25th Birthday

Yesterday I turned 25. Halfway to 50. Or so I'm sure Jenny, my college roommate, would have told me if she were here. I was hankering the most delicious cake that my mom ever made (coffee, apples, yummmy), or perhaps to just be at home with my family. But, my friends gave me a very good birthday celebration here as well, and made me feel very loved. It also worked out that Colin's birthday card arrived just on my birthday and that a friend's recently published book arrived Monday as well, in both English and Spanish. And, though it's perhaps not in good taste to talk about presents, I got the coolest pen ever. You know how in the novels and in the "olden days" they wrote with ink and quill pens? Well, apparently some places still do (Germany) and now in my house I will too. Thanks Isma!

A Year Older

This seems to be the week of birthdays. From last Saturday until the present, everyone seems to be getting older. Although we age gradually every day, every minute, and perhaps even every fleeting second, time only stops once a year to remind us that we are now officially 365 days older.

This year the powers that be have broken the sacred tradition of only aging on one's birthday to remind me two weeks early. Last night some friends got together to play arcade games, celebrating the twins' birthdays with food, silliness, and presents.

Presents is the important part now, since it is in this tradition that my birthday intersects with theirs. Laura opened her gift first. Tamy squirmed and tried to help her open it a bit faster, which only succeeded in causing Laura to tear the paper exaggeratedly and agonizingly slowly. It was a hard drive, though the look on her face said, "What in the world is this?" Next, Ester opened her gift, a large heavy rectangular package. Once the gift was unwrapped, she looked up at us with surprise. A Spanish cookbook? "Do I really cook that bad?" she asked. Isma turned red. Guille started laughing. Apologies began to flow. I looked confused. Wrong gift? Isma took the book out of her hands and gave it to me. "Happy Birthday!" he said abashedly. I just had to laugh. Poor Ester! I suppose she'll get her gift Sunday, whereas I've received my own two weeks early. I think that Isma will survive the humiliation and shame. I hope.

My Little Room

Like the view from my little room? It's a subway clinic (whatever that is). Well, stop looking out the window and look around inside!

This is the view I normally have when we start class.

"Good morning class! How are you?"
"I'm fine thank you, and you?"
"Our weather person today is..."

One of my favorite parts of the classroom is the computers. I love them because:

1. They allow the kids to listen to phonics and practice reading.
2. They are very motivating.
3. They give me an even smaller class size.
4. I can show videos in class.

Come stop by the next time you're in Madrid!
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Thievery

I figure out at the end of last week why it seemed that I hadn't been paid this month yet. Good news: I'd been paid. Bad news: some sneaky bugger was siphoning funds out of my bank account. I'm not certain who or how, but I have a sneaking suspicion that a trip to the kitchen with my card at a well known American restaurant (but here in Madrid) allowed some waitress or waiter to copy my card number, plus the security numbers on the back.

I blocked the card Friday, went to the police station the same day with Isma and Tamy, and went back myself Saturday morning since I was missing some documentation. Tomorrow morning I'll go to the bank to file my claim. In a few month I should have my savings back, so I'm not too stressed out anymore. Though you know, I didn't actually get angry. People at work wondered at me, how I could tell the story with a smile on my face. Hmmm. Strange American (or strange me) I suppose.

Don't worry, they took quite a bit, but I had withdrawn from the bank just before blocking my card, so I have money and they didn't empty the account (though they probably would have if I hadn't caught it). So all will be well soon.

And it fits!

A couple of weeks ago I got my engagement ring back from the jewelers (after two size changes it finally fits my tiny finger). Did you know that I have pretty much the same size fingers as my Grandma Vance did? And, I begged Isma to take out his nifty super camera and take some pictures. Here they are:

Weekend in Castellón

Back in September, Isma's family, plus two extra girls, went to Valencia for a weekend to bid farewell to summer at the beach. I suppose that those extra girls, myself and Laura, would more formerly be called girlfriends. We all had a great time...so much so that we didn't touch the camera at the beach. Ah, that explains the lack of photos! We were much too busy swimming, throwing each other in the air, burying each other in the sand, and visiting with their old friends.

For me the highlights were the "women" times in the kitchen with Elena and Laura, tasting Paco's sangria and eating cheese and toasted bread soaked with tomato and ham on top, visiting Regina's orange grove, sketching in the mornings and at the beach, playing padel, and playing in the waves.

Here's some pictures of the trip.

Castellón: Torre Nostra

New Most Delicious Things Ever

No joke. It was like the most delicious thing ever.

Ok, I'm done channeling my cousin Shannon now. :P

Saturday night Isma and I went out to eat and for dessert we shared a cup of panna cotta with wild berries. It's light custard/yogurt-like goodness. Wonderfully amazing. You should try it!

Greek yoghurt panna cotta in blackberry sauce. Photo courtesy of Stu Spivack

Source: http://flickr.com/photos/stuart_spivack/84610490/

Rain Day

Today is the start of a four day weekend for me...so how did I spend it? Doing laundry and then off to Isma's house to eat with his family (aka not cooking myself), lay on the bed and play a game, watch Isma and Guille play flight simulator, and basically do nothing. Did I mention that it's been raining all day? That perhaps explains it. Rain makes for lazy people.

Around 7 Isma and I woke up out of our lethargy and went to buy paddles to play Pádel. Or paddle? Or padel tennis? Anyway, it's like tennis but on a smaller court, with raquets that are more like bats, and the balls are depressurized tennis balls. It's exciting thinking about starting a new activity together. We spent half of dinnertime thinking about who could or would want to come play with us. Hopefully it will stop raining next week and we can try out our new paddles!

If you're curious, here's a link about it: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Padel_tennis .

And here's some pictures of us playing in Torre Nostra:



We're not too good at it, and I uploaded the only picture in which I don't have silly looking form, but let's see how this goes!

What's your name?

His name is Juan, my name is Erica and DON'T YOU FORGET IT.

That's the rhyme I'm teaching the second graders, but I'm still forgetting!
This Monday started the first week with my classes instead of initial evaluations of the kids and preparation, like I was doing before. Twelve kids at a time line up and file into my tiny classroom to play games, get yelled at for talking out of turn, and listen to phonics on the computer. This week also begins an overwhelming endeavor: learning over 200 names. As my mom said, I think that seating charts are in order. Not to control the kids...but to control where the names sit! (Sara is in the right corner...ok...) I was smart and had the third graders make name tags. Hopefully I'll memorize their names quickly and will be able to disuse of the labels.

I have also discovered that I need to give the kids lessons in using the computer, following directions, and being nice. Let's see how I do that all in English for Spanish speakers. I am very proud of myself, though. I have not used Spanish with the 1st, 2nd, or 3rd graders one bit. Yay!

New Job

A week ago Monday I had two interviews, one for a school that wanted a preschool English teacher, and one who wanted a conversation teacher for 1st-3rd graders. I got the job from the second interview, and started Monday at the school. I'm very happy with the situation.

And so begins again the daily commute beginning before the sun rises. This year the commute is much better, though. I listen to sermons, books, or music on the i pod on the bus, and then two more subway stops until Porvenir, the school. The first day I was so confused, but the teachers and other staff were very friendly and helpful. At lunchtime I found the cafeteria (goal #15 accomplished!!), but couldn't find the food. Imagine being faint with hunger, seeing a room full of teachers eating good smelling food, and no fount of said food in sight! So, I decided to solve the problem by forgetting my language skills of any sort, staring, and then asking, "¿Qué hago?" (What do i do?) I couldn't have asked...where do we pick up the trays? -or- Could someone show me where lunch is served? Instead of my caveman sounding question. Oh well. I survived. And even had someone to talk to during lunch (shouting over our echo off the concrete walls). After lunch I found the bathrooms (goal #2). After lunchtime I filled my water bottle at the same newly found bathroom, trying to end the huge headache I'd gotten by lunchtime probably from dehydration (perhaps stress too). Filling water bottle (goal #4).

By today I had a rough schedule of my classes. I will be seeing each 1st-3rd grader once a week. I'll start teaching in a couple weeks. Up till now I've gotten some keys, rearranged the desks, put up posters, cut out a bazillion visuals, read through the kids' text books, made copies, and done recess duty.

I'll keep you posted...things will pick up more when the kids start coming to my class closer to October.

Isma Comes Again

Actually, it's the same visit from August, but I wanted to post the pictures now, rather late. Notice: Isma had the camera most of the time. But I did sneak a few shots of him! Thanks Linda and Sonny for letting us stay at your house...we had a wonderful time!

Summer with Isma

Visit from Panama

Around the middle of August, I got the opportunity to spend a few days with my friend Arielle, who was in the country to visit family and go to a friend's wedding in Arkansas. Such fun! We went to the Cuban sandwich shop with Isma, wherein I embarrassed myself by failing to understand a word of Spanish (and how is it that I've lived in Spain two years??). Later, we played Bananagrams with Sandy and the rest of the girls and Isma took a look at their computer (qué majo, no?).

The pictures I have are from the weekend that Laurel and Arielle came up to the lake, the week before Isma came to visit. We beat ourselves up on the tubes, swam, played...of course...bananagrams, and generally had a good time. I've posted some pictures of us being lazy and of the awesome sunset that evening, if you follow the link below.

Arielle Visit

Bananagrams

It's like banana phone (the song is playing in my head), but without real bananas and very fun to play. Coolest game for word lovers! We found the game a couple years ago, courtesy of some friends (thank you Marti!!!). I'm so excited, I even have a post-game picture from this summer!

Rewind

Rewind back to July...and I'm posting the photos I took from the Collins' family reunion now. Mostly people shots...I tend not to take pictures when I'm swimming, in the canoe, sailing, biking, or biking. I leave those pictures to those staying behind. :) I do wish I had that photo with the running trophy, though. Hmmm...guess it will have to do in Mom's album in Facebook.

Fourth of July 2010

Best Weekend Ever

August 1, I took Isma to visit downtown Chicago. We walked up and down Michigan Avenue, visiting Millenium Park, Buckingham Fountain, the John Hancock Center, the Water Tower, my favorite the Tribune building, and the Transformer's III set along the river. We were pretty excited about all of the foam destruction and overturned cars. The day wandered on pleasantly, even though we couldn't find a place to eat the salad and milk shake we both wanted. Strange cravings? Getting to wish the barista at the tea shop where we ate supper, "Happy Birthday!" met up for the lack of a cold chocolate milkshake.

At dusk we strolled down to the aquarium and planetarium to sit and look at the city skyline by night. The lights meandered down the coast for what seemed endless miles before disappearing into the fog and up to the skies on the tall buildings, which from so far away seemed to lose a little of their stature. After sitting and messing with the camera a bit, Isma suggested we stop playing and taking pictures. I wasn't too happy, but I supposed we could talk for a bit before heading back. Not his idea. He knelt, not paying attention to the concrete below, and asked me to marry him. If I would like to start going down a long road with him, referring to the longest highway in the US that goes through Chicago, starting that evening. I am so happy! (Yes, I said yes) It took me longer than my answer, though, to realize that he was still on his knees, on the cement stairs. Ouch.

I put a picture of the ring up for Grandmother and those female relatives of mine whom I'm sure would love to see it. If you're a guy...just ignore. :) We'll have to get it resized/replaced when I get back to Spain. If you wonder why, look at the picture of it on my finger! I really like it though, it is just like what I would have picked out. Plus, the guy is much much better.

El Sol

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El Sol

A la tierra ha susurrado
el sol se acaricia los
seres que bien arropados
en los pliegues de la tierra
con tranquilidad están durmiendo.
Las plantas bostezan y con
desgana andan hacia la voz.
El brillante sol sonríe a
los flores que con cuidado
miran el aire y florecen.

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chicagoland

Tomorrow I go to Chicago!! Isma flies in at 6 pm, and hopefully no one will mistake him for a terrorist or anything, and let him into the city. And so for the second time in a row I will be picking him up with one of my uncles (a different one this time) and taking him to a home not my own. Three things to be excited about, all at the same time. Isma is coming here, I'm spending the weekend in Chicago, and I get to see my cousins (cross fingers) and Aunt Linda and Uncle Sonny. That's like having your cake, eating it too, and then finding out that you won 1 million dollars. Perhaps not quite that dramatic, though. It's supposed to be hot, about 90 on Monday, so I hope we don't wilt! After making a few visits to people and walking through downtown, we'll be heading to Fort Wayne, and next weekend to Coldwater Lake before Isma has to leave.

Manyana voy a Chicago! Isma llega a las 6 de la tarde y con suerte nadie le confundira con un terrorista ni nada asi, dejandole entrar en la ciudad. Por la segunda vez (pues, es solo la segunda vez que Isma ha estado aqui con mi familia) voy a recogerle con uno de mis tios (uno diferente esta vez) y llevarle a una casa que no es mia. Tengo tres motivos por estar emocionada: viene Isma, voy a pasar el finde en Chicago y voy a ver a mis primos (espero) y Tia Linda y Tio Sonny. Es como tener todo lo que quieres y mas. Preveen que va a haber calor, como 33 el lunes, asi que espero que no marchitemos como flores! Despues de visitar algunas personas y andar por el centro, embarcamos para Fort Wayne y el fin de semana despues al lago Coldwater antes de que Isma tenga que irse.

Back from Outer Space

I feel like I've awakened from a month long hibernation. Not that I've been sleeping, doing nothing. I've been working a 5 day week at an adult "day care" (though I hate how that sounds), spending time with my family, helped translate and do VBS in Picaihua, Ecuador, ran in a 5K race (first in division...maybe I was the only 20-30 year old girl courageous enough to run it), and spent 4th of July with my mom's family at the lake. The hibernation I guess refers to responsibilities and my life in Spain, except for phone calls to Isma. But I've woken up now, back to the world, which is a good thing, and hopefully will make better use of the rest of my time back here in the states, without ignoring everyone back in Spain. It feels good to be grounded, back on Earth again. Now if only I can stay here.

This week is "Summer Camp" week at work, and so we're doing crafts and games reminiscent of camp back when everyone was a kid, drinking bug juice and eating hot dogs, singing camp fire songs over a fake campfire (unfortunately someone responsible nixed the real fire idea), and reminiscing about camp days long past. Today most of the clients are away at baseball game, our home team Tin Caps. The name comes from Johnny Appleseed, who's a pretty important man around here. I'm left with a few others to hold up the fort here. We'll see how the game went this afternoon. Take me out to the ball game, take me out to the park.....

Can't wait till Isma flies in to Chicago this Saturday!!
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Siento como si fuera un oso que acaba de despertar despues de hibernar durante un mes. No quiero decir que he estado durmiendo, haciendo nada. Trabajo 5 dias a la semana en un programa que acoge adultos discapacitados durante el dia (como se llama eso??), paso tiempo con mi familia, acabo ayudar interpretar/traducir y hacer una escuela biblica vacacional en Picaihua, Ecuador, corri en una carrera de 5K (y gane primera en mi division...quiza fui la unica chica de 20-30 anyos que tenia bastante coraje competir :P ), y pase el dia de Independencia con la familia de mi madre al lado del lago. Supongo que quiero referir, con eso de la hibernacion, a las responsabilidades y vida en Espanya, excepto las llamadas a Isma. Pero ahora me he despertado, he vuelto al mundo, lo cual esta muy bien, y espero utilizar mejor lo demas del tiempo que me queda aqui en EEUU sin ignorar todos en Espanya. Siente bien estar mas arraigado, estar con los pies en la tierra otra vez. Ahora, si tan solo puedo quedar aqui.

Esta semana es "Campamento de verano" en el trabajo, asi que estamos haciendo manualidades y juegos como los que hicimos en campamentos de ninyo, bebiendo "zumo de insectos" (si se llama asi) y comiendo perros calientes, cantando canciones sobre una fogota de papel (desafortunadamente alguien responsable denego la idea de una fogota de verdad), y compartiendo cuentos de campamentos pasados. Hoy la mayoria de los clientes estan en un partido de beisbol de los Tin Caps, el equipo de Fort Wayne. El nombre viene de Johnny Appleseed (Johnny Semilla de Manzana), quien era un hombre bastante importante por estas partes. Me he quedado aqui con unos pocos. Ya veremos como fue el partido.

No puedo esperar hasta que venga Isma el sabado!!

Goodbye Hello

Tomorrow I'm heading home for part of the summer. First on the agenda is to give everyone a big hug and a pet for Chula, my family's new puppy. A few days later I'll start working at Turnstone, filling in during my vacation for Zlata, whose daughter is having surgery. Then the fourth of July with the extended family and the 5K race. Then missions trip in Ecuador, doing programs with the kids and meeting the church in Ambato. Then the first week of August Isma comes to visit...and before long I'll be back in Spain. My prayer for this summer is to take advantage of every minute, seize every moment, to not think further into the past or into the future than is necessary, and to love the people I'm with and without. Hope the trip goes fast tomorrow!

Ruminations

Two and a half weeks till I head back to Indiana for most of the summer. Perhaps the warm bread, salad and lamb chops settling into my stomach is reminding me of home? Probably not. Isma is in Granada this weekend with his cousin, setting up a sound system for a tiny church. And I am here, thinking that I should go run to be able to participate with my family in the Coldwater Fourth of July 5K without keeling over. Better let that lunch digest first. I've been enjoying training for the run, increasing the amount I jog slowly but surely, trying to fit it in before work or after the heat of the day wanes. Running after work at 5 pm in 90 degree heat doesn't really work for me. One morning I woke up at 6 to go before work. Roll out of bed, pull on some shorts and a t-shirt, stretch, put on some sneakers, step outside...brrrr!!! Through the park, past the young man with his dog, over to the highway, past the horse. HORSE? Never seen it before, never seen it again. My theory is that the gypsies put it there to graze, being so early in the morning and a little remote that no one would be bothered. It's been cool here, so I've been able to do some midday jogs this week. Strange, and though I welcome the cool weather, I would not mind the sun peeking out. Cloudy skies make cloudy faces, and it's time to see some light.

Wedding

A few weekends ago I went to a coworker's, Aurora, wedding with Isma. It was a happy time! And short, as it was a civil ceremony (which was good because we were standing...and for Isma because weddings aren't so much a guy thing).




I couldn't resist having someone take a picture of us out of the windows of the hall the wedding was held in. It was in the Plaza Mayor.

Shame on Us

Today Isma, Miki, Guille, and I went to eat at Cañas and Tapas in the mall near church. Pretty good food...croquettes, eggs with potatoes and peppers, and potatoes covered with sauces...but the best part was the waiter. By far. He practically bounced up to the table, told us how we could make our order better (which we were glad for the suggestion, not on the menu), and did it all with so much cheer that I couldn't help smiling. Some people grump about on the job, and what do they receive? A reflection of their attitude...a cycle that leaves them exhausted and grumpy at the end of the day. Our waiter, on the other hand, exuded energy and we gave it back. At the end of the meal, he brought us our "multa" or fine to pay. It's not traditional to leave tips here, but I think we left him about 3 euros.

After eating, we went over to VIPs to split two large cups of strawberries with ice cream and cream cheese between the four of us. We felt so bad about not ordering dessert at the first restaurant (remember, one-of-a-kind waiter), that we slunk around the long way to sneak unseen into the second restaurant. In all the four of us ate in three restaurants for one meal (Guille and Miki grabbed 1 euro burgers at McDonalds to finish filling up before dessert). Crazy. One of the best lunches I've had for awhile, not for the food, but rather for the companionship and fun.

Pet Peeves and Neat Treats

Classroom pet peeves:

= having no visual aids (if it's not my turn to bring them)
= when kids interrupt the explanation to say "I don't understand" angrily, when the teacher hasn't finished explaining
=when kids complain loudly about others' farting (and then blame the one whose stomach is upset on their inability to be quiet in class)
=when students walk to the front of the room to ask to go to the bathroom during a lesson
=moving desks
=students mocking others
=random standing up
="surprised" faces when they are scolded for talking
=incessant nose blowing at trash can

Here is a list of the good things I saw today:

=students helping others
=one of the compulsive talkers paying attention and participating
=a quiet boy who understands little English smiling and actively participating
=a good show-and-tell about pets
=talking with one of the 6th graders on way to school
=enthusiastic singing
=intelligent questions
=chocolate cake because of two teachers' birthdays. yum
=one of the girl's birthday...Happy birthday to you, you live in a zoo...

Let's just say that that was a rant about the day, and then the second list to remind me why I like teaching so much.

Say what?

I have a private class every Thursday with three friends, Rosa's girl, and two boys, all in second grade. They are slightly crazy, intelligent, and fun to be with when they're motivated...horrible when they're bored. Last week, like after each class, the four of us cleaned up the room. One erased the dry erase board, another put the chairs away, and the last put the game or flashcards in an envelope while I collected the books and the rest of my things.
A few seconds into this activity, I hear one of the boys say clearly, "Hey baby."
Surprised, I turned around and asked, "What did you say?"
"Hey baby," he repeated, and then continuing in Spanish said, "you know, when someone who speaks English has a baby boy or girl, sometimes they say to them, "Hey baby" instead of saying their name.
That made me laugh. Where do they get these ideas?

Youth Retreat

Two weekends ago we we went on a youth retreat, focusing on the parable of the Prodigal Son, focusing on each of the three persons in the parable. This is first time that I've gotten to see some of the inner riggings of doing a camp or retreat. A few weeks before the event, leadership from the two youth groups organizing the retreat met in Canillejas to discuss the schedule and assign jobs. Before that, the leaders from Canillejas had found the site for the camp, the dates, and had more or less planned out the structure. We had someone in charge of games, people from within the youth groups doing the three sermons, someone for transportation, someone to lead a skit, etc. My responsibilities were making creative prayer stations for use during free time, helping to lead a small group discussion after each sermon, and tending to the fire when we had worship down by the fire pit.

The small group was a good experience, if slightly frustrating. The group was 13/14 year olds, and they didn't have much they wanted to share. Sometimes I felt like we were pulling teeth. But there were some good moments as well, and I am glad that I could be there.

The best part, for me, about the retreat was being able to disconnect from my normal life and stresses (like looking for work next year) and relax in nature and with other people. During free time I played baseball (no one knew the rules except me!), walked to a Roman bridge with a large group of girls, and took time to relax mentally.

Isma was at missions conferences at his church, and it was strange to not have him there, since every time I'd been to the site before, he's been there. He was able to join us Sunday after breakfast with two high school girls from the youth group.

Sunday was an interesting day, a day where people shared what God had been pushing them toward during the weekend. From the sharing time, I can tell that is was a good weekend of deepening their relationship with God for the youth group. It was good to see their hearts and see the open doors for more work now.

Carabiner

This is a carabiner. In Spanish (I still haven't remembered...long live the dictionary) it is mosquetón (mos-kay-tone), the first syllable with a long-o, second long a, last long o.

Amazonia

Wednesday we went to Amazonia with the fourth graders. One-hour bus trip there, replete with the kids singing (if you call shouting singing) songs like "_______ peed in their sleeping bag" akin to "who stole the cookie from the cookie jar?" and one about elephants balancing on something...same effect as 99 bottles of beer on a wall...never ending. They're funny songs, but after an hour I was ready to be out of the bus full of 50 kids. Amazonia is a park in Cercedilla, in the mountains of Madrid, where you go on zip-lines, climb ropes, and cross precarious bridges while secured with ropes and a harness. I got to go up with the kids. It was a lot of fun playing in the trees. 

While we were there, one of the kids cried out, "Look teacher! This is like in our science class!" That made my day. There was granite covering every inch of the ground, and the kids remembered in English what it's called. I love that they could see that what we learn in science class really connects with the real world. The experience and their excitement also opened the door to learn other words about climbing and equipment. Now, if only I could remember the word for carabiner in Spanish...

On the way back, the bus was much quieter, as half of the kids fell asleep, exhausted from the day. I could see that it really helped some of the girls' self confidence. Wish we could go back soon!



Crazy Weather

It feels like summer is here, though it's technically spring. 85 in April...almost 90! Isma says that all that Madrid has is winter and summer...that Spain forgot about spring and fall. I'm starting to believe he might be right. I haven't been melting yet, but almost. The third story classroom heats up nicely and by the afternoon the kids are hard to motivate to do much. They say (you know..."they") that it will get a bit cooler, but we'll see. Either way, I have been enjoying the warmer evenings to go for walks without shivering and the sun. Who knows, maybe I'll spend enough time outside to get a slight tan.

Edinburgh

Friday:

Off to Edinburgh, or Ed-in-bur-ah as the locals say. Isma drove today and Ricardo rode in the back with me. We parked near the castle in Edinburgh and climbed the hill to the top to start the Royal Mile at the castle. It's spectacular from behind, cropping off of the rocky cliffs and overlooking the city below. We did some more souvenir shopping-not my favorite thing-and then settled in for lunch at Deacon's Tavern. Apparently Deacon was a respected cabinet maker by day an a thief, gambler, and visitor of brothels by night. When he planned a robbery on the Excise Office, the police set off after him, and he ended up hung on the very gallows he had designed the year before. It seems that his double life was inspiration for Stevenson's book, " The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde." I ordered haggis, a dish of sheep innards. It was a risk, but tasted okay...though far from my favorite food. The boys ordered meat pies and fish. 

After lunch, we strolled down the Royal Mile, a main street of the old city, until the Holy Rood, stopping along the way to enter a church, the museum of childhood (built by a man who hated children), and to read various plaques. I drove Isma crazy reading the plaques...every single one there was. I just like to know everything!

Apart from the Royal Mile, we saw monuments dedicated to Sir Walter Scott, David Livingstone, and soldiers from WWI. This was our last night here. I'm sad to be leaving Scotland. The mornings waking up and eating breakfast with the others, beautiful views, and having someone dear to say good morning and good night to: that I will miss. On the other hand, I'm ready to get back to work because I'm well rested. Good vacation. 

Campbell Land

Thursday:

The sun came out today! Early risers get the worm-or a good breakfast before heading off to Argyll and Bute, Campbell territory. My dad's middle name is Campbell, his grandmother's last name. They're a relatively easy family to track down in Scotland's history, so that's why I was able to visit the lands of these ancestors. On the way to their castles, we did a quick detour in Glencoe, where the Campbells massacred the Macdonalds, one of their rival clans. The MacDonalds had delayed in giving their allegiance to the king, and so some officials took advantage of the Campbell's hatred for the MacDonald clan to punish the MacDonalds. The Campbells went to the MacDonalds' home, stayed several days there, and then at dawn a shot went off. Many died from gunshot wounds, more died from exposure in the snow covered mountains. It's one of the more shameful parts of our history.

Next, we stopped in a country church to take photos in the cementary. I believe I'd been driving the guys crazy wanting to visit a cementary to read the epitaphs and last names. This one was full of Campbells and MacDonalds.

After driving through barren land and spotting some deer, we arrived at Loch Awe and Kilchurn Castle, now in ruins, in a high spot partially surrounded by the lake and the other half by low wetlands. It was built by Colin Campbell, the same man who built a castle earlier in Inveraray our next stop. Inveraray is the seat of the Campbells, one of the most powerful clans in Scotland and still and powerful family. When we toured the new castle, the guide recognized my scarf and asked if I was a Campbell. Why, yes, at least partially, I happily replied. What history and stories the family has! I hope to be able to see where my family more specifically comes from, but I'm not sure I ever will because I'm sure to be occupied with other tasks.

After the castle visit, we went to jail. Isma had murdered someone (not his fault) and I'd stolen a pie. I'm not sure what Ricardo and Marcos had done; they didn't talk much about it. Just kidding. :) We actually went to the Inveraray Jail, a museum detailing the history of the jail system in Scotland. I highly recommend it. For supper, Scottish Pie with baked beans. Mmmmm. The darkness fell as we drove away from my ancestral lands, and I as usual, fell asleep in the car on the way home.

Wind and Blizzards

Monday:
Up at 7, breakfast together, then bundled up for the long drive to the Isle of Skye. In the first stop, I braved the frosty hill down to a pristine lake with dark slate shores to breathe in the crisp air. I'm glad I could convince the guys that it wasn't icy so that they'd come down too. The views here take my breath away.

Second stop was Eilean Donan Castle. The tide was out and black weeds frilled the gap between the still waters and the stone seawall. We entered the store, but not the castle. Isma got me a scarf with the Campbell tartan.

Then, up over the bridge to Skye. The highlights of the drizzly day were having a tea with a tart, hot chocolate and scones, a photo with a classic red phone booth, sheep crossing the highway, road works with the convoy system (interesting at first, a pain when repeated), a short muddy walk to a waterfall, braving the wind to see a huge waterfall off the side of a cliff in the Atlantic, and basking in the raw beauty and power of the island. The wind was cold and biting and it rained off and on throughout the day, but what else can you expect in northern Scotland at the end of March?

Tuesday
Today, Loch Ness and Inverness. We (fortunately) got to sleep in a bit because Loch Ness is so much closer than Skye. Outside was white, but the roads were clear as we headed out to find Nessie. The closer we got to the coast and inverness, the more the snow decreased and it started to rain. The only explanation I can think of has to do with the distance from the sea and change in altitude. Loch Ness must be beautiful,but it was awfully rainy to fully enjoy the scenery. We went through the museum "The Loch Ness Centre" and learned about Britain's largest lake, the legends, and what they think may have caused sightings and strange fish findings. Isma fulfilled his goal of buying a a kilt in Inverness. Handsome, I must say. Though I'm afraid it'll have to be just a costume in Spain.

Wednesday
Day of rest. Snow in the morning, continuing from the drive the night before, caused some roads to close and blizzards in the high hills. In the morning we tried to go to a distillery, but they were closed for tours. Instead, we bundled up and trekked into Newtonmore. Lunch there, carrot adn cilantro coup and grilled cheese, was one of the best meals I've had in a long time. In the afternoon we tried to go to the nursery tea shop again, but as can be expected, no luck. At least Isma got a picture with sheep! And lots with snow. Once home for good, I made a fire in the fireplace. Reminded me of when Dad and I used to make fires in the wood stove. And Colin too...except I don't know why I always erase you from my stories, Colin. Sorry!

Scotland Photos

I finally got the photos organized, labeled, and uploaded. There's still a lot, but I cut out at least half of them. Hope that you can see that, despite the cold wind and rain, we really enjoyed ourselves in beautiful Scotland!

Scotland 2010

Reindeer Brunch

Saturday:
Up before the crack of dawn. Isma's dad accompanied us to the airport at 4:45 am to drive the car back to their house. Bleary eyed and with bags on our backs and in hand, we waited in the long Easy Jet check-in line until both Ricardo and Isma's cousin Marcos joined us. First we flew to London, then caught a plane to Inverness, in the Highlands. The first flight was packed, and we all had to sit separately. Much more luck on the second. After landing in Inverness, it was a couple hours' drive on a windy highway bordered by green fields to Newtonmore. Green fields covered with rain.

Sunday:


Our guide

Wishing I had my snowboots. After a breakfast of toast, tea, and milk, the four of us set out to see the reindeer in the Cairngorms, a national park. In the Scottish language, "cairn" means "stony hill" and "gorm" means "blue / green." We rented some wellies (rainboots) to make the short muddy walk up the mountain to where the reindeer were grazing. I loved the trek: the black earth, the bright green grass that reminded me of snake grass, the purple heather, and the low hanging tree branches bejeweled with rain drops. The reindeer were enclosed in a fenced area that covered several mountains and valleys...enclosed but free. The guide brought the reindeer to us in a way that evoked images of the Pied Piper of Hamilton. We fed them grain by hand and they greedily ate, occasionally brushing up against us with their antlers. It surprised us all how small the reindeer were after imagining them bigger with Santa's sleigh. With antlers, they came up to my shoulder perhaps.




Loch An Eilein

After eating lunch at the cottage, we explored the area a bit more, stopping to walk around Loch An Eilein to see some castle ruins when the rain stoppped for a bit, and stopping by Ruthven Barracks on our way home. We tried to have tea at a much recommended nursery/tea and cake shop, but they closed at 5, like everything else. And we thought teatime started at 5. Apparently one must have tea at home.



Ruthven Barracks

P.S.

Happy Easter! Happy Resurrection Sunday! I must say that I missed some of our traditions, like chocolate bunnies and decorating Easter eggs and egg hunts and all. And seeing the little girls in their new Easter dresses. But we did celebrate Easter here, the essential, and that makes today a day for rejoicing as much as all other days.

I really should finish unpacking now or go to bed!

by yon bonny banks and by yon bonny braes

Can you hear me now?? If you look in the glass door, you should see Isma's reflection as he takes the picture.

I'm back now from a week in Scotland. The four of us (Isma, Ricardo, Marcos, and myself) arrived in Madrid about 9:30pm and Isma and I were in house a little before 10:30. We had a little bit of all weather: rain, snow, blizzard, sleet, fog, sun, and wind. It's kind of like going to a weather buffet...you try a little of everything before deciding what you want. The only thing that didn't change was the temperature: the thermostat stuck on "cold." I kept a journal, so this coming week I'll leave a basic itinerary and upload the photos so you can see. I enjoyed the journey back to ancestral lands throughly: between the breathtaking landscape, the heavy white snow, crackling fires in the fireplace, and good travel companions, it was just wonderful.

SPRING BREAK!!

First day of spring break, and what have I done? Gone in to Madrid to teach for a few hours...by teaching I mean talking for 2 hours with a 13-year old in English about diseases, cars, and vacation plans. After I came back I ate some half-burnt pizza, some good fish from Angelita, shoved some things in my backpack, and headed with Tamy to Isma's house in Guadalajara. Not Guadalajara, Mexico. Tomorrow starts the good part: 4:45 AM departure to the airport, arriving in London for a layover and then to...



Yep, Scotland. The home of the Dad's family the Campbells (mmm...good soup) and Mom's family the Lindsays (who helped the Bruce and William Wallace). I'm so excited! Isma, his cousin Marcos, a friend Ricardo and I are going to be there from this Saturday until the following Saturday, staying in the town of Newtonmore. We're going to Inverness, Edinburgh, Isle of Skye, Inveraray (home of Campbells), the Cairngorms, Loch Ness, and to visit some castles enroute most places. We'll try the food (which I've heard is bad), I'll soak in the wonderful accent, and try not to get too wet. I'll let you know more later!

The Day Jimmy's Boa Ate the Wash

The same time period as before when I was substituting, I read this story to the class:



and we then did a project by recreating the clothes line from the book and writing about our favorite parts.



I think the part most kids liked was "when the chickens flew" or "when the kids threw eggs," though one kid liked the car race.



I think it turned out pretty good, both the artwork and the writing.

Our Class

Today I had my English class cancelled with the teachers for the second week in a row. They're losing steam. They don't have to pay for the class, as it is part of my hours at the school, so I think the motivation goes down. The extra hour today made it nice to be able to fix my pizza and strawberries for lunch and eat earlier.

Here's some pictures of the classroom:





This is our Science book. Not such a good book, but okay. It's a direct translation from the Science/Social Studies book in Spanish. And the workbook has almost nothing to do with the textbook, which is frustrating when they parents expect them both to be completed. The parents buy the textbooks here, so they want their money's worth.



And this is a project the kids did, drawing the Respiratory System, when Rosa was off sick for a week.





Just thought I'd put some of these in so that you remember that I'm working, not at the beach in Spain!

Church Work Day

I'm a little rusty...let's see if I remember how to write on the blog. The last weeks have been full with running around with looking for work here, being sick, and other activities. Sorry for ignoring the blog!

I've got some pictures from the church work day January 23rd. We started painting a mural in the children's classroom thanks to the wonderful artists of the church, spackled a wall, cleaned out the fridge, and painted the rusting doors. Lots of work!


The kids helped out with the painting.


Noelia and I.


Noemí (pastor's wife) and the kids.


One of our resident artists and designer of mural, Juan Ramon.


Iván and Ester.






Félix


Jorge


Maychu