October 12, 2006

Thursday.  I woke up this morning and didn’t really know what to do.  Sleeping in a real bed seemed like a nice idea, but also made me soar and stiff after so much plane sleep (or attempted plane sleep)  I unpacked a little so I can try to feel more at home.  Then I wandered around and found the flag ceremony.  This gave me a chance to talk with the other teachers and volunteers to get a feel for the place. 

I found it interesting that they all seemed amused that I would request a meeting and tour before I started teaching, and that I made a list of questions I had.  Wow.  For me this is crucial to my being able to function. 

Dr. Haugland was willing to meet with me and answer questions.  We had a great meeting and tour that landed us at lunch, great I was so hungry after missing breakfast.  The children love to have an adult sit with them so I did of course.  We were supposed to talk again, but I apparently needed a four hour nap in the middle of the day.  I could have slept for longer, but it was dinner time and I have no desire to be hungry. 

I played with the children a little and then back to my room to work some more.  I was exhausted again by 8 so I went to bed. 

Two point of interest today.  1)  The only bugs in my room are tiny.  I have seen ants, flies (gnats really) and one spider.  All were the size of a pencil lead or smaller.  2)  Dr. Haugland asked if I would give any advice on Curriculum Enhancement so he obviously values my presence and knowledge and one of the Thai teachers (how can I forget so many names!) asked about my degree.  When she found out I had a bachelors in education she was very happy and told me I am thought of as the principal.  Well I guess I am more an asset here than I anticipated.  It is great to have everyone happy that I am here, I hope I can meet their expectations.