lunes, 16 de mayo de 2011

Getting into the swing (work wise)

So hello there, dear friend...it has been a while, no? Let me see, let me see...what is new...a ver... There are English classes and computer classes galore. Projects can be tougher to get off the ground but these two ones have flourished. Currently I teach computer classes at school after school and there has been a strong showing so far. We have only had a few classes so even if the attendance may taper off a bit over time, usually the kids are pretty pumped about computer classes and most keep coming. Previously I had my own computer classes in the town hall but they filled that room with bags full of cement for construction and that was the end of that version of class. English classes have been going about eight months now.  The kids don't have English flowing out of their mouths (to be totally honest) but they understand me (with gestures) more and more and we are trying to focus on getting them speaking more. They also are pretty good with random vocabulary (particulary animals, definitely their favorite topic).  The hardest part for the English classes is that they do not always consistently come or hardly ever bring a notebook so there is a lot of repetition and it can be really hard to move forward, building on what you have already taught.  I know that eventually it will stick but it would be a lot faster with a little studying (just stating the obvious I suppose). Sometimes after class we play games outside for a bit. The kids pretty much go bonkers as soon as I say the word game. It is good for them to play a bit and just get to be kids. Some kids, not all but some, carry pretty heavy work burdens after school on the farm and seeing them act like kids makes me happy. As for this teacher, I am going to be on an English teaching committee so hopefully I can help other volunteers to help with their lesson planning, etc. and pick up some tips at the same time.

When I am not teaching, not surprisingly, I have some free time. I try to keep as busy as possible. I think I am a master time killer. It is always possible to be busy but it is usually kind of boring busy. I have been cooking with my host mom a bit (to the right are humintas or pretty much small tamales that I made with my host mom) or I will hike up to a plot of land and pick corn or cactus fruit. Typically I make a morning lap around my town saying hi, looking for work, getting the morning news from the town`s perspective, etc. Things are undoubtedly picking up (term used loosely) and show the potential for more projects to come. With the town hall, we are trying to put on a workshop on how to make your own yogurt. There is also a bracelet making class in the works too. Business classes are starting soon too. In addition, we are working on a field trip for a group of artisans and putting in a library (my pet project) and starting a book club. All of these take time but I believe will all happen over time.

And, as for me, all these things are starting to feel more and more normal. I really had some crazy culture shock for a few months but I honestly think it had more to do with moving from a city to a really tiny town, than from one country to another. My town is still as beautiful as ever and waking up there is pretty amazing to think it is home. The picture is taken outside my room. Cannot wait to see my parents in June and show them all around! I am definitely looking forward to that!