Bon jour to all! I have been very busy over the last several days and have not had a chance to get to the computers...But, I have to say that I am feeling so much more at home here. I have developed some friendships and it is so rewarding. I feel very loved here. Last Thursday I was all prepared to teach and get observed by my supervisor. I visited the internet prior to class and lucky for me I saw John there. He informed me that there was no school for that day or on Friday. Thursday was "spiritual" day for the students. Friday was teachers day. John and I had special shirts hand made and we went to an all day celebration. The africans love to have celebrations. I went to the school at 10 on Friday and began the celebration. That ended at about 3:30 and then all the teachers went out to a restaurant and ate and drank. It was a blast!!!!!! Except for the bathroom facilities at the restaurant which consisted of a cement slab that you relieved yourself on!!!! It was extremely rainy and chilly on Friday and then to have to go the washroom on a cement slab....rather interesting...I am becoming so adaptable...Ha...Ha.....I met my cooperating teachers wife..She is so kind. She is expecting a child in April. They have a daughter that is 5 years old. They did have a son, but he died at about the age of 1 1/2. SO SAD!
On Saturday, I went with a friend out to the town of Limbe which is along the Atlantic Ocean. We went to the botanical gardens and ate at a restaurant overlooking the ocean. I was in Heaven! I think that I am meant to be by the ocean...it felt so wonderful...We took public transportation...which also was an experience....military people are at the sides of the road and they randomly stop vehicles...they stopped our vehicle both there and back to Buea and of course...I forgot my PASSPORT!!!! That could be a big problem....both times the military looked in our vehicle and gave me the big, long stare....but they let us go...!!! I was a bit nervous...but all turned out ok...
Sunday, I was invited to go to the Baptist church with my teacher and his wife. It was a very nice morning. The people were so gracious to me. After the service, we went back to their house and they made me lunch. They live on the school grounds....very humble home but very welcoming. After the meal of rice and fish...we walked to the downtown area and had some beers! Victor told me how impressed he is with how much the students miss me when I am not there....I am telling you...I feel so loved!!!!! This is truly an amazing experience which will be in my heart and soul for the rest of my days here on earth.
I went to teach today and was observed by my supervisor. She liked my lesson and gave me some suggestions on how to improve in certain areas....I was not that happy with my teaching today...78 students in a classroom is a rather challenging environment. Luckily, the students are so sweet and respectful. I love them!!!! After the classes, Victor and I looked over a midterm test that he prepared and he wanted me to help with the usage of proper English. The rest of the week is review and the midterm will be next Monday.
As for the weather...the rain is still amidst us and I keep asking everyone when it will subside. They are trying to reassure me that the dry season is on its way...I would like that...but I am embracing every moment here...even the challenging ones....each day is definitely an adventure!!!!
I have gotten a cell phone and if anyone has a desire to call...do not hesitate...the number is
237-79-96-61-34
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO VICKI
HELLO TO ALL BACK HOME
I MISS YOU ALL
THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR REPLIES
LOVE TO ALL
Nancy~
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1 comment:
Nancy,
I am sitting here with a big smile on my face. Your spiritual transformation is beginning and that makes my heart smile. Your first blog notes were filled with excitement, yet a bit of nervousness and anxiety, then the frustrations set in a bit, then some fear about teaching, and now I see you becoming accepted and loved there, which in turn has given you a sense of belonging and has allowed you to begin to make connections that, as you say, will be with you the rest of your days. I am so proud of your courage, your fortitude, adaptibility, flexibility, sense of adventure, faithfulness and openess to God's love and experiences that he has set up for you there. I think of Mother Teresa's saying "Bloom where you are planted"....that's just what you are doing. It will not be an easy task for you to pull up your "roots" when it comes time to leave there, but remember and hold onto the knowledge that this is just the FIRST step in God's great and glorious plan for you life.....you will become like a child and find the magic in every event, person and experience while you are there. (I have to say I have never peed on a concrete slab in a public place....VERY interesting.... and I GUESS somewhat magical! :-O
Much love and many, many blessing to you Nancy! a bientoit !
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