Just a quick check in to let you know what's happening down here! Though I can hear the thunder rumbling outside and feel the humidity descending, the perfect weather to curl up with a book, I have so much to do! I've spent today hand washing a load of laundry, cleaning, preparing for my classes that start in ONE WEEK and being just a little bit lazy (I crushed rocks for about 3 hours yesterday so I'm a tad sore). And my day is not over yet!
I spent this week doing work projects every morning (Thursday they tore down a wall, so I spent that day heaving cinderblocks into a pile which is strangely an excellent time to reflect), had 3 hours of Creole class every afternoon (and I thought I was done being the student...), and, at night, praying and reflecting with my community. Wednesday night was the last night with the newest students for their orientation, so we even had a big dance party out on the basketball court...my moves don't stand a chance against those kids' moves! It was a full but great week.
And...drumroll please...I found out what I'll be teaching! I will be teaching Senkyem (8th grade) English, Sekond (hs junior) Religion: Catholic Morality, and Sizyem (7th grade), Senkyem, and Sekond Sports class! I always thought it would be fun to be a PE teacher, so that will be a nice addition to my classes. I'm very excited, but I know I have my work cut out for me in the next week to prepare!
Well, I must go and do my chores before evening prayer! Please keep me and my wonderful community in your prayers and know that you are all in mine!
Love and prayers,
Mandy
Hi Mandy,
ReplyDeleteI've been following your blog and hope you are doing well, now that you have settled into a routine over the past few weeks. Life in Groton has been interesting. We have a new coordinator of events in Groton, and she put together an awesome Block Party over in the Puffin's parking lot, on Thames Street and had vendors and musicians all day. She also coordinated her efforts with other groups in the city, some who provided activities at the Avery-Copp House across the street. Have you ever been there? It's rather historical and my grandkids enjoyed learning how to wash clothes on a scrub board and wringer and playing with a hoop and stick. Such simple things. The weather is changing fast, cooler, and leaves in the area are already turning colors as we haven't had much rain. Looks like winter will be here earlier than we want. I miss summer already.
You look like you are going to busy with all the different classes you will be teaching. My, what an assortment!
I just wanted to touch base with you and let you know I am thinking of you and keeping you in my prayers and thoughts. If there is anything we can send you, or that you need, please let us know.
May God continue to bless you and keep you safe in all you do.
Hugs, Sue Palmieri, Sacred Heart, Groton
Hi Mrs. Palmieri! I'm so glad you've been following and I cannot thank you enough for your prayers, the updates, and willingness to help! It's so nice to have so many people at home who care about me and are thinking about me. I have finally settled into a routine, although things around here are subject to change at the drop of a hat! Although I truly am loving being here, I think about home a lot and I keep expecting cooler temperatures and for the leaves to change colors, although I know that is not going to happen. I will miss the beautiful foliage, but I can't say I mind the tropical weather! I'm glad your grandkids enjoyed such an experience at the Avery-Copp House. I am having to learn how to live simply like that, and it really is quite the experience. I didn't realize how spoiled I was by things like washing machines and dishwashers until I had to do it all by hand here!
DeleteI really am enjoying the assortment of classes, it keeps things interesting and breaks up my long days (5:30am to 10pm every day!) nicely.
I hope all is well at home, with your family, and at Sacred Heart. I really do miss you all and can't wait to come home at Christmas and tell you all about these first 5 months. Thank you again for your thoughts and prayers, it really means so much.
Love and prayers from Haiti!