired. God has restored me, but I am fighting exhaustion and discouragement. I know that somehow God is going to turn this year around, but I still worry because I know I don’t have what it takes. God called me here for a purpose. He’s going to have to take it from here, because I’m not sure what else to do.
Highlights of my day: *I’ve learned that I’m losing one of my students in November as she’s moving to the Philippines. I am also gaining one from 1st grade. *I had guests come in today for Social Studies to talk about different countries (so far we’ve visited Canada, Mexico, and Tennessee). I had a talk with my students about respecting their teachers, and they were good for our guests but disrespectful to me as soon as the guests left. Laden turned around, actually angry, and said, “Why are we so quiet for the other teachers and so disrespectful to her? Huh? Why?” Exactly what I’d like to know. Then Noel pipes up, “Because we’re noisy”, and the moment was lost.
* Molly has proved to be one of my sweetest students, and she always wants to talk to me (we had drama yesterday about a loose tooth =). She was talking to me about her Pilipino friend. She said that her mom “was really pretty. Like you.”
Sunday, October 11
In hindsight, the past two weeks have gone fairly well. I can see myself slowly climbing upward on the learning curve, and I think I might be starting to see a light at the end of the discipline tunnel. After the discouragement of Wednesday, Thursday was an incredible surprise. Whether because of all the praying I did or something else (I am pretty sure it was prayer), my kids were (for them) angels. We started a new individual reward program in addition to the class-wide “bean bank”. I didn’t want to add on more rewards, since it feels like I am bribing them and I honestly believe that the satisfaction of doing a job well and following directions should be reward enough. But realistically, I needed it, and I can see it already starting to affect some of the students (Thanks Mrs. Good and Miss Jolene for the inspiration). The kids get marbles in their cup for good behavior, homework turned in, etc. and marbles removed for bad behavior. Once the cup is filled, they get to choose a prize. The cups are clear, and I can see them staring at the marbles and counting how many they have in comparison with everyone else.
In addition to the new reward system, I am also trying another incentive for good behavior disguised as a fun learning activity (sneaky!). Every Friday (if the kids cooperate), we are going to a different country in the world for Social Studies. This Friday we visited Italy. (When I told the kids on Thursday that we were going to Italy on Friday, they seriously thought we were going to Italy. They were so disappointed when I told them we were going in our imaginations. “What? That’s boring. I thought we were going to get on a real plane.”) We boarded the plane, passed China, and the Alps, and landed in Rome. I had an Italian masquerade mask that I had used for my Senior Recognition at GLAA (I know, who brings that to a foreign country?) that I put on. I was the pilot, and I told my passengers that they had to follow directions in order to stay on the plane. Some of the kids left the line and didn’t keep their seatbelts buckled. I think we lost them somewhere over the Mediterranean Sea, and unfortunately for them they missed out on the garlic bread in Venice (it was so fun trying to explain that to the siblings and parents who came to pick them up. “Tell your mom what happened, Alfons. I think you fell into the ocean today on the way to Italy.”) Next week, if they are good, we are going to a country in Africa. The student with the best behavior gets to be the pilot. I am trying hard not to get my hopes up, but I am excited about the possibilities the idea has. Our Social Studies book even has patterns for passports, travel logs, and manila envelope suitcases.
(We had to make a stop on the way to Italy. Heads down, passengers. You aren't following directions.)
(We had to make a stop on the way to Italy. Heads down, passengers. You aren't following directions.)
Mmm, garlic bread!
funny faces
Apparently Palau was on a tsunami warning sometime last week. No worries, we’re fine. We definitely need prayers, however. PMA and Airai church are built on property that was donated many years ago by some church members. Apparently the paperwork wasn’t filled out correctly, so the families now own the land again. We are praying that they will redonate the land to the church instead of keeping it. The land that PMA is on is good land, and if the family decides to keep it, I don’t know what will happen. The church and the people who own the land are meeting on Thursday to discuss things, so please keep that in your prayers. We also have two church members very sick with cancer, and they need a lot of prayer.
I have been coming to a lot of spiritual realizations lately. The thoughts are not original, but they are just now beginning to be appropriated into more than just knowledge. I will share more when I update later this week, but some of the main things I have realized are these. God is not something to be trifled with. He is not a “tame lion” (C.S. Lewis), and He is greater than we could ever begin to understand. And this great, all-powerful, holiest of holies God, loves us weak, complaining, petulant, confused humans. It should be so simple. If we really remembered God’s love for us, we would live differently. Often we don’t trust God to help us conquer our sins and just give up without really letting God’s power into our lives and problems. Are we afraid to be great, to have the integrity of Joseph, the patience of Moses, the heart of God like David, to really live for God, no reservations? Are we are too content with our mediocre Christianity? I am praying that God will help me to not only desire greatness, but to live a real, vibrant faith like the heroes in the Old Testament.
I apologize for the long wait for a blog. I will attempt to do better.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Trials Produce Patience
Last week was one of my hardest so far. On Tuesday I was through with teaching. I resolved the earlier parent conflict with a lot of prayer and a sigh of relief the previous Wednesday. But then on Tuesday the 2B teacher told me that a parent had asked him if she could transfer her child to his class. I was so discouraged. None of the other SMs had had any parent complaints that I knew of, and here I was with two already and I was sure more to come. I was exhausted, sick of trying to control the kids and tired of dealing with their parents. If I wasn’t sure that God wanted me here and that I was here for a reason, I would’ve questioned my sanity at thinking I could teach and thrown in the towel.
Luckily, I got some good advice and encouragement from the Yonathans, two of the teachers here. My parents and fellow SMs were also really supportive, and I managed to put the day behind me. The rest of the week was really hard though, and it was with a lot of prayer that I got through it.
This week has been slightly better. I am working on disciplining with love, and I am finally starting to snap into the “strict teacher” mode. I have also begun developing patience. When the kids are noisy, I stand in front of the class, look stern, and wait. Sometimes it takes quite awhile (they are catching on - today one of my students saw me waiting and said, "shh teacher's getting mad again."). I have heard rumors that my kids don’t like me very much, but I am taking that as a compliment. I am punishing them – they aren’t really supposed to like me yet. I am trying to show them that I really do like them, but also that I need and expect them to follow the rules and listen to what I tell them. Today I sent my first two students to the office, or rather tried to. They are going tomorrow morning first thing since everyone in the office was in a meeting when I sent them over. I am having a problem with pushing, shoving, hitting, poking, etc. - with a bunch of seven year old boys it is an expected but constant problem. Today was just a bad day in general. It poured rain today, and I swear it is always the rainy days that are the worst. I am starting to get through to them though. Slowly but surely, they are going to learn that when I ask them to be quiet I really do mean it.
Today marked the midpoint of the 1st quarter. I can hardly believe that I’ve been teaching for over a month! I am finishing up with all my grading and gearing up for parent teacher conferences for the students who are struggling.
The weekends are always such a relief. Friday afternoon and evening are always so nice. I relax, grade, goof off, clean, and just enjoy being DONE. The past few weekends have been really fun. Two Saturdays ago we had a small adventure out at PMA. Six of us girls from SDA had planned on going to PMA to welcome our newest SM Ona and watch a movie. So we parked our van outside of the PMA gate and walked to the dorm, watched the movie, and went to get the van and head home around 1. Well, the guy who is in charge of locking the gate apparently wanted our van to be safe. So he rolled it inside the gate and locked it, effectively stranding us at PMA until Sunday morning. So we went back to the dorm and discussed our options. Since it obviously wouldn’t look good if we stayed in the guy’s apartment, we ended up sleeping in the staff lounge with some pillows, hoodies, and mattresses the guys lent us. It was a lot of fun, and certainly made for a good memory!
This past weekend, the girls at SDA got invited to Mr. and Mrs. McCarty’s house. Mr. McCarty works at the academy and is one of the SM’s brother-in-law. We had a fun evening playing catch phrase, eating pizza (so good!), and relaxing. This Sunday I also got to go body boarding again. The waves were much better, and while still from good, I was improving as well. All of the experienced body boarders were laughing at me, but I had fun and got a great workout. This weekend, I am signed up to participate in a badminton tournament. We will see how that goes!
Next week we only have school 3 days of school, since we get Thursday and Friday off for Independence Day. We are planning on going diving and doing something fun, what is not yet decided. I think we are more excited then the students!
Some of my more humorous teaching moments:
*One of the students I am teaching to read always says, “Thank you for reading me” each day as he leaves.
*We were learning (or trying to learn) how to read a map key today in Social Studies, and the map was of Boston, complete with symbols for Quincy Market, the New England Aquarium, and the Boston Commons. I was excited that I could tell my kids all about where I lived (I now live close to Boston, though not right in it). So I was telling them all about Boston, and then one of my kids asks, “So you live in the Boston Red Sox?”
* I was quite proud of my kids for learning the books of the Bible so quickly. We are learning a song to help them remember and are currently on Jeremiah. Then one of the kids sang “Ezra Dehemiah Esther Job” and I began to wonder.
* I asked my kids to draw a map of our classroom a few weeks ago. I explained to them how to do it, but one kids didn’t really understand the concept. He ended up drawing a bunch of desks and a blackboard. I was standing sideways in front of the blackboard, complete with a large stomach, large butt, and large hair.
* My kids play football with their flip-flops, complete with forward laterals, illegal grabbing, fumbles, and all kinds of made-up rules. Basketball is the same way – they dribble for about two steps, look behind them, and then hang on to the ball for dear life and book it for the basket. Another favorite game is Zombie, where they all run from the person who is the “zombie”.
*For Bible class one day I had asked them to draw a picture of God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, and angels for an album we’re making called “God’s Family Album”. I was demonstrating how to draw a very simple angel since the kids said they didn’t know how to draw angels. So as I am almost finished drawing, I hear one kid say, in a loud whisper, “that’s not very good.” Then another, in an equally loud whisper, says, “Shhh! You’re not supposed to say when the teacher’s drawing isn’t good.” I was cracking up.
Random things I’ve learned in the past few weeks: *I don’t think you really ever get rid of cockroaches. The other night, I opened my classroom cupboard with a foreboding feeling, and sure enough, a cockroach was scurrying around. After staring at it for a second, I shut the door and walked away. *Rice and McKay’s seasoning makes a good meal if you’re broke. *Prayer is powerful. * If you drop your alarm clock enough, it will eventually break. *Jeans feel amazing after wearing skirts every day. *Give kids two brooms, and there will inevitably be a sword fight. *”I need to go to the bathroom” really means “please teacher, I’m sick of being in class” the first time and “let me get soaked by the rain on the way to the bathroom” the second time. *God is too big for us to ever understand and yet the gospel is so simple that little children can understand it. *Kids respond to trust and caring. As The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership says, you have to touch their heart before you can reach for their hand.
Luckily, I got some good advice and encouragement from the Yonathans, two of the teachers here. My parents and fellow SMs were also really supportive, and I managed to put the day behind me. The rest of the week was really hard though, and it was with a lot of prayer that I got through it.
This week has been slightly better. I am working on disciplining with love, and I am finally starting to snap into the “strict teacher” mode. I have also begun developing patience. When the kids are noisy, I stand in front of the class, look stern, and wait. Sometimes it takes quite awhile (they are catching on - today one of my students saw me waiting and said, "shh teacher's getting mad again."). I have heard rumors that my kids don’t like me very much, but I am taking that as a compliment. I am punishing them – they aren’t really supposed to like me yet. I am trying to show them that I really do like them, but also that I need and expect them to follow the rules and listen to what I tell them. Today I sent my first two students to the office, or rather tried to. They are going tomorrow morning first thing since everyone in the office was in a meeting when I sent them over. I am having a problem with pushing, shoving, hitting, poking, etc. - with a bunch of seven year old boys it is an expected but constant problem. Today was just a bad day in general. It poured rain today, and I swear it is always the rainy days that are the worst. I am starting to get through to them though. Slowly but surely, they are going to learn that when I ask them to be quiet I really do mean it.
Today marked the midpoint of the 1st quarter. I can hardly believe that I’ve been teaching for over a month! I am finishing up with all my grading and gearing up for parent teacher conferences for the students who are struggling.
The weekends are always such a relief. Friday afternoon and evening are always so nice. I relax, grade, goof off, clean, and just enjoy being DONE. The past few weekends have been really fun. Two Saturdays ago we had a small adventure out at PMA. Six of us girls from SDA had planned on going to PMA to welcome our newest SM Ona and watch a movie. So we parked our van outside of the PMA gate and walked to the dorm, watched the movie, and went to get the van and head home around 1. Well, the guy who is in charge of locking the gate apparently wanted our van to be safe. So he rolled it inside the gate and locked it, effectively stranding us at PMA until Sunday morning. So we went back to the dorm and discussed our options. Since it obviously wouldn’t look good if we stayed in the guy’s apartment, we ended up sleeping in the staff lounge with some pillows, hoodies, and mattresses the guys lent us. It was a lot of fun, and certainly made for a good memory!
This past weekend, the girls at SDA got invited to Mr. and Mrs. McCarty’s house. Mr. McCarty works at the academy and is one of the SM’s brother-in-law. We had a fun evening playing catch phrase, eating pizza (so good!), and relaxing. This Sunday I also got to go body boarding again. The waves were much better, and while still from good, I was improving as well. All of the experienced body boarders were laughing at me, but I had fun and got a great workout. This weekend, I am signed up to participate in a badminton tournament. We will see how that goes!
Next week we only have school 3 days of school, since we get Thursday and Friday off for Independence Day. We are planning on going diving and doing something fun, what is not yet decided. I think we are more excited then the students!
Some of my more humorous teaching moments:
*One of the students I am teaching to read always says, “Thank you for reading me” each day as he leaves.
*We were learning (or trying to learn) how to read a map key today in Social Studies, and the map was of Boston, complete with symbols for Quincy Market, the New England Aquarium, and the Boston Commons. I was excited that I could tell my kids all about where I lived (I now live close to Boston, though not right in it). So I was telling them all about Boston, and then one of my kids asks, “So you live in the Boston Red Sox?”
* I was quite proud of my kids for learning the books of the Bible so quickly. We are learning a song to help them remember and are currently on Jeremiah. Then one of the kids sang “Ezra Dehemiah Esther Job” and I began to wonder.
* I asked my kids to draw a map of our classroom a few weeks ago. I explained to them how to do it, but one kids didn’t really understand the concept. He ended up drawing a bunch of desks and a blackboard. I was standing sideways in front of the blackboard, complete with a large stomach, large butt, and large hair.
* My kids play football with their flip-flops, complete with forward laterals, illegal grabbing, fumbles, and all kinds of made-up rules. Basketball is the same way – they dribble for about two steps, look behind them, and then hang on to the ball for dear life and book it for the basket. Another favorite game is Zombie, where they all run from the person who is the “zombie”.
*For Bible class one day I had asked them to draw a picture of God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, and angels for an album we’re making called “God’s Family Album”. I was demonstrating how to draw a very simple angel since the kids said they didn’t know how to draw angels. So as I am almost finished drawing, I hear one kid say, in a loud whisper, “that’s not very good.” Then another, in an equally loud whisper, says, “Shhh! You’re not supposed to say when the teacher’s drawing isn’t good.” I was cracking up.
Random things I’ve learned in the past few weeks: *I don’t think you really ever get rid of cockroaches. The other night, I opened my classroom cupboard with a foreboding feeling, and sure enough, a cockroach was scurrying around. After staring at it for a second, I shut the door and walked away. *Rice and McKay’s seasoning makes a good meal if you’re broke. *Prayer is powerful. * If you drop your alarm clock enough, it will eventually break. *Jeans feel amazing after wearing skirts every day. *Give kids two brooms, and there will inevitably be a sword fight. *”I need to go to the bathroom” really means “please teacher, I’m sick of being in class” the first time and “let me get soaked by the rain on the way to the bathroom” the second time. *God is too big for us to ever understand and yet the gospel is so simple that little children can understand it. *Kids respond to trust and caring. As The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership says, you have to touch their heart before you can reach for their hand.
Monday, September 7, 2009
The Trials of Teaching
Whew, I am glad the first two weeks are behind me. They have been full of learning, both for me and the students, and I have a new, deep
appreciation for my elementary school teachers.
Teaching has been hectic to say the least. My kids were (and are) still catching on to what I want them to do, so I have not been accomplishing as much as I had envisioned. In fact, nothing has really gone the way I planned. My discipline plan,
which seemed quite acceptable to me, was "way easier than first grade"; then when I made it more difficult, I got a parent complaint which I am still resolving. As of yet, my children do not understand what a sentence is, and even concepts they seemed to understand verbally in class do not translate into perfect worksheets. Two of my children cannot read, so I have to walk them through any worksheets or quizzes we have. My emotions have not been what I was expecting either - I go from high to low, idealistic to realistic to despondent in a matter of minutes.
But all has not been lost. Despite the challenges, I love my kids. They are fun, full of energy, super talkative, and I am excited to see them grow over the course of the school year. The papers they turn in almost all have names and proper headings on them, and the concept of numbering their papers is also slowly sinking in. I have learned a lot, and each day I feel myself becoming more competent and more like a "real teacher".
My biggest source of stress has been classroom management. I have been told that the last teacher "couldn't handle" my current class, and I am looking for creative punishment ideas that will mean something to them. I don't really mind them whispering quietly, but they don't whisper, don't stay in their seats, and don't listen to directions. So I am still working on that. I'm afraid Mr. Wong (we watched a lot of his videos on classroom management) would not be very happy with me. But I am doing the best I can and praying for wisdom and sanity.
This weekend brought a needed break from school. We went to an island called Ngemelis for a staff retreat, and it is about the most beautiful place I've ever seen. We left on Friday after school and took a very bumpy hour and half boat ride through the rock islands to get there. It was simply gorgeous. I slept outside on a bench because it was much cooler than sleeping inside the shelter. The view in the morning was breathtaking - I was in awe each morning when I woke up around 5:30 with the sun.
The weekend was spent relaxing and exploring. Saturday afternoon I went on a hike to some other islands. When we left it was low tide, so we could wade to the other islands. The way back involved swimming (officially frowned on for SMs in Palau on Saturday, but we had no choice and certainly didn't mind!) across two channels with a strong current. That night we had vespers on the beach and then supper and smores. I skipped out on night fishing in favor of sleep, and while I know I made the right decision I hated being responsible. I have promised myself that I am going to go before I leave Palau.
Sunday morning Marianne and I swam out to a rope swing and enjoyed a few swings before we packed up and left. That morning we went to Jellyfish Lake, which totally blew me away. The jellyfish in the lake don't sting, and they are all over. I was being nuzzled by dozens of jellyfish. They were everywhere - you couldn't move without bumping into them (a few accidentally got killed - oops). It was so cool - I found myself holding my breath and constantly had to remember to breathe. A little taste of what heaven will be like - I'm sure the first time I pet a lion I will be a little timid, too.
After Jellyfish Lake we went to Shark City for lunch and snorkeling. Shark City is named because of the many sharks that live in the area right off one of the islands. There were quite a few sharks, and one of the SMs almost touched one. Overall the weekend was a great success. I had a ton of fun and returned with a fresh outlook and energy to tackle the next week of class. We have Labor Day off, and I have been using it to sleep and get caught up and lesson plans and grading. I am praying hard for a solution to my discipline problem, and also for a perfect blend of love and justice. I am once again reminded of what a patient teacher God is. I was thinking the other day about what God's lesson plans for us would like: Day 1: patience. Day 2: love. Day 3: joy. Day 4: repeat all lessons. Day 5: test for comprehension. Day 6: concept not grasped. repeat lesson as long as necessary. and so on, year after year, for we never really seem to learn our lesson perfectly. Praise God that He doesn't give up on us for lost, but instead puts special time and attention into tutoring, mentoring, and helping us through each lesson as often as necessary until we finally achieve perfection when He comes again. Even so, come Lord Jesus.
Random information:
*bobai (bo-by) means papaya in Palauan *Don't forget to put sunscreen on your ears when on a tropical island *Palau has rats that can eat through plastic bags to get your cream puffs (Kaitlynn took it as a sign that she shouldn't eat sweets) *Sugar cane doubles as a food and toothbrush *Asians are not liked very much by Palauans. This partly stems from their immodest clothing by Palauan standards *If something is really cheap at a Palaun grocery store, check the expiration date. Odds are it has long since passed. *Cockroach count: Courtney, 14. Brenda, 4. Everyone else: way less.
appreciation for my elementary school teachers.
Teaching has been hectic to say the least. My kids were (and are) still catching on to what I want them to do, so I have not been accomplishing as much as I had envisioned. In fact, nothing has really gone the way I planned. My discipline plan,
which seemed quite acceptable to me, was "way easier than first grade"; then when I made it more difficult, I got a parent complaint which I am still resolving. As of yet, my children do not understand what a sentence is, and even concepts they seemed to understand verbally in class do not translate into perfect worksheets. Two of my children cannot read, so I have to walk them through any worksheets or quizzes we have. My emotions have not been what I was expecting either - I go from high to low, idealistic to realistic to despondent in a matter of minutes.
But all has not been lost. Despite the challenges, I love my kids. They are fun, full of energy, super talkative, and I am excited to see them grow over the course of the school year. The papers they turn in almost all have names and proper headings on them, and the concept of numbering their papers is also slowly sinking in. I have learned a lot, and each day I feel myself becoming more competent and more like a "real teacher".
My biggest source of stress has been classroom management. I have been told that the last teacher "couldn't handle" my current class, and I am looking for creative punishment ideas that will mean something to them. I don't really mind them whispering quietly, but they don't whisper, don't stay in their seats, and don't listen to directions. So I am still working on that. I'm afraid Mr. Wong (we watched a lot of his videos on classroom management) would not be very happy with me. But I am doing the best I can and praying for wisdom and sanity.
This weekend brought a needed break from school. We went to an island called Ngemelis for a staff retreat, and it is about the most beautiful place I've ever seen. We left on Friday after school and took a very bumpy hour and half boat ride through the rock islands to get there. It was simply gorgeous. I slept outside on a bench because it was much cooler than sleeping inside the shelter. The view in the morning was breathtaking - I was in awe each morning when I woke up around 5:30 with the sun.
The weekend was spent relaxing and exploring. Saturday afternoon I went on a hike to some other islands. When we left it was low tide, so we could wade to the other islands. The way back involved swimming (officially frowned on for SMs in Palau on Saturday, but we had no choice and certainly didn't mind!) across two channels with a strong current. That night we had vespers on the beach and then supper and smores. I skipped out on night fishing in favor of sleep, and while I know I made the right decision I hated being responsible. I have promised myself that I am going to go before I leave Palau.
Sunday morning Marianne and I swam out to a rope swing and enjoyed a few swings before we packed up and left. That morning we went to Jellyfish Lake, which totally blew me away. The jellyfish in the lake don't sting, and they are all over. I was being nuzzled by dozens of jellyfish. They were everywhere - you couldn't move without bumping into them (a few accidentally got killed - oops). It was so cool - I found myself holding my breath and constantly had to remember to breathe. A little taste of what heaven will be like - I'm sure the first time I pet a lion I will be a little timid, too.
After Jellyfish Lake we went to Shark City for lunch and snorkeling. Shark City is named because of the many sharks that live in the area right off one of the islands. There were quite a few sharks, and one of the SMs almost touched one. Overall the weekend was a great success. I had a ton of fun and returned with a fresh outlook and energy to tackle the next week of class. We have Labor Day off, and I have been using it to sleep and get caught up and lesson plans and grading. I am praying hard for a solution to my discipline problem, and also for a perfect blend of love and justice. I am once again reminded of what a patient teacher God is. I was thinking the other day about what God's lesson plans for us would like: Day 1: patience. Day 2: love. Day 3: joy. Day 4: repeat all lessons. Day 5: test for comprehension. Day 6: concept not grasped. repeat lesson as long as necessary. and so on, year after year, for we never really seem to learn our lesson perfectly. Praise God that He doesn't give up on us for lost, but instead puts special time and attention into tutoring, mentoring, and helping us through each lesson as often as necessary until we finally achieve perfection when He comes again. Even so, come Lord Jesus.
Random information:
*bobai (bo-by) means papaya in Palauan *Don't forget to put sunscreen on your ears when on a tropical island *Palau has rats that can eat through plastic bags to get your cream puffs (Kaitlynn took it as a sign that she shouldn't eat sweets) *Sugar cane doubles as a food and toothbrush *Asians are not liked very much by Palauans. This partly stems from their immodest clothing by Palauan standards *If something is really cheap at a Palaun grocery store, check the expiration date. Odds are it has long since passed. *Cockroach count: Courtney, 14. Brenda, 4. Everyone else: way less.
Kaitlynn's sign that she made after the rat ate her cream puffs.
Kaitlynn, Jolene, Dinah, and I ready to go.
Kaitlynn, Jolene, Dinah, and I ready to go.
The island of Ngemelis.
My view in the morning. Gorgeous.
Monday, August 24, 2009
Cockroaches and the First Day of School
(This part of the blog was written Saturday, but couldn’t be posted due to internet problems.)
Cleaning my classroom has turned into something of an adventure. I swept and mopped on Sunday, feeling proud that I had so much accomplished. Soon I realized, however, that I had more work than I anticipated.
After moving the desks, chairs, and furniture into place I started work on my cupboards. Stuff was soon everywhere – papers, borders, puzzles, Christmas decorations, and tons of other miscellaneous items that other SMs had thoughtfully left behind but neglected to organize. The cupboards were dirty, too, and bits and pieces of thing I couldn’t identify yet littered the once-clean floor. My cleaning slowed drastically upon the discovery of cockroaches. The first day I found five. The next day brought the whole family.
I had one box left when I started work after lunch on Wednesday. It turned out to be the cockroach jackpot. Six cockroaches were all scurrying around in a packing box full of border paper and miscellaneous items. I am ashamed to say I stood on a chair and shook. I am perfectly fine handling one or two, but I was totally at a loss for how to kill six at once. Luckily, two of my fellow teachers were willing to help, and between them and a healthy portion of Raid my cupboards became free of pests (I also gained a large lead in the cockroach killing contest. I now have 12 with Brenda coming in next with 4). I also demolished quite a few ants nests and spider webs, making my classroom fully clean. I have picked up a cold that, for lack of a better culprit, I am blaming on the cockroaches.
This week we also got to do some more touristy things to break up the monotony of classroom cleaning. On Sunday I went body boarding again with the SMs who were not finishing up their SCUBA certification. My skills with a body board have not improved, but I am hopeful. Monday we went on an hour long “jungle tour” by boat. It was cool to see the jungle and the small village of people that lived there, subsisting off what they could catch and grow. The jungle trees are unlike any others, and I was amazed at God’s creativity.
I am almost ready for the kids to come on Monday. Almost. My bulletin boards are mostly done, my lesson plans have been turned in, and my classroom procedures are coming along nicely. Mentally, I am not sure about being in charge of 13 seven-year-olds. But God is good, and this week has two half days, which makes my job easier.
I realized that I have left out a lot of important facts about Palau and teaching, so here are the answers to many of the questions I have been receiving. There is no language barrier for me as a teacher. The kids all speak English well enough that they can understand me. The Elementary School is quite large, with over 200 students on average and two classrooms for each grade (except for 5th and kindergarten). Local teachers teach some of the classes, including math, computer, music, and Palauan. Our curriculum and textbooks are the same as in the States, and we have chapel as a school every Wednesday. For school, the kids wear a white polo printed with the Elementary school insignia and either a skirt or khakis (the teachers can wear polos of any color).
The Elementary is currently renovating the gym, and it will hopefully be finished within a month or two. Right now it is a challenge for some of the teachers to reach their classrooms since all of the heavy machinery is in the way.
The temperature here has been in the mid 80s with high humidity. We have just missed the rainy season of June and July, and August is usually an unpredictable time for weather (which I am quite used to after living in Michigan). The rest of the year seems to be drier, although it never really cools down here. Interestingly, sunset stays mostly the same throughout the year, so they do not follow a “sunset calendar” like we tend to in the States. The sun goes down around 6:30 or 7, and that is usually the time that people go out and exercise. There is a track open to the community a little ways down the street, and it is quite busy at night. There are also badminton and basketball leagues that attract a fair number of players. I have joined the badminton league, despite my evident lack of prowess, and am enjoying the exercise. The only problem is sweating – after 30 minutes there isn’t a dry place on your shirt to wipe your face with (the locals sweat almost as much, making me feel slightly better). I have also volunteered to help with making a school track team for SDA (the elementary school) and will be helping as well with the newsletter and spelling club. Students from SDA have participated in the local spelling bees and in years past actually made it all the way to the World Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C. All of the SMs are helping with outreach, Sabbath School, church, and VBS on Saturdays, so my days are sure to be full.
(Today’s blog)
Now the long-awaited report of my first day of school. Sunday night I was VERY nervous. I stayed up late making sure everything was just right in the classroom and making sure I knew what I was going to say. Then I prayed and slept well, secure in the knowledge that God was going to help me through.
Kids had already begun milling around in front of the school at 7 (school starts at 8). We went to staff worship brimming with excitement, and at 7:50 got our kids and took them to the classroom. Then it was off to chapel and back to the classroom.
If I could use one word to describe the day, it would be overwhelming. Teaching is HARD! Brenda (Coach B to the kids) helped me out since there was no P.E. today. She was a godsend. I was coughing a lot, and I had underestimated how much help the kids would need with every new activity (I had to spell everything from July to math for 13 kids). The kids are great, and I am excited to teach them. They do not seem to pick up on what I am saying, however, and I think I will have to repeat all the rules and procedures for at least the first week until they figure out what they are supposed to do.
We used finger-paint to put handprints on a bulletin board today that says “We are 2A”, and I think that was the kids favorite part of the day. It was mine , too, because they understood what I was saying! Another big hit was “Give me 5”, which is how I get them quiet (mostly-I’m still working with some of them =). I raise my hand, and count to five, by which time they should be quiet, still, and facing me.
I was so happy to be done at 11:30 today. I came back, ate lunch, and promptly fell into bed for a good 2 hr nap. Tomorrow is my first full day, and I am going to be sleeping, praying, and praying some more. Please continue to pray for me as I get to know my kids and continue my first week of school.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
We're not in Michigan anymore...
I have been in Palau almost a week, and I have had many firsts: first time shimmying up a coconut tree, first raw coconut, first cockroaches killed (2-i am i the lead of our cockroach-killing contest), first time in my own classroom, first time climbing a deserted rock island, first time body boarding, and first time cooking for myself for an extended period of time (no disasters yet!). Most of my “firsts” have been pleasant (minus the cockroaches), and I am enjoying myself greatly.
There are twenty SMs total, nine girls and eleven guys. Seven of us girls are living in an apartment right across the street from the elementary school. The others are living at Palau Mission Academy. Other than the cockroaches, our accommodations are nice, and we have air conditioning, which covers a multitude of sins. The weather here is hot and humid, although not unbearable.
The start of school has been delayed until at least the 24th due to an outbreak of swine flu. There are over 600 confirmed cases, and the president himself apparently took ill. We are hoping that school will not start any later, as it will push the end of school back.
All the extra time certainly has its advantages, however. We went to a nearby waterfall (name unpronounceable) on Sabbath and cooled off by standing underneath the falls. On Sunday all the SMs and local teachers went to the Rock Islands. We spent the day snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing on the beach. I also got to go body boarding on Wednesday.
We got our teaching supplies and keys to our classroom today. I am pleasantly surprised at the amount of supplies that I have. As I looked at the classroom, saw my desk and the cheerful alphabet border above the blackboard, I finally began to see myself as Miss Tait, 2nd grade teacher. Memories of 2nd grade with Mrs. Good came flooding back, with snack time, worksheets, and the hated skillpacks (the bane of my elementary school existence). I am excited, although I have not totally lost my pre-teaching jitters.
I plan to update my blog to update my blog every 1-2 weeks, and hopefully will manage to post a few pictures as well. All other pictures will be on my Facebook (although with about a 54K bandwidth, pictures will be few and far between). I’d love to here from you and get feedback, so please feel free to email me or comment me.
Some facts about Palau: *the ‘ch’ is silent in Palauan, making church ‘ur’ and the pathfinders “mar” *the water is so clear, you can see 200 feet down *there is a place called Milky Way where the water is nearly white because of the white clay-like substance on the bottom (supposedly a natural exfoliant) *there are four churches in Palau, though only two have buildings. There are also many small communities of Adventists that we will be helping with evangelism *raising the eyebrows and smiling means “yes”
(Jeremy, I am shamelessly stealing your idea as I think it's a good one)
Some of the SMs at Waikiki beach in Hawaii where we had teacher training for all Micronesian missionaries. All but the 3rd from the left are from Andrews.
Our first Sabbath at church. The interior is beautiful.
From left, Brenda and Jordan modeling the white clay-like exfoliant at the Milky Way.
A sunset on the way to Palau Mission Academy. The scenery here is absolutely gorgeous.
There are twenty SMs total, nine girls and eleven guys. Seven of us girls are living in an apartment right across the street from the elementary school. The others are living at Palau Mission Academy. Other than the cockroaches, our accommodations are nice, and we have air conditioning, which covers a multitude of sins. The weather here is hot and humid, although not unbearable.
The start of school has been delayed until at least the 24th due to an outbreak of swine flu. There are over 600 confirmed cases, and the president himself apparently took ill. We are hoping that school will not start any later, as it will push the end of school back.
All the extra time certainly has its advantages, however. We went to a nearby waterfall (name unpronounceable) on Sabbath and cooled off by standing underneath the falls. On Sunday all the SMs and local teachers went to the Rock Islands. We spent the day snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing on the beach. I also got to go body boarding on Wednesday.
We got our teaching supplies and keys to our classroom today. I am pleasantly surprised at the amount of supplies that I have. As I looked at the classroom, saw my desk and the cheerful alphabet border above the blackboard, I finally began to see myself as Miss Tait, 2nd grade teacher. Memories of 2nd grade with Mrs. Good came flooding back, with snack time, worksheets, and the hated skillpacks (the bane of my elementary school existence). I am excited, although I have not totally lost my pre-teaching jitters.
I plan to update my blog to update my blog every 1-2 weeks, and hopefully will manage to post a few pictures as well. All other pictures will be on my Facebook (although with about a 54K bandwidth, pictures will be few and far between). I’d love to here from you and get feedback, so please feel free to email me or comment me.
Some facts about Palau: *the ‘ch’ is silent in Palauan, making church ‘ur’ and the pathfinders “mar” *the water is so clear, you can see 200 feet down *there is a place called Milky Way where the water is nearly white because of the white clay-like substance on the bottom (supposedly a natural exfoliant) *there are four churches in Palau, though only two have buildings. There are also many small communities of Adventists that we will be helping with evangelism *raising the eyebrows and smiling means “yes”
(Jeremy, I am shamelessly stealing your idea as I think it's a good one)
Some of the SMs at Waikiki beach in Hawaii where we had teacher training for all Micronesian missionaries. All but the 3rd from the left are from Andrews.
Our first Sabbath at church. The interior is beautiful.
From left, Brenda and Jordan modeling the white clay-like exfoliant at the Milky Way.
A sunset on the way to Palau Mission Academy. The scenery here is absolutely gorgeous.
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