Another busy week, full of the ordinary, blessed with those shining moments of anticipation/realization which seem to give life to more moments that are equal mixtures of routine and shimmer.
The week started with a marvelous morning at the Foreign Police. And I am passing it along for two reasons: first, because it is so seldom that marvelous and Foreign Police are used in the same sentence, and second because it was such a successful encounter. It was not wonderful to answer the alarm at 3:30 a.m. and realize my US friends had not even gone to bed yet. (I'm sure that jolt was not helpful in getting re-oriented to Prague time!) I am now carrying (a copy of) my "Long Term Resident" visa around with me. And every once in a while I look at it just for the joy of knowing that is really me! I must admit the pictures are getting worse, and I hope just a little of that downhill trend is the photography, not the aging of the subject. This time the photographer would not let me smile. Oh, well. Didn't keep me from getting the visa :-) and yet again :-)
I am still struggling to make a slow return to "normal" health, which could be interpreted multiple ways at this stage of life. By the end of the week I'd shaken off almost all remainders/reminders of my post-holiday cold. I even have leftover medicaments (Czech term) from the Lekarna (trans. "Chemist" -- a pharmacy with only few other items for sale, all having to do with health and well being) just in case whatever-this-is hits again. Since it seems to be making the Prague rounds, I'm hoping the leftovers will be a voodoo spell against the bug entering the flat again! Maybe it will recognize there is no welcome here and leave me alone.
The week also contained some wonderful students "ups" and some disappointing "downs". Lately I've been enjoying the emergence of humor in a second (or third/fourth) language in several of my upper level students. It is my theory that spontaneous humor, not just a repeated joke, is yet one more sign of fluency. You have to know your way around a language and have a feel for the lovely nuances of just the right word to be able to engage in irony, puns, or simply a good turn of a phrase. This week I was gifted with three different examples. Here's one: a student began our session asking if I'd heard about the new airport in NYC. "Well, it was actually only one more runway. . . " And he knew it was acceptable to joke about the USAirways landing in the Hudson because there had been no serious injuries.
The "downs" are cancellations of classes I really enjoy. I've lost eight teaching hours in the last week or so. I anticipated I would be losing hours because of the economy, but that was not the cause of any of them (yet!). Just a "perfect storm" of unusual circumstances which is leaving me with my eyes open for new students and feeling the loss of some whose company I really enjoyed. It will be really interesting and painful to watch events transpire over the next few weeks and months.
This is an especially busy time (not good when what I really want to do is sleep!) preparing exams, writing end-of term narrative reports on each student, and doing a lot of rescheduling to keep up with frequent absences. I must admit it is much more difficult to begin and end the day in such darkness. I enjoy all the "little" things I'm learning, such as what it means to live in a "higher" latitude than any US city below Alaska. It's wonderful to know that the days are getting longer, but it is definitely not noticeable yet. Add all the cloud cover of snow, near-snow, "freezing fog" -- first time I've encountered that forecast, and it's pretty dreary much of the time. Only the weather, that is!
There is "time off for good behavior" this weekend! A French colleague is hosting a "French Toasts" get together at his home. I'm curious how his French toast differs from mine. I know that the first difference is a chestnut spread, brought from home when he visited at the holidays. And the second is that he's sharing his mother's homemade jams, also the accepted topping, with all of us. Add in the international flavors with pot lucking, the accents, and the enjoyment of each other's company, and it will be a great afternoon. Wish you were here to share it with me.
It will soon be my first anniversary! What a wonderful year. It seems silly and redundant to say yet again how happy I am to be here. Life always has its routines; it always takes work to make things happen; there are smiles and new friends and hundreds of stories everywhere. How blessed and contented I am that this is the place where I can do that continuous learning. My wish for you -- that you are having the same "new" year where you are.
The "circle of days" is such an apt expression for my life right now. None of them goes far off course on its own new trajectory -- maybe there will be a little of that when spring arrives. And each of them brings its own particular joy, something to treasure and protect as the circle continues, along with all the ordinary daily tasks which carry them forward. It is -- really -- a wonderful life!
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Ordinary Isn't Boring
"X" marks the spot. We are "here" -- the end of the first full week of the New Year. It's been a refreshing return to at least some sense of normalcy. January means winter to me, and winter is exactly what we have!
It would be nice if it were even a couple degrees warmer! We haven't reached 0 (Celsius) -- and I'm talking about moving "up to"! -- yet this week, and I believe it isn't forecast for next week. Sunday/Monday brought snow. Monday was beautiful. It snowed the whole day -- sometimes enormous lazy flakes, sometimes furious little ones, but generally slow and steady. No whiteouts! By mid-day Tuesday, there was a lot of brown slippery stuff around. Because we are well below freezing, it isn't even slushy. Some (only a few) of the walks are cleared very well, but in most cases it's a sometimes thing. So in addition to bundling up, I'm walking very, very carefully and a bit more slowly than usual. It's been mentioned many times that this is more like a Prague winter -- last year was too warm. One of the nice things about "having a history" is that I can remember last Spring. And I know it will come again. I'm already compiling my new list of things I'll do when it is not quite so cold and not quite so difficult to get from here to there!
Teaching for StJ just keeps getting better. Nearly a year later, and it is still the right place for me. How blessed I was in all the events leading to this placement. And it is so nice to be told how much my work is appreciated by both my boss and my students. Sure, now and again I have a class I'd rather give to someone else. It is wonderful, however, to be in a situation where it was so nice to move past the holiday break and be able to see people I really enjoy.
Speaking of "nearly a year," Monday is my next trip to the Foreign Police. Last week was the time for all the appointments required to get it in order -- insurance papers, landlord papers, stamps from the Post Office (have no idea what that's for), photographs (and I do look a lot older than last year :-(, on and on. Of course, I am obsessing about having all my papers in order and knowing which tram/bus connection to make. It has not been many months since my last trip. Getting the visa is necessary for anything beyond the 90-day visitors' stay. From now on the visa extension will be an annual thing. It is supposed to be easier getting the extension. The hard part is decision making: Q: How early must I get there to be able to get a number for the line (think "deli") then be called and finish in one day? A: 5 a.m., and the doors don't open until 7:30. Q: Must I take an interpreter (Czech is the only language spoken at the FP)? A: No. Katerina, our wonderful office manager, will come to help me if there is any problem. That lengthens the FP visit, but whatever . . . . anything to get done. Q: Since I will be alone this year (I went with a colleague who arrived when I did last year) what do I take to "do" while waiting? A: Hmmm. A book to read, some Czech vocabulary to learn, and maybe even some knitting, I guess. A good friend spent 12 hours on her recent trip. I know myself, however, and since the big room is really chaotic, I know I won't get "real" work done -- too many interruptions, too much moving from one place to another, etc. Then of course there is the fact that I usually teach eight hours on Monday. Arrangements have already been made for the morning classes; I know I won't make them. Then yet another terrific StJ person, Jaromir, will stay in contact with me -- Czech Republic, the land of cell phones and (free) text messaging! -- and cancel afternoon classes if and when necessary. What a production. Fortunately it is only once a year!
And speaking of "schools" and "classes," I have now joined another school part time. Alka Language Specialists has been in business nearly 20 years. Congratulations to them! They're smaller than StJ and do exactly the same kind of business -- work with companies/institutions/organizations on a contract basis, sending teachers to the site for classes. Neither school offers "public" classes. I have three classes with them already -- great students in each class and at a super location for me -- and they are asking for more of my time. One of the difficult things about this kind of work is that most companies want their English classes either first thing in the morning or last thing in the afternoon. It's called "peak time." I've been SO fortunate that StJ has filled most of my daytime hours as well. Yes, I get tired; and yes, I have to prepare and do other class work at night. But it means I get more opportunities to do what I love doing. Now with the two schools it will begin to be a bit of a rub. Of course StJ has precedence -- I "owe" them my peak time, but it is difficult to sit back quietly (that's always been hard for me, as you know) when things are in such a state of change and wait for #1 to make up its mind before accepting something from #2. Oh well - - this will sort out, and very quickly, I think. I'm just so pleased to be working with the people I've met there already.
It was interesting that the assigned material for one of my classes on the first day after the New Year was about wishes and life changes. Of course we also talked about resolutions (usually kept from 3-10 days). So certainly it is in my mind as well as on the lesson plan. One of the differences between the two, we noted, is that we have no control over wishes. So yes, I have a wish, and yes, I know I don't control the outcome. I wish I could continue doing this for many years. I'm aware of all the things which could change the outcome -- health, accidents, things in the States that I would want to be available for, many other things I can't or won't imagine now. How happy and how fortunate I am to be in this spot at this time, especially since technology means I am not cut off from family and friends as I would have been even a few years ago. And I feel as though I'm just now really settling down into the routine, becoming able to do things more efficiently and effectively, and certainly to enjoy each moment more than ever before.
And yes, I have a couple resolutions that I realize are dependent on me and my efforts. The first is to get serious about learning Czech! My teacher's great; the change from one four-hour class a month to two two-hour classes is really helpful; and I'm enjoying a small bit of reward for my small bit of effort. I must raise the bar on it, however. Demand more from myself and expect better results -- no more of these "my brain is tired and old" thoughts! I hate feeling stupid, and I do feel really stupid when I have no clue what a notice about tram service means or when someone is asking a question or being especially friendly and I have to reply, "Anglicky" along with some other word which means "I don't understand" or "I'm sorry." What is so terribly daunting is that it will take forever to be "good", but that doesn't mean I can't get a bit better. And I do resolve to make more regular efforts to reach that. (And it is so much more difficult than it used to be.)
Another resolution is to be even more organized about my "To Do in Prague" list. There are advertisements for concerts I'd like to attend or places with regular performances I would enjoy. As I continue reading Czech history (and I resolve to continue that -- it's really fascinating as well as difficult to retain, since I'm so unfamiliar with so many Central European rulers, wannabes, and political intrigue) I continue to learn about more places I want to visit. And Prague is full of lovely green places, marvelous parks with their own fountains and sculpture, delicious little cafes with lots of history floating about. My resolve: write these things down and start ticking them off the list!
My most important resolution: never lose sight of how blessed I am and have been -- my health-- keeping this schedule at this time of my life; my family; my friends -- those with whom I've shared years and many experiences, those who are part of this amazing new place, and those I have yet to meet; the places I've been; all the memories I have collected and cherish. Yes, sometimes I despair over the situation in the States, the malevolence and violence toward individuals and countries around the world, the rigid focus on that which divides rather than finding and placing value on that which unites. And I am always reminded that my attitude can be contagious, I can help bring about even a small change in someone else's world. Yes, I'd wish for peace, for respect for the dignity of human life, for intelligence, wisdom, and a lessening of pandering to vested interests. But those are wishes. I can resolve to be responsible for my thoughts and actions. And I do.
šťastný nový rok -- Happy New year to you.
It would be nice if it were even a couple degrees warmer! We haven't reached 0 (Celsius) -- and I'm talking about moving "up to"! -- yet this week, and I believe it isn't forecast for next week. Sunday/Monday brought snow. Monday was beautiful. It snowed the whole day -- sometimes enormous lazy flakes, sometimes furious little ones, but generally slow and steady. No whiteouts! By mid-day Tuesday, there was a lot of brown slippery stuff around. Because we are well below freezing, it isn't even slushy. Some (only a few) of the walks are cleared very well, but in most cases it's a sometimes thing. So in addition to bundling up, I'm walking very, very carefully and a bit more slowly than usual. It's been mentioned many times that this is more like a Prague winter -- last year was too warm. One of the nice things about "having a history" is that I can remember last Spring. And I know it will come again. I'm already compiling my new list of things I'll do when it is not quite so cold and not quite so difficult to get from here to there!
Teaching for StJ just keeps getting better. Nearly a year later, and it is still the right place for me. How blessed I was in all the events leading to this placement. And it is so nice to be told how much my work is appreciated by both my boss and my students. Sure, now and again I have a class I'd rather give to someone else. It is wonderful, however, to be in a situation where it was so nice to move past the holiday break and be able to see people I really enjoy.
Speaking of "nearly a year," Monday is my next trip to the Foreign Police. Last week was the time for all the appointments required to get it in order -- insurance papers, landlord papers, stamps from the Post Office (have no idea what that's for), photographs (and I do look a lot older than last year :-(, on and on. Of course, I am obsessing about having all my papers in order and knowing which tram/bus connection to make. It has not been many months since my last trip. Getting the visa is necessary for anything beyond the 90-day visitors' stay. From now on the visa extension will be an annual thing. It is supposed to be easier getting the extension. The hard part is decision making: Q: How early must I get there to be able to get a number for the line (think "deli") then be called and finish in one day? A: 5 a.m., and the doors don't open until 7:30. Q: Must I take an interpreter (Czech is the only language spoken at the FP)? A: No. Katerina, our wonderful office manager, will come to help me if there is any problem. That lengthens the FP visit, but whatever . . . . anything to get done. Q: Since I will be alone this year (I went with a colleague who arrived when I did last year) what do I take to "do" while waiting? A: Hmmm. A book to read, some Czech vocabulary to learn, and maybe even some knitting, I guess. A good friend spent 12 hours on her recent trip. I know myself, however, and since the big room is really chaotic, I know I won't get "real" work done -- too many interruptions, too much moving from one place to another, etc. Then of course there is the fact that I usually teach eight hours on Monday. Arrangements have already been made for the morning classes; I know I won't make them. Then yet another terrific StJ person, Jaromir, will stay in contact with me -- Czech Republic, the land of cell phones and (free) text messaging! -- and cancel afternoon classes if and when necessary. What a production. Fortunately it is only once a year!
And speaking of "schools" and "classes," I have now joined another school part time. Alka Language Specialists has been in business nearly 20 years. Congratulations to them! They're smaller than StJ and do exactly the same kind of business -- work with companies/institutions/organizations on a contract basis, sending teachers to the site for classes. Neither school offers "public" classes. I have three classes with them already -- great students in each class and at a super location for me -- and they are asking for more of my time. One of the difficult things about this kind of work is that most companies want their English classes either first thing in the morning or last thing in the afternoon. It's called "peak time." I've been SO fortunate that StJ has filled most of my daytime hours as well. Yes, I get tired; and yes, I have to prepare and do other class work at night. But it means I get more opportunities to do what I love doing. Now with the two schools it will begin to be a bit of a rub. Of course StJ has precedence -- I "owe" them my peak time, but it is difficult to sit back quietly (that's always been hard for me, as you know) when things are in such a state of change and wait for #1 to make up its mind before accepting something from #2. Oh well - - this will sort out, and very quickly, I think. I'm just so pleased to be working with the people I've met there already.
It was interesting that the assigned material for one of my classes on the first day after the New Year was about wishes and life changes. Of course we also talked about resolutions (usually kept from 3-10 days). So certainly it is in my mind as well as on the lesson plan. One of the differences between the two, we noted, is that we have no control over wishes. So yes, I have a wish, and yes, I know I don't control the outcome. I wish I could continue doing this for many years. I'm aware of all the things which could change the outcome -- health, accidents, things in the States that I would want to be available for, many other things I can't or won't imagine now. How happy and how fortunate I am to be in this spot at this time, especially since technology means I am not cut off from family and friends as I would have been even a few years ago. And I feel as though I'm just now really settling down into the routine, becoming able to do things more efficiently and effectively, and certainly to enjoy each moment more than ever before.
And yes, I have a couple resolutions that I realize are dependent on me and my efforts. The first is to get serious about learning Czech! My teacher's great; the change from one four-hour class a month to two two-hour classes is really helpful; and I'm enjoying a small bit of reward for my small bit of effort. I must raise the bar on it, however. Demand more from myself and expect better results -- no more of these "my brain is tired and old" thoughts! I hate feeling stupid, and I do feel really stupid when I have no clue what a notice about tram service means or when someone is asking a question or being especially friendly and I have to reply, "Anglicky" along with some other word which means "I don't understand" or "I'm sorry." What is so terribly daunting is that it will take forever to be "good", but that doesn't mean I can't get a bit better. And I do resolve to make more regular efforts to reach that. (And it is so much more difficult than it used to be.)
Another resolution is to be even more organized about my "To Do in Prague" list. There are advertisements for concerts I'd like to attend or places with regular performances I would enjoy. As I continue reading Czech history (and I resolve to continue that -- it's really fascinating as well as difficult to retain, since I'm so unfamiliar with so many Central European rulers, wannabes, and political intrigue) I continue to learn about more places I want to visit. And Prague is full of lovely green places, marvelous parks with their own fountains and sculpture, delicious little cafes with lots of history floating about. My resolve: write these things down and start ticking them off the list!
My most important resolution: never lose sight of how blessed I am and have been -- my health-- keeping this schedule at this time of my life; my family; my friends -- those with whom I've shared years and many experiences, those who are part of this amazing new place, and those I have yet to meet; the places I've been; all the memories I have collected and cherish. Yes, sometimes I despair over the situation in the States, the malevolence and violence toward individuals and countries around the world, the rigid focus on that which divides rather than finding and placing value on that which unites. And I am always reminded that my attitude can be contagious, I can help bring about even a small change in someone else's world. Yes, I'd wish for peace, for respect for the dignity of human life, for intelligence, wisdom, and a lessening of pandering to vested interests. But those are wishes. I can resolve to be responsible for my thoughts and actions. And I do.
šťastný nový rok -- Happy New year to you.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
I'm Back - -
- - - and it's time for the "new" of the New Year.
As I looked out into my dearly familiar courtyard (definitely not on the list of "places to visit" but equally definitely mine) while waiting for my electric kettle to boil, "I Love Paris" popped into my head. Prague fits into the rhythm only by making two syllables out of the "a", but certainly the sentiment works for me. We're in the "winter" phrase big time right now! Cold Cold Cold and windy, and I'm told it gets colder! We've also had a bit of snow each of the past few days, enough to bring out the boots and watch out for slick spots, but not enough to rearrange activities.
Last winter I kept hearing ". . . but this is unusual" when folks were discussing the weather. It was strangely reminiscent of my first few years in NC. Weather was always a safe topic of conversation on the BlueCross shuttle bus, and I learned after only a few trips that whatever was happening at the moment was not the "usual." My expectation, based on early Prague conversations, is that it will get colder and there will be more snow. So we're missing the Parisian "drizzle", thankfully, but getting the Prague drifts.
Google/gmail has added "themes" to users options. Though I'm not usually curious about "new and improved" changes to things which are working fine just as they are now, thank you very much, I did check this out. And I now have my local "weather situation" on my gmail page. Yep, it is snowing across the top of my page with drifts piling up on their logo and my inbox heading. Very entertaining. And it is also snowing outside my window. The red roofs -- and I do love the red roofs of Prague -- are becoming pink and flat surfaces of the buildings are becoming slightly rounded. A great day to be inside!
And even as I anticipate a return to my students and the familiar rhythms of travel/teach/travel/prepare, I'm also wondering what weather the next three months will bring. No problem driving! I do believe, however, I need to look for another pair of boots before the stores are displaying only swimsuits. I'm a little curious just how many steps would get me through three months. I know they'll need to be warm and dry.
And without rushing things, I'm really looking forward to watching Spring arrive. I do "love Pra-ague in the springtime." I now have favorite spots to anticipate and enjoy even as I discover new parks, new benches, and new breathtaking views. Gotta love a city with so many hills! Even the ordinary becomes extraordinary when it's a surprise. The gifts are endless. For many years I've realized I would have difficulty living in an area without four seasons. And yes, I may fuss but I'll look forward to the "summer, when it sizzles" (and the tourists -- I'm so glad I'm not living with that limited time) as well. It's a great rhythm, and I'm grateful to be repeating it.
My desk is orderly and clean. That was a lengthy two-step process! So many little pieces of paper which meant something important at one time or another and which have no apparent connection to anything in the near future; so many new "to do" lists to create; so many inconsequential decisions; and, of course, so many mental time-outs as I rearrange pictures of Alexander and Thomas. Then step two -- serious cleaning of every inch before bringing a new order out of the chaos. And it is complete.
Then there are the usual weekend activities such as food shopping and the trip to the laundromat. As you know, that weekly trip to the washers/dryers which work so well has been an important constant in my life. I've grown to know and enjoy the bilingual, helpful folks who work the front desk and, after some time, nodded to and then began to greet the lovely professional Czech woman who is the owner. I'm sure you've heard that coffee/tea and computer time are free for customers. (Yes, some folks do come in only to use the computers.) On my tray yesterday (coffee is always served on a tray in a "real" cup with its own cream/sugar) was a lovely crystal goblet with a smooth, delicious sherry/chocolate drink. New Year's thanks to a "special customer." And I felt very special indeed.
Tomorrow begins a busy month. I'm actually looking forward to a slight break from the usual teaching routine as we prepare for end-of-term exams. Today will be filled with changing out teaching materials. I've also joined another school as a part timer. Alka Language Specialists has been in business for 19 years -- I'm impressed -- is smaller than St. James and also specializes in in-company courses. I have three classes a week for/with them. They very thoughtfully gave me classes in an area and at a time I'm already working! Contracts with companies/organizations are changing, as I'm sure you'd guess, and this seemed like a good opportunity to branch out, add some new adventures. This week I'll have 32 teaching hours -- that doesn't include travel or preparation, so I do have to be supremely organized, not an easy task for me! As several of my classes at StJ come to an end (tho' I know others will be added later) and the new classes integrate more smoothly into the routine, life will settle down a bit for February (or at least that is the plan).
It is both interesting and demanding to read about the issues and challenges facing the States, Obama, and the American people. I am particularly grateful to be slightly removed from the egocentric views of much of the media and to have access both to columnists I admire (who always make me stretch and think) and to the press from other countries. My students surely keep me reading and thinking (and introspective) with their opinions and questions. And my mind is often traveling down yet another rabbit trail of interconnections, possible cause/effect relationships, and uncertainty and dread about the world Alexander and Thomas are being handed. I do think of you with concern and with a wish for a sense of balance and internal tranquility in spite of the external chaos and confusion.
So I'm definitely back in the groove of things. It's time for a new visa -- I can hardly believe it! And it's yet another new beginning with all the hopes, expectations, and promises of new adventures which go along with that. I hope your new year is joyous and hopeful also.
As I looked out into my dearly familiar courtyard (definitely not on the list of "places to visit" but equally definitely mine) while waiting for my electric kettle to boil, "I Love Paris" popped into my head. Prague fits into the rhythm only by making two syllables out of the "a", but certainly the sentiment works for me. We're in the "winter" phrase big time right now! Cold Cold Cold and windy, and I'm told it gets colder! We've also had a bit of snow each of the past few days, enough to bring out the boots and watch out for slick spots, but not enough to rearrange activities.
Last winter I kept hearing ". . . but this is unusual" when folks were discussing the weather. It was strangely reminiscent of my first few years in NC. Weather was always a safe topic of conversation on the BlueCross shuttle bus, and I learned after only a few trips that whatever was happening at the moment was not the "usual." My expectation, based on early Prague conversations, is that it will get colder and there will be more snow. So we're missing the Parisian "drizzle", thankfully, but getting the Prague drifts.
Google/gmail has added "themes" to users options. Though I'm not usually curious about "new and improved" changes to things which are working fine just as they are now, thank you very much, I did check this out. And I now have my local "weather situation" on my gmail page. Yep, it is snowing across the top of my page with drifts piling up on their logo and my inbox heading. Very entertaining. And it is also snowing outside my window. The red roofs -- and I do love the red roofs of Prague -- are becoming pink and flat surfaces of the buildings are becoming slightly rounded. A great day to be inside!
And even as I anticipate a return to my students and the familiar rhythms of travel/teach/travel/prepare, I'm also wondering what weather the next three months will bring. No problem driving! I do believe, however, I need to look for another pair of boots before the stores are displaying only swimsuits. I'm a little curious just how many steps would get me through three months. I know they'll need to be warm and dry.
And without rushing things, I'm really looking forward to watching Spring arrive. I do "love Pra-ague in the springtime." I now have favorite spots to anticipate and enjoy even as I discover new parks, new benches, and new breathtaking views. Gotta love a city with so many hills! Even the ordinary becomes extraordinary when it's a surprise. The gifts are endless. For many years I've realized I would have difficulty living in an area without four seasons. And yes, I may fuss but I'll look forward to the "summer, when it sizzles" (and the tourists -- I'm so glad I'm not living with that limited time) as well. It's a great rhythm, and I'm grateful to be repeating it.
My desk is orderly and clean. That was a lengthy two-step process! So many little pieces of paper which meant something important at one time or another and which have no apparent connection to anything in the near future; so many new "to do" lists to create; so many inconsequential decisions; and, of course, so many mental time-outs as I rearrange pictures of Alexander and Thomas. Then step two -- serious cleaning of every inch before bringing a new order out of the chaos. And it is complete.
Then there are the usual weekend activities such as food shopping and the trip to the laundromat. As you know, that weekly trip to the washers/dryers which work so well has been an important constant in my life. I've grown to know and enjoy the bilingual, helpful folks who work the front desk and, after some time, nodded to and then began to greet the lovely professional Czech woman who is the owner. I'm sure you've heard that coffee/tea and computer time are free for customers. (Yes, some folks do come in only to use the computers.) On my tray yesterday (coffee is always served on a tray in a "real" cup with its own cream/sugar) was a lovely crystal goblet with a smooth, delicious sherry/chocolate drink. New Year's thanks to a "special customer." And I felt very special indeed.
Tomorrow begins a busy month. I'm actually looking forward to a slight break from the usual teaching routine as we prepare for end-of-term exams. Today will be filled with changing out teaching materials. I've also joined another school as a part timer. Alka Language Specialists has been in business for 19 years -- I'm impressed -- is smaller than St. James and also specializes in in-company courses. I have three classes a week for/with them. They very thoughtfully gave me classes in an area and at a time I'm already working! Contracts with companies/organizations are changing, as I'm sure you'd guess, and this seemed like a good opportunity to branch out, add some new adventures. This week I'll have 32 teaching hours -- that doesn't include travel or preparation, so I do have to be supremely organized, not an easy task for me! As several of my classes at StJ come to an end (tho' I know others will be added later) and the new classes integrate more smoothly into the routine, life will settle down a bit for February (or at least that is the plan).
It is both interesting and demanding to read about the issues and challenges facing the States, Obama, and the American people. I am particularly grateful to be slightly removed from the egocentric views of much of the media and to have access both to columnists I admire (who always make me stretch and think) and to the press from other countries. My students surely keep me reading and thinking (and introspective) with their opinions and questions. And my mind is often traveling down yet another rabbit trail of interconnections, possible cause/effect relationships, and uncertainty and dread about the world Alexander and Thomas are being handed. I do think of you with concern and with a wish for a sense of balance and internal tranquility in spite of the external chaos and confusion.
So I'm definitely back in the groove of things. It's time for a new visa -- I can hardly believe it! And it's yet another new beginning with all the hopes, expectations, and promises of new adventures which go along with that. I hope your new year is joyous and hopeful also.
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