I realize it's been, what?...6 months since I last wrote. My goodness. Time flies when life happens, doesn't it? I just skimmed through my last post that I wrote before Christmas. It's so funny to me to see similarities in how I felt then and how I feel now.
Brief recap since Christmas:
January: January 2013 was much, much better than January 2012. I think I didn't have quite the shock of the weather this second time around, I had moved to a warmer classroom at the school, and I bought another little electric heater at home. Also, I don't think it actually was as cold inside or out. Either way, I made it through the winter much more easily than before. And, to top it all off, my friend's threw me a Princess-themed 26th birthday party. I know, I know. A bit ridiculous. However, it was incredible and super fun; I'm so blessed with the great friends I have here.
February: Not a lot of excitement in February other than the fact that we were reading Frankenstein in my British Literature class. What a great text! At the end of the month, I had the most relaxing vacation with two other teachers. We flew to Milan, and then took the train to Venice for about 2.5 days. We walked around a bit, ate a lot of yummy Italian food, took a boat taxi over to the Murano Island where they blow glass, took naps, and just enjoyed our time in the beautiful, floating city. It was unlike any other place I've been. We moved at a snails pace, and just basked in the chilly afternoon sun and the incredible architecture.
March: By March, I think I was feeling the desire to move back to America. It was getting close to the end of the year, and my students were already mentally checking out. I missed my family, and I missed my friends in America. Thankfully, I had a week-long reprieve when I flew home for my brother's wedding on March 30th. It was beautiful; the bride was gorgeous; David was handsome; we all had a great time!
April & May: I made the decision to return to American for next school year, and we rounded into the final corner of school, and all of a sudden, I realized how much I love my students! Actually, I've know that just about this whole year, but we overcame whatever annoyances there were in the winter months. This entire school year I've tried to spend some time with them outside of class, going on trips to Marrakech or helping with a game night at school. However, now that I knew I was leaving. We ate lunch together, I had students over to watch the Hobbit, I went with a group of about 8 girls to Prom (Side note: Super fun! We had dinner at the fancy L'Italian, and then took horse-drawn carriages to the Prom venue!), played board games with my students when we didn't have class at school, had more students over to watch the Great Gatsby, went with them to the new mall (!) that just opened in Fes for Pizza Hut and Burger King........I honestly couldn't get enough of them.
So now that you're up to speed, I'm finding that I don't know what to say. My heart is broken in two. I thought it was difficult to leave mom and dad and move to college, and then to go to Memphis, and then to leave Memphis, but it was nothing like this. I have struggled, and cried, and laughed, and overcome, and enjoyed this culture and this country. I have been bitter at the differences, and basked in the small knowledge I had of Moroccan Darija. My life here as been so unexpected. I never thought I would have this opportunity, and when it happened, I never thought I would enjoy it so much and fall in love with so many wonderful people. I feel like a crazy person as I prepare to leave. My emotions are in a weird topsy-turvy spin. One day I can't get enough of people, and the next I'm moody and cranky and want to leave right now so I don't have to say any more goodbyes. I almost feel upset at myself for making the decision to leave, but then I skype with mom and dad and can't imagine staying. But I think it really boils down to the students. They are incredible people. Yes, they do know how to drive me nuts in the classroom, but they're kind and sincere (sometimes :) ), and witty, and intelligent, and funny, and beautiful, and caring, and I can't imagine my life without them. I've said goodbye to many of them this week, and I feel as though a part of my heart rips off each time. As I look back on 2 years, I wonder what I really taught them. They taught me instead. I will miss our conversations in English class and outside of the school walls. I will miss seeing them enjoy each others company and enjoy life. This week I feel like I've been watching from a distance; and as I'm allowed a glimmer into their lives, I can't help but wonder, what did I leave with them? Nichole Nordeman has a song called "Legacy" and some of the lyrics are: I want to leave a legacy. How will they remember me? Did I choose to love? Did I point to You enough to make a mark on things? I think that's how I'm feeling. Overall, I know that 5, 10, 15, 20 years from now I won't be remembered in Morocco, but will I have made a difference to my students? Have I taught them to question things, and not always go with the crowd, to treat everyone fairly, to work with people even if you don't enjoy their company? And do they know the legacy they left with me? That I've learned the joys of another culture, and language, and music, and knowledge. My students are incredible, and they are making leaving so difficult.
I know I haven't written for 6 months, and I may not write for another 6 months, but 5 days from now, I'm getting on a plane and heading back to my comfort zone. Right now, at this second, it terrifies me. I want nothing more than to be comfortable--to have things around me that I'm used to--but I hate goodbyes. I'd rather just drift off in the middle of the night and avoid the uncomfortable and scary part of saying goodbye, possibly forever. But then there's a spark somewhere, and I remember that I'm not saying goodbye forever. I will see these people again; maybe it'll be online, or in an email, or maybe in America or back in Morocco, or maybe on the streets of gold. But there is a wonderful feelings in know that one has friends all over the world. So goodbye my friends; you have made me a rich woman with your love and kindness.
For those of you back in America, I will be home on June 20. Thank you for sticking with me and my ups and downs and the fact that it's difficult for me to put into words what I feel about Morocco--beautiful, exotic, turbulent, exhilarating, quiet Morocco
Saturday, June 15, 2013
Sunday, December 16, 2012
Thoughts
I just finished proofing a student's college essay, and I am filled with an assortment of feelings. Teaching has to be the hardest job in the world. How do I motivate students who aren't already intrinsically motivated and still provide challenging material for the students who eat up everything you give them in a matter of moments? My senior class this year is brilliant, albeit a bit lazy at times. They drive me nuts, make me want to pull my hair out on a weekly basis, and I'm pretty sure I have seen some additional wrinkles lately because of them; even though they seem incorrigible at times, they're ridiculously charming. They can be exasperating, and then turn around and be humble and giving. Sometimes I feel my heart can't take any more of this. How can I love a group of people so much, and want to push them out of a moving car at the same time (Don't worry people, I don't REALLY want to do that.)?
So anyway. . . I just finished reading this essay written by one of my students, and it was fantastic! I don't take any credit for getting her to where she is in writing--she was brilliant before I knew her. But I know that once this group of students graduates, there will be an empty place in my heart. I enjoy the first 15 minutes of my day when I get to see my seniors. We may not talk about much, but I enjoy "listening" to their conversations about soccer or SATs, and I like laughing with them, and sometimes at them, and seeing their smiling faces.
With Christmas quickly approaching, and basically only a few school weeks before the end of the first semester, I'm realizing how little time I have left to make an impression on these students. What do they think of me? And what will I leave them with when they graduate in June. I jotted a quick note on this college essay about how proud I was of the student, but does that really mean anything to her? I remember wanting my teachers to think I was a good student, but I don't know how much a comment like that would have resonated with me when I was in high school. What can I say to show them how much I care in a way they will truly understand how special they are? I wish they would understand how proud I am of them, how much they inspire me to be better, more creative, more loving, how much I think the world of them and want them to succeed, how much I will miss them when they leave Morocco. Part of me just can't imagine being a teacher all my life and having to deal with these emotions year after year; but the rest can't imagine not being a teacher and not getting to enjoy and appreciate the good moments that create many of these emotions.
Although I may not always look back on these years in Morocco with fond memories, and although many days I don't look fondly at my students, I am so grateful for the impact they've had on my life and hope to do them justice in the last few months we have together.
All that being said. . . I get to leave Morocco in 4 days, and I'm UBER excited to be in Ohio for Christmas. Please have snow ready!!!
So anyway. . . I just finished reading this essay written by one of my students, and it was fantastic! I don't take any credit for getting her to where she is in writing--she was brilliant before I knew her. But I know that once this group of students graduates, there will be an empty place in my heart. I enjoy the first 15 minutes of my day when I get to see my seniors. We may not talk about much, but I enjoy "listening" to their conversations about soccer or SATs, and I like laughing with them, and sometimes at them, and seeing their smiling faces.
With Christmas quickly approaching, and basically only a few school weeks before the end of the first semester, I'm realizing how little time I have left to make an impression on these students. What do they think of me? And what will I leave them with when they graduate in June. I jotted a quick note on this college essay about how proud I was of the student, but does that really mean anything to her? I remember wanting my teachers to think I was a good student, but I don't know how much a comment like that would have resonated with me when I was in high school. What can I say to show them how much I care in a way they will truly understand how special they are? I wish they would understand how proud I am of them, how much they inspire me to be better, more creative, more loving, how much I think the world of them and want them to succeed, how much I will miss them when they leave Morocco. Part of me just can't imagine being a teacher all my life and having to deal with these emotions year after year; but the rest can't imagine not being a teacher and not getting to enjoy and appreciate the good moments that create many of these emotions.
Although I may not always look back on these years in Morocco with fond memories, and although many days I don't look fondly at my students, I am so grateful for the impact they've had on my life and hope to do them justice in the last few months we have together.
All that being said. . . I get to leave Morocco in 4 days, and I'm UBER excited to be in Ohio for Christmas. Please have snow ready!!!
Monday, November 12, 2012
A Late Eid Post
Today will be a post of pictures from the Eid al Kbir at the end of October. The Eid marks an Arabic holiday, and part of their tradition is to slaughter and roast a sheep, eating the innards & brain on Day 1, and moving toward the meat by Day 3. In honor of this tradition, a few of my friends and I decided to get together for our own Sheep-Shaped Food Fest. Although we had lofty intentions, only one of our dishes ended up being shaped like a sheep. Enjoy the feast for your eyes!
Marcy began by preparing the meatloaf--yes, it was mashed with love!
Our sheep before being cooked.
It took about 10 minutes before we realized we couldn't figure out how to light the oven. That's one that I won't miss when I head back to the States (whenever that is)--easy-to-light ovens.
Marcy even set the dinner table beautifully. What in the world did I help with?? I made the mashed potatoes and green beans--those weren't really picture worthy.
Here's our sheep!! Before the fleece addition, of course.
Again, Marcy working hard. I'll blame my lack of assistance on the fact that I was behind the camera the whole time. Someone had to document this epic day!
Ready for the slaughtering! :)
We shall name him Sherman. . . Sherman the Sheep! Although it's so much sadder to think of eating your pets. . . so maybe not.
Read to eat!
Nobody wanted to dig in, so I volunteered to perform the sacrifice. John let out a gut-wrenching screech just as the knife hit the "sheep" - just so we all could understand the sheep's perspective. Thanks, John!
Bordering on gluttony with the amount of food we consumed.
We tried to make a sheep-shaped cake too, but since we couldn't light the oven, we had to use the toaster oven--with a pan that was too small. So, of course, the cake mix ended up spilling over and scorching on the bottom. Kirsten and Stephen to the rescue!
Good thing John brought pie!
And what's an afternoon with friends without saving the world from a pandemic. Good thing it's just a game!
Hope I didn't make you too hungry. . . or weirded out. We do weird things in Fez. I'll try to post again soon. Much love!
Saturday, October 20, 2012
Suck it up, princess!
The title of this post is dedicated to a dear friend (who shall remain nameless). I heard this endearing phrase more than a couple times during the last 14 months of my journey in Morocco. Most of the time, I was angry when I heard it. I had been complaining about the weather, the internet, my students, my lesson plans, finances, the weather, the internet, the weather, the weather. . . did I mention I complained a lot about the weather? Well, I heard this phrase again last night, but the content of my misery has morphed much since last fall. It's interesting to look back and see how much I have changed, and although I don't think I have changed much, some very close friends have encouraged me this week on the person I've become and grown to be after 14 months abroad. So, thank you for that. You know who you are. :)
But I digress. . . I feel that I am constantly having to "suck it up." Last year it was the new beginnings that caused a problem. This year, it's the pressure I've put on myself to be much better at my job or my relationships. . . and it's the fact that I'm continually trying to place my agenda and timing on situations, rather than God's. We're now drawing to the end of our first quarter for the school year. I look at the past 8 weeks and can't believe it's only October, but also am incredulous at how quickly those 8 weeks have zipped by. Once again, the only useful analogy is that my life is a roller coaster. Sometimes those treks up the hill seem to take forever, but only a few minutes later, the ride has come to a complete stop. As a planner and organizer, I'm already trying to determine what I should do with my life after the current school year ends. My original commitment was 2 years, and I'm proud to say I will see that through. But now, it only leaves me with more questions and uncertainties. I would love to stay a third year on same days. But the next day or the next week, I'm pining for the pine trees and the feel of autumn in NW Ohio. I had a conversation with a friend this morning, and I recounted all the things I love about October in Ohio: the autumn weather, beautiful trees, crunching through leaves, football games, bonfires, hay rides, apple cider, sweatshirts. . . and the list goes on. Yeah, it's cold here and I have to wear sweatshirts, and yeah, I can create an apple cider-esque concoction, but it's not the same. But then again, there's delicious fruit here, the opportunity to learn a new language, great friends and fellowship, traveling capabilities. . .and the list goes on. So, once again, I must suck it up and wait for the One whose plan is bigger than mine to let me know what's on my agenda next. You can be praying for that if you want. :)
As far as what's been happening socially the last month, it all seems to be the same. I've been helping with an SAT preparatory session on Saturday mornings for many of the 11th and 12th graders. The school days are flying by, and we're trucking quickly through Chaucer, early American literature, narrative essays, and analytical practice. In the past few weeks (working backwards through time), the teachers played Capture the Flag in a forest on the edge of Fes for a birthday party, we had a Homecoming dance on the roof of the high school, I went to a Moroccan friend's house for Couscous on her birthday, we had a going away party for our dear Mr. Norton (History teacher) who moved back to America, I traveled to Marrakech with some high school students for a weekend getaway and discussions on leadership (Side note: this trip was GREAT! We stayed a a 4 or 5-star hotel with a water park and all-inclusive food and drinks. So much fun was had. . .but not much lesson planning. :) ), and I've baked lots of cookies, breads, and crepes. Next weekend is the biggest Islamic holiday of the year (Eid al Kbir), and we have a 5-day weekend; the rest of November, we have a few days off for other Islamic/Moroccan holidays, and a 4-day weekend for Thanksgiving. I feel like the autumn has already flown by and Christmas will be here before I know it.
After a great p&w session the other evening, I'm looking forward to what the Father is going to do in my heart and life, Morocco, and my life here--whether that's for 8 more months, or 8 more years! Can't wait to share more as I roll with the punches.
And to all you princesses out there--Suck it up! I promise life gets better. :)
But I digress. . . I feel that I am constantly having to "suck it up." Last year it was the new beginnings that caused a problem. This year, it's the pressure I've put on myself to be much better at my job or my relationships. . . and it's the fact that I'm continually trying to place my agenda and timing on situations, rather than God's. We're now drawing to the end of our first quarter for the school year. I look at the past 8 weeks and can't believe it's only October, but also am incredulous at how quickly those 8 weeks have zipped by. Once again, the only useful analogy is that my life is a roller coaster. Sometimes those treks up the hill seem to take forever, but only a few minutes later, the ride has come to a complete stop. As a planner and organizer, I'm already trying to determine what I should do with my life after the current school year ends. My original commitment was 2 years, and I'm proud to say I will see that through. But now, it only leaves me with more questions and uncertainties. I would love to stay a third year on same days. But the next day or the next week, I'm pining for the pine trees and the feel of autumn in NW Ohio. I had a conversation with a friend this morning, and I recounted all the things I love about October in Ohio: the autumn weather, beautiful trees, crunching through leaves, football games, bonfires, hay rides, apple cider, sweatshirts. . . and the list goes on. Yeah, it's cold here and I have to wear sweatshirts, and yeah, I can create an apple cider-esque concoction, but it's not the same. But then again, there's delicious fruit here, the opportunity to learn a new language, great friends and fellowship, traveling capabilities. . .and the list goes on. So, once again, I must suck it up and wait for the One whose plan is bigger than mine to let me know what's on my agenda next. You can be praying for that if you want. :)
As far as what's been happening socially the last month, it all seems to be the same. I've been helping with an SAT preparatory session on Saturday mornings for many of the 11th and 12th graders. The school days are flying by, and we're trucking quickly through Chaucer, early American literature, narrative essays, and analytical practice. In the past few weeks (working backwards through time), the teachers played Capture the Flag in a forest on the edge of Fes for a birthday party, we had a Homecoming dance on the roof of the high school, I went to a Moroccan friend's house for Couscous on her birthday, we had a going away party for our dear Mr. Norton (History teacher) who moved back to America, I traveled to Marrakech with some high school students for a weekend getaway and discussions on leadership (Side note: this trip was GREAT! We stayed a a 4 or 5-star hotel with a water park and all-inclusive food and drinks. So much fun was had. . .but not much lesson planning. :) ), and I've baked lots of cookies, breads, and crepes. Next weekend is the biggest Islamic holiday of the year (Eid al Kbir), and we have a 5-day weekend; the rest of November, we have a few days off for other Islamic/Moroccan holidays, and a 4-day weekend for Thanksgiving. I feel like the autumn has already flown by and Christmas will be here before I know it.
After a great p&w session the other evening, I'm looking forward to what the Father is going to do in my heart and life, Morocco, and my life here--whether that's for 8 more months, or 8 more years! Can't wait to share more as I roll with the punches.
And to all you princesses out there--Suck it up! I promise life gets better. :)
Thursday, September 13, 2012
Another Year of Highs and Lows
Last year sucked. I'm not even going to take back that comment. I always think that each consecutive year of my life is the hardest, but this past year topped them all. Sure, it was difficult moving to college, and there were so many times I wanted to quit, but I grew up and made it through. It was even harder moving to Memphis, but I overcame that too. Last year, all bets were off. I've never felt so far away, so immersed in something I didn't know or understand, and so ridiculously cold during winter!!! I begin with this to say that, although I tried to come without expectations last year, I still expected certain things that usually didn't happen. This year, I definitely returned with expectations, which I thought was fine since I thought I knew how life worked over here. However, these ridiculous ideas I had floating around the gray matter in my head have caused another roller coaster ride of a life--one that I'm hoping will turn out to be much shorter of a ride than last year. . .
I don't know that I can even put into words the way I'm feeling, but I've definitely been having both a great and a difficult time back in Fes. I'm so excited to see my students. I can't help but smile as they all sit in my classroom, even when they're talking incessantly. I went to see a good friend this afternoon, and thoroughly enjoyed my taxi ride home. This is an anomaly as I usually hate taking taxis, but I felt comfortable and at home as I passed numerous half-built neighborhoods and could see the mountains peeking up above the city in the distance. The sun was setting, the wind was blowing in my face, the Arab music was almost like a love song singing me into a harmonious relationship with Morocco. I'm happy here. I'm happy TO BE here. But, at the same time, the roller coaster plummets over the edge--it looks like you're literally going to fall into the depths of the earth, or at least fall out of your seat and land who knows where.
I've had trouble adjusting to being back. The weather has been tame, I'm teaching the same subjects, I live in the same apartment, but everything just feels different--almost wrong. Since I have a year under my "teaching belt," I feel like this year has to be amazing. I have to be more of an expert, provide more assistance, follow the standards more closely, teach more difficult material better, and somehow get the students to be better readers and writers. It's a daunting task staring me in the face. I can no longer hide behind the shadow of "first year teacher." And yet, I still feel so new that I have no idea what I'm doing.
I also feel like I don't necessarily fit in anywhere. That probably sounds weird as most of you know I have a ridiculous amount of friends, but yet, I still feel it. I'm not a newbie--I'm not going through the same things they are this year. I don't fit in there. I'm not married or have children--I don't fit in with my friends who do. I'm not totally an introvert and want to stay at home at the time--I don't fit in with my lonely bedroom. I'm not especially an extrovert either--I don't fit in with the people who want to party and procrastinate all the time. I do have lots of friends here, but I almost feel pulled in so many directions when it comes to spending time with all of them that it's exhausting, and I usually end up home, alone, feeling blue because I couldn't decide where to spend my time. Is that a dumb problem to be having? Probably.
Finally, I'm feeling distraught over a certain situation. Without divulging much, there is a student who is deathly ill. It's been incredible to see the love toward him pouring from the students and how they're really evaluating their lives and what is and isn't important. At the same time, it's heart breaking to see him suffering. I'm feeling guilty for wasting so much of my energy worried about his English grade last year rather than enjoying his presence and the time I was able to spend with him.
Anyway. . . I'm not really sure what this blog is supposed to be tonight. I don't want you to feel sorry for me. I'm actually quite happy being here. I do think I belong in Morocco--It's home. I guess I'm just on my way up another hill, and I'll be at the top again soon.
Thank you for always sticking with me during the highs and lows. As I write this, I realize the burdens that I think are so heavy really aren't. I'm so glad for grace and mercy and the fact that the Son and the sun will be shining on me tomorrow. Blessings to you all!
I don't know that I can even put into words the way I'm feeling, but I've definitely been having both a great and a difficult time back in Fes. I'm so excited to see my students. I can't help but smile as they all sit in my classroom, even when they're talking incessantly. I went to see a good friend this afternoon, and thoroughly enjoyed my taxi ride home. This is an anomaly as I usually hate taking taxis, but I felt comfortable and at home as I passed numerous half-built neighborhoods and could see the mountains peeking up above the city in the distance. The sun was setting, the wind was blowing in my face, the Arab music was almost like a love song singing me into a harmonious relationship with Morocco. I'm happy here. I'm happy TO BE here. But, at the same time, the roller coaster plummets over the edge--it looks like you're literally going to fall into the depths of the earth, or at least fall out of your seat and land who knows where.
I've had trouble adjusting to being back. The weather has been tame, I'm teaching the same subjects, I live in the same apartment, but everything just feels different--almost wrong. Since I have a year under my "teaching belt," I feel like this year has to be amazing. I have to be more of an expert, provide more assistance, follow the standards more closely, teach more difficult material better, and somehow get the students to be better readers and writers. It's a daunting task staring me in the face. I can no longer hide behind the shadow of "first year teacher." And yet, I still feel so new that I have no idea what I'm doing.
I also feel like I don't necessarily fit in anywhere. That probably sounds weird as most of you know I have a ridiculous amount of friends, but yet, I still feel it. I'm not a newbie--I'm not going through the same things they are this year. I don't fit in there. I'm not married or have children--I don't fit in with my friends who do. I'm not totally an introvert and want to stay at home at the time--I don't fit in with my lonely bedroom. I'm not especially an extrovert either--I don't fit in with the people who want to party and procrastinate all the time. I do have lots of friends here, but I almost feel pulled in so many directions when it comes to spending time with all of them that it's exhausting, and I usually end up home, alone, feeling blue because I couldn't decide where to spend my time. Is that a dumb problem to be having? Probably.
Finally, I'm feeling distraught over a certain situation. Without divulging much, there is a student who is deathly ill. It's been incredible to see the love toward him pouring from the students and how they're really evaluating their lives and what is and isn't important. At the same time, it's heart breaking to see him suffering. I'm feeling guilty for wasting so much of my energy worried about his English grade last year rather than enjoying his presence and the time I was able to spend with him.
Anyway. . . I'm not really sure what this blog is supposed to be tonight. I don't want you to feel sorry for me. I'm actually quite happy being here. I do think I belong in Morocco--It's home. I guess I'm just on my way up another hill, and I'll be at the top again soon.
Thank you for always sticking with me during the highs and lows. As I write this, I realize the burdens that I think are so heavy really aren't. I'm so glad for grace and mercy and the fact that the Son and the sun will be shining on me tomorrow. Blessings to you all!
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
School's In Session
Happy first day of school, everyone! It's crazy to think that one year ago I started teaching at Amicitia, have already made it through my first year here, and even enjoyed a 2-month break. Reflecting on today, it almost feels like I never left Morocco for the summer. :)
This past week was full of administrative meetings, getting to know the new teachers, and organizing our classrooms. I've switched rooms, and hope that pictures will soon follow. The weather was decent about half the week, and the other half I felt like I was stuck in a sauna. Thankfully the temp is supposed to be dropping about 6 degrees by this next week. Hallelujah!
Going into this school year, I have been apprehensive & anxious, but expecting great things. A few of my dearest friends did not return to Morocco this year, and it's been hard to handle. I feel I've had trouble allowing myself to connect with any of the new teachers, possibly as a coping method, possibly to avoid heartache again. As I get used to all the changes and the year progresses, I'm hopeful I'll be able to foster wonderful relationships with everyone at the school.
Our internet has been down at the apartment for the past week which as resulted in few conversations with my family and less time working on plans and handouts for this first week of school. While I didn't feel that prepared going in to today, I think everything turned out well. It was great to see the students again; I was surprised at how much I missed them! There are a few things you can be in prayer about:
1. That even though I know most of my students, I can continue to build great relationships with them.
2. That the structure and rules I had in my class last year won't dictate the mood in the classroom this year--that I'll still be able to be strict and firm without them thinking they can get away with this or that because they have had me as a teacher before.
3. That there would be unity among the teaching staff.
4. That I would work hard at teaching English, but recognize when the heart of my students and their emotional/physical/spiritual needs supersede the English lesson for the day.
5. That the weather would break & cool air would surround & pervade the school and classrooms.
6. That my students' minds would be open and they would be willing participants in the classroom.
I think that's all for now. I'm really excited for this year and feel that something wonderful is going to happen in Fes, Morocco. I come expectant and can't wait to share all the juicy details with you!
This past week was full of administrative meetings, getting to know the new teachers, and organizing our classrooms. I've switched rooms, and hope that pictures will soon follow. The weather was decent about half the week, and the other half I felt like I was stuck in a sauna. Thankfully the temp is supposed to be dropping about 6 degrees by this next week. Hallelujah!
Going into this school year, I have been apprehensive & anxious, but expecting great things. A few of my dearest friends did not return to Morocco this year, and it's been hard to handle. I feel I've had trouble allowing myself to connect with any of the new teachers, possibly as a coping method, possibly to avoid heartache again. As I get used to all the changes and the year progresses, I'm hopeful I'll be able to foster wonderful relationships with everyone at the school.
Our internet has been down at the apartment for the past week which as resulted in few conversations with my family and less time working on plans and handouts for this first week of school. While I didn't feel that prepared going in to today, I think everything turned out well. It was great to see the students again; I was surprised at how much I missed them! There are a few things you can be in prayer about:
1. That even though I know most of my students, I can continue to build great relationships with them.
2. That the structure and rules I had in my class last year won't dictate the mood in the classroom this year--that I'll still be able to be strict and firm without them thinking they can get away with this or that because they have had me as a teacher before.
3. That there would be unity among the teaching staff.
4. That I would work hard at teaching English, but recognize when the heart of my students and their emotional/physical/spiritual needs supersede the English lesson for the day.
5. That the weather would break & cool air would surround & pervade the school and classrooms.
6. That my students' minds would be open and they would be willing participants in the classroom.
I think that's all for now. I'm really excited for this year and feel that something wonderful is going to happen in Fes, Morocco. I come expectant and can't wait to share all the juicy details with you!
Saturday, August 4, 2012
Hiding Under a Rock
Well, folks. Welcome to my life as a writer. . . non-existent. When I started this blog, I vowed I would write daily--bi-weekly--weekly--monthly. . . and even THAT has not happened. My apologies. Although I've had plenty of time to write this summer, I've spent my days in a "lazy" fashion. It was the first summer off from teacher, and what a wonderful time I've had! I totally dig the whole "work for 9 months and get 3 months off" thing--although the paycheck fits right along with that schedule too. :)
I don't even remember what I wrote last...and as part of the "lazy" thing I didn't even check before I started writing this. Oh well. I do know that it was before the end of school. Amicitia officially finished classes June 15th, and it was a busy race to the finish (I've been watching too much of the Olympics this week!). Every weekend was packed with school Activities--speech & debate, the elementary production of Oliver, high school plays, and graduation. I was happy to attend all activities, and even was asked by the Senior class to give a speech at graduation. What an honor! And how terrifying for a first-year teacher. If I felt they didn't learn anything during the school year, how in the world can I impart wisdom on them in a 5-10 minute period??? However, it all went well. I was proud of each one of them as they walked across the stage to get their diplomas, and I was that much closer to home. :)
Fast forward.....
While I haven't been hiding under a rock, I have been a mixture of super busy and super holed up at mom and dad's. I arrived back in the States via Detroit on June 18th--just in time to visit my grandmother and aunt before they headed out to the Canadian Rockies for a trip. Apparently my family is made up of a bunch of travelers! I was able to kick jet lag right before I headed down to Memphis for two weeks. It was WONDERFUL to see all my friends in the South. I was a bit worried about catching up with people since our lives are completely different, and we haven't talked much over the past year....but the Lord is good, and we were able to pick up right where we left off. It was two weeks filled with lots of good food, laughter, hugs, movies, good books, and fantastic, supportive friends. I'm so grateful to the people I've met in Memphis and can't wait until I see them again.
After two weeks in Memphis, I was back at mom and dad's in Ohio for a week. I think I sat on the couch the entire week watching old t.v. show reruns on Netflix. Incredible! Then, it was back to traveling with mom and dad--this time we headed to Kentucky to see my aunt, uncle, and cousins. We had a great time enjoying nature (we saw deer every night), eating s'mores, and being with family. Then, when we arrived home, David came back for a mid-deployment break from Afghanistan. Brother and sister reunited again! I haven't seen him in over a year, and it was great to be laughing and arguing with each other once more. The 4 of us headed up to Lakeside for a relaxing getaway earlier this week. We ate Toft's ice cream, sat by the lake, ate perch, played shuffleboard, had more Toft's, watched the Olympics, went to the Marblehead lighthouse, and had even more Toft's. It was great!
I've also cooked a few Moroccan dishes since I've been home. It's been fun, but it's been frustrating as well. It's not easy to find the right types of meat or prunes when people here don't make those types of dishes. Almost my entire family came up last Sunday to see David, and I made a chicken & onion tajine, and a beef & prune tajine. While they probably weren't my best, it was fun to make lots of food & enjoy time with family. It was great to see everyone, and it's crazy to think how much time flies between visits!
The last 2 days, I went to Findlay to visit with my grandma and aunt again, and to spend time with my "baby" cousin who heads off to college in a few weeks. I can't believe how time has flown by. We had a great time with pedis, Pixar, and . . . . I can't think of a 3rd "p" word. . . . but we ate a lot of food too.
That about should catch you up. This next week I'll spend more time with David and begin packing things to head back. The following week I'll be in Nashville and Columbus, and then I head back on the 20th. I've been super excited to be home and relaxing. I'm already having mixed feelings about going back to Fes. Even since I arrived in the U.S. I've wanted to be back in Fes--I'm missing my friends and some great Moroccan food/fruit. However, the longer I've been here, the more at home I feel again. Now that I know school is starting soon, there's a part of me that wants to head back early--set up my classroom, see my lovely roommates, meet the new teachers, and catch up with old ones (not literally old. . . :) ), but there's also a part that wants to stay in America--here with my parents, my extended family, Target, a car to drive whenever I want! I've definitely go multiple-personalities going on here. Ah well. The life of an overseas ex-pat.
One more tidbit. Before I officially return to Fes, I get to spend about 5 days in London with my friend Emily. I can't wait to travel around the area, see the Olympic stadium, and quite possibly have tea with the queen. Here's hoping!
I don't even remember what I wrote last...and as part of the "lazy" thing I didn't even check before I started writing this. Oh well. I do know that it was before the end of school. Amicitia officially finished classes June 15th, and it was a busy race to the finish (I've been watching too much of the Olympics this week!). Every weekend was packed with school Activities--speech & debate, the elementary production of Oliver, high school plays, and graduation. I was happy to attend all activities, and even was asked by the Senior class to give a speech at graduation. What an honor! And how terrifying for a first-year teacher. If I felt they didn't learn anything during the school year, how in the world can I impart wisdom on them in a 5-10 minute period??? However, it all went well. I was proud of each one of them as they walked across the stage to get their diplomas, and I was that much closer to home. :)
Fast forward.....
While I haven't been hiding under a rock, I have been a mixture of super busy and super holed up at mom and dad's. I arrived back in the States via Detroit on June 18th--just in time to visit my grandmother and aunt before they headed out to the Canadian Rockies for a trip. Apparently my family is made up of a bunch of travelers! I was able to kick jet lag right before I headed down to Memphis for two weeks. It was WONDERFUL to see all my friends in the South. I was a bit worried about catching up with people since our lives are completely different, and we haven't talked much over the past year....but the Lord is good, and we were able to pick up right where we left off. It was two weeks filled with lots of good food, laughter, hugs, movies, good books, and fantastic, supportive friends. I'm so grateful to the people I've met in Memphis and can't wait until I see them again.
After two weeks in Memphis, I was back at mom and dad's in Ohio for a week. I think I sat on the couch the entire week watching old t.v. show reruns on Netflix. Incredible! Then, it was back to traveling with mom and dad--this time we headed to Kentucky to see my aunt, uncle, and cousins. We had a great time enjoying nature (we saw deer every night), eating s'mores, and being with family. Then, when we arrived home, David came back for a mid-deployment break from Afghanistan. Brother and sister reunited again! I haven't seen him in over a year, and it was great to be laughing and arguing with each other once more. The 4 of us headed up to Lakeside for a relaxing getaway earlier this week. We ate Toft's ice cream, sat by the lake, ate perch, played shuffleboard, had more Toft's, watched the Olympics, went to the Marblehead lighthouse, and had even more Toft's. It was great! 
I've also cooked a few Moroccan dishes since I've been home. It's been fun, but it's been frustrating as well. It's not easy to find the right types of meat or prunes when people here don't make those types of dishes. Almost my entire family came up last Sunday to see David, and I made a chicken & onion tajine, and a beef & prune tajine. While they probably weren't my best, it was fun to make lots of food & enjoy time with family. It was great to see everyone, and it's crazy to think how much time flies between visits!
The last 2 days, I went to Findlay to visit with my grandma and aunt again, and to spend time with my "baby" cousin who heads off to college in a few weeks. I can't believe how time has flown by. We had a great time with pedis, Pixar, and . . . . I can't think of a 3rd "p" word. . . . but we ate a lot of food too.
That about should catch you up. This next week I'll spend more time with David and begin packing things to head back. The following week I'll be in Nashville and Columbus, and then I head back on the 20th. I've been super excited to be home and relaxing. I'm already having mixed feelings about going back to Fes. Even since I arrived in the U.S. I've wanted to be back in Fes--I'm missing my friends and some great Moroccan food/fruit. However, the longer I've been here, the more at home I feel again. Now that I know school is starting soon, there's a part of me that wants to head back early--set up my classroom, see my lovely roommates, meet the new teachers, and catch up with old ones (not literally old. . . :) ), but there's also a part that wants to stay in America--here with my parents, my extended family, Target, a car to drive whenever I want! I've definitely go multiple-personalities going on here. Ah well. The life of an overseas ex-pat.
One more tidbit. Before I officially return to Fes, I get to spend about 5 days in London with my friend Emily. I can't wait to travel around the area, see the Olympic stadium, and quite possibly have tea with the queen. Here's hoping!
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