One of the perks of being a teacher: vacations and fall breaks. Especially when you can travel to exotic locations for cheap. As October was a rough month at school, the four day weekend we just had was especially needed. So a group of us decided to head to southern Morocco to a beautiful beach town named Essaouira, or for us the most peaceful place on the planet.
Our clan of 7 rented two cars and left early Friday morning to brave the crazy Casablanca traffic and escape the city. Jodee drove our petite car, and Nina drove the other, a nice olive green car that we named Pepe. We had a very useful TomTom at our disposal so we were out on the road shortly after 9. We had a couple of mix ups but otherwise easy traveling. We took a coastal road and wound all the way down, stopping in several awesome cities along the way. We stopped in Oualidia which is a quiet town on the beach where we enjoyed a nice lunch.
We went to Safi, a place where ancient pottery is made and we even got to tour the factory. The way they soften the clay is to let it sit in water for hours, then make a giant slab on the ground, which is then kneaded by a boy jumping around barefoot for quite a while. Let's just say I would have gladly taken his place, it looked like so much fun. After that we completed the drive and arrived in Essaouira, the place I will dream about from now on.
Essaouira was originally Portuguese, and it has a beautiful medina and harbor which reflects the architecture of that time. Our hotel was actually in the medina, but it overlooked the ocean which was wonderful. We got there around dinner time on Friday, and we decided to find a good place to eat. Well we found a good place for food, not so much for the service. We ended up spending over 2 hours waiting for food, and as we were sitting on couches we all were in serious danger of falling asleep at the table. When we finally got back to our place we just crashed as we were exhausted.
The next day we walked all around the medina and got plenty of nicknacks and decorative pieces to help our asylum white walls in our apartments. But the best part of the day by far was the camel ride. We went to the beach and rode camels for an hour, along the surf line as the waves crashed in. It was peaceful and entertaining at the same time. It's wierd how I never realized how TALL camels really were until I was on top of one. Also when they sit down you are pitched forward at almost a 90 degree angle. But they were fun and also meant I could cross them off my list of exotic animals to ride. Elephant in South Africa, Ostrich in South Africa, Camel in Morocco. Next I'm on to a wooly mammoth.
Saturday night we found a nice restaurant with a great owner who was very accomodating. In fact as we sat around dinner we realized just how amazingly nice the people were in this city. We had been invited to several private parties just because the people wanted to spend time with us. As we talked to some of these guys, they kept discussing "the school of life." In Morocco school isn't required as it is in the US, which means that families that need their children to work to survive put education on the back burner. But more people spoke English in Essaouira than i have met in Casa. Anyways these guys really put in perspective the fact that if you have a good head, and a good heart than thats all you need in life. They were extremely happy people and were so gracious to us. They made the trip that much more amazing.
Our last day was one for relaxing as we had been active most of the weekend. The best part of the whole weekend was when we took advantage of the rooftop terrace overlooking the ocean. We grabbed some wine, I Dj-ed some nice quiet music and we watched the astounding sunset. You know you are in perfect company when you can just sit quietly for hours enjoying the beauty of life. We all had our own worries, our own struggles that we left behind this weekend and this moment was the culmination of a much needed weekend. To sit and look at the ocean as the sun descended, it just made everything else seem so small.
Lately I have been stressed trying to figure out what my future holds for me. I know, I just got here, but with international teaching they hire in January. I have been trying to figure out if I want to apply to more international schools, or if I want to spend some more time in Colorado. It is hard when you have to leave your friends and family behind to pursue your dreams. It creates a pull towards home. I love what I am doing now, but it can be lonely on a day to day basis. At home you have friends, family and the independence to go your own way. I haven't found a place in Casa where I can retreat, or anywhere to take myself on a date.
Sitting and staring at the sun made all this disappear. Wherever my path leads me, I know it will be an amazing opportunity. Let it be. A great phrase that really expresses my need to calm down and just enjoy the moment. To not stress while I am here about where I'll be next year.
Recently I was reading a book that was a collection of personal narratives about love. There was one from a man who stayed by his wife's side while she struggled with a terrible injury for over 18 years. She was finally cured, and one day they hiked (they live in Idaho Springs) up a mountain and just cried because of the beauty of life. He expressed this feeling of peace. When I was sitting there I felt that exact feeling.
Its amazing how certain moments in life just make you remember instances and memories that are similiar. I was brought back to a night almost two years ago exactly, when I was sitting on a patio overlooking the ocean in Wilderness, South Africa. I had amazing friends with me (Karie, Leigh, Sam) and we were just awestruck by the beauty of the stars clashing with the waves. I remember thinking that moment was one of the best in my life for many reasons: I was lucky enough to be living an adventure that most people can only dream of, I had amazing friends in my life both there and back home in Colorado, I had a supportive family that I am blessed to be so close with, and I knew what I desired for my life.
Last night was deja vu with that moment. And in realizing that it makes all of the small stuff that I worry about just wash away like the waves. I know that if I continue to pursue my dreams I will lead an amazing life. Of course it can be a solitary road, but when you have great friends and family like I do they are always a Skype away. This weekend was perfect, I couldn't ask for better company, place or memories. Of course there will soon be awesome pictures to accompany.
After our sunset we had a hilarious night in drinking, playing cards, and enjoying time with some new friends we made there. I had my forture told (not very well) but it was hilarious anyways. Apparently I am coming into lots of money soon, which means I can bring you all out to visit me!
Coming back to Casa was sad but I will definitely make it back to Essaouira before I leave next summer. It is truly a place of peace. Which I can never have too much of these days.
Monday, October 18, 2010
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Indifference and Ignorance: When will it end?
As the days go past I quite often forget what the date is, because I really only need to know the day of the week. I try to check the news when my internet is fast, so I had heard some of the development regarding the *!#@& of a pastor in Florida and his publicity stunt. So in a conversation with my Dad he alerted me to the fact that the US Embassy had issued a warning for Americans abroad in case this man went through with his idiotic plan. Seeing as they are in Portugal and are coming to Casa soon this affected them as well. This got me into quite a mood as I really thought about the ability of insignificant people to affect and possibly endanger the lives of thousands of people around the world.
What right did this small minded man have to possibly kill people in consequence of his actions? He decided to take his ignorance and anger out on an entire religion, even though it was al-Quida that was resposible for 9/11 and the lives lost. Not the entire population of people that believe in a different diety and belief system. Living in a Muslim country the past month and learning so much about their beliefs and dedication has been so enlightening. There are children that go to school all day without water and food because they believe in something so much. We may not agree with some of the parts of the Muslim culture, but that doesn't mean you can't respect it.
When you are an American living abroad you realize that you are a representative of America whether you like it or not. Some people will hold you responsibly for your government's policies, or even what some insignificant man does with the whole 50 people that attend his church and actually want to listen to him. I remember that when we would go out in South Africa, one of us would end up in a political discussion with a local simply because of our accents. It is just something that happens. But if you acknowledge that, you tend to try and show that you are an individual and that you don't necessarily agree with said politics. And that Americans can be respectful of other cultures than our own.
I mourn what happened to so many families on 9/11/01. It was a terrible day and will always live in our memories and the scars won't heal for many. What many refuse to acknowledge however is that we cannot keep using that day to fuel hatred and ignorance.
How much do most people really know about Islam? Or Ramadan? Did that small minded man understand that not only was he going to burn their "bible" but also that he was going to do it on this weekend which was a very religious and important holiday for Muslims everywhere? That he would have done more harm than good? It just makes me wonder at what point we will stop refusing to learn about the other cultures in the world, the other religions, the people that might believe something different. I have met many amazing people here that are Muslim, that have been accepting of who I am. Did they have anything to do with 9/11? No, absolutely not. But because of ignorance, they could have been affected by this man's actions. It's hurtful. Whether you don't want a mosque built by Ground Zero or not, his actions were not ok. In any context.
Living in South Africa for the brief period we did, I looked around and did I see hatred on the faces of the people that up to 15 years ago were oppressed and beat down. No because they had accepted the past, and were working towards the future. Ubuntu. "I am who I am because of who we are". They realized that their futures were tied together and that hatred would do nothing to heal their country or help anyone. Archbishop Desmond Tutu discussed the need for ubuntu in order to be a united country and heal. If a country that suffered from apartheid could understand the need for forgiveness and healing, we should as well. I'm not saying that we pardon those actually responsible, but that we don't let it cloud our judgement on a whole religion or group of people.
One of my favorite authors, Elie Wiesel wrote the novel Night, about his experiences during the Holocaust and in concentration camps. Does he talk about his hatred for all the German race? Absolutely not. He acknowledges what happens, he teaches the youth about it, and he moves on. He is a brilliant man who has been through unspeakable heartache, yet he knows that the only thing that can make us whole, make us loving and accepting is forgiveness and moving on.
He states that "The opposite of love is not hate, it's indifference. The opposite of art is not ugliness, it's indifference. The opposite of faith is not heresy, it's indifference. And the opposite of life is not death, it's indifference."
I truly believe that we must look to our past and learn from it, not dwell in it. For when we stew in the ugliness of what small minded people have done, we tend to forget about the beauty in others and in the world. And the world is just too beautiful.
What right did this small minded man have to possibly kill people in consequence of his actions? He decided to take his ignorance and anger out on an entire religion, even though it was al-Quida that was resposible for 9/11 and the lives lost. Not the entire population of people that believe in a different diety and belief system. Living in a Muslim country the past month and learning so much about their beliefs and dedication has been so enlightening. There are children that go to school all day without water and food because they believe in something so much. We may not agree with some of the parts of the Muslim culture, but that doesn't mean you can't respect it.
When you are an American living abroad you realize that you are a representative of America whether you like it or not. Some people will hold you responsibly for your government's policies, or even what some insignificant man does with the whole 50 people that attend his church and actually want to listen to him. I remember that when we would go out in South Africa, one of us would end up in a political discussion with a local simply because of our accents. It is just something that happens. But if you acknowledge that, you tend to try and show that you are an individual and that you don't necessarily agree with said politics. And that Americans can be respectful of other cultures than our own.
I mourn what happened to so many families on 9/11/01. It was a terrible day and will always live in our memories and the scars won't heal for many. What many refuse to acknowledge however is that we cannot keep using that day to fuel hatred and ignorance.
How much do most people really know about Islam? Or Ramadan? Did that small minded man understand that not only was he going to burn their "bible" but also that he was going to do it on this weekend which was a very religious and important holiday for Muslims everywhere? That he would have done more harm than good? It just makes me wonder at what point we will stop refusing to learn about the other cultures in the world, the other religions, the people that might believe something different. I have met many amazing people here that are Muslim, that have been accepting of who I am. Did they have anything to do with 9/11? No, absolutely not. But because of ignorance, they could have been affected by this man's actions. It's hurtful. Whether you don't want a mosque built by Ground Zero or not, his actions were not ok. In any context.
Living in South Africa for the brief period we did, I looked around and did I see hatred on the faces of the people that up to 15 years ago were oppressed and beat down. No because they had accepted the past, and were working towards the future. Ubuntu. "I am who I am because of who we are". They realized that their futures were tied together and that hatred would do nothing to heal their country or help anyone. Archbishop Desmond Tutu discussed the need for ubuntu in order to be a united country and heal. If a country that suffered from apartheid could understand the need for forgiveness and healing, we should as well. I'm not saying that we pardon those actually responsible, but that we don't let it cloud our judgement on a whole religion or group of people.
One of my favorite authors, Elie Wiesel wrote the novel Night, about his experiences during the Holocaust and in concentration camps. Does he talk about his hatred for all the German race? Absolutely not. He acknowledges what happens, he teaches the youth about it, and he moves on. He is a brilliant man who has been through unspeakable heartache, yet he knows that the only thing that can make us whole, make us loving and accepting is forgiveness and moving on.
He states that "The opposite of love is not hate, it's indifference. The opposite of art is not ugliness, it's indifference. The opposite of faith is not heresy, it's indifference. And the opposite of life is not death, it's indifference."
I truly believe that we must look to our past and learn from it, not dwell in it. For when we stew in the ugliness of what small minded people have done, we tend to forget about the beauty in others and in the world. And the world is just too beautiful.
Monday, September 6, 2010
Apartment Crawling - The New Tradition
Everyone needs a tradition, right? For those deeply routed in American holidays we all have the tradition of stuffing with turkey in November, or making delicious Christmas cookies and throwing flower at each other so that it's snowing inside and out. But when the temperature is over 100 degrees during the day, there is no air conditioning in the school you teach at, and it's Ramadan therefore meaning no bars open, what's a group of teachers to do?
Last year, the new teachers decided to start a tradition called an apartment crawl. Just like a pub crawl where you hop bar to bar possibly "crawling" your way to the finish. So this is similar, but a little less hardship to your knees. We decided to continue the tradition and invite the sophomores along for some bonding. So to celebrate the end of the first week of school, we busted out the beer pong cups, the awesome jams, and our walking shoes.
We had four apartments spread through the downtown area of Casablanca where we all live; the positive thing being that they are all within 15 minutes of each other. We made our way around, getting to know each other, kicking back, relaxing, and of course busting out the games. It was an awesome night and a really nice way to feel like this is home.
Why are traditions so important to people, not matter what the culture? Because traditions are what make you feel a part of something bigger, whether your with your family or they are thousands of miles away. So you make new traditions with new faces, and hope that they will be carried out by the next generation, or in our case next batch of eager American teachers. I think that as we settle into our daily routine of going to school at 7 and getting back at 5:30 if you aren't coaching, it is incredibly important to do such crazy outlandish things and make them part of our tradition. Some of the girls have been talking about doing family dinners every Sunday night, another way to feel like you have a home that isn't just temporary.
Another tradition can be our beach/surfing trips, a way to start our own community of surfing teachers!
If there is one thing I have learned so far from the Moroccan culture, it is the importance of family and ritual. Surviving 30 days of fasting would be impossibly for many people including me, but I see the students I teach preserving each day. They are helped by each other, and especially since most of the students are family or have grown up since preschool together. I still know a lot of kids I went to kindergarten with, and I know that when we were in Elementary school we would had each other's backs like these kids do today. I like to think that every time I move to a new culture, or back to one that I already love, that I am making lasting traditions that help make life just a little better. When we have stressful days, what is better than having a great group of people to do silly things with?
I really enjoy getting to know my new "family", even as much as I miss the old. There is so much in this country that makes me amazed, and lots more to come. As I am almost at the one month mark I marvel at our sense of home already. And it makes me just that more excited for whats to come.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
First Day of School Ritual
Every year since I was little there has always been a first day of school, a day of new "back to school clothes" and new classes, seeing old friends and teachers. I have had the same ritual for almost 17 years, yet my days as a student are now over. Waking up yesterday, I realized that from now on I will have a different sort of first day of school. This involves preparing for the students, getting myself organized, and learning dozens of very difficult student names.
This past week I spent a lot of time getting to know my department, which only contains 4 plus me. This is significantly different from the English department at Chap which had over 25. The department here however small doesn't lack in terms of personality and enthusiasm, which means it's a pretty darn good fit. I have had the chance to be involved in developing curriculum and setting up classrooms. Plus lots of making photocopies which I don't mind so much as I get to dance around the copy room listening to music. Which was a funny sight to the many people who walked in on me jamming out to some 3oh!3.
My job as an intern isn't really clearly defined except for the rule that we are the substitutes when teachers call out. Other than that this experience is what I make of it, so I intend to get very involved and gain the experience needed for my own classroom next year.
A little info on my school: It is an IB prepatory school which means that students have the most rigorous curriculum that I have seen in high schools. Of course there are IB schools in the States, but usually they involve a two track system where kids have the option to be on the IB track or just to recieve a regular diploma. But here the kids are required to be IB so if they aren't on track they can be asked to not return the following year. It is pretty intense. Also these students are fluent in Arabic and French, but are learning English through their interaction in this school. The good news is that the students are proficient at speaking English by the time they are in the upper school grades. The bad news is that they sit and chitchat in French during class and you have no idea what they are saying. They are very smart kids, and are very fortunate as well. Their parents can pay for the most expensive education around, so they do have a sense of entitlement. One of the most jarring things for me is that at the end of the day they gather around a fountain and socialize while the guards call their name when their drivers arrive to pick them up. Yes, drivers. For the younger students most likely there is a nanny involved as well. It is a very wealthy population which you definitely realize when they whip out their Ipads in class. But they have great manners so far.
It is the second day of school and I am just getting used to the students and classes. I am participating in classes from 8th grade to 11th grade IB. Learning all of their very Arabic sounding names will take time because right now I butcher them for sure. One of the English teachers who is a prankster has decided to spread the rumor that I am the heir to Google, and that I am here out of a selfless need to help the youth of the world. It's pretty funny.
It's amazing that this kids can learn anything as they are fasting for Ramadan. That means we are sitting in 110 degree weather (last week there was a high of 117) without drinking water or eating anything. I admire their determination and dedication to what they believe in. I'm pretty sure most Christians or Catholics I know could not do the same. And without complaints.
I have been designated the soccer coach for the Boy's soccer program! EEk!! I offered to be the assistant coach but due to lack of help I was promoted. Let's just say the boys in my classes think it's hilarious that I am their coach. But I do know from experience that the most important parts of soccer include the ability to run for a long time so they will be doing lots of running in the beginning for sure. As for the rest of it, that's what Google is for right? Haha
As for our personal lives, I am just getting into a routine. We are going surfing every Saturday which is great because we get a day to relax after a long hot week. The old staff has been very welcoming and they are just as fun loving as the newbies. Lots of parties and traveling! I have been too busy to be homesick which is good. I need to do some decorating in my apartment to make it more home but other than that its good. I have been doing lots of reading which is so nice after years of having to read for assignments and school. Life is starting to be regular and I'm finding a nice place to fit in. Adapting gets easier each time you settle in somewhere new, and I am so thankful for my experiences in South Africa that make this a smoother transition.
Life is good, and I am finding my niche. I miss home but I am so excited for this to be my life. I fit the international life well, and I love exploring a culture so foreign to me. It makes your life just so much more interesting. Just like the first day of school ritual, I am adapting my life to this new part, and loving the good and the bad. That's just what life is.
This past week I spent a lot of time getting to know my department, which only contains 4 plus me. This is significantly different from the English department at Chap which had over 25. The department here however small doesn't lack in terms of personality and enthusiasm, which means it's a pretty darn good fit. I have had the chance to be involved in developing curriculum and setting up classrooms. Plus lots of making photocopies which I don't mind so much as I get to dance around the copy room listening to music. Which was a funny sight to the many people who walked in on me jamming out to some 3oh!3.
My job as an intern isn't really clearly defined except for the rule that we are the substitutes when teachers call out. Other than that this experience is what I make of it, so I intend to get very involved and gain the experience needed for my own classroom next year.
A little info on my school: It is an IB prepatory school which means that students have the most rigorous curriculum that I have seen in high schools. Of course there are IB schools in the States, but usually they involve a two track system where kids have the option to be on the IB track or just to recieve a regular diploma. But here the kids are required to be IB so if they aren't on track they can be asked to not return the following year. It is pretty intense. Also these students are fluent in Arabic and French, but are learning English through their interaction in this school. The good news is that the students are proficient at speaking English by the time they are in the upper school grades. The bad news is that they sit and chitchat in French during class and you have no idea what they are saying. They are very smart kids, and are very fortunate as well. Their parents can pay for the most expensive education around, so they do have a sense of entitlement. One of the most jarring things for me is that at the end of the day they gather around a fountain and socialize while the guards call their name when their drivers arrive to pick them up. Yes, drivers. For the younger students most likely there is a nanny involved as well. It is a very wealthy population which you definitely realize when they whip out their Ipads in class. But they have great manners so far.
It is the second day of school and I am just getting used to the students and classes. I am participating in classes from 8th grade to 11th grade IB. Learning all of their very Arabic sounding names will take time because right now I butcher them for sure. One of the English teachers who is a prankster has decided to spread the rumor that I am the heir to Google, and that I am here out of a selfless need to help the youth of the world. It's pretty funny.
It's amazing that this kids can learn anything as they are fasting for Ramadan. That means we are sitting in 110 degree weather (last week there was a high of 117) without drinking water or eating anything. I admire their determination and dedication to what they believe in. I'm pretty sure most Christians or Catholics I know could not do the same. And without complaints.
I have been designated the soccer coach for the Boy's soccer program! EEk!! I offered to be the assistant coach but due to lack of help I was promoted. Let's just say the boys in my classes think it's hilarious that I am their coach. But I do know from experience that the most important parts of soccer include the ability to run for a long time so they will be doing lots of running in the beginning for sure. As for the rest of it, that's what Google is for right? Haha
As for our personal lives, I am just getting into a routine. We are going surfing every Saturday which is great because we get a day to relax after a long hot week. The old staff has been very welcoming and they are just as fun loving as the newbies. Lots of parties and traveling! I have been too busy to be homesick which is good. I need to do some decorating in my apartment to make it more home but other than that its good. I have been doing lots of reading which is so nice after years of having to read for assignments and school. Life is starting to be regular and I'm finding a nice place to fit in. Adapting gets easier each time you settle in somewhere new, and I am so thankful for my experiences in South Africa that make this a smoother transition.
Life is good, and I am finding my niche. I miss home but I am so excited for this to be my life. I fit the international life well, and I love exploring a culture so foreign to me. It makes your life just so much more interesting. Just like the first day of school ritual, I am adapting my life to this new part, and loving the good and the bad. That's just what life is.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
The end of the longest week ever!
So it is officially the end of the first week of my life here and let's just say that I have never felt a longer week in my life. Not in a bad way, but because we have had such a jam packed schedule that it has seemed as though everything would fill several weeks at least. But you know they do say work hard and play hard, but this weekend was more relax hard for me!
During the school days we have attended many meetings that take up our time and the teachers have been preparing their classrooms. For the interns however there isn't much to do until the returning staff arrives so that we can meet our departments and start figuring out our schedules. So during those slots of time we have found different things to do aka reading outside or bugging friends. I have tried to help here and there but being new it's not as though I know where anything is to get.
On Thursday Night we finally had couscous (EXCITING!!) We were invited over to the Director's house for a proper couscous dinner, which if they saw how we eat it back in the States they would be horrified here! You sit around round tables and they prepare huge dishes of couscous with lots of vegetables and meat placed on top. Huge amounts of food. Then you clean your hands and dig in. Literally. You use the vegetables and meat to clump the couscous around and mush it in your hands until you get a round ball. Then you get to eat it! Lots of work but well worth it. Let's just say my couscous skills are severly underdeveloped as of right now and I did more of a scoop and eat deal.
Friday was a long day at school followed by a nice night they planned as the end of orientation week. Most of the returning staff has arrived and so a couple hosted a happy hour on their amazing balcony! (Seriously this balcony could have fit at least 50 people) We got to mingle and I met all of my department which was great. They are all super cool and laid back which helps considering I am coming from one of the best departments around at Chap! Speaking of this world is a lot smaller than you think. The English Department Head actually taught at Chaparral before coming here which is awesome because his wife and him will talk Colorado with me when I need someone to understand where Turquoise Lake is or Casa Bonita.
After that we went to a nice restaurant named India Palace for Ftour dinner. It was a beautiful dinner and we had amazing Indian food. And lots of wine. Afterwards we all headed home as it was an exhausting week. However my body had something else in mind. I got rather sick that night and had to battle a fever and stomach issues for hours. When I got up on Saturday I felt pretty dehydrated but I wanted to go to the beach with everyone else even if I didn't surf. So I trekked to the meeting point with plenty of water on hand as well as medicine.
So to get around in Casablanca there are two types of taxis : red and white. The red ones fit 3 people max and for the inner city. They are cheaper but you absolutely have to make sure they reset the meter as they try to make an extra Dirham whenever possible. The white taxis fit 6 and go in general directions, for example out to the beach or to the city. They also differ in the fact that they are per person and will stop to pick up people until they get 6. So you could make tons of new friends on the way! We had to take a red taxi to the white taxi station to then make our way to Dar Bouzza. We had 7 of us so we fit in and headed out. Jack Beach is where the surf school is and it was really easy to get to. We got there and as I was feeling better we all got suited up (wetsuits are needed so the salt water doesn't cause too much friction with the boards). The couple of guys who own the surf school are really cool, they have competed internationally and are part of the Surf Europe Initiative. They taught us how to stand up while still on land as it's much harder in water. Then we went for a jog which must have been a sight for the Moroccans enjoying the day at the beach. Imagine 10 americans in wet suits jogging past you waving their arms as they stretch. Awesome.
Now here is what I learned: when you watch movies like Blue Crush, it makes surfing look so easy. Not. True. At. All. At least when you are a beginner. We might have seen 1 minute of standing time together as a group. But it will be great to learn more and it seems as though the more we practice the easier it gets. I lasted only half the time as I was still dehydrated so I sat and took some photos. There was lots of people watching to do so I stayed entertained. Afterwards we stayed for a couple hours and hung out, played around in the waves. We made our way back and it was only around 3. A great morning. Afterwards I seriously just crashed and relaxed. Listened to music, read, watched lots of great pirated movies that were left for us. (they don't sell real ones here, I promise). But in other words the perfect Saturday to end a crazy week.
Life will slow down soon and we will get into routines. But I hope that surfing saturdays stay a part of my routine as it's amazing and a great workout. And its fun to have a community of us learning something new in our new home.
During the school days we have attended many meetings that take up our time and the teachers have been preparing their classrooms. For the interns however there isn't much to do until the returning staff arrives so that we can meet our departments and start figuring out our schedules. So during those slots of time we have found different things to do aka reading outside or bugging friends. I have tried to help here and there but being new it's not as though I know where anything is to get.
On Thursday Night we finally had couscous (EXCITING!!) We were invited over to the Director's house for a proper couscous dinner, which if they saw how we eat it back in the States they would be horrified here! You sit around round tables and they prepare huge dishes of couscous with lots of vegetables and meat placed on top. Huge amounts of food. Then you clean your hands and dig in. Literally. You use the vegetables and meat to clump the couscous around and mush it in your hands until you get a round ball. Then you get to eat it! Lots of work but well worth it. Let's just say my couscous skills are severly underdeveloped as of right now and I did more of a scoop and eat deal.
Friday was a long day at school followed by a nice night they planned as the end of orientation week. Most of the returning staff has arrived and so a couple hosted a happy hour on their amazing balcony! (Seriously this balcony could have fit at least 50 people) We got to mingle and I met all of my department which was great. They are all super cool and laid back which helps considering I am coming from one of the best departments around at Chap! Speaking of this world is a lot smaller than you think. The English Department Head actually taught at Chaparral before coming here which is awesome because his wife and him will talk Colorado with me when I need someone to understand where Turquoise Lake is or Casa Bonita.
After that we went to a nice restaurant named India Palace for Ftour dinner. It was a beautiful dinner and we had amazing Indian food. And lots of wine. Afterwards we all headed home as it was an exhausting week. However my body had something else in mind. I got rather sick that night and had to battle a fever and stomach issues for hours. When I got up on Saturday I felt pretty dehydrated but I wanted to go to the beach with everyone else even if I didn't surf. So I trekked to the meeting point with plenty of water on hand as well as medicine.
So to get around in Casablanca there are two types of taxis : red and white. The red ones fit 3 people max and for the inner city. They are cheaper but you absolutely have to make sure they reset the meter as they try to make an extra Dirham whenever possible. The white taxis fit 6 and go in general directions, for example out to the beach or to the city. They also differ in the fact that they are per person and will stop to pick up people until they get 6. So you could make tons of new friends on the way! We had to take a red taxi to the white taxi station to then make our way to Dar Bouzza. We had 7 of us so we fit in and headed out. Jack Beach is where the surf school is and it was really easy to get to. We got there and as I was feeling better we all got suited up (wetsuits are needed so the salt water doesn't cause too much friction with the boards). The couple of guys who own the surf school are really cool, they have competed internationally and are part of the Surf Europe Initiative. They taught us how to stand up while still on land as it's much harder in water. Then we went for a jog which must have been a sight for the Moroccans enjoying the day at the beach. Imagine 10 americans in wet suits jogging past you waving their arms as they stretch. Awesome.
Now here is what I learned: when you watch movies like Blue Crush, it makes surfing look so easy. Not. True. At. All. At least when you are a beginner. We might have seen 1 minute of standing time together as a group. But it will be great to learn more and it seems as though the more we practice the easier it gets. I lasted only half the time as I was still dehydrated so I sat and took some photos. There was lots of people watching to do so I stayed entertained. Afterwards we stayed for a couple hours and hung out, played around in the waves. We made our way back and it was only around 3. A great morning. Afterwards I seriously just crashed and relaxed. Listened to music, read, watched lots of great pirated movies that were left for us. (they don't sell real ones here, I promise). But in other words the perfect Saturday to end a crazy week.
Life will slow down soon and we will get into routines. But I hope that surfing saturdays stay a part of my routine as it's amazing and a great workout. And its fun to have a community of us learning something new in our new home.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Umshala aka the Waiting Game
"All good things come to he who waits"..... Ancient proverb, right? Well I think that the wise man who is quoted daily for this piece of wisdom must have lived in Morocco. As Americans we tend to live a very fast pace life and we rarely slow down unless it's for a vacation. Therefore one of the hardest parts of living in Morocco is learning the art of patience. There is a word in Arabic that is probably the most common word to hear, even above hello. ENSHALA. Probably not spelled correctly as it should be in Arabic, but that is exactly what it sounds like. The translation loosely means "God willing" or "if God wants it to happen". But Moroccans tend to use it as their own get out of jail free card. And that means we have already picked it up after being in the country for 5 days.
As we get settled into our apartments and classrooms there is much patience required. Things are happening at a slow rate (1) because it's Ramadan, (2) just because. For example I just received the keys for my apartment. Today. Which means I have had to plague my roommate and call her constantly to see if she is home to let me in. For someone who is as independent as me that is sooo frustrating because I like to come and go without worrying that the hall will become my residence until my roomie comes to the rescue.
But I am here to experience the culture, and Enshala is right up there. I need to learn the art of patience because if not I think you would fly home in a straight jacket. But Enshala is a hilarious concept simply because there is not a single subject it doesn't work for. You get in a taxi and ask to go to the market and the driver simply replies Enshala. Does that mean if God wants us to (A) arrive (B) arrive safely which considering the driving here is a miracle (C) if the driver actually wants to drive all the way to the destination or (D) because the driver then can't be held responsible for anything. Women say enshala for pregnancies. Teachers say enshala when trying to find alcohol during Ramadan. Same thing.
Which brings me to the most awesome adventure we have had lately. Yesterday we set out on a mission to find some beer to stock our fridges with. In the States, no problem. In a Muslim culture during Ramadan, well let's just say your more likely to be on time somewhere and thats saying something. There is a large Walmartesque store named Marjane, and they have a liquor section. We had heard a story that if you flash your American passport they will lift a black curtain and allow you to stuff your contraband into black bags for a walk of shame home. Morocco is one of the most contemporary and lax Muslim communities. Technically Muslims aren't supposed to drink period. But like most things here that is a guideline. So Muslims just refrain from drinking for Ramadan. But Americans still need to drink especially when their power gets cut off right? So we went and found a guy willing to "Lift the curtain". Our new friend Irina who is married to a Moroccan helped with the French and we were able to ascertain some wine. But waiting for her to ask man after man if they could allow us was worse than being an underage kid thinking they are going to get caught buying with a fake id. Not that I ever did that.
We are now getting used to the schedule of Ramadan as well as the hectic pace we have going at the school. We have lots of meetings, bus rides that take forever, and trips to cultural places. We went to the Grand Mosque, the third largest in the world and it was amazing. It was built in 6 years by men who worked 7 days a week 24 hours a day. But you can definitely tell its new because you will never guess.... the 100 ton ceiling retracts like a sports arena Thunderdome. No joke.
We also experienced the Hobous which is a local market where you can buy lots of local products. The most amazing section: the olives. Although I'm not a fan of the little guys personally, when you see hundreds of thousands of them in barrel after barrel, in every color and taste you have to admire the asthetic beauty. And the stomachs of Moroccons.
We have been slowly exploring and setting up our life. And as I delve further into this country I continue to love new parts. The mix of languages, cultures, religion, beauty. And I continue to make personal goals such as obtaining one of the hardest qualities: patience. Life will come to be normal and my pace will slow down. Until then, well lets just go with ENSHALA.
As we get settled into our apartments and classrooms there is much patience required. Things are happening at a slow rate (1) because it's Ramadan, (2) just because. For example I just received the keys for my apartment. Today. Which means I have had to plague my roommate and call her constantly to see if she is home to let me in. For someone who is as independent as me that is sooo frustrating because I like to come and go without worrying that the hall will become my residence until my roomie comes to the rescue.
But I am here to experience the culture, and Enshala is right up there. I need to learn the art of patience because if not I think you would fly home in a straight jacket. But Enshala is a hilarious concept simply because there is not a single subject it doesn't work for. You get in a taxi and ask to go to the market and the driver simply replies Enshala. Does that mean if God wants us to (A) arrive (B) arrive safely which considering the driving here is a miracle (C) if the driver actually wants to drive all the way to the destination or (D) because the driver then can't be held responsible for anything. Women say enshala for pregnancies. Teachers say enshala when trying to find alcohol during Ramadan. Same thing.
Which brings me to the most awesome adventure we have had lately. Yesterday we set out on a mission to find some beer to stock our fridges with. In the States, no problem. In a Muslim culture during Ramadan, well let's just say your more likely to be on time somewhere and thats saying something. There is a large Walmartesque store named Marjane, and they have a liquor section. We had heard a story that if you flash your American passport they will lift a black curtain and allow you to stuff your contraband into black bags for a walk of shame home. Morocco is one of the most contemporary and lax Muslim communities. Technically Muslims aren't supposed to drink period. But like most things here that is a guideline. So Muslims just refrain from drinking for Ramadan. But Americans still need to drink especially when their power gets cut off right? So we went and found a guy willing to "Lift the curtain". Our new friend Irina who is married to a Moroccan helped with the French and we were able to ascertain some wine. But waiting for her to ask man after man if they could allow us was worse than being an underage kid thinking they are going to get caught buying with a fake id. Not that I ever did that.
We are now getting used to the schedule of Ramadan as well as the hectic pace we have going at the school. We have lots of meetings, bus rides that take forever, and trips to cultural places. We went to the Grand Mosque, the third largest in the world and it was amazing. It was built in 6 years by men who worked 7 days a week 24 hours a day. But you can definitely tell its new because you will never guess.... the 100 ton ceiling retracts like a sports arena Thunderdome. No joke.
We also experienced the Hobous which is a local market where you can buy lots of local products. The most amazing section: the olives. Although I'm not a fan of the little guys personally, when you see hundreds of thousands of them in barrel after barrel, in every color and taste you have to admire the asthetic beauty. And the stomachs of Moroccons.
We have been slowly exploring and setting up our life. And as I delve further into this country I continue to love new parts. The mix of languages, cultures, religion, beauty. And I continue to make personal goals such as obtaining one of the hardest qualities: patience. Life will come to be normal and my pace will slow down. Until then, well lets just go with ENSHALA.
Monday, August 16, 2010
Houston, We have Arrival!!!
So I have made it to my home! After 2 days of travel and some mix up with my baggage, I have never been happier to set up and explore.
I have met the other new staff, all of whom are awesome and super fun to explore with. Yesterday we were picked up from the airport and made our way to what is called the Bluebird. It is the school bus we will be taking from our apartments to school and back everyday. Let me just say that I got stuck in the back on one of the trips and it made me very sore and could potentially be dangerous to my health. From the airport we divided into smaller cars so we could be dropped at home, so I went with the Director of the school. Immediately after we left the airport, he was pulled over by the police. Being pulled over in the states you think flashing lights in your rear view mirror. Not so much here. The police hide in the median and gun your speed, then step out in front of your "speeding vehicle" in hopes that you stop. Sounds somewhat dangerous to be a policeman. Our director didn't get in trouble, but it was a hilarious experience to have. I was dropped at my apartment which is a 3 bedroom with a large kitchen and living room. I found a room and waited for my luggage to be dropped off, only to never receive it. So when the bus picked us up I was still in the same clothes of 2 days... ew
We had a walking tour of the school which is very nice and WARM. There is no air conditioning in Morocco so this will be interesting for a girl used to no humidity and cooled houses. As we were touring I did find my luggage, which the workers had taken there as they didn't know where I lived? Oh well at least I could change!! We had a nice barbeque/meet and greet at the director's house and ate some great food, unfortuntely no couscous yet. I think I was misunderstood at how much they eat couscous here. Sad day.
As I had a nap earlier, I was rearing to go by the time we got back to our apartments, so I met one of the other interns Aaron at the local Twin Towers (I will take a picture soon) to walk around. So I have learned tons about this culture in the past 2 days. First, Ramadan runs things for a month and turns the city upside down. Ramadan is a religious experience for the Muslim culture where they fast from sunup to sundown until the prayer is sounded and they can participate in Ftour. It is a time of intense dedication to their religion, and so they can identify with the less fortunate that they will donate to at the end of Ramadan. This means that at around 5, the shops close, everyone goes home increasing the crazy traffic, and the streets are abandoned by 7:20 when they pray and break fast. They then eat for HOURS!! As we walked around people were starting to come out after their first meal of Ftour, and the city came alive. Restaurants that were closed all day brim with people, and stores are open for lots of shopping to be done. We sat on Aaron's patio (since I am one of the only people without a balcony ) and watched the city. I got to people watch the family down below as they ate several meals and enjoyed each other's company until at least past 1.
As we sat outside and enjoyed some nice cold barley pops which Aaron's parents had left for him before they moved from Casa, I experienced just how much things change for Ramadan. We suddenly heard enormous cheers from the direction of the football stadium. We didn't really think anything of it, almost wondering if it had to do with Ramadan. But by the end of the night we realized they had a football match at midnight!!! Afterwards there was a parade for the victor and enormous cheers. I have never seen so much passion for a sport so late at night. It was amazing, and I fully intend to attend one of this night games soon.
We walked back to my apartment around 1:30 and the city was amazingly awake. So many women were out walking around with friends as they had been cooking inside all day for Ftour. I was in awe, I think Casa during Ramadan is serious competition for Vegas, minus the alcohol.
Today we had a meeting at school and then went to the Walmart of Casa: Marjane shopping center. We had to get local cell phones to communicate with each other because it is seriously hard to plan anything without them. The previous night we had to set a time and meeting place and hope to find each other as we didn't know exactly how to get to each other's apartments. They are spread around the center of the city (the Twin Towers next to where I live). We didn't have time for much else as the cell phone place took so long, but I am now in connection with the world as I have a local cell phone and internet!! I have a USB internet that I pay for every two months. It is unlimited minutes of internet which is awesome as I remember paying way too much for internet in South Africa.
Tonight we had a walking tour of our neighboorhoods so we figured out how to get to each other's houses, the grocery store, etc. I am located in the best location for all places, as they most I walk to get to someone's house is 10 minutes, and the grocery store is a block away. That is important as we don't have cars to get groceries from Point A to B. I am currently waiting while everyone has Ftour so we can go out and get dinner and walk around this wonderful night city. I have a feeling I won't be sleeping early any night soon. There is just so much to see before school starts and we actually have work to do.
Tomorrow we are going to the Grand Mosque so I need my most conservative clothes. We will be able to take pictures so I will take some of the Mosque, my apartment and neighborhood. I am really liking it here, and I am getting used to the culture. It is wierd to deal with the extreme double standards for women, such as me covering up with a scarf but some guy dropping trousers right in front of me to pee in the busiest street downtown. Interesting. But I think that it is a great experience to live in such a different place and see a new world.
I have met the other new staff, all of whom are awesome and super fun to explore with. Yesterday we were picked up from the airport and made our way to what is called the Bluebird. It is the school bus we will be taking from our apartments to school and back everyday. Let me just say that I got stuck in the back on one of the trips and it made me very sore and could potentially be dangerous to my health. From the airport we divided into smaller cars so we could be dropped at home, so I went with the Director of the school. Immediately after we left the airport, he was pulled over by the police. Being pulled over in the states you think flashing lights in your rear view mirror. Not so much here. The police hide in the median and gun your speed, then step out in front of your "speeding vehicle" in hopes that you stop. Sounds somewhat dangerous to be a policeman. Our director didn't get in trouble, but it was a hilarious experience to have. I was dropped at my apartment which is a 3 bedroom with a large kitchen and living room. I found a room and waited for my luggage to be dropped off, only to never receive it. So when the bus picked us up I was still in the same clothes of 2 days... ew
We had a walking tour of the school which is very nice and WARM. There is no air conditioning in Morocco so this will be interesting for a girl used to no humidity and cooled houses. As we were touring I did find my luggage, which the workers had taken there as they didn't know where I lived? Oh well at least I could change!! We had a nice barbeque/meet and greet at the director's house and ate some great food, unfortuntely no couscous yet. I think I was misunderstood at how much they eat couscous here. Sad day.
As I had a nap earlier, I was rearing to go by the time we got back to our apartments, so I met one of the other interns Aaron at the local Twin Towers (I will take a picture soon) to walk around. So I have learned tons about this culture in the past 2 days. First, Ramadan runs things for a month and turns the city upside down. Ramadan is a religious experience for the Muslim culture where they fast from sunup to sundown until the prayer is sounded and they can participate in Ftour. It is a time of intense dedication to their religion, and so they can identify with the less fortunate that they will donate to at the end of Ramadan. This means that at around 5, the shops close, everyone goes home increasing the crazy traffic, and the streets are abandoned by 7:20 when they pray and break fast. They then eat for HOURS!! As we walked around people were starting to come out after their first meal of Ftour, and the city came alive. Restaurants that were closed all day brim with people, and stores are open for lots of shopping to be done. We sat on Aaron's patio (since I am one of the only people without a balcony ) and watched the city. I got to people watch the family down below as they ate several meals and enjoyed each other's company until at least past 1.
As we sat outside and enjoyed some nice cold barley pops which Aaron's parents had left for him before they moved from Casa, I experienced just how much things change for Ramadan. We suddenly heard enormous cheers from the direction of the football stadium. We didn't really think anything of it, almost wondering if it had to do with Ramadan. But by the end of the night we realized they had a football match at midnight!!! Afterwards there was a parade for the victor and enormous cheers. I have never seen so much passion for a sport so late at night. It was amazing, and I fully intend to attend one of this night games soon.
We walked back to my apartment around 1:30 and the city was amazingly awake. So many women were out walking around with friends as they had been cooking inside all day for Ftour. I was in awe, I think Casa during Ramadan is serious competition for Vegas, minus the alcohol.
Today we had a meeting at school and then went to the Walmart of Casa: Marjane shopping center. We had to get local cell phones to communicate with each other because it is seriously hard to plan anything without them. The previous night we had to set a time and meeting place and hope to find each other as we didn't know exactly how to get to each other's apartments. They are spread around the center of the city (the Twin Towers next to where I live). We didn't have time for much else as the cell phone place took so long, but I am now in connection with the world as I have a local cell phone and internet!! I have a USB internet that I pay for every two months. It is unlimited minutes of internet which is awesome as I remember paying way too much for internet in South Africa.
Tonight we had a walking tour of our neighboorhoods so we figured out how to get to each other's houses, the grocery store, etc. I am located in the best location for all places, as they most I walk to get to someone's house is 10 minutes, and the grocery store is a block away. That is important as we don't have cars to get groceries from Point A to B. I am currently waiting while everyone has Ftour so we can go out and get dinner and walk around this wonderful night city. I have a feeling I won't be sleeping early any night soon. There is just so much to see before school starts and we actually have work to do.
Tomorrow we are going to the Grand Mosque so I need my most conservative clothes. We will be able to take pictures so I will take some of the Mosque, my apartment and neighborhood. I am really liking it here, and I am getting used to the culture. It is wierd to deal with the extreme double standards for women, such as me covering up with a scarf but some guy dropping trousers right in front of me to pee in the busiest street downtown. Interesting. But I think that it is a great experience to live in such a different place and see a new world.
Monday, August 2, 2010
The Friends that make it all worth it...
So I am currently in the process of trying to put all of my stuff away from moving home from Fort Collins... just so I can pack some of it up again in a week. Time is flying by, and I can't decide whether I wish it would slow down or speed up. I got to say goodbye to all of my friends this last weekend, and I am so blessed to have them all in my life and to come wish me luck on the next part of it. As I hung out with friends from high school, freshman year of college through now, it made me wonder about life and how it seems that we fade in and out of people's lives. For instance, I am only friends with a select few people from high school, even though I seem to remember making lots of vain promises of staying close. Attribute this to the changes we have all gone through, some for the good, some bad; yet I can't help wondering if it is typical. Will I always have a different group of friends while others fade out? I hope not. My fear in moving away is that I won't be a factor in my friends lives anymore, that I will fade as a ghost from the past.
I know there will always be certain people that will stay in my life, even if simply through email. They are the ones that deal with my problems and listen to my stressed ranting, yet stick around. It's amazing how when you change as a person, so few people stay constant in your life. I know that I will make new friends, who I will probably be very close with as you tend to be when away from everything you know.
All I do know is that I have had some amazing people attribute to the person I am so far. Hanging out with some of them on Friday just gave me a chance to reflect on all the amazing times and memories. It seems just yesterday that I was hanging out on a soccer field, joking around with Kristen and Katie about our own personal jokes. Or just yesterday that I moved into my dorm at CSU and got to know the great girls that would be my friends through college. Or starting my job at Miramont and meeting the crazy girls who are my closest friends. I know that in ten years, I will look back on my leaving for Morocco as a memory, whether I am living somewhere else or back here in CO.
Yes, I am blessed in the friends I have. I am so excited to see where their lives take them just as mine is taking my thousands of miles away. I know that they could be so many things; a fashion consultant, an amazing teacher, nutritionist, genetic counselor, business owner, etc. They will all find their passion as I have mine, and I know that I will continue to be proud of them.
Friends make it hard to say goodbye, but I know that we will still have our memories, as well as new ones to come.
I know there will always be certain people that will stay in my life, even if simply through email. They are the ones that deal with my problems and listen to my stressed ranting, yet stick around. It's amazing how when you change as a person, so few people stay constant in your life. I know that I will make new friends, who I will probably be very close with as you tend to be when away from everything you know.
All I do know is that I have had some amazing people attribute to the person I am so far. Hanging out with some of them on Friday just gave me a chance to reflect on all the amazing times and memories. It seems just yesterday that I was hanging out on a soccer field, joking around with Kristen and Katie about our own personal jokes. Or just yesterday that I moved into my dorm at CSU and got to know the great girls that would be my friends through college. Or starting my job at Miramont and meeting the crazy girls who are my closest friends. I know that in ten years, I will look back on my leaving for Morocco as a memory, whether I am living somewhere else or back here in CO.
Yes, I am blessed in the friends I have. I am so excited to see where their lives take them just as mine is taking my thousands of miles away. I know that they could be so many things; a fashion consultant, an amazing teacher, nutritionist, genetic counselor, business owner, etc. They will all find their passion as I have mine, and I know that I will continue to be proud of them.
Friends make it hard to say goodbye, but I know that we will still have our memories, as well as new ones to come.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Trouble Sleeping
When you are about to pack up your life and take off for who knows how long, life suddenly seems to be something you handle with care. I seem to wake up every morning wondering what new adventure will come my way and what memories I will create to take with me when I'm homesick. I guess I am just evaluating life a little too much. I keep thinking a thousand things such as ... Am I running away because I haven't found what I'm looking for here? Am I going to come back in a year, or will I fall in love with the world? What will I do on my vacations? Will I travel all over Europe to make up for the fact that this will be my first Christmas without my family? God, I sound as though I am homesick all ready and here I am still in Colorado. I wish I could stop my constant thinking already.
Lately I have had severe trouble sleeping. Reasons?? One is probably the creepy house I live in, true. But the significant reason? I think that even though I act as though I am not nervous, my subconcious is taking over at night and freaking out. Its making me have tons of crazy dreams and night terrors. I think its a sign that I need to somehow center myself and just calm down. Or that I'm not doing enough thinking in the daytime. Should I listen? Probably, but I refuse to spend my next month acting as though I'm already gone.
When it comes down to it, I thought that keeping myself extremely busy would be a way for me to avoid all the thinking, but here it is bombarding me in my sleep and when I'm awake. I keep trying to tell myself... Just let it all happen. Thats what life is. Hopefully my mind will start listening to me when I fall asleep. If not I'm going to be one extremely tired American arriving in my new life.
Lately I have had severe trouble sleeping. Reasons?? One is probably the creepy house I live in, true. But the significant reason? I think that even though I act as though I am not nervous, my subconcious is taking over at night and freaking out. Its making me have tons of crazy dreams and night terrors. I think its a sign that I need to somehow center myself and just calm down. Or that I'm not doing enough thinking in the daytime. Should I listen? Probably, but I refuse to spend my next month acting as though I'm already gone.
When it comes down to it, I thought that keeping myself extremely busy would be a way for me to avoid all the thinking, but here it is bombarding me in my sleep and when I'm awake. I keep trying to tell myself... Just let it all happen. Thats what life is. Hopefully my mind will start listening to me when I fall asleep. If not I'm going to be one extremely tired American arriving in my new life.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
The summer TODO list??? Preparation Begins
It's official. I just had my plane ticket booked for August 14th. And even though that seems rather far away, I am realizing how fast this summer is going to fly by. It is already June and everyday is packed full of work and other activities that ensure that I am not home before 9 at night. I know that every summer is busy, but I think that since I have so much to do, time has conspired against me to go even faster.
I got the list of texts and curriculum that I will be working with next year and let's just say I have a lot of reading to do! Here are some of the titles:
1. Catcher in the Rye (definitely one of my least favorite books so I might have to read it again this summer to see if there is anything new and endearing that I can possibly find about Holden Caulfield and his whiny narrative)
2. The Great Gatsby - one of my favs and thankfully I have read this enough to reenact Daisy running Myrtle over with the car (which we actually did in E402 the movie is on youtube and is hilarious)
3. The Odyssey- this is for my 11th grade class which is amazing since I just taught it this last semester to my freshmen!
4. Macbeth- read it in Shakespeare I but don't remember much so this is on the todo list
5. Antigone- My summer will be dedicated to the old and classic apparently!
6. The Stranger- haven't read, I know it's a crime, but the worse crime??? THE LIBRARY DOESN"T EVEN OWN IT
7. The Story of Zahra- haven't even heard of it so Amazon here I come
8. Othello- Awesome
9. Heart of Darkness
10. Leo Africanus- another title I haven't even heard of.
11. The Handmaid's Tale
12. Catch 22- I'm excited to read this one!
13. The Things They Carried- I have been waiting to have time to read this for forever, so there is no better time than the present!
This is only part of my todo this summer! I am also working with my trusty sidekick named Rosetta Stone to learn French and it is going to take me all summer. It's a really cool program, I just don't really have the time so I usually end up learning my sentences such as "un garcon mange une pomme" (The boy eats the apple) at 10 o clock at night.
I just need to remember this: Who knows when, or if I will ever have a summer in Fort Collins again. Therefore, I need to get my obligations done of course, but also I need to enjoy the beautiful weather and company of my friends. I don't want to look back and realize that I sat inside talking to a computer instead of having an awesome summer creating great memories with everyone. So my number 1 on todo list??? Love the life I am living right now, because there will be plenty of time to practice my French while sitting in cafes drinking "du cafe" in Casablanca, and plenty of time to read while flying there!
I got the list of texts and curriculum that I will be working with next year and let's just say I have a lot of reading to do! Here are some of the titles:
1. Catcher in the Rye (definitely one of my least favorite books so I might have to read it again this summer to see if there is anything new and endearing that I can possibly find about Holden Caulfield and his whiny narrative)
2. The Great Gatsby - one of my favs and thankfully I have read this enough to reenact Daisy running Myrtle over with the car (which we actually did in E402 the movie is on youtube and is hilarious)
3. The Odyssey- this is for my 11th grade class which is amazing since I just taught it this last semester to my freshmen!
4. Macbeth- read it in Shakespeare I but don't remember much so this is on the todo list
5. Antigone- My summer will be dedicated to the old and classic apparently!
6. The Stranger- haven't read, I know it's a crime, but the worse crime??? THE LIBRARY DOESN"T EVEN OWN IT
7. The Story of Zahra- haven't even heard of it so Amazon here I come
8. Othello- Awesome
9. Heart of Darkness
10. Leo Africanus- another title I haven't even heard of.
11. The Handmaid's Tale
12. Catch 22- I'm excited to read this one!
13. The Things They Carried- I have been waiting to have time to read this for forever, so there is no better time than the present!
This is only part of my todo this summer! I am also working with my trusty sidekick named Rosetta Stone to learn French and it is going to take me all summer. It's a really cool program, I just don't really have the time so I usually end up learning my sentences such as "un garcon mange une pomme" (The boy eats the apple) at 10 o clock at night.
I just need to remember this: Who knows when, or if I will ever have a summer in Fort Collins again. Therefore, I need to get my obligations done of course, but also I need to enjoy the beautiful weather and company of my friends. I don't want to look back and realize that I sat inside talking to a computer instead of having an awesome summer creating great memories with everyone. So my number 1 on todo list??? Love the life I am living right now, because there will be plenty of time to practice my French while sitting in cafes drinking "du cafe" in Casablanca, and plenty of time to read while flying there!
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