We're just ready to finish the school year. Only one week left! As a class, we decided to hold our own "Spirit Day" that was opposite day. We turned many heads at school yesterday, wearing our clothes inside out and backwards, but it was our own private fun.

We also went bowling! It was quite the job to get it all organized because we had to pay for the bus ourselves as we were only allowed two field trips, plus, I had heard that some parents felt it was an expensive excursion. Thankfully, all parents were on board with the idea and willing to pay. It was not a truly expensive outing, but gosh, did we have fun!

Last week of school! I have so much paperwork to do! Plus, shipping my belongings. I have to admit, I'm procrastinating, but not worried. I can handle this! I'm getting excited for my trip to England. I've been discovering lately that I truly am going to miss my class. They are such a great bunch of kids, and hams to boot! Batman visited me again, plus, he brought me candy too! How lucky am I?

Our last Spirit Day was "Twins" and we had so much fun! One student asked me if I could be his twin and I said, "Yes, of course." He was very planned and had a drawing of how we should look and all. A teacher loves to see planning, of any type! So, based on his sketch, we were dressed 'mod'. I had to borrow black ties from two of the other teachers here (thank you guys!) and we were chosen by the class to be our class representatives on stage for judging because we hand made our outfits. Other children from many other grades had all gone shopping together, but our class voted (we have a democracy, although I still have the right to veto) and they chose our home based clothes. We came in 3rd place, which is okay for us, because the other winners had true twins. It was all fun though! I got into trouble for being too, "Fonzy" on stage and not enough "Men in Black." We still got some chocolate, and the whole class was happy. Plus, I got this idea to make Mother's Day cards. We had to paint, and that led to other shenanigans! The idea was to make a card just using your fingerprints out of paint to spell out "Mom" and maybe make a flower. I printed out a poem for the kids to paste on the card. Mother's Day here is now lumped in with Children's Day, which is June 1st. On that day, no alcohol is served.

I've had to take all my belongings off the classroom walls and it has left empty patches. The students initially were confused, but when I explained that I had to start my packing, they understood. They were sad, but understood. I decided to make a "Memory Book" which is sort of a year book, but just for our class. The kids love it, and enjoy the idea of it, once they got it. I do have to share one submission with you all. It goes: "The best day of this year was when I met Miss M because she's the best teacher in the whole world." I mean...awwww! Geez! I truly am going to miss these guys! Just today, Batman came to pay me another visit! Plus, he brought candy, and gave me a beaked nosed peck on the cheek! How lucky am I? Students who have not spoken to me since last year has expressed their sadness that I'm leaving, and I had no idea. I also have had multiple requests for my email address. I told them I'll give it to them all before I leave. I do so hope to stay in touch with them. Plus, they say they are going to give me end of year presents and birthday gifts because they won't see me when it actually occurs. I'm sorry, but all I can think is, "I love you...but how much extra packing will this involve?" It goes by the kilo people! I truly am touched, and am grateful to have touched so many lives. This is more than something special. And, it's my life. Again, how lucky am I?

It perpetually appears as though it's going to rain, and there are a few teasing drops, but I miss those downpours you get back at home. That would settle the dust and help my allergies to boot! The blue skies to get you, and the abundance of rainbows. Two weeks left. Oh my gosh!

The end of the year continues to draw closer, and I'm beginning to realize just how much I'm going to miss my class. We have worked hard together, and truly now are a family. For show and tell yesterday, one of my students brought in her brother's Batman costume. One of my boys went to the bathroom and put it on. He came back as Batman and said, "Miss M! I've come to tell you I love you!" The entire class was laughing! The funniest part is when he changed and came back. He pulled a Poke-a-roo from "Polka Dot Door" and said, "Miss M! I just was in the hallway and saw Batman!"

With this too some the stress of packing and leaving, end of year tasks and tidying up all those loose ends you procrastinated until now they are an undeniable task. Oh the horror!

There has been much happening,it seems, as of late. On Friday we had a snow storm. I can't say it was unseasonal or not, but it threw everyone for a loop! The power went out at about 3am Friday morning (I, unfortunately was still up...lots to think about I guess!). The next morning it had still not come back on. I reported for school same as always, but without my usual cup of morning coffee. It was supposed to come back at about 11:00. Well, it was nearly lunch time and the toilets were out of their reserve tanks, and things were beginning to get hairy in my mind. This happened last year and as soon as you tell the students that they have to only use the bathroom for emergencies, they suddenly all have to go! So, I said very little. There was talk about sending the students home, which I thought was a good idea. Most people felt that it would be 'Murphy's Law' and as soon as the kids left, the power would come back on. Well, we got the kids out of there, thanks to the classroom assistants and their phone calls. The power came back on finally many hours later. It was the right decision to send the kids home. It's just one of those days that started off wonky and it was difficult to maintain order.

Some of the other teachers and I went for lunch in town, and enjoyed the hot food and flushing toilets.

Saturday it snowed as well. Huge, slow snowflakes falling. They looked beautiful, but made me just want to stay inside. It still is funny to me that it snows more in the spring than it does all winter here, which is telling of the true cold nature of the country.

I have somehow become an insomniac. Which is very unfortunate for me. Remember when you were "a kid" and could stay awake for days at a time? It wasn't even noticeable on your face then, but you can feel it now. Not that I"m not getting any sleep, I am! Just, you know when your mind won't turn off? Well, that is it for me. I suppose I have some stress, what with moving coming up and what not....heading into the new unknown, but I do have to admit that some of it comes from my classroom. In general I have a very lively and happy classroom. My students and I have a great relationship, and they say anything to me. There has been an issue, basically the entire year, with one student. Unfortunately, this manages to be a wet blanket for me and my days at work. I have had to consider the other 17 students I have, and how this presence effects them. The Big Picture is made up of so many small composites. How this is going to play out, I'm unsure. I can say that I'm unhappy right now. I consider myself lucky to have a few very great people here I can go and talk to. If you can't vent, you boil over; luckily this has not happened to me. I have to call my mom!

Other than this, we had an amazing Science Fair. Every student turned in something. Wow! I allowed students to work in pairs if they chose, and it was a great decision. The work they turned in was incredible. Up above is a portrait that was drawn of me by a student, and man, do I look good! The other is just one dynamic pair that worked well together. Their topic was 'germs' and it raised the most questions. The topics ranged from U.F.O's to prehistoric animals to weather. It was great!

I have to admit, it's nice to look outside and see that beautiful blue sky Mongolia is known for. Plus, there is some green! I don't think I'm the only one who is counting down the days, but there's something like 33 left. Woohoo!

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Back from Bali, all brown and relaxed. I got to do some pretty great things there! I went white water rafting, swung from a "vine" like Tarzan into the pool of a waterfall, saw a traditional folk tale, hung out with drag queens, went swimming in the ocean, got pummeled by waves and had a monkey smear banana all over my shoulder. Action packed, I'd say! I brought back with me movies, clothes, presents for my students and some water from the ocean in my ear! It's been about two weeks now, and I still can't really hear out of my left ear. I promise to go to the doctor next week. I did honestly try this weekend, but was recommended to a cardiologist. She was very nice about me wasting her precious time and told me that they don't have an ear, nose and throat specialist on staff there. She recommended me to another hospital, which was very kind of her. One thing I will say though, is that one week was not enough time! I did most of the things I wanted, but did not get to see a volcano. There are a few of them and I missed it! I was quite literally stunned by the amount of Australians there, and how the bars catered to them. I guess if you know your target audience, it makes things much easier. Plus, it is so close for the Aussie's to fly to Bali. It must be like us going to the cottage for the summer or something. Anyway, they were very fun to hang out with!

I can feel the year winding down now, and I think the kids do too. They have gotten it into their heads that they want to put on a production of Romeo and Juliet in the auditorium for the other classes to see. I have looked everywhere on line and cannot find a "kids" script, unless I pay. If anyone out there has something that may be useful for me, please!, send it my way.

The year unwinding leads me to moving, and packing! I have begun to sell some things: clothes, etc. The teaching assistants are very eager to pick at my meager scraps if the price is right. I actually had two of them want to come to my apartment and look through my closet. I put the nix on that one. They are after my skirts. However, the ones they want are still suitable for Africa next year and I'm not ready to part with them just yet. It would still appear I have amassed quite an apartment full of trinkets and such. Oh, the agony of debating over what comes with me and what stays!

Apparently there was an earthquake here very early in the morning. I did not feel it, though my neighbours did. I was searching for information about it on the news, but there was no mention of it.

Just two weeks left before my trip! Wooo! I'm also excited because on my way home I will get the chance to visit a friend in England. I will get to see Stonehenge! This is fabulous!

When I woke up this morning, I went to turn on my kitchen light. It blew and must have had a power surge or something because all my lights went off! It's fixed now, so I won't have to sit in the dark tonight.

My students are excited as we had a request from a school in France to do a Flat Stanley exchange. We spent the morning in the computer lab googling information about the town our Stanley will be visiting. It was cute because some of the students added berets to their Stanley, or else turned them into a girl whom I've dubbed "Stanleyetta."

It finally feels like spring has sprung! It was only -1 Celsius this morning, but did not get up to over 10, as we did not have much sun today. There were some ominous clouds hanging over the escarpment near to us, but it hardly snowed. Snow is good though, as that means it's warmer out. The students seemed to think that due to it snowing they wouldn't have to go out for recess. Not in my books! I make them go out, as I've seen the benefits of the 10 minutes they get to spend outside.

Above is a message I received from a student after ice skating last week. I had to immortalize it! Also, me, being impartial during class president elections. And yes, I must have a foot fetish, as I always enjoy taking pics of my feet in various places and shoes.

There is a new bowling alley here! For those of you who know me well, know I love to bowl! Some of us gathered ranks and went for an extremely enjoyable evening out. What fun we had, just to be social and also get exercise. I have to thank Gurjit for organizing the whole thing for us. I got to meet some new people too, which also always adds to anyone's life experience. Plus, I got to bowl! I was like an eager child, asking constantly, "Why aren't we bowling yet? What's happening?" I chose my ball before everyone had gotten their shoe rentals! They gave us these booties to wear in our shoes. I have two thoughts on this. It saves on the spray they put in the shoes to sterilize (fumigate?),which may not be found here. But also, more trash! Regardless of my thoughts on the shoes (which were quite stylish, in my eyes) it was a fun excursion for all.

Report cards are out! I will have to host parent teacher meetings the end of this week. I don't mind so much, because I have discovered any parent enjoys talking about their child for any disclosed amount of time. I know this too, through the old joys of being a dog owner. People who never had a dog could never understand. It's difficult when you don't really have a lot of great things to say, but these things need to be known to any parent. I think especially considering most of my parents don't get to spend as much time with their children as I do. I am happy that this year none of the students have called me 'Mom', but I can only assume that I am a major figure in their life. After all, I see them eight hours a day, 5 days a week. I dissolve disputes, mete out discipline, and make sure they are dressed properly for the weather. Geez, actually, I do sound like a parent!

I am very much looking forward to my trip to Bali. I've got the flight and hotel booked. This is going to be good. I am looking forward to shedding my winter clothes for a week. From the huge down jacket right down to the underlinings I have to wear. The luxury of it all! It was strange, because I was looking for my health insurance information and in the process discovered the flight I had booked last year for Christmas vacation. It reminds me of Gobi, who I had to have put down and was the cause for me missing that vacation, and then on to Farley, who also has been put down, but then back to my students. We recently held two elections in the class. The first was for the Star Name I said I'd purchase in Farley's name. The polls are in, and Starley won.

I have not yet purchased the star though. I will, but it seems I've become a cheap person! I'm getting paranoid about my move this summer, having to be social this summer as well, plus, I'd like to visit a friend I met in Vietnam who lives in England on my way home. I guess I'll just have to sit back and wait for everything to unfold. Unfortunately, patience has never been one of my virtues. I suppose I'd better work on that, perhaps then I'll stop waking at 3 am in a cold sweat from some dream I can't immediately recall. Geesh!

I actually have another funny story to tell about one of my students today. We have grammar every Tuesday and today I made the students try to write full, complete and correct sentences. My joker student saw that I corrected two mistakes he ALWAYS makes, such as never capitalizing the "i" in a sentence if it refers to yourself and not capitalizing the beginning word of a sentence. I told him of these mistakes, he took his notebook away and then placed it in front of me again and said, "Ms. M, you need to have your eyes checked!" Who does this kid hang out with?

Mongolian Facts

Here are some facts about Mongolia. I hope you find this interesting! I sure did.

1. Mongolia has one of the lowest population densities in the world with only 1.5 people per 1 square km. You wouldn't know this from living in Ulaanbaatar, but once you head out to the countryside, it becomes much more evident.

2. 4 million Mongolians live outside of Mongolia.

3. Mongolia is the 18th largest country in the world. And also the largest land-locked one. Although, according to another website, it is second to Kazakhstan. It is roughly the size of Alaska.

4. The currency is the Tugrug. $100 Canadian dollars is worth 117,472.42 Tg. Or rather, 100 Tg is worth about 0.85 CAD.

5. The language is Mongolian and they use a Cyrillic alphabet.

6. The average life expectancy is 62.9 years old, for men. The woman's is about 69 years old.

7. The telephone poles here have a base that is concrete. Without this concrete base, the poles would snap off due to the pressure of the frozen ground.

8. Mongolians (both men and women) regularly perform the "Farmer's Blow" in public.

9. Mongolia is one of the highest countries in the world, with an average elevation of 1580 meters.

10. The Mongol Rally is an annual eight thousand mile journey by car (1000cc) or motorbike (maximum 125cc) from London to the capital of Mongolia. Participants in the rally raise money for charity.

11. Mongolia boasts the famous Przewalski horses (know here has the Takhi) that have an extra 2 chromosomes than regular horses. These wild horses have 66 chromosomes to the 64 of domesticated breeds.

7. Mongolian men wear their belts below their bellies while the Chinese wear theirs on their belly.

8. There are "walking phones" here. You will often see a man or woman stationed with a regular looking house phone, but on the sidewalk. If you need, you can make a phone call for about 100Tg (about 85 cents).

9. If you accidentally bump into someone, especially with feet under a table, you must shake hands. This proves it was truly an accident.

10. The population consists of 90% Mongolians. The next highest is Kazakh at 4%.

11. People in the countryside live in homes made out of felt and wood called 'gers.'

12. According to one website, Ulaanbaatar is the only major city in Mongolia.

13. The current President is Enkhbayar Nambaryn.

14. 0.76% of Mongolian land is arable.

15. The economy of Mongolia depends upon mineral mining, livestock and animal products, and textiles. Minerals are a primary export, including copper, tin, gold, molybdenum, and tungsten.

16. Everyone, and I mean EVERYONE, knows who Chingis Khan is (known to us as Genghis). Not only knows, but loves him.

17. There is now a Canadian Embassy here.

18. A traditional beverage here is 'airag', made from fermented milk.

19. The diet is heavily meat based. I met a man who told me he's never cold because he eats fat before going outside.

20. Mongolia is well-known for the archaeological finds, namely dinosaur relics. You also can meet people in the countryside who will try to sell you dragon eggs.

21. One last one. There is a reason people wore/wear fur! Because it is warm!

Tsagaan Saar

It is the Mongolian New Year here, called Tsagaan Saar. It involves eating lots of food and visiting with family. We got a 5 day weekend! I think the teachers were just as excited as the students! On the last day I was part of the "Spirit Day" committee. We dressed in traditional clothes, had to solve a riddle, took place in a "horse race" where the students were both the horse and the rider, and committed 'Random Acts of Kindness'. Plus, we were treated to a traditional concert including song, dance and throat singing. They were students from the local College. Oyunaa was also generous enough to put on a traditional meal for us. There was far too much food, but delicious and a nice way to end the very full day, with very full stomachs! It was a blast, but a great deal of work.

My students and I have been involved with something called the "Flat Stanley Community Project." We write letters to another class in a school very far away, and they do the same for us. Thus far, we have exchanged with Maine and now London, UK. We spend some time googling the area our Stanley's will go and learning about the place. I think they enjoy it, but I also do it so they learn to think about someplace other than the US. There is a huge world out there, and the center of it is not America. We also wrote letters to the President of Mongolia, telling him about how we've been learning about communities and some suggestions to make ours better. I was a little concerned about sending them because they often referred to things as "disgusting." But, I spoke with one of the Admin and they thought it was a fabulous idea. We still have yet to hear back!

Another funny teaching story. I know I already mentioned it, but it still makes me laugh!
Miss M: "Um, Tengis, didn't we start a new novel in reading comprehension? I don't see a new title or even a new chapter heading."
Tengis: Stares at Miss M with crazy eyes.
Miss M: "Well, don't you think you should have written that?"
Tengis: "Miss M! It must have been all those beers I was drinking!"
Miss M: She cannot speak, as her head is on her desk, laughing.

Some of us teachers here had the opportunity to enjoy the Eagle Festival. It was an outdoor event, and despite the many, many layers I was wearing, it was still cold. Actually, I was okay, save for my feet. We enjoyed the riders coming in with their eagles and a couple of competitions. First, the rider was separated from their eagle and it was released. The rider then had to call it. Some of the eagles went astray and just landed on the ground, but many came when called. The second was a competition where the rider dragged a fox pelt behind their horse and the eagle had to come and capture it. The last competition was one I had trouble watching. They released live foxes and let the eagles hunt them. I hope that what the others said, that some of them got away, is true. I did however witness a dead fox draped across the back of one of the rider's horses. We were only there for about 2 hours, but due to the cold, it felt much longer. I felt as though I were walking around on wooden posts rather than legs! Also, one of the male teachers went for a camel ride. He got thrown from the camel and was knocked out! He's okay, but lucky. I guess the camel has finally managed to live up to their reputation. I have only ever had one wipe its nose on me, but am always asked if they truly spit.

We have the never ending month of March upon us! Last year I remember it going by so slowly. Plus, there will be report cards and parent-teacher interviews as well. Thank heavens I have Bali to look forward to in April! Ah, swimming at will! We have been in a cold snap here, and last Monday it was -32 degrees Celsius in the morning. Yikes! That's not including the wind chill, so I don't know fully what it was. It seems to have broken though, and as of yesterday, was what could be deemed "nice" again.

I also have some other news. I have accepted a position for the following two years in a small African country called Eritrea. It's motto is "13 months of sunshine." After the harsh winters here, it does sound enticing! It is a very small school and community and am looking forward to spreading my wings across a different continent. How lucky am I? To have the opportunity to live and work in such wonderful, interesting places! I guess I'll have to rename my blog!

We've had some excitement here. A new store opened up near to the school! It seemed for the first week it was all anyone could talk about. I finally made my way there a couple of weeks ago, and it's nice. It's great to not to have to go all the way into town just to buy a few things. I feel badly for the old store I visited, as I'm sure they miss our business. That reminds me, I need to buy juice!

My class and I went on another field trip! We visited the Museum of Traditional Medicine here. Unfortunately, it was all in Mongolian, but the kids were happy to translate for me! They were really cute because they'd be listening and then they'd say, "Miss M! That is so interesting!" They know I can't understand what was happening or being said, so they'd tell me. It was a bit strange, as we had to wait for this tour guide to come, and they pacified the kids by putting on 'Kung-Fu Panda', but when she finally showed, she didn't do anything!

It was too cute though, because after lunch the kids were putting on their jackets and getting ready to go. I had to tell them we have a half-hour still until we leave and to put their jackets away. When the bell rang they all lined up as usual and started chanting, "Field trip! Field trip!" We actually did nothing on Friday. For the first period, we got new library books. Until lunch time, we watched "Journey into the Centre of the Earth" and then made Valentine crafts. We had lunch, recess, and then went on the trip. When we got back, we finished our crafts. No wonder they love me! Plus, I bought them popcorn and chocolate! It made me laugh though, as after the movie, first of all, they applauded! Secondly, they kept asking me, "What's the next surprise?"

My new teaching assistant is working out very well. She is determined and gets things done. She also does anything I ask. I wonder if she's a bit too good at her job, as if I ask her to make a phone call or anything, she won't come back to the class unless she has some definitive answer for me. On occasion, I think a couple of parents have been harassed! That's just her though, doing her job. The kids initially were somewhat disrespectful toward her, but they are good now. However, I did find out that she's the one who told the kids that a carpenter was someone who helps you with their carpets!

One of my students made me laugh, because I was asking him about why he didn't properly write something down. He looked at me with swirling eyes and then replied, "Miss M! It must have been all those beers I was drinking!" I literally had to put my head down on my desk and laugh!

I have my April vacation all planned and booked. I'm off to Bali. If I fly with Korean Air it is much cheaper and I have booked with a place that costs about $20 a night. I'm happy I finally get to go there, and swim! While my trip to Vietnam was great, there was not nearly enough swimming involved!

A colleague and I were having lunch yesterday and we were sharing funny work stories. She wished that over the years she had written down all the funny things that come out of our students' mouth's. I have two from recent tests that I'd like to share.

Q: How did the Pioneers see at night?
A: With their eyes.

Q: Who are carpenters?
A: They help us with our carpets.

Cute, no?

Alas! An end of an era has happened, and I was half-way around the globe when it occurred. My other half, my best mate, my baby boy, Farley, is no longer with us. It was quite shocking news, as he'd always been so healthy and full of life and great mischief. He had cancer in his hip bone. It was first thought he was suffering from old age and arthritis. Upon closer look, he was in dire need of being put down. The vet wanted to put him down straight away, but mom took him home for the evening and sent me a strange email. I called immediately and heard the news. I'd like to thank everyone who has sent me this great outpouring of care and concern. It means so much to me! I can say I'm grateful it was quick and he did not suffer much. My Mother was there and she said it was extremely quick. She is saving his ashes for me. My student's are very aware of how much I loved him, and while I was explaining to them about what cremation was, we got onto the topic of people having their remains shot out into space and soon onto the fact you can purchase a star and name it. They instantly came up with the idea that I buy a star and name it after Farles. Isn't that sweet? They were even offering to pay!

Things have been changing in the classroom. Doogie decided she was exhausted, and had returned to work too quickly after her daughter was born. I now have Ganaa with me, and things are going alright. I'm glad to say she's a quick learner and takes the idea of education seriously. This is good. She gets the students to pay attention, and reminds me of such things like lunch money.

It's been two weeks since I've returned to work after my vacation. Vietnam was good, and I'm glad to be able to say I've been there, but I was ready to get back home! I found the amount of travel taxing and not really restful. I was constantly catching planes, trains and automobiles for tours, transfers and the like. If it's possible to suffer from a vacation hangover, I had one! Plus, I only got to go swimming 3 times! Not nearly enough! Despite it being their winter, the water is usually the same temperature year round, and definitely swimmable. Yet, I only managed to wear my bathing suit once (yes, I went swimming in my clothes the other two times). I did get to go para sailing though, and that was incredible. I think the two neatest things I saw were the underground caves in Ha Long Bay (nominated for new wonders of the world) and the Cu Chi Tunnels occupied by the Vietcong during the war. I met some truly interesting and fun people too, which is always a plus. I found it a bit annoying that to some people it was unfathomable anyone should travel alone. They always felt the need to join me and invite me places with them. Not that that's a bad thing! Just, I travel alone for a reason. I simply don't want to have to talk anymore! I talk so much, all day long, a respite is nice and much needed sometimes. Yes, it's selfish, but also self-preserving! I was not anti-social, not by a long shot. Just, occasionally, I did not feel like it. And yet, I am already planning my April break trip!

The weather here has been cold. I take the temperature every morning and afternoon at school. It is usually hovering around the -25 degree mark. During December we hit -50. Now that's cold!

A friend of mine introduced me to a vegetarian restaurant. Nothing on the menu contains meat! Plus, you can purchase things like real veggie meats and sausages and such. I had breakfast for dinner simply for the fact I had some veggie sausages. I still see a niche for a good veggie burger! I have nary encountered a one yet here. It's nice to see some places taking such chances with this vegetarian stuff, as most restaurants only offer dishes like fried cauliflower or fried cheese. I once ordered cream of mushroom soup and it was hot milk with pieces of canned mushroom floating around in it. Not very appetizing. There are some great places to eat, don't get me wrong. It just seems when you find something you like on the menu, it's the one thing they're out of. There is a great Indian restaurant, many Korean, Italian and the like. I have discovered a sushi place, seriously! I have eaten there several times and never had an issue. Mmmmm, wasabi!

There has been the issue here of smokey skies lately. My eyes are very sore. On Wednesday I was just sitting in my apartment, minding my own business without the window open, and suddenly my eyes were on fire! I wound up just going to bed. That rarely happens, and usually my eye drops are effective enough. It's the worst though when you wake up in the morning and your eyes are all crusty.

I'd also like to say a hearty Congratulations to my brother, who passed his French exam! It was a hard road, but I'm sure well worth the travel. Best of luck.

Things the last week of school were so extremely hectic! We did the "Reindeer Jive" and had a rather anti-climatic pizza party. I was feeling rushed all day, every day, to get things done and wrapped up before school ended. But it appeared all my rush was in haste, as my flight to Seoul was delayed twice.

Upon arrival in Seoul, I got to sleep on the couch of another teacher and his wife's hotel room. I was warned Darleen snored and Chuck gave me a pair of wax earplugs and I can't recall ever sleeping better in my life. After I put those in, I heard nothing! It was amazing, save for the fact my hair got caught in one and it was tough to work it out.

While we had more than 22 hours to spend in Seoul, we returned to the airport and took a two hour tour of the town. It was really nice! I hadn't expected to enjoy it so much, but I did! I enjoyed the sights, the air, the water, and of course, the company. It put Seoul on the map for me. Plus, the seafood! Woah!

On to Hanoi. We flew in at about 10:30 pm and everything was alright until I had to go to the Visa upon arrival desk. First of all, there were too many people there and I was still wearing my Mongolian winter jacket. I took it off, and other things too, as it was very warm to us. Well, initially the issue was that I did not have a picture for my Visa application. I waited, and waited, and waited, until finally some woman and her family had to have their photo taken too. I jumped up behind saying, "Me too!" Well, it was then they discovered I had no letter. You have to have this official document that apparently was emailed to me as an attachment which I never received. I got all bug eyed and innocent like. I truly was freaking out. Everyone around me was being very supportive though, which I appreciated. Finally the officers went to check if my ride was there, and luckily he was with my papers! I breathed a huge sigh of relief! So, they took my picture and collected my luggage off the unmoving luggage carrier and finally made my way to the city of Hanoi.

It was late when I finally got to check in, 1 in the morning. My next day started early at 8:00, so I had a shower and read for a bit. The van was basically on time, and it was full! We visited many things that day. We went to a temple, then we went to the Ho Chi Minh Museum, where I ran into Chuck and Dar. Then we tried to visit the padoga but it was closed, so we had lunch and left for the ceramics town. I found a cute little ceramic crab, but it was chipped, so it became my mission to find one worthy. I actually walked up to someone and said, "Hi, I'm looking for crabs?" No one knew the word, in either capacity, thank heavens. In the end I found my little crab. I have found that most Vietnamese speak English much better than Mongolians. It's actually been an enjoyable find.

Today, I spent the day in Hanoi. It is such a hectic city, and exciting too. There is just so much traffic; foot, scooter, and cars. It is a mixture of old and new. It has tiny streets with way too much traffic. There really aren't any signal lights and people just flood the street until there are enough of them to go through at once and the oncoming traffic just kind of stops. I have found that while people are aggressive here to sell things, they won't rob or steal from you. I had a fruit girl grab my wrist and not let go. She wasn't being angry, just trying to get me to buy. I just said no, and she finally let me go. Laughing and smiling goes a long way here, so much the opposite of where I have been living. Anger and scowls get you anything you want. One shop girl was innovative with me and offered to take my picture with me in her hat and carrying the baskets. This meant, of course, I had to buy the pineapple. Not that I minded, I love pineapple, but I'd just eaten lunch.

So, I spent the day taking a ride in a rickshaw, eating a fantastic lunch, getting a massage, and walking. And of course, buying stuff. I bought myself some soup spoons made out of shells, a compass hidden in a turtle and some dragon flies made out of of bamboo for the kids. I hope they like them. I have to admit I've been tired. I haven't felt I've caught up on my sleep and haven't relaxed so much as the weather has been chillier than I was expecting. Plus, it would appear I will not get to go swimming (Gasp, moan!). I know the more I travel south it will get much, much warmer, so I'm looking forward to it. For now, I plan to experience it all as I can. Tomorrow I will visit Halong Bay, for which I purchased a sweater. It cost me about $3.00, and I'll definitely wear it again. Tomorrow, Halong Bay, and next, Hua by plane!

I had an interesting weekend! I drove a tank and fired some weapons. When the initial offer arose for me to go on this day trip I immediately said no. After some thought, I realized that more than likely, I'd never had another opportunity to do this. So, I said, "Yes!"

We left fairly early, and it wasn't too long of a drive on pretty good roads. 15 of us came, and we had to be sneaky about it too. Jen was setting this up as a surprise for her husband's birthday. He was completely clueless until the very last minute and boy, was he excited!

All but one of us signed up to drive the tank. We climbed on the top and off we went! To quote Sophie, "Driving a standard tank is nothing like driving a standard car." I did pretty well, and was complimented on my steering. In order to steer, there were two levers, one right one left. You had to quickly pull them toward you and then back. Trying to see the road was another story. You have two slits at eye level and don't get much of a view peripherally. It was exhilarating though! Pat, who is prone to zany stunts, asked that the tank literally drive over him! They, surprisingly, agreed.

We left for a nice lunch at the tourist camp. They had everything all set up for us and it was warm. After sitting on the metal tank for a few hours, we needed some toasting! While we were eating, Gurgit noticed my face was very red and I said it felt extremely hot. Then I noticed hives all over my body! I was having some sort of allergic reaction to something. We couldn't figure it out. Luckily, Megan had anti-histamine with her and I took one. I had to lay down and couldn't eat my food. After about an hour I was feeling better, but still confused. I was the only one to have any reaction, but the day had to go on and I had some guns to fire!

We arrived at the shooting range and I was the first to go! Only three of us signed up for the machine gun. We had the options of: machine gun, AK 45, sniper rifle, two kinds of pistols, and a grenade rocket launcher. I had chosen the machine gun, the AK and the pistol. I did not get the chance to fire the pistol, but that's okay. I turned out to be pretty good with the machine gun! The AK was pretty scary for me so Josh finished my rounds. It was so noisy though! The gave us shells to plug our ears with. The weapons we were firing also managed to start two fires on the hillside. The men who worked there had to run and put them out.

We talked some about the noise and how we couldn't imagine being around so many guns firing at once, let alone having them shoot back at us. It made us think about war and the soldiers coming home from it. Just holding the gun makes you aware of the power behind it, shooting it, even more so!

The craziest part of the day was when Pat decided to fire the grenade rocket launcher! It was so loud! Everyone had said that it went straight though the mountain and came out the other side. They all went to investigate, but I decided to retire to the van. It was getting cold and I still wasn't feeling quite right. Turns out it ricocheted off the front part of the hill and exploded behind it. It was quite the experience though!

So, first term report cards are done and sent home. I very nearly forgot because we had spirit day and everything was jumbled. The kids really enjoyed spirit day this month. We had to built a tower, fit as many of us into a hula hoop, and tie up someone! They were very excited because initially the class thought they'd get to tie me up! Thank heavens, no. Come Monday we will begin a new term and a new month. Only three weeks left until my Christmas vacation in Vietnam!

Today is a Mongolian National holiday. It's Independence Day here. We get the day off school. I don't remember celebrating it last year, but the days and weeks manage to blur into one another so quickly. I hardly remember the first day of school again this year.

Our class got to go on a field trip. We visited the National Mongolian History Museum. It was nice. It was kind of a test run to see how the children behaved in a different setting. Unfortunately, one was sick, but refused to miss the field trip. We called his mother to take him home for the day. He spoke with her first and then handed the phone to Mrs. Doogie. His mother was quite rude saying that her son was old enough to make his own decisions and if he wanted to go on the field trip, he should. He was ill the entire time and after we returned, called his mom to come pick him up.

I've decided Mongolia has an unfortunate effect on me. It's like I turn into the angry version of myself, as if I'm the Incredible Hulk or Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde or something. I find myself standing in front of cars to make them stop and telling people on cell phones in restaurants to take it outside, or at least to the heated lobby, to finish their conversation. I, in turn, get yelled back at, and honked at.

The first term is nearly over. My class has made considerable progress. I'm happy to say that even other teachers have noticed it! Doogie and I had our first fight, ever! We worked everything out, and I told her that considering the amount of time we've worked together, it's more than admirable that we can say this is our first fight. She agreed, I'm happy to say.

One of my students donated her lost tooth to a class science project. What a sacrifice! She said she had wanted to leave it for the Tooth Fairy, but gave it to us instead. We put it in a glass of Coca-Cola and are watching it's progress. I have a feeling it will be slow, but worth it!

Our class has also embarked on a new journey! We have signed up for the Flat Stanley project. It's basically a pen pal kind of program, but international. My students are really excited! We are first sharing with a class in Maine. We got to spend some time in the computer lab and we googled "Maine", just to have a better clue as to where we were sending our Stanleys. They were really interested, and learned a lot about the state. I can say, we've had a lot of offers to host Flat Stanley for a week. Too many! I'm the only teacher from Mongolia who's signed up. The students spent a lot of time writing their letters and drawing pictures. Next, we'd like to send Stanley to Africa!

Sorry, again, no photos are uploading today. Plus, I also managed to flood the apartments down to the first floor! I live on the fourth. I left the tub for 2 songs and the nozzle filling up the tub managed to find it's way to filling up the floor. I came in and, I admit, began swearing. There was at least an inch of water on the floor! I mopped it up, and decided to not let the water go to waste. While I was in the bath, and of course, had something in my eyes, there was the tell tale knock at my door. I thought perhaps I had avoided disaster, but nope! All the way down to the 1st floor! I'm wondering how else I can get in trouble today. Mmmm..let's see.

One of my students actually knows who Tom Selleck is! He loves that Tom has facial hair. I find it so amusing that someone seemingly so remote to Mongolians is actually known!

Things here have been chugging along. This last week the days truly began to blur together. I have been sick and thus, not really taking much in. We had a surprise visit from Gary at the school, which is unusual as we don't normally see him until February. I didn't get much of a chance to talk to him, but he seems well and in good health.

Due to my illness, I finally decided it was time to call in the heavy artillery. I recall from last year that my cold lasted over a month. I worked like a trooper through it all, but did not want to repeat. I asked the waitress at my Saturday luncheon (the only and best refried bean burritos ever!) to write me a note. Her English was very good (I keep having to correct my students that it's not American, it's English) and asked if she could write in Mongolian. She said, "Of course! I'm Mongolian!" I did not mean to offend her, but because of my past experiences I've noted that though many can speak their language, they cannot write it. Anyway, I got her to write me a note to the Pharmacist. I felt so proud when I went in and just handed over my "doctor's note". I began to feel embarrassed when they laughed at me, and then even more when one of the the technicians actually spoke English to me! I was surprised and not expecting it, so I had to say, "I'm sorry, I was not expecting anyone to speak English. Can you please repeat what you said?" We muddled through, and I got some antibiotics. I can honestly say that I'm feeling better already.

I am glad to say that I have my Christmas vacation all ready! I am off to humid Vietnam and found this tour online that is called "Easy Beach Break". I will tour the country, flights included, and see beaches, pagodas, and whatnot. It sounds wonderful! At least it's something to, finally, look forward to! I can't hardly wait!

I am going to have to initially apologize for the lack of photos. We supposedly have this new internet connection that is really fast, but every time I try to upload anything, the server times out. I will do it as soon as I can, as I know you'd appreciate the pics! Grr! It keeps saying that the server has been interrupted.

We recently had our October break. I stayed around the house mostly, but one of the other teachers, Jaya, was sweet enough to invite a few of us who were around for lunch at her place to commemorate another teacher's leaving. While the four of us were sitting around eating her delicious Indian food, we passed around the idea of heading to the countryside for a few days. I said, "Why not? I haven't been where we're talking about going and I'm not doing anything else." So, for the Thursday, Friday and Saturday we headed off to Hustai National Park and Kharkhorum, the old capital city during Chingis Khan's time. One thing I learned is that Chingis and Ghengis were two different people. Ghengis is Chingis' grandson.

We headed off early Thursday morning. We were not aware that there was to be any additions to our party, but learned then that two more travelers would be joining us. They turned out to be Leona and Maria. Leona was a Kiwi who was half Samoan and not only an Amazonian, but also an incredible beauty. Maria was from Finland and 66 years old. She had decided that she would travel for 3 months of every year and chose Mongolia, Russia and China for this year's destination. You gotta give her props! I began to grow concerned for her health, bumping around in the van and sleeping in the ger, but she was certainly a trooper!

First day we were in Hustai where we saw the famous Przewalski horses, known as tahki to the Mongolians. They are the last of the really wild horses in the world. They originated in Mongolia and were exported to various places. Unfortunately they died out in Mongolia and a Polish man, named of course Przewalski, took a great interest in this and ensured their return to this country. Now they live in a protected park and are doing well. I also learned that they have 2 more chromosomes than regular horses. I'm not really sure what that means, but it's a proud fact here. They have 66 chromosomes compared to regular horse's 64. We spent the day trying to wrap our heads around that.

After this visit we headed to the ger camp. There was a bit of confusion, as the couple the tour company usually stays with had moved from their summer palace to the winter one. They have three ger camps they use throughout the year. They were such a cute and energetic couple. One would never have guessed their ages! He was 72 and she was 66. You could most definitely see the beauty in the wife's face and he, whom I've deemed "The Dude", was such a character. One of the teachers I traveled with was bald. The Dude was so drawn to him for it! Even though we really could not communicate, we laughed together. He would stop by every once in a while to show us some gadget he had or to rub Richard's head. It was very cute and lively.

After our night there we headed out fairly early the next day to see Kharkhorum. There was a museum there and many temples. Luckily, our guide, Ankha, was a Mongolian History major at University and could tell us many interesting facts and folklore. There was a temple there dedicated to the Dalai Llama and three to Buddah, one for each stage of his life. I did learn that Dalai in Mongolian translates to ocean because the Dalai Llama was said to have such great knowledge that it was as big as an ocean. Seeing as how I have a student in my class named Dalai, I stowed this bit of information and told the class on Monday when I returned. They actually seemed proud of me!

After the old capital we headed to see the penis rock, pointed toward vagina mountain. We were so geared up to see this penis rock! When we got there it was much smaller than we had expected, maybe about 2 feet total. Something that is interesting about it is it was erected to remind the monks not to fraternize with the local women. One was caught many, many years back and as a result, he was castrated. After, this the rock was erected pointed at this mountain that was said to frenzy the supposedly chaste monks. Well, the vagina looked like just a mountain with some grooves in it. I didn't see it.

We stopped off at a ger camp for lunch and were approached by a musician who offered to perform for us. We refused his initial offer of a 45 minute concert for a 20 to 25 minute one. He played all the traditional instruments and even did some throat singing for us! It is the kind of sound that you would get from an electronic voice box, but naturally. It was strange and fascinating to hear. He was a very jovial and talented man and I'm glad for the opportunity to have seen him perform.

It was pretty cold this day, but I was dressed warmly and did not mind. We then traveled to some sand dunes. I enjoyed the fact that my new camera made me unconcerned of running out of space on my memory stick. I could just take pictures at will! How freeing! We did not have much time at the sand dune (not nearly as large as the ones I visited in the Gobi last year!) but appreciated the chance to get out of the van. I took many pictures but began to worry about sand getting in my camera due to the wind. I tried to capture the sand being blown, but the photos did not turn out as I'd hoped. I still need to mess around with the settings.

It was threatening to get dark as we headed back, but we still had some camel riding ahead of us! Jaya and Maria declined, but Richard, Leona and I went. I left on a camel and returned on a horse. It was not a huge ride, but I have to say, I can't understand why people are afraid of camels. They are a wild animal, but just so ...what's the right word? Lackadaisical isn't right and neither is resigned. They just seem calm and go with the flow. Horses, now they're a different story! Initially all the lead animals seemed annoyed and did not want to cooperate, but the owners took charge and they relented. We had learned that earlier some other tourists had taken them out and perhaps they felt their day should be done. After all, I had woken then up early that morning to take their picture! I was kind of astonished to see the camels sleeping laying on their side. I had expected them to stay in a sort of legs-tucked-underneath-them kind of position, but hey, we all need to stretch our legs!

Not everyone slept as well that night as it was much colder that night. I was okay, but Jaya got up as soon as they came in to relight the fire to get warm. She's sick now and missed school today. Sleeping in a ger is basically like sleeping in a tent, but it's more sturdy. So, the cold seeps in during the night. Initially you are too hot, but later it gets very cold. Even though you are sheltered from the wind, you have not felt the Mongolian cold. It gets in everywhere.

Our last day we basically spent driving. We stopped off at the same place we had lunch in on our first day in. I have discovered I love the Mongolian milk tea. It's milky (strange for me to like this!) plus salty. It's not for everyone, but it has a taste I enjoy. The one thing I don't like is that fermented milk they call something like "arich". It just takes like sour cream or any thick dairy product gone bad. They love it!

School is back and things are going good. I'm really beginning to enjoy my class and all they have to offer me. They really are a good bunch of kids. I think that now that the initial adjustment period is over, they have really, truly, settled into the (okay, my) routine. They actually get upset if I don't do the word of the day with them! They will perpetually ask me, "Miss M, what's the word of the day?" Until I can find a space in which to do it in, they keep asking. We have a set morning ritual that brings us into our work day. Every morning I ask, "What do we do every morning class?" They readily respond with, "Take temperature, check homework, change the calendar, take attendance!" I have to admit, it's a pretty wonderful feeling having a chorus of voices respond to your prompts. I am heard, and they do listen!

Now that the Hallowe'en festivities are done and I'm on break you would think things would calm down. Not so! I met Sue for some Korean food and then we went for massages. My male masseuse thought it would be a good opportunity to take our relationship to the next level and tried to have sex with me. It was all so strange. I was very relaxed and enjoying my 90 minute massage when he tried to climb on top of me and asked, "Okay?" I said, "No, no, no." He got down and just continued the massage. It was like something out of a Salvidor Dali painting, just so surreal. I tipped him afterward, just to show there were no hard feelings and that I wasn't upset. I have a feeling this is normal practice here, as I've heard similar stories about another establishment. Just, it was surprising. I've seen this man many, many times before, and nothing of this nature was ever implied. I guess it's still up for debate. Do I return to show there's no problem, no hard feelings? Or do I just never go back. The dilemma is due to the fact that they are the best massages in town! Plus, it's not like he was aggressive or disrespectful of my wishes. I'll have to think some more on this situation.

Now that I am on vacation I finally went for my facial. It was amazing! I got some waxing done and a facial all for about $36 AM. Can't beat those prices!

I have been invited to go to the old capital of Mongolia this week for a day trip. I am very interested in seeing it and will post pictures as soon as I have them. I have no idea what to expect, but it's always nice to get out of the city, even if just for a day.

As I have said, there was recently an election here. There will be another one soon, so hopefully no riots will break out! I drove past the scene of the building that was set on fire last time where the 5 people died. It was disheartening. The building is still standing but nothing has been done in the way of repairs. I have to admit, I think it's a little sad that a country who has this democratic process has to stop the sale of liquor to ensure a safe voting process. Am I the only who who this strikes as strange? I've begun to view Mongolia as that of a teenager, acting up, dressing up, and thinking they know everything. I remember that, and I received so much patience from my mother, that I can't help but be optimistic and give her my patience too. But then what do I know? I can't even be trusted to buy toilet paper!

I have warmly welcomed winter! This morning it was minus 8 degrees Celsius and it only got up to minus 4 today. It happened so quickly! We had a major snow fall here (meaning a couple of centimeters) and it would seem the Mongolians were taken by surprise. The buses couldn't get to school and they fashioned a shovel out of a two-by-four and a piece of plywood. So funny, things that are so normal to us wreak complete havoc somewhere else. Of course, I have been assailed with questions in regard to ice skating. I have no idea when or even who makes the rink, but because it was cold for one day the kids assumed the rink was already ready! I tried to explain that we would be skating on lumpy, frozen grass and these things take time, but they were crestfallen none the less.

Mongolia recently had an election. As a pre-emptive strike against riots recurring, they just stopped the sale of alcohol. Initially on that weekend they served beer only, but later nothing at all. I've been warned that there will another election soon as there was not a majority winner.

Things have been busy here, what with paperwork, school, and everything else. Tomorrow, luckily, is the last day before the week break. The kids are VERY excited about dressing up in their costumes! There will be a contest as well. Plus, we got to decorate our door. It's funny, because the students keep asking me, "Hallowe'en is Friday, yes?" I have to keep telling them that it's only Hallowe'en for the school, that because of the break we will miss it. They still seem a bit confused. I have no idea what to wear. I usually abstain from it, but feel it will show a lack of school spirit if I don't. I have nothing to wear!

The class has really settled in and are now very used to the routine I have in place. They actually get upset if I have to change it!

For the break I will just simply relax. Read, sleep, get a facial, and drink beer at will. Plus, I will get the chance to go to Millie's for those amazing refried bean burritos I love so much. I only now get to go on Saturdays as they are closed on Sundays. Mmmmmm, refried beans........ They are the one item you cannot find anywhere here. I love them so! Okay, well not the one item, but it's just that I found them one time in this one store, the Good Price, and I check every week to see if they have them back in again. I am always disappointed.

Our internet has been hit and miss for a while, so tonight it's not allowing me to upload much of anything. Better luck next time!

Okay, I know I haven't updated in a while. Sorry for those of you who read this regularly! It has been a busy month! Phew!

My class is beginning to settle into the routine and things are going well. We were featured in the first newsletter home due to our science experiment on seed germination. The class was astounded at the way the lentil seeds grew so fast in only a cup and wet paper towel. Plus, we got to have a field trip on the school grounds to look at seeds and the local plants. It was a lovely day and nice to get outside for one period.

We had our curriculum night and I had 17 parents show up. This must be some sort of a record, my classroom was packed. It's always funny to see the parents sitting in the tiny, grade 3 desks. They seem like active people. I always enjoy to see parents taking a role in their child's education. This means I get the support at home I need. We actually had to be shooed out of the class at the end, some parents wanted to keep talking!

I have a new first in my teaching career. One of my students was suspended for a day. I'm sad it had to happen, but they needed a wake up call as to following the school rules. Hopefully, it won't need to happen again.

We had our first spirit day of the school year, and the goal was to make the students look like a box of crayons. My class was orange. Unfortunately, we did not win this month, but the students seem eager to try again next month. I wish us the best of luck!

Sorry the photos are kind of fuzzy, but they were taken with my old camera. I got a new one from Olaf for my birthday! It's beautiful! I will write more soon, I promise!

This is my new class! We are 20 and there are 3 students named Khulan. It is such a popular name, for both boys and girls. I am grateful for the two preparation periods a day I get and for the fact I do not teach art, gym or computers this year. Not that I minded, but it takes some of the pressure off. I do have new classes I have introduced this year, such as Health and vocabulary building, which has increased the time required for prep. Needless to say, I have been exhausted this week! I keep trying very hard not to fall asleep on the couch in the early evening, but have failed a few times! After my first day back I did suffer from insomnia though. For some unknown reason, my alarm clock had been set to 11:00 and that woke me up. Then I re-awoke at 3am and could not get back to sleep until after 5!

The weather here has been unpredictable this year. Last year when I arrived it rained one day. The rest of the time it was clear, blue skies and dry. This year it has been overcast and rainy most days. I have never seen it so green here! I take the temperature twice a day and the first day we started out at 13 degrees but by the afternoon it had shot up to over 35! The rest of the days this week it has hovered around 14 degrees.

The first day of school was marked by the opening ceremony, and the students gave me tons of roses! One even gave me a plant for my desk, making me very happy! I also got some chocolates.

During the week preparing for the new school year Doogie and I worked closely together. I am extremely happy and grateful she is back! Her baby is only about 3 months old, but stays with her husband during the day. Doogie says she is glad to be back at work, and I am certainly glad to have her! She was such a tremendous help to me last year and I couldn't imaging working without her.

My students so far are very sweet. Their language skills are varied, but that is to be expected. I have incorporated many new areas in the Language Arts part of my curriculum to, hopefully, compensate for this and will see their abilities grow. I made sure my new students knew the three major things about me; I'm in love with Batman, I need my coffee, and that I work very hard for them and expect the same from them. I also decided to inform them that no, I was not married, and that I was in no rush to be. So, they did not need to ask every man who comes into my classroom if he's married, and if not, does he want to marry me. It's sweet to have them so concerned for my well being, but I do not need a matchmaker! Or, an entire class of ones! They laughed at that.

I have decided this year to read aloud to them "Journey to the Centre of the Earth." So far it is just the set up to the exciting adventure and I have to keep telling them, trust me, it's going to get good! I'm hoping the new movie will come here on video soon so I can show them. The promise of a movie is always motivating! Well, so is the threat of stopping the reading and doing grammar instead;)

My old students have already been asking me to come back next year and teach them grade 5! They love to hug me and one even says, "My hands are stuck! I can't let you go!" It is very nice to have been so missed! They also keep asking me if I had my coffee today yet!

I was out shopping last weekend and bought some seeds for chives and I think, basil. I'm trying my luck out on an indoor herb garden, but I'm not holding my breath. I tried last year to grow lemon basil and it did not go well. I did miss some of the foods here (gasp, shock!). I missed the fake soy meat and the seasoned sushi wraps. MMmmm, they are a tasty snack, but get green stuff stuck in my teeth.

I keep getting asked by parents how their child is doing so far in school. It's only been three days and it is tough to answer that question when I'm still learning everyone's name! I'm hoping this year will go as well as last, but it is too soon to tell. So far I've been covering review and introducing new ideas very slowly. I keep calling people for reassurance, and they have helped me immensely. Especially being able to talk to my mom! Mom's are the best!