Just another manic Monday....

Living it up in the UK. Now that our first term is almost complete I look back at everything that has gone down since I moved here in August.

School is still brilliant. I can say that our staff is probably the best teaching staff I have ever worked with - in terms of academic matters and matters outside school. People generally care about each other and their well being. In the other schools I have worked in it always seems like it's every man for themselves.... What happened to community? Sure, there are things we disagree with here, but we still work and function together as a family. I really like the atmosphere here. It's excellent.

My teaching skills have definitely improved. I realize that it takes a lot of energy to be the kind of teacher I want to be, and some days I just don't have that energy. I'm still working out how to be poorly and still teach with high energy. Any ideas would be much appreciated. I also feel that my strategies have improved - MUCH better than they used to be. It's neat to be teaching drama because it really has helped me work on my discipline. I think transferring that to an English class will be much easier with my feet planted firmly.

Becoming British - well, I haven't exactly dropped my Americanisms - but I have a feeling that is why people tolerate me.... I can just declare "I'm a dozy Yank!" and all is well! I have become very used to a wide variety of foods though, and I have a secret crush on jaffa cakes and tea. I have no developed an accent, although I've learned some new words that I now sprinkle into conversations. I'm very proud of my ability to use "pikey" and "sod" in every day conversations.

And my British family? They are pretty much the coolest people ever. I never feel left out and I already have plans for New Years - I've NEVER done anything for New Years! I'm so excited!!

Overall I'd have to say the move to the UK was a brilliant idea. Even though I am ill at the moment and am getting ready to go to the doctors for the forth time since I've been here - I can honestly say that I'm happy.

....Now....if Mr. Right comes along....well, that will be a whole nother story....