Hi,
Well, we are back. This was probably the most difficult plane boarding we have had to make. We had an absolutely amazing summer, but as usual, it was too short. Being grandparents and getting to know Koen was certainly the highlight, yet the separation was also the low point. As usual, we had the opportunity to see many family and friends and at the same time, we failed to see everybody that we wanted – such is life with limited time.
Getting off the plane was somewhat of a quandary. We had a difficult year last year and at the same time had a very easy year with good classes and lots of travel. Missie has been at work for the past 2 days and has met all of the new teachers – it seems at face value that we will have a much better year. I have met all the new teachers at my grade level – some are almost as cynical as me J. I can see some good friendship opportunities. Strangely enough, the school hired mostly men (middle aged) this year and for the most part, they seem to be well educated, professional, and express their opinions – they will probably be in as much trouble as me within a few weeks! My goal is to be as quiet and agreeable as possible (I said “goal”).
As for the physical school, nothing has changed – nothing! The director came in at the beginning of the week and went ballistic. All of the things that were promised last year are still not here – bulletin boards, white boards, smart boards, covered shade areas for students and a list of others. So, as I said, we are starting where we left off and everything will be here in September – inshallah!
We seem to have fallen right back into our routine. While Missie has been at school, I have been trying to get a few things cleaned up and repaired around the house. I have also been trying to get all the paperwork (visas) ready for our trip to China on Thursday – and I might say, not a smooth process. I should pick up the final visas today – inshallah! Then we are off to China and a great 10 days of new experiences and photos.
I have promised myself to really try to laugh more this year and not take things as serious. So, we have change the blog location and title this year – the title was meant to be a “little” funny. I will do my best to get back to my past style of writing and finding the lighter side of things – you are welcome to call me on it if I become too negative.
Lesson of the Week: Changing them is impossible – changing me is not!
Love to all,
Doug and Missie
Doug and Missie
