Please excuse my not so good writing, my mind is already in America!

November 26^th- December 9^th:

Honestly, it is really hard for me to concentrate on anything right now due to extreme excitement. Six more sleeps until I fly home to Wisconsin.  

Bacud- Bacud is a small barangay just a short jeepney ride away from my house. After getting off the jeep you have to hike down the mountain side until you reach a flawless nook in the woods. The community reminds me of a campsite, although the campers are there for a lifetime. Mam Helen, one of the new student teachers at my house lives there. It only took about one hour for me to realize that this was my new favorite spot on the island. We borrowed a row boat to take into the deep water to see the corals. It was a relief to see coral that was still thriving. We paddled along staring at the land down under. I was with Joanne and Ayra in the boat. They were both afraid to be in such deep water because they were not confident they could swim. What if the boat tipped over? Just another situation in which it was mind boggling to me that people who live on an island cannot swim. They typical stay in the shallow water, whether it is fear of sharks or fear or drowning that prevents them from gliding into water deeper than their knees. Good motivation to keep planning my Summer Survival Swim course. There was a group of spear fishes who were startling to watch. With their handmade gun, fins, and goggles, they dove down under countless times. I got to hold the spear gun and it was a lot heavier than I thought it would be. The skill of spear fishing must take years to develop. The children also kept catching my attention. They would chase jelly fish and the small team of fishes even caught an octopus. Funny that when I went to the beach as a kid I played with plastic beach toys and here they play fish crabs, octopus, and jelly fish! The adventure ended with the chef’s special of eel, sea urchin, and oysters! So happy I am finally brave enough to try anything that is placed in front of me.

Gemma moving- Gemma, my counterpart, and her family have been building their new house. It was time for them to move but many things had to happen first. They needed to get one jar of salt and sugar. The salt and sugar would never be used it was just a token of good luck. Next, they needed a large sack of rice, again for luck and prosperity. Next, they needed to get a dwarf coconut tree. One of the students brought one to school one day for Gem’s. Finally I know the answer to my question- “Why do so many houses have a small coconut tree in the front?” They had to move before the full moon so it was crunch time. If they did not make the deadline they would wait until the following month. Phew! They made it and are now happily living in their new house.

Christmas cards- I have only been teaching two sections of second year, normally I teach four. However, because we have the student teachers, one of them is in charge of the other two sections. I had them do a special project because I was not going to be at school for two days. They had to make a Christmas card for a student in America! I asked them all to stand and promise me that they would complete the assignment because it would not be good for one student of the class in the states to not have a Christmas card. The all promised, with outsized smiles on their faces. I had listed down the names of the students in the class and each of them came up and got to choose a name. We had a brainstorm session about things they could tell their new friends about Marinduque and questions they might want to ask. Then, I left them on their own to complete the task in their own special way. Two days later I came back to school. Every student was present in class (which is rare) and every student had a beautifully designed card to give me. I almost cried. The other two sections heard about the activity so I now have two more sets of class names to give them on Monday.

Books arriving, box #2 on the way- After tearing away the tape, the excitement began. The “Oooo’s” and “Aaaa’s” and “look at this” and “look at that” and “wow!’s” were great noise to my ears. Some of the teachers wanted to bring one book home as a Christmas present. I had to assure them that they could all use the books but they had to stay at school. However, we are working on making borrowers card for each book. I am hopeful that the books with help teach my students about the wonderful life that lies beyond the island they were born on. I am hopeful that the story books will help their imaginations expand. I am hopeful that the remedial resources will help my students who lack motivation to learn, the pictures and color will capture their attention. This box was a sample set so we are scheduled to have a meeting next week before I leave so the teachers can choose the types of books they like and would use. We are able to request class sets which would add a whole new style of teaching. Box #2 is already on the way with more samples! In the meantime, we will enjoy the ones we have. There are 121 total and we are going to make a book nook in are classroom where students can come in and check out books before school or during lunch. We are also planning on making bean bags to add a touch of comfort to the reading corner.

The World Without Us, By Alan Weisman- Any readers out there looking for a good book to read- I highly recommend this one. The title says it all so just read it. There is one chapter in the book about plastic. I was in rage when I found out that the hand soap I use and the body was I use have tiny speaks of plastic in the mixture. Apparently, I have been exfoliating my skin with plastic. Why the rage? Because during the day I repeatedly telling my students to not throw plastic on the ground, to bring their bottles to increase their use of plastic and THEN I am going home and flushing plastic down my drain. The ingredient is polyethylene. Check your products people. The hand soap I use is from bath and body works, it is the gel like one. The body wash was one I bought here in the Philippines. Perhaps the foam hand soap from bath and body works is more environmentally friendly. I have no idea what to do with the remaining products that I have? I do not want to use them but I do not want to be wasteful either. Can plastic even exfoliate?

I am not sure when I will get the change to sit down and write again so Merry Christmas to all! Enjoy the spirit, joy, and happiness that capture us all during this time of year.

Bila- Bila Festival (Butterfly Festival) There is a competition between barangays . This is my favorite festival! 

Books, books, books! Finally, they arrived! The wait was definitely worth it. 

Lunch in Bacud! 

Be Thankful.

November 19^th- 25^th:

Happy Thanksgiving, Everyone!

Of course there is no formula for success except perhaps an unconditional acceptance of life and what it brings.
-Arthur Rubinstein

What am I thankful for?

My family. We have gone through a battlefield of tears and other life adversity but because of love and faith we stand together today, holding hands and never letting go. Life without family is nothing to me.

My better half. You help me to experience really living, really going down the path of adventure and I hope our adventure never ends. Even though we are miles and miles away I still feel your love each day I wake up with the sun. We have a connection I used to not believe in. I am thankful for the north woods and because I caught your eye that day.

My friends. For my childhood friends, high school friends, Peace Corps friends, and all every other friend who I have crossed life paths with. The greatest thing about meeting a new person is you can learn so much if you only give the moment enough time to unravel into greatness. I am thankful I love meeting new people.

I am thankful to have crossed the line into my second year of Peace Corps service.

Because I now understand the beauty in change.

For tuna, wheat bread, bananas, local vegetables, and water because without you I am not sure how I would survive here.

For my French press. I can’t survive without coffee either. I found my morning love again.

For the quotes, “Even though we don’t got money, I am so in love with you honey.” This is mine and Joey’s song. It is constantly playing in my head as a reminder that love is more life changing than money will ever be.

Lastly, I am thankful to be alive. I am thankful for every breath I take. I am thankful that I allowed my true spirit to sore, to take on a world challenge, to extend my other hand, to experience something I would not understand unless I got the opportunity to live in it. 

Just when I thought I could not be more amazed? I am more amazed. Emerson, he is a born leader and coach although I was not completely sure he truly believed it. Last week, I was walked home from the market and saw him. He joined me. He started asking me about college and if I thought it was possible for him to continue playing Ultimate Frisbee in college. I looked at him, almost screamed but I caught myself, and in a loud voice said, “Absolutely!” He is my leader of the pack. Other students are creating a school newspaper right now and one of the articles is about Frisbee. They called Emerson into the room. He answered every question with enthusiasm and accurateness. I was amazed that he really read every sentence in the Frisbee handbook I had printed off for him. Now, mastering something is the first sign of a great teacher. No wonder his athletes are improving and mastering the sport at full speed. Watching them play you would never know they were beginners. Although, I wrestle with the thought of calling them beginners anymore. This week at Sports Club I watched them go through these new running and throwing drills. Before, they would use drills that I taught them in the first weeks. I had never seen the drills before though, these were new ones. I have not had time to ask him where they came from but that is not really critical in understand that this students of mine is an amazing one. He believes in himself, I know it now.

I am thankful that I found something to commit my time to here that benefits my students and community while simultaneously holding passion power in my life.

The interesting thing about now is that I am living one of the greatest years of my life all over again. I get to experience things that sent me down the spiral of awe all over again, the festivals, the bike rides, the sunsets, the laughs, the school celebrations, the seasonal fruits, and beyond. So far, to my amazement and somewhat disbelief I think the second time around has been better. What happens when something that you did not think could get any better does? It proves that in life, anything is possible. I have been reflecting a lot because I am comparing certain events of today to last year. The events have not changed much, but I have. I can speak Tagalog more confidently, I feel more alive because I exercise again, I have built friendships with last year’s strangers, I have old friends and new friends, I feel more comfortable, I feel more at home. I think these feelings are a result of the success of fully integrating me in a place that it extremely different from where I was born. 

Write your heart out!

November 12^th- 18^th:

I want to begin this post with a challenge for anyone who reads this. I want you to get a piece of paper and a pen. Yes, only one piece of paper. Then, write and send a letter to someone. An old friend, a teacher, a neighbor, a relative, someone who comes to mind that may need a surprise, someone who you miss, someone who you want to reconnect with, anyone… just do it! I am writing about this challenge because my Aunt Marlyn frequently writes me letters. I get one every few months. Every day that I get a letter is amazing in more than one way. Her letters spark a smile that lasts longer than an ordinary smile. Her letters bring tears to my eyes every single time. Her letters make me realize the magic in taking the time to write a special note. I should mention that my Aunt’s letters are typed, but on a type writer. Her mistakes cannot be erased, her words cannot be spell checked so it is pretty much the same as using pen on paper. And seeing the font of a type writer reminds me of my childhood so that’s pretty amazing too. However, the most delightful thing about reading her letters is I find out what really matters to her. On a single page, space is clearly limited, one has to choose words carefully, choose ideas carefully, and choose moments to share carefully. This makes each sentence even more exceptional. So, get your piece of paper and pen and write something. Send something special through the air and feel your heart beat faster as you wait for the reply. We all know this world could use a little more magic. Some may say writing is not magical, but I think it is. Make some magic people.

@School: This week my school community was introduced to 18 student teachers! The student teachers are all assigned a cooperating teacher and they will observe and practice teaching until March. This is their final step on the path towards being a teacher. Last year we did not have any in English; however, this year there are FOUR. I recently did a training with all four of them so it is neat to be reconnected and have the opportunity to spend more time with them. My counterpart and I have been assigned two who will work side by side with us the rest of the school year. Joanne, one of the student teachers is my age and I am really looking forward to getting to know her more and hopefully doing a lot of projects with her help. We just created a new display in our classroom: “Every Child is an Artist” – Pablo Picasso. We tacked up tons of student artwork. It was really cool to work with someone who shares equal excitement as I do in regards to making students feel powerful and proud. Sometimes when I look into my crowd of students it frustrates me to see their eyes wandering. But, when I see them gazing at their piece of work or the work of another student, it just lifts up my energy and touches my soul. Frustration does not even cross my mind.

            Also, the other day I walked into my Principal’s office and she was putting a mess of dentist supplies in the cabinet. Of course I was curious so I had to ask why. She told me that there will be a dentist coming to the school soon. Any student that wants to have a tooth pulled can on that day. It was one of those moments where I wished I had been more aware of my reaction because I probably looked scared. Then I thought about it and I do not even know where the dentist office is on this island. I think there is one but I could be wrong. The do not have the tools or medicines to properly fill cavities so when the tooth rots, they just pull it. When they have no teeth, they get dentures.

@my house: We have three new puppies. When I moved in there were 5 dogs. Two died. Now we have SIX. They are all really cute. Whenever I walk I feel like I am going to step on them. I love that they follow me around. When I am washing my clothes they try and hop into the basin. This is both annoying and totally comical. I do have a favorite one. His name is Coco Martin. Joe told me that I have to give me lots of attention to he can become the leader of the pack. I hope he grows faster and stronger than the others. Right now he is the smallest and cutest little ball of fur. Sometimes I want to sneak him into my room and cuddle but then I remember that I am allergic. I just give him extra attention during my free time outside.

Last week I also started doing P90X. I am addicted already. I never thought I would be so excited about working out in shorts and a tank top. There is a big open space in the extra room at my house which gives me plenty of space for activities. I also came down with a cold last week. I convinced myself to stop exercising for one day but then the next I convinced myself that I was ready to rumble again. Well, as you may have guessed it actually made my sickness reach a more severe level as I diagnosed myself with bronchitis. I got antibiotics and decided to take more than ones days rest. Being sick is really hard without a big comfy bed, a bath tub and chicken noodle soup. I try so hard to pretend that I am not sick when I start to feel the phlegm but realize now that maybe I should not do this.

Yesterday I had to say goodbye to my site mate, the marvelous Shea Johnson. We went on this 5 hour hike to the center of the Philippines with three jeeps full of students and teachers from her community. The sky was bright blue all day. Every step of the way created a new and exciting view. From the top we scoped out some white beaches and small islands that I did not know existed so near to me but will soon explore them to a greater degree and from a closer perspective. We danced down the mountain and picked up plastic along the way. We shared stories, life goals, ideas, and lots more for the whole adventure. I am truly going to miss you but I am thankful that you have been here with me for the past 16 or something months. You are an inspiration, a risk taker, a brave soul, a marvel, a great dancer, and I can’t wait to see you in the states! Rock on girl. Never forget the dolphins… Miracles are real. 

When one gets sidetracked from life...

November 5^th- 11^th:

“It is good to get sidetracked from life.” Those are the words that best express why I have not written in a month. Honestly, I have been procrastinating sitting down to write this with fear of being overwhelmed by my own thoughts. But then, I have never really been one to be afraid of a challenge, so here I am, ready to write. However, now that I am sitting here, prepared to type and type and type some more I am having trouble pinpointing where to start.

How am I feeling these days? I am feeling great. Lately, a lot of my mind energy is focused on home. How excited I am to see and hug the people in my life that I miss so much. The rest of my brain power is going to developing a way to help my sports club become sustainable and my new found project of developing an Awareness Club to help educate teachers and students in my community of things in life that really need to be widely known facts. Topics like teen pregnancy, human trafficking, bullying, domestic abuse, suicide. These things are never talked about and it is mind boggling to me. Karen has some contacts in the states that have given us some great resources which will serve as our starting block as we jump into this race to be aware. I have also been talking to a Peace Corps staff member who has been helping me get my hands on some materials that are going to be useful in the months to come. Yes, this will take months.

Where have I been? My weeks away from site started at MST (Mid- Service Training). Yes, we have now officially crossed over the half way mark and into the world of second year of service, the place where we talk a lot about our projects and gossip about miscellaneous nonsense instead of about each other’s sites. The most effective MST talk for me was one about volunteerism at site. I realized that I was already doing things that can classify as volunteerism; I just did not know what to call it! How cool. So, now I have the manual and hope to use it to help my students in sports club realize that they are doing more than merely exercising their mind and body. My students who are leaders and teaching others about sports and encouraging them to join are actually practicing ideals that fall under volunteerism. I have known for awhile now deep down in my soul that I have a great group of youth that I am working with. Before I go off on a tangent about that let me stick to the “Where have I been?” After MST, we all went to Manila for our medical- dental and physical. I thought that I was going to escape out of the dental office without having them tell me I need to floss more but then… at the last second, “Oh, and please try and floss more!” Seriously?!?! I almost made it! I floss every day. I thank everyone around me for that. The site of decaying teeth has lead me into the life of regular flossing. But, apparently I still need to floss more. After medical and dental I met up with Karen, Pam, Ed, and some other volunteers and we went to Howzat for two nights. Howzat is a sports bar near Manila. I felt with every particle in my body that I was in America. We were slamming beers during the all you can drink hours and eating cheese sticks, burgers, and nachos. Howzat was the beginning of the “I am spending way too much money” journey that consumed my life for the week to follow. More on this in the photo section of this post. After Howzat I went to Lipa with Karen for a few days. This is when we started our talk about the awareness club and started to gather information. Then, it was off to Puerto Galera, Mindoro! We were ready to enjoy beach, sun, beers, friends and everything that comes along with that great combination of awesomeness. The first night we were bound to stay with another volunteer but miscommunication of some sort put us on the wrong boat. We got dropped off in the sand a few hours away from where we were supposed to be. NOT the worst place to get dropped off at. It was already dark to we changed plans and met up the Ben, the volunteer, the next day for an all day excursion under the blistering sun. The beers started early and ended early, I think we were all in bed by 7pm. We spent a few days enjoying delicious homelike food, laughing, and swimming. The whole time I was in awe about the fact that I had only met these people one year ago, and one the day prior, yet somehow they are like family to me.

How did I feel once I was back at site? I felt like I need to detox. It is hard to write out every detail here displaying exactly why I felt this way. At site, I eat relatively healthy because I really have no alternative, I exercise, and I drink lots of water. During my sidetrack, I ate really good food but probably a little heavy in the cheese and fat category, I did not exercise as much, and I drank lots of beer. There is a splurge if there ever was one. Good thing my mother taught me how to not diet. I love the fact that I enjoy living a healthy lifestyle; however, when moments come into my life that drive me to eat unhealthy and live without restrictions it feels good to not feel bad about it. I did just start doing P90X again. Triple whoa, my body immediately felt better. Now, if only I have some recovery drink mixture, one thing on my list of to get when I am back in the land that has everything. In other news, seeing the students and teachers and neighbors at my site was great. Those kinds of smiles are really magical. Especially from the people who thought I had gone home forever and then they realized I was just on vacation. We have two new puppies at my house too. Just more chaos. I may live on a farm. Oh, we also had a consolidation drill for Peace Corps. It is a drill that ensures that all volunteers are accounted for and safe. We would use our consolidation point in an emergency situation. I got home Sunday night, and had to pack up an overnight bag again on Monday to head to the consolidation point. We had to stay overnight together- Catherine, shea, and myself. I thoroughly enjoyed the hot shower and night of wi-fi once last time. Now, I am back into the way of life where internet happens only once a week. Today, I was completely overwhelmed again, my mind was racing, and I really felt like I was going to fly out of my seat and I was not even drinking coffee.

So, cheers to normalcy again and detox! Enjoy the photos, xoxoxo.

My first sailing race. It was neat to see the race boats blowing by after they turned around at half way pt. The journey was pretty intense. A 3 hour adventure with lots of beer breaks. Every time the crew jibbed or attacked or whatever else, a beer was the reward. 

The moment when I thought to myself, "I am so lucky." I found myself thanking my family and friends who supported my crazy but heartfelt decision to join Peace Corps. The sole reason why I am where I am today. 

With the captain and other crew members. Dale, the captain is from Australia so we had lots to talk about straight away. They are sailing around Marinduque soon so I hope to catch up with them for part of their trip. Another crew member was a Peace Corps Volunteer in the '70s! We really enjoyed sharing stories and it was great to have a good listening here, someone who understands without explanation. Volunteers are really all connected in such a special way. 

Some more new friends that I met at the hostel after the sailing race. I had to stay an extra night (no complaints about that). It really felt good to  be on my own and simply enjoy the beauty that lies in meeting new people. Some would say it is strange that we can connect and take jager bombs all within on only hour of meeting each other... I say it is awesome. Bong, the one at the far left, invited me to sail with him again Dec. 8th! I can't wait. 

I would me lost in this part of the world without these two! 

Detox. 

Beach. This is the beach we did not really intend on going to. OOPS! We happily excepted the wrong turn.  

I <3 YOU!

Howzat. The sports bar we started at, open 24 hours with great food and drink. I took a lot of pictures of the food but I figured I would save those for my own keeping. I will definitely go back!

I took this picture yesterday. My mother sent me this awesome book about seasons of the north. I brought it to school because we are studying poety and a lot of the poems are about seasons. The pictures really helped me to teach my students about why poets write about the wonders of a changing season. After living in summer for their whole life, it is hard to imagine the changes so I really enjoyed showing them. More books are on a boat heading to my school AND  I can't wait. After seeing their eyes grow big and the questions spill out over ONE book, I am not sure how I will handle the fabulous happenings that will soon come from having like MORE THAN ONE book. 

When Change is Ordinary

October 1^st- 7^th:

            To begin October, I traded my hives for some sunburn and heat rash. I was just telling my regional manager here about my hives and she said, “Well, at least you are still laughing!” I am laughing now but at the time it was really not a fun situation. I was not sleeping very well because my allergies were acting up so I took some Benadryl. The next day I woke up with a great sensation to itch and itch my leg. I had hives on the upper part of my leg. Weird. My hydrocortisone was gone so I used the only other anti-itch cream in the medical kit- caladryl. I applied so much of that pink liquid I probably went a little overboard. I was eager for relief. Initially, things seemed to be improving. I went to school but after a few hours the itchiness was back. I wanted to take my pants off so badly that I decided to leave school early. I rushed home and immediately took my pants off quickly noticing that the hives had turned into one large severely itchy hive. It was horrible. Overtime, the caladryl made it worse not better. I think I had an allergic reaction to the –dryl ingredient in the two medicines, whatever that may be. Nurses of the Hesiak family, any thoughts? So, I slowly walked to the pharmacy, slowly because I was attempting to do the impossible, aka not sweat. Sweating worsened the itch. I bought more hydrocortisone. I basically put the entire bottle on my leg. A few days later, I finally got to stop talking to myself about why I should not itch. Phew!

            The greatest ending to a rough week was seeing Pam, Karen, and Amy! The three came to enjoy sun, water, and some cold adult beverages for the weekend. The first night we chatted endlessly about the wondrous things that we experience, attempting to cram what seemed like months of stories into one night of conversation. The next morning we woke up early and were off to Maniwaya (the same island that Joe and I always go to when he is here). Leaving my house and walking to town to catch the jeep was interesting, every step we took was like we walked into a room where conversations stopped and stares began. We jump started the day with two beers in Boac and then headed to the port to catch the boat. Our time spent on the island was perfect; we even lucked out with sunny days. During typhoon season, the rain always comes and goes. Cold beers in hand, sun in the air, surrounded by the great blue sea and mountainous Marinqudue… it was a great combination for much needed relaxation and carefree living with great friends. Karen and I got drunk and ate too much fish, makes for smelly fingers but lots of laughs! After all the fun, we came back to my house with sun burn and de-hydration. We spent our last night together drinking lots of water and applying aloe!

I have been living in Marinduque for over a year now. I wanted to put together a list of things that I have or have not done every single day for 365+:

·         I have not driven a car.

·         I have happily greeted a stranger or neighbor.

·         I have had a sweat mustache and sweat dripping down my legs at some pt. in the day.

·         I have listened to a conversation that I do not completely understand.

·         I have stared at a rice field and said to myself, ‘Whoa!”

·         I have talked to myself.

·         I have woken up with the sun.

·         I have not used a blow dryer to dry my hair.

·         I have spoken a few words of Tagalog.

·         I have rode my bike or walked to work.

·         I have used a bucket to take a shower.

·         I have not gone to a gym.

·         I have not walked on carpet.

·         I have smiled.

The “have not’s…” in the list are interesting because they are all things that were so mundane in my daily life in America. I would never really think about them unless, well… unless I was living on a small island in Marinqudue for over a year thinking about things that I used to do but I don’t. The “have’s…” have taught me much about myself and I have the people and culture around me to thank. I would almost never greet a stranger, but now it is an everyday thing. I would always drive to work, now I ride my bike despite people thinking I am crazy for wearing work clothes while happily peddling along. I would never talk to myself, now I do all of the time. Probably because there is still a lot I cannot say in the native language that just needs to be said. In America, I can understand every conversation that happens with me or around me. Here, I can get the gist of things most of the time now but normally there is a word or 10 that perplex me. Thinking of this has really helped me put myself in the shoes of my students. I try my best to talk slowly, repeat important details, use words that I know they understand, and involve them in what I am telling them so I can see the understanding happening. And really it does not matter what time I go to bed at night, as soon as that bright giant sun shines its rays to shine down the new day- I am up. The dogs, traffic, and roosters are just background noise now. They occasionally help put me to sleep. I guess that is called adaptation. There are plenty of other things that I used to do occasionally, and things that I never did that now I do occasionally. Good thing I am not afraid of change. Think about it, if you could trade something you do every day for something better, would you?

More on this in next week posts because I do not have time to write details now but the first shipment of books are on they way to my school! This is exciting for so many reasons. The process has gone faster than I expected which really excites me. Another exciting piece of news is there is a new grant available to volunteers to get sports equipment donations. AHHHHHH! I had dreams last night about my students playing sports with more than one volleyball, more than one basketball, more than one shuttle cock, more than one frisbee. Now, don't get me wrong we have the best time with only one but so many limitations can be lifted if we are able to get more equipment. And, the sports club kids want to have a frisbee tournament and are also brainstorming about planting a field of grass, haha. Ah, my mind is racing...

We celebrated World Teacher's Day on October 4 and 5. Teacher’s Day Photos:

My two favorite teachers! 

This dance was amazing. The also performed a hand mime spelling out messages to the teachers. I have a video but can't get it to load. 

Masaya Kami :)

So I never forget the relationship we have made, the smiles, the laughs, and the moments that fill my eyes with happy tears. 

Two Thumbs Up!

September 10^th- 22nd:

            This past week I planned a few activities to help my students practice what it means to internalize a role for drama. One activity was each student had to choose a character: clown, teacher, rock star, movie star, fisher, chef, baby, etc. They had to give themselves a pretend name, and decide how their character would walk, talk, and introduce themselves. Then, after a few minutes to create their character, everyone lined up at the back of the classroom. One by one they walked (in character) to the front of the room and introduced themselves. Once again I found myself in awe of their creativity and performance. One student decided to be ME. He walked to the front of the room and said, “Good Morning, I am your new teacher Ma’am Gina. Then he ended with, “You can do it!” and gave two thumbs up. I am always doing this in class. Encouraging my students to try, and giving thumbs up and high fives when appropriate. Later that day when my counterpart and I had a vacant period some students came to our room to chat. This happens almost every day. The same student who acted like me was there and his acting continued. He was pretending to be a teacher. During his lesson he was saying things, almost verbatim from the lesson I gave that morning. Then he looks me straight in the eyes and says, “Ma’am I want to be a teacher just like you!” I gave him two thumbs up and said, “I believe in you!” Sometimes things happen in life that allows one to see a way of impact that may otherwise be unseen.

            Planning projects is something I really enjoy doing. I like making my students think in ways that they may have never before. With that being said, I am consistently challenging them to collaborate ideas and develop workable plans for projects. Sometimes they tell me, “Ma’am we can’t do that!” and I like to show them and teach them that they can. The SSG (Student Supreme Government) is the group of students who I mostly talk to about this. A few weeks ago they were all in the library waiting for the principal. I asked them why. They said they had created a PowerPoint of different projects that they want to do and they were going to present it to the principal to get her input and permission. My jaw just about hit the floor. The first project that the students planned is happening in the beginning of October. We are going to have a coastal cleanup, use the plastic we collect for our bottle bricks, and distribute flyers about the life cycle of a plastic bag when it is put in the sea or burned. My goal now is to plan a meeting where the SSG of today can share their knowledge with the new SSG for next year. This group changes every year but if this kind of attitude and planning can continue with each new batch of students then I am certain great things will continue to happen.

            I have one other short story. Awhile ago I taught my students how to make flashcards as a study technique. They needed to memorize new vocabulary. I did not make it mandatory to make them but many students did. Just this week I saw four different groups sitting together who all appeared to be completely focused on something. I was curious. I walked over to see what was happening. Turns out they had made flashcards for their Filipino class and were all studying because they had a test that day. I guess I can check sustainability of study strategies of my list of things to accomplish.

            After talking with some of my sports club kiddos, they made a poster advertising that we are now playing volleyball and ultimate Frisbee at sports club. Well, the advertising worked! We had a record number of kiddos come to join in the fun this past Saturday. Another teacher at my school came to play volleyball with us. We played two really sweet games compliments of my sister, Heather. The games were great because they allowed everyone to play despite the fact that we only have two volleyballs. I put one of my students in charge of leading the group in Ultimate Frisbee. A few weeks ago I gave him a packet of information I had printed off the internet. He has been busy reading it and was so excited to teach his classmates about the new sport. The great thing about sports club is it is not just about sports. It is about giving students time to play and have fun. It is about helping someone believe that they can be a leader. It is about giving students an opportunity to meet and interact with new friends. It is about having conversations while taking water breaks about many, many different things.

            In community news- last weekend Shea and I facilitated cultural diversity training. I was asked by a college student in my town if I would be willing to facilitate the training. It was a one day seminar about the importance of culture and language in education. Shea and I got together one weekend and put together four powerful sessions for the college students, soon to be teachers. The sessions allowed them to evaluate their own philosophy of teaching, talk about how the world of education is always changing, examine diversity from the seen and unseen lens, and talk about the connectivity of elements of teaching. It was an interactive, insightful, and beautiful day, creating great teachers one step at a time. We were invited to facilitate upcoming seminars too for the college- I guess we did a good job! Working with education college students is a great way for us as volunteers to spread our knowledge, input, advice, curiosity and creativity beyond the boundaries of our sites. I am excited about this partnership and looking forward to planning seminars again in the future.

            As September ends I am thinking about my mother because her birthday is very near, pumpkin spice lattes, planning the youth encampment at my school and my brave sister as she gets closer and closer to bringing another marvel into this world! Love lots!

No time to write out the complete story... next week na lang!

Scouts Camping Trip. Sleeping outside is always more fun. Here are a few snapshots of the venture...

All ready to go!

Building the bamboo tent. This take quite a long time. Lots of teamwork, patience, a good plan, and excited people.

Day one! Ready to have fun. Two of my second year students who light up my life here. 

And then the rain came... the rain only brought more smiles, laughter, and fun. It was so great to see my students act like children. It is so important to just let loose and have a little fun every now and then. I told them stories about when I used to get all muddy as a child. Like when my sisters and I would play in the basement of all the new houses being built in our neighborhoods. 

The swimming pool in our front yard. The frisbee came out again for some throws in the wind.  I think all I want for Christmas this year are frisbees, seeds, maybe some squirt guns, and some kick boards. The more time I spend with my students the better. I am already focusing the majority of my energy, love, and passion on empowering my students to be the best they can be. 

With our principal. The one who inspires us all with her commitment, laughter, and positive attitude!

Cooking.

Jumping.

Playing.

Roasting. I introduced them to s'mores! I was able to buy all of the ingredients in the local market. The mallows were bright colors which added a nice burst of brightness to the snack. They were a huge hit and we are going to have another campfire roast at our upcoming school encampment. 

Goodnight beautiful people. The bamboo bed was rockin'. 

I brought a bag of goggles with me. The wore them the whole morning.

More about this experience next week! Always remember, find gratitude even in the small things in life.  

Milkshakes and Hills

End of August and Welcoming the –BER months:

End of August was a busy bunch of days. It began with a bittersweet gathering with lots of reminiscing, laughing, eating, and spending quality time with my favorite Peace Corps volunteers. We met in Manila because the lovely Phyllis was preparing to go back to the US. We began with wine, of course! After wine we went to TGIF to have some burgers and other cheesy delights. We sat there for hours but then we all suddenly started to feel like ice cubes. Guess it is safe to say that our bodies are not used to aircon anymore. I kept wishing I had a backpack filled with hats, scarves, and jackets… maybe I should rethink my decision to come home for Christmas… just jokin’! After dinner it was time for hugs and “see you laters.” Phyllis was a dedicated volunteer, one who inspired me (who still inspires me) with her positive outlook on life and a yearning to improve the quality of life of everyone who she meets. I will never forget listening to her talk about the comfortable reading room she created at the college where she was working. I am certain that students there will continue the dream that Phyllis began. Some successes may not be published for the world to see but that is the beauty that lies in the unseen. Her jokes are one of a kind, only ones that come from someone who should be the master of this universe. I miss you Phyllis, see you in HawaiiJ.

After Manila, I went to Lipa to meet my principal because it was time for Supervisors’ Conference. There were two volunteers, Katlin and I, who were chosen to go to the conference with our principals and help facilitate and share our experiences about working together with the new batch of volunteers who arrived in the Philippines in July. I think this is when it finally hit me that I have been here over a year already. Honestly, without the changing of seasons that I am used to in Wisconsin, the months tend to just blur together. Anyways… my principal and I were excited to share our story about how we make it work. For us, our success comes from simply lots of laughs and lots of conversations. The conference was four days and each day went really well. I was really proud of my supervisor, what an actress she is! She and I had to do a role play for one of the sessions, she was definitely the star. She also had to do a few more role plays later on with all of the new supervisors. Her personality lit up the room and really helped the supervisors understand the role they play in a volunteer’s journey.

In other news about the conference the hotel we stayed at was a great one. The food was great, the beds were great, and the hot water was so great. One night Katlin and I ordered room service- milkshakes were delivered to our room. I actually enjoyed my milkshake and took a bubble bath at the same time. The only thing our room did not have was carpet. Lately, I have actually been dreaming about rubbing my feet over carpet, or a huge fluffy rug. My Grandmother always had these fantastic feeling rugs in her bathroom. Growing up I always wondered why my grandmother’s bathroom was carpeted but now I am dreaming about it. Luckily, I only have to wait about 100 more days and then I can wear fuzzy socks and walk a thousand steps on carpet. Another perk about being at the hotel was that there was a small gym. I was able to run on a treadmill and see how fast I could run consecutive miles. Running around the streets of my town is great but I do not have a fancy gadget to clock my miles. I ran one night for 60 minutes. It helped boost my motivation and get me wound up to run the half marathon the following weekend. So, after sharing experiences and key ideas with new volunteers, deepening my relationship with my principal, eating way too much, having many one-on-one conversations with new volunteers that were each individually perfect, and taking a bubble bath, I will just say that it was a engaging four days.

After the conference Katlin and I decided to go back to Manila for two days. I had to stay in the area because it was silly for me to go back to Marinduque for one day and then leave again to run the half marathon. One day, we walked around the grocery store for a really long time. The whole time my mouth was watering as I was walking down the international isles wishing I had more money to spend. I almost bought this dry mix of yogurt cultures. It would be great to have yogurt back in my life but it was way too expensive. We did buy this chex mix muddy buddies mix. It tasted exactly like puppy chow! We also went to Mall of Asia, which is just way too over stimulating for me, but I needed to buy some gels for the race. I was really happy when I found the same brand I bought in the states; I did not really want to use a gel that I was unfamiliar with, who knows how my stomach would have reacted. There was also a new Forever21 at the mall. This is my favorite store in the states so I had to check it out! After walking in circles for awhile we finally found the store. At a glance, everything looked marvelous and very pleasing to my eyes. However, as I began to search for maybe one new shirt or pair of pants I quickly realized that style had changed since I have been gone. I was awed by the belly shirts, the bright neon colors hurt my eyes and I was not exactly sure how to put an outfit together with pants that go up to my boobs. Then, there were thousands of lovely patterned sports bra looking pieces of fabric, I think they are suppose to be paired with a very low cut v-neck shirt, or maybe worn solo with the high rise pants, I am still unsure. There was also a very large collection of shirts that had wings down the sides. After laughing with Katlin about how unfashionable we felt, I decided to just buy some new headbands.

Finally it was time to go to Laguna, where I would run the Milo Marathon. I had talked to some ladies in Manila about a good hotel to stay at in Laguna so even though I was traveling alone, I felt comfortable knowing I was going to a recommended hotel. I arrived on Saturday, the day before the race. I was excited to pick of my race shirt and just relax the day away, preparing my muscles for the challenge. I had two things on my mind the whole time- one was obviously if I could get myself across the finish line and two was thinking about my best friend. She was getting married the same weekend, the one who is normally by my side doing crazy things like running marathons. I normally do not feel alone but I really did that day. I wanted my best friend and my sister by my side. I also was not sure how I would feel racing without my dad, little brother, and boyfriend cheering me on. I really had to talk to myself and make myself believe that I could still do it without all of these very important things in the mix of the challenge.

On the morning of the race I woke up at 3am. The race started at 4:30. I prepared myself and then walked to the starting line. It is a whole new thing, (but I am getting used to it now) living my life as a minority. As I approached the starting line at the Milo Marathon I quickly realized that I was the only blond, the only white person, one of few women, but I seemed to blend right in to most onlookers… maybe because it was pitch black. I noticed I was different before others did. Maybe that it how it normally goes- the minority (in whatever way it may be) notices the differences first. I actually started stretching and warming up like the people around me just so I could blend into the group. I began reflecting about some pretty deep things and then at 4:30 on the dot we all started running. My heart was pounding faster than ever. I was a little nervous but I knew I could do it. It did not take long for me to find a running partner. After saying good morning and exchanging a few words, we decided to run together. It was more difficult for me to speak Tagalog when I was so focused on not running too fast too soon and talking to myself about how I better run the entire way. Luckily for me my running partner was an inspiring one because he was running barefoot. I just kept telling myself that if he can do it I can too. Like I expected, the sun came up as we ran over the half way time marker. I felt great as I ate a small banana, drank a little Gatorade, and slurped down my hammer gel. Aside from the fact that I really wanted my family to be around one of the corners, the hardest part for me was the hills. There were so many! My positive talk going up each hill was that I was using different muscles to get my body up that hill so it was giving some other muscles a rest. There were many beautiful things along the way- the scenery, the other runners, and the high fives with strangers! After the race, back at the hotel, I was also asked by a family to join them for lunch. I already felt really good and happy after running the race but having complete strangers take me in as a friend to enjoy a meal was the perfect ending.

Part of the intramurals meet. The track and fielders. They all run barefooted.

A project I did with some beautiful ladies at the Hope House. After all of the magazine coils are glued and in place, you pop the balloon and it is a small bowl for little treasures. 

My amazing principal at Supervisors' Conference. 

The education Resource PCVs. We all had a great time working together!

Milkshakes... 

& Puppy Chow... 

This is the only photo I have of the race. I am still smiling even after 21k of hills. 

Grammar project using modals. Occasion #32583920 where I felt totally impressed by one of my students.

Now, as September begins, I am busy planning a training that I will do next weekend with some of the education college students. I am also gearing up to join some of my students at the Girl Scouts encampment next week- should be a thrill! My Frisbee is still floating in the breeze as my students are always playing. Life is good. 

Sports and Socks and Snood

August 5^th- August 17^th:

Update about Sports Club: I am ecstatic that the enthusiasm in the beginning is still present. Sometimes, things seem way more excited when they are brand new and eventually that excitement decreases… not with sports club! The students who come have made a commitment. This is just another element to sports club that has surfaced- that sports club is more than just a fun, healthy Saturday activity. It is a way for my students to challenge themselves, make a commitment, learn how to make independent decisions, enjoy teenage life, learn about healthy living ( I am always adding in random conversations about different ways on how to improve quality of life).

When Joe was here I decided to bring my Frisbee for the first time. We only have two badminton nets so there are always students just watching, taking a rest so I thought might as well have a go and see I they like it! Joe and I started passing the Frisbee and after only a few seconds there were onlookers eager to join in. The Frisbee did not stop moving, when students would get tired, new ones would join. I have not introduced them to the rules of the game yet. We are still simply passing, getting the hang of how to control the Frisbee. Last weekend when I was going to be in Manila, the students asked me if I could leave my Frisbee with them. I did and apparently on Saturday even though it was down pouring they got together and played their version of ultimate Frisbee! We are going to try and include ultimate Frisbee in the upcoming sports festival day. I have printed out a simple copy of the rules of the game, size of the playing field, etc. This undertaking should be an exciting one! The greatest thing is that it was my student’s idea to include ultimate Frisbee in the special sports day.

For all my coffee lovers- I now have a French press! Not technically brewed coffee but the aroma of real coffee is in the air and the taste of real coffee greets my taste buds every morning again. Halleluiah! Huge thanks to Joseph for the second greatest birthday present ever, the first was him actually being here, of course! He brought me two bags of coffee grounds which I am still happily using. I found one small store in the town near me where I can buy coffee grounds for a decent price. A French press is also good because even if I have no electricity I can still wake up to a nice cup of joe.

The good thing about not being able to hop in my car and drive to Target or another store whenever I need something is that small things can create enormous amounts of happiness. For example, when I came here I did not bring a lufa with me. At home, I would get it all soapy every time I took a shower and every few weeks I would walk right into the store and buy a replacement. Here I just use my hands and occasionally a good old wash cloth… which definitely does not get as soapy as a lufa, right? I just got so used to this that I forgot all about taking a shower with a lufa or other type of exfoliating scrubber. Whenever I go to the mainland I stop into a store similar to Walgreens to buy my body lotions, body bar, and various other things that I cannot buy here in Marinduque. Last time I also threw in this exfoliating body washer. The first time I used in I was practically jumping all around with joy in the bathroom. It felt so good to feel so clean. Crazy that something so mundane in my life in America can be so amazing in my life here. Since where talking about things I could also like to talk about socks, hair ties, and pens. In American, I was constantly losing these things, like every single day but here, never. I use a hair tie until it loses all of its elastic powers, I use a pen until it has no ink, and I never lose my socks. Why? That is the question. Socks I can understand because I wash them, hang them, and then put them back in the drawer… the mysterious hands of a wash machine do not exist. But the pen and hair tie thing is just wild.

I had a high-on-life moment this week. I walked into class and my students had posted their work all over the back wall of our classroom. Previously, I had been the one to display work that they should be proud of, help them remember certain things that we have learned, etc. It was more powerful when they did it themselves because it shows that they are proud of what they were able to create. Every time a student walks up and stares at the work taped to the wall is just a rush of reassurance that covering the walls of a classroom with students work is a positive act for more than one reason. I hope that this continues. A collage of everything wonderful on the back wall of my classroom is like a vision come true. Before coming to the Philippines I did a lot of visualizing of what might be. I had a lot of practice teaching only in the form of what my sisters and I would do when we were little so my competence was a bit low in that area however I did know that I wanted my classroom to be home of friendship, learning, and showcasing student work. This situation was also a reminder that my students are always watching me. When I hang work up I always tape the edges so they are not torn on the windy days and I like to arrange them in some sort of pattern. My students did the same. Makes me think about how people will remember more of what you do then what you say. My students may not comprehend everything I say but they can see everything that I do. If I recycle my paper and clean and recycle my plastic, they do. If I smile and act like a clown, chances are they will to. When everything I have just said works together, great things can happen. Great things are happening- visible and invisible.

When I was visiting my best friend Karen, I took a bunch of movies and TV shows from her hard drive. I have quite the collection going. I also got the game Snood. I used to play this when I was young. I was not quite as addicted to it as I was to roller coaster tycoon or Sims but I definitely enjoyed making smiley faces fly around to burst other smiley faces. I am not really good at playing it anymore. I still have to figure out my strategies about bouncing them off walls and arranging them in certain ways to burst more than one at a time but it is an enjoyable way to past time. I actually have not really had a lot of free time on my hands the past year but occasionally I force myself to take a ME day. If you know me well you know how hard it is for me to be lazy the entire day. Lately, when I tell myself I am going to sleep in I sleep until 7am. I think the only time I am really good at doing nothing is when I am hung over. Due to the fact that I do not drink much here this is also a rare occurrence. Anyways, I am happy to have new movies, shows, and games so that when I do find time to rest my mind and my body I have a large mixture of entertainment to choose from.

“After the verb to love… to help is the most beautiful verb in the world.”

Part of the chalkboard in my classroom is used for my daily writings. At the top I write, “Attractive Monday, or Stupendous Tuesday.” Each day I use a new adjective as my way to enhance my student’s adjective collection. Under it I write a quote, tongue twister, riddle, new grammar awareness message, etc. One of my students has also taken up the job to design a new boarder for my space. He is always coming up with something artsy and fun!