Day 253 April 17
I had a very slow morning and early afternoon. I showered, did the dishes, and took a half hour nap before leaving for the gymnastics competition at the school. I was lucky in that I got a ride up with Dona Olga. Angel, her son who is in Beth's third grade class, was talking to me about his recent discovery and new found love for energy drinks. Oh dear.
The gymnastics event was impressive. I was really proud of the kids, though it was all older grades, so I didn't have any participants. I took a lot of pictures for the Mayatan site. When it was over, I stayed and helped pick up trash in the dark and got one of the visiting teams into Beth's room, where they had left their things.
I walked home with Megan and then we caught a truck back. We stopped by her place to chat for a while. I was inspecting her house pretty closely. It's too early to fall in love with a house, but I was picturing where I could hang plants and rearrange things to suite my taste. I was also pleased because Megan had picked up my clothes from the seamstress. I tried them on and a few items were still too big, but I had more things I wanted to take also, so I wasn't worried about it. My too-stretched-out-to-wear skirt was wearable again, though!
I got home and helped Sierra with her computer before going to bed to read. I was asleep by 9. It was beautiful.
Day 254 April 18
I was up at 7. I did my laundry and made OJ. I took out the trash and went to meet Beth and Cathy on the corner of the park. Cathy picked us up in the truck and we went to Carla's house for brunch and a crazy Mother's Day committee meeting. All I will say, is that things will get done and the parents will enjoy it. Four hours later, we rode back to town.
I did more laundry and lounged around the house. I got to the school work I didn't do yesterday while transferring all my files from my old computer to my knew one. When I was done, I cleaned the house.
Folks came over for worship after 5. We ate, listened to the sermon, sang, and prayed. I had forgotten why I struggled with the evening services. After 7:30, I was too dead to be worth anything. The “it's a school night” switch went off and I was tired.
There was a huge storm with wind, lightening, and buckets of rain. I found Sierra, her friend Liz, Josue, and Cid on my roof. I was drenched just from walking up there. Sierra and Josue danced in it, but I stayed by the hammock until I went downstairs to go to bed.
Day 255 April 19
I walked to school in the mud, but the mountains are green again, the streets aren't dusty, and the air is fresh. However, the storm did a number on my classroom. Papers were blown everywhere, books were wet.
It got very hot during the day, but I had a productive day making sub plans, worksheets, and tests. After school, I have a make up spelling test. I then went over to Chris' room to grade ITBS tests with Anne, Abby, and Beth. I walked home with Chris and went straight to tutoring. We read a book together and then I rushed to finish my homework.
It appeared that a storm was approaching and 15 minutes before class, Luis wanted to cancel class because we'd get soaked at Guacamaya. I suggested we have class at Villamil and he agreed. 5 minutes before class, he sent me a text saying he thought it was better if we didn't have class.
Cid had called during my tutoring, so I called him back and we met at ViaVia. We hung out there for a while and then I headed home to bed.
Day 256 April 20
On the walk to school, Sierra and I witnessed a mother hen with her chicks...and a baby duck. The duck was just part of the family, it was adorable. I guess the family wants a duck and it can be raised by their chickens.
I had a good morning, but I found myself to be very tired and the kids got out of hand, probably as a result of my sleepiness, and so I quickly became more tired. Also, our trip to San Pedro (for tomorrow, to listen to a talk and pick new text books for 1st and 2nd grade) was canceled, so I had to call my sub and tell her not to come. I had also already finished my sub plans.
After school, I gave two ITBS make up tests and then had a staff meeting. Kathy saved the day by sharing our mother's day plans in a quick and concise fashion. After, we discussed, in the office, the events of the Sunday meeting.
I got a ride back with Megan and we got granitas together at Cafe Welchez. I left to go tutoring, which went well. After, I met with Rachael and we went to San Raphael for smoothies and a 3.5 hour talk. I left at 8:30 and immediately went to bed.
Day 257 April 21
It's amazing what a good night's sleep will do! We had a good day, good tests, good review, and we had mangoes at lunch! There was one fight, but that's not bad, considering everything else.
After school, I cleaned up, organized, and had my second productive day in a row after a few weeks of feeling...less than productive.
I started walking home and was surprised to see Cid walking up the hill toward me. He was walking up so that he could walk me home. I was a little giddy over it. We walked back and I did some grocery shopping. I tried to go to the market, but it was packed up a bit early.
I sat with Judie and Vicki in the park. Vicki is leaving Copan soon, so we talked a lot about where she's going and then came back to my house for a sip of Green Label, which she's never had. Vicki and I continued to talk for a long time after Judie left.
When Vicki left, I went out to buy some things and saw Chris. He was on his way to Picame for a baleada, which was my after-shopping plan, so I asked him to order me one too and I'd meet him in a minute. Chris and I ate and chatted until he went to class and then Denny joined me for a while.
I went back in the house and chatted with Sierra and her friend Liz for a while. There was some sort of teenager-party happening upstairs on the roof, and people were coming and getting confused about our apartment, so we closed the door. Judie came by again to talk.
I tried to go to bed at 8, but the kids were right outside my window and very loud. I would ask them to leave, and they would. However, there were so many people that more would come and the process continued for hours. We went out to talk to them, but they claimed to be doing homework (as they hid beers.) Once they were gone and it was quiet, it was so hot I still couldn't sleep.
Day 258 April 22
On my way to school, I dropped my keys off with Judie so that she could do her laundry during the day. I was tired and cranky, but we made the best of it and had a good day. It was Earth Day, and the 7th year that Earth Day has had an even more significant meaning to me. In Honor of Earth Day, and unbeknownst to them, only to me, in honor of Alex, we drew Earthy pictures and picked up trash around the school.
It was raining on my way home, and I had a taxi driver tell me it was weird that I didn't want a ride. I was only a little concerned about my books, but I love a warm rain. There have been many storms recently, but it is weeks early for the rainy season.
When I got home, I met Judie to get my keys and fixed the showers. I grabbed my umbrella because now it wasn't just raining, it was raining hard. The streets were rivers again. I walked to tutoring and managed to keep half of me dry, but my legs, feet, and skirt were beyond wet.
Isaac and I had a nice chat time and then we studied spelling. I became increasingly cold while I sat there in my wet clothes and by the time I went home, was rather frigid. I got home and took a hot shower.
When I got out, I headed over to Casa de Cafe to watch House, which I hadn't seen in forever. Cid got to catch me up. I then made it to bed shortly after 9.
Day 259 April 23
The end of this week has been good for morale in my class. We've had good tests grades, generally, good behavior, and my most troubling student earned a note home that said, “Edgar was very good today.” Which, has never happened before.
Today there was a presentation for “Dia del Idioma” or Language Day. It was a 2 hour block of time we were to dedicate to this presentation. Recess normally occurs in the middle of the presentation, so we rescheduled recess for the kids too. The presentation then ended an hour early. We had no warning, no plans, and it ended at my normal recess time, so my kids ended up with 3 recess periods instead of the normal 2.
We ended the day by starting on our Mother's Day photo frames. I stuck around school for a while to finish up some work and then caught a ride home with Megan and Alexis.
Megan and I got granitas before she departed to finish her paper. I had chatted with Marisol some about housing options and so we talked more about that. I stopped by Urban Promise on the way back home and none of my folks were there, just their guests. I introduced myself, but it all felt very awkward, so I left.
I went home and did my laundry. I took a shower and got dressed up with Sierra and Liz for a Fun Friday of our own. We went out to get wine and got the chick-discount, which I'm not sure I've ever gotten before. I went to dinner at the new pizza place, which I do like better than Jim's, with Theo, Beth, Nash, and Tammi. When we were done, we met everyone up on my roof. Folks came over and as more gathered, we migrated to ViaVia and later to Papa Changos, because Barcito was closed.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Monday, April 19, 2010
Week 36- Rastas in the House, ITBS, and Taxes
Day 246 April 10
When I went downstairs Sierra and the 4 folks who had stayed over were up and chatting. I joined for a while but came and went from the conversation as I started my laundry and took a shower. When I came out of my shower, breakfast had been prepared and I joined them all for a lovely meal, including coffee and tea. It was wonderful.
Sierra headed out on a hike to Yanotios and shortly after, the other’s left. I saw Jesse come into Picame so we chatted for a while. I spent the rest of the day cleaning, laundering, and reading. It was wonderful and relaxed. I cooked myself a large lunch with my left over veggies and got dinner in Picame. A slow, people-less, cleaning day was exactly what I needed.
Cid called and said he’d be over a bit after 7 to watch a movie, but he got held up at work and I fell asleep waiting. I woke up when he called again and went downstairs to wait. Abby and Allan were home and they startled me as much as I startled them, this time. I fell asleep on the couch again while waiting. Needless to say it was not a very eventful get together with me falling asleep. I certainly did not make it through the movie. I went to sleep around 9.
Around 1:30 I heard a lot of noise downstairs and at first ignored it, but it persisted. I could see people milling about outside the Picame door. I ventured down and peeked through the cracks, at first not seeing anyone, and I wasn’t going to open the door unless I could verify who they were. I then saw Giovanni laying in the street, looking pretty defeated, I assume about his chances of getting in the house. I opened the door and the 4 poured in, very thankful. I went back to sleep.
Day 247 April 11
I woke up at 7 and stayed in bed until 8:30. I went downstairs and asked the crew how long they’d been outside before I got them last night and they said maybe 10 minutes. We chatted for a while and they said they’d make breakfast again and if I wanted I could come to the river later. Maybe after church. They were also surprised that I’m so young. They thought I looked to be about 25 or 26. I’m glad for it, I am the youngest person in the Mayatan crowd and I’d rather have people think I’m a little older than I am than think I’m very young.
They made breakfast again, and it was delicious. Who would have thought orange and carrot made a great juice combination? Sierra came home and we decided we’d go hiking up to the “waterfalls” (in quotes because it’s the dry season) at 2. I headed off to “church” at Megan’s. We ate again and then listened to a sermon. We chatted about it and sang some songs. I left a little early because I didn’t want the group to leave without me and it was already 2.
We ended up waiting an hour on Caroline and her new friend Jorge, from Mexico. We stopped at Los Sapos and made it up to the waterfalls. We hiked down to the big one and further down to the jumping hole. We went exploring in the cave, after scaring away some bats, and over all enjoyed the trip. We got back to town around 6 and I bought bread in the bakery on the way back into town.
Sierra and I went home while the rest of the crew went out to sell jewelry and play music in the park for tips. I toasted up three loaves of my mini-bread for Sierra and I to munch on. It was tasty. She left for dinner at Josue’s and I showered and went upstairs to read. I woke up when Cid called at 8 or 8:30. Oops to falling asleep reading.
I woke up enough to watch Alice in Wonderland, which was fun. I usually struggle with Tim Burton films, but I think he pulled this one off well. I agree with James, he should go back and make the original. Shortly after the movie was over, I went back to sleep.
Day 248 April 12
I woke up, turned off my alarm, and woke up 30 minutes later. Oops. I got ready quickly enough and headed to school. I got set up and we started the day well. It actually went very quickly. The kids did well behaviorally on the ITBS tests and we had assembly and music, which we haven’t done in a while because we haven’t had school on a Monday in a while. I’ve been trying to keep everything hands on, 1) because it’s better for the kids and 2) to make up for all the sitting still during tests. The kids are getting better at self analyzing and one of my usual problem children asked for the frog (in closing circle you can’t speak unless you are holding the koosh frog) so that he could point out to me that his name was never written on the board or moved to the consequences chart. I hadn’t even noticed, but praised him in the moment and thanked him for pointing it out.
After school, I cancelled my tutoring for a parent meeting that never happened. I had tutoring pushed back for Isaac’s group work project meeting. I cancelled class because tutoring would go late and then tutoring got cancelled by Isaac. I still didn’t have enough time to finish my homework, so I didn’t un-cancel class.
The folks who had been staying at our house had been asked to leave by the landlord, and Lucia had given me a braclet. The guys invited us over to their hotel for dinner. I got a smoothie with Chris and had a heart to heart with Sierra before Chris called and we headed over to see if they were cooking yet. They were on a very different time table than we were, so at 8 they were still no where near ready to start cooking. I gave up on the venture and returned home.
Day 249 April 13
I reset my alarm for 20 minutes later and still left on time. The kids and I had a good day at school and it‘s our second to last day of ITBS! I had a nice chat with John about the tests, which was a comfort to me after skipping out on his angry meeting because James was in town. I wasn‘t sure if he held it against me or not. I don‘t know John well, but I figured that, if I understand him correctly, me missing the meeting would only be an issue if I botched up the tests or in the computer lab. If I can pull off exactly what he wants without his meeting, it‘s the same to him. But, if I do something off, he‘ll blame it on my missing his meeting. So far so good on not botching, and so far so good on not upsetting him. Boom.
In the closing circle, Fernando pointed out, for the second day in a row, that his name was never on the board. I told him that I had noticed today and I was still very proud of him. I had tutorias in preparation for recoup exams. After, we had a staff meeting, which was fun as always. I rushed home and went to tutoring. Isaac is certainly out of the routine and his attention was hard to keep. There was also an obnoxious woman there who liked to roll her eyes at Jaqui and make ridiculous requests. She played loud music on her phone which made it even harder to keep Isaac focused. I was not impressed.
Some of the local hustlers asked me where the man went, if he left. I ignored them, but I assume they mean James. So the fact that I was wondering around with a giant (for here) was noticed. One of them is a taxi driver who never says anything to me, just makes faces, but always tells my friends I’m pretty. He got his friend to ask me about my brother while he made faces. Classy, guy. You keep on being classy.
Class with Luis was cancelled again. I had assumed we would meet at 5, which is the only time I ever have class, but he thought 3 would be better. He has French class at 6 so he can’t at 5. I never can at 3. I never have been able to. Ah well. We said we’d work something out for the future or I’d get a new teacher. Class is set up, time and all, for tomorrow.
As I’m writing, a stupid mosquito just bit me on the underside of the joint of my big toe. That is going to itch and I hate itching. I am not happy about it. He’s a jerk. And dead.
I went out and got some grocery shopping done and came back to relax at the house with my roommates. Abby was buzzing off Allan’s hair. I helped with all my hair buzzing expertise, but mostly just took pictures.
After a while I went out and saw the folks who had been staying in our house and then met up with Cid. I saw a few folks while I was out but around 9 decided it was time to come to bed.
Day 250 April 14
Today was the last day of ITBS testing! We had a good day and celebrated a little. We used my Solargraphics paper, which is about 10 years old, and some of them worked, but some did not. It was a fun activity.
I did my taxes at school, but there was a problem and they were returned to me. So I tried again, resent, and heard nothing back.
After school I gave a little more than half my recuperation exams and then walked home with Megan and Eileen. We got a ride with Mario, went to our houses, and reconvened for granitas. We then headed to the salon by the cemetery for hair cuts. 80 lemps for a cut and wash is okay by me.
I left and went to class where we went over my diary of James’ visit. After class I helped Luis shop for a new dress shirt for the French Alliance meeting in Guacamaya.
I went home and got a baleada and juice in Picame. I took out my computer and rechecked my e-mail for wordon my taxes, but heard back nothing. No news is good news, right?
Denny was in Picame and we sat and talked for a long time. After a while, Sierra joined us, but had a hard time understanding the conversation. Around 8:30 Cid came and joined us too, but it was nearing bed time. I hung around a while longer before turning in.
Day 251 April 15
First thing in the morning, I checked my e-mail and there is still a problem with my taxes. Crap. I was pretty distracted all day and did not feel like a teacher. I threw away a lot of my plans and did filler things. They were still productive, but not as productive as my original plans. I had an online chat session with a woman from H&R Block who told me that since I'd already filed my taxes I would have to contact the IRS to find out and fix the problem. Goody.
After a talk with David about extensions, possibilities, and the law, I felt better about the situation and decided to drop it until I go home.
I gave the last of my recuperation exams and turned in my grades to Marisol. While I was waiting to go home, Gilda asked if I had lice. I said that I didn't think so, and I hope no. she said that apparently one of my girls had been full of lice. She had so much hair and it was all full. I am now paranoid again.
I got a ride home with Mario and Megan. I showered and paid the electric bill. I snagged a smoothy with Sierra and went to tutoring. After tutoring, I went to class. I immediately left class and went to the house warming party Micheal and Eileen were throwing for their new house.
The party was a lot of fun and there were some kids there as well as neighborhood kids hanging around outside who wouldn't come in. I went out and played for a while. I was a jungle gym. Kids were hanging all over me. Some of them thought it was a good idea to tickle me Things started getting out of hand after that. I had to hold one of the boys away from my body as he had never been taught what sorts of behavior were appropriate. I was impressed with my strength as I held him out with one arm. When I put him down, I went back inside with the others.
Mom called in response to a panicked tax e-mail I'd sent that morning. She was relieved to hear David had comforted me and I understood that it would all work out. We talked a but about housing as i'm considering living by myself for the first time in my life. We'll see what comes of that.
About 9 I headed home and went to sleep.
Day 252 April 16
Happy Friday! We had a fun day at school. We had both a “Fun Friday” for the last period and a “Shoeless Party” during science class. Why? Because we can.
Though, the day did start strangely. Ferjardo came into my class at the start of the day with his son. He stood in the door and his 1st grade son walked up to me, through my students who were waiting for class to start, shaking. He said, “Good morning Miss,” and still shaking, handed me 5 of my animal figurines. It was pretty awkward because I didn't want to have “the talk” with all of my students watching, but I did want to know what exactly had happened. It would appear that he stole them from me and Ferjardo found out. From the shaking, I hope he has learned his lesson.
I stayed after school for a while to clean up and set up for next week. I then walked home and ran into Rachael and her surprise visitor, Paul in Picame. I joined them for a smoothie. We set up game night and started calling to let people know when and where. I went in and started cleaning up the house. I swept up and made coffee so I could survive the night. I read a little, did some more school work, and showered. I cooked dinner and chatted with Abby.
We both finished up dinner about the time Game Night was supposed to start. Everyone was late by at least 45 minutes. Cid was the first one over and he didn't even know there was a game night until he called to see what I was up to when he got off work.
Ever came over for a bit but did not stay. Eventually Blair, Francisco, Rachael, and Paul came over too. We played three rounds of Mexican Train. I teamed with Cid until Blair left. I am still too competitive for my own good, but by the last round I was doing a little better. I ended up 3rd out of 9. Folks stayed until about 2, but I left to go out around 10.
When I went downstairs Sierra and the 4 folks who had stayed over were up and chatting. I joined for a while but came and went from the conversation as I started my laundry and took a shower. When I came out of my shower, breakfast had been prepared and I joined them all for a lovely meal, including coffee and tea. It was wonderful.
Sierra headed out on a hike to Yanotios and shortly after, the other’s left. I saw Jesse come into Picame so we chatted for a while. I spent the rest of the day cleaning, laundering, and reading. It was wonderful and relaxed. I cooked myself a large lunch with my left over veggies and got dinner in Picame. A slow, people-less, cleaning day was exactly what I needed.
Cid called and said he’d be over a bit after 7 to watch a movie, but he got held up at work and I fell asleep waiting. I woke up when he called again and went downstairs to wait. Abby and Allan were home and they startled me as much as I startled them, this time. I fell asleep on the couch again while waiting. Needless to say it was not a very eventful get together with me falling asleep. I certainly did not make it through the movie. I went to sleep around 9.
Around 1:30 I heard a lot of noise downstairs and at first ignored it, but it persisted. I could see people milling about outside the Picame door. I ventured down and peeked through the cracks, at first not seeing anyone, and I wasn’t going to open the door unless I could verify who they were. I then saw Giovanni laying in the street, looking pretty defeated, I assume about his chances of getting in the house. I opened the door and the 4 poured in, very thankful. I went back to sleep.
Day 247 April 11
I woke up at 7 and stayed in bed until 8:30. I went downstairs and asked the crew how long they’d been outside before I got them last night and they said maybe 10 minutes. We chatted for a while and they said they’d make breakfast again and if I wanted I could come to the river later. Maybe after church. They were also surprised that I’m so young. They thought I looked to be about 25 or 26. I’m glad for it, I am the youngest person in the Mayatan crowd and I’d rather have people think I’m a little older than I am than think I’m very young.
They made breakfast again, and it was delicious. Who would have thought orange and carrot made a great juice combination? Sierra came home and we decided we’d go hiking up to the “waterfalls” (in quotes because it’s the dry season) at 2. I headed off to “church” at Megan’s. We ate again and then listened to a sermon. We chatted about it and sang some songs. I left a little early because I didn’t want the group to leave without me and it was already 2.
We ended up waiting an hour on Caroline and her new friend Jorge, from Mexico. We stopped at Los Sapos and made it up to the waterfalls. We hiked down to the big one and further down to the jumping hole. We went exploring in the cave, after scaring away some bats, and over all enjoyed the trip. We got back to town around 6 and I bought bread in the bakery on the way back into town.
Sierra and I went home while the rest of the crew went out to sell jewelry and play music in the park for tips. I toasted up three loaves of my mini-bread for Sierra and I to munch on. It was tasty. She left for dinner at Josue’s and I showered and went upstairs to read. I woke up when Cid called at 8 or 8:30. Oops to falling asleep reading.
I woke up enough to watch Alice in Wonderland, which was fun. I usually struggle with Tim Burton films, but I think he pulled this one off well. I agree with James, he should go back and make the original. Shortly after the movie was over, I went back to sleep.
Day 248 April 12
I woke up, turned off my alarm, and woke up 30 minutes later. Oops. I got ready quickly enough and headed to school. I got set up and we started the day well. It actually went very quickly. The kids did well behaviorally on the ITBS tests and we had assembly and music, which we haven’t done in a while because we haven’t had school on a Monday in a while. I’ve been trying to keep everything hands on, 1) because it’s better for the kids and 2) to make up for all the sitting still during tests. The kids are getting better at self analyzing and one of my usual problem children asked for the frog (in closing circle you can’t speak unless you are holding the koosh frog) so that he could point out to me that his name was never written on the board or moved to the consequences chart. I hadn’t even noticed, but praised him in the moment and thanked him for pointing it out.
After school, I cancelled my tutoring for a parent meeting that never happened. I had tutoring pushed back for Isaac’s group work project meeting. I cancelled class because tutoring would go late and then tutoring got cancelled by Isaac. I still didn’t have enough time to finish my homework, so I didn’t un-cancel class.
The folks who had been staying at our house had been asked to leave by the landlord, and Lucia had given me a braclet. The guys invited us over to their hotel for dinner. I got a smoothie with Chris and had a heart to heart with Sierra before Chris called and we headed over to see if they were cooking yet. They were on a very different time table than we were, so at 8 they were still no where near ready to start cooking. I gave up on the venture and returned home.
Day 249 April 13
I reset my alarm for 20 minutes later and still left on time. The kids and I had a good day at school and it‘s our second to last day of ITBS! I had a nice chat with John about the tests, which was a comfort to me after skipping out on his angry meeting because James was in town. I wasn‘t sure if he held it against me or not. I don‘t know John well, but I figured that, if I understand him correctly, me missing the meeting would only be an issue if I botched up the tests or in the computer lab. If I can pull off exactly what he wants without his meeting, it‘s the same to him. But, if I do something off, he‘ll blame it on my missing his meeting. So far so good on not botching, and so far so good on not upsetting him. Boom.
In the closing circle, Fernando pointed out, for the second day in a row, that his name was never on the board. I told him that I had noticed today and I was still very proud of him. I had tutorias in preparation for recoup exams. After, we had a staff meeting, which was fun as always. I rushed home and went to tutoring. Isaac is certainly out of the routine and his attention was hard to keep. There was also an obnoxious woman there who liked to roll her eyes at Jaqui and make ridiculous requests. She played loud music on her phone which made it even harder to keep Isaac focused. I was not impressed.
Some of the local hustlers asked me where the man went, if he left. I ignored them, but I assume they mean James. So the fact that I was wondering around with a giant (for here) was noticed. One of them is a taxi driver who never says anything to me, just makes faces, but always tells my friends I’m pretty. He got his friend to ask me about my brother while he made faces. Classy, guy. You keep on being classy.
Class with Luis was cancelled again. I had assumed we would meet at 5, which is the only time I ever have class, but he thought 3 would be better. He has French class at 6 so he can’t at 5. I never can at 3. I never have been able to. Ah well. We said we’d work something out for the future or I’d get a new teacher. Class is set up, time and all, for tomorrow.
As I’m writing, a stupid mosquito just bit me on the underside of the joint of my big toe. That is going to itch and I hate itching. I am not happy about it. He’s a jerk. And dead.
I went out and got some grocery shopping done and came back to relax at the house with my roommates. Abby was buzzing off Allan’s hair. I helped with all my hair buzzing expertise, but mostly just took pictures.
After a while I went out and saw the folks who had been staying in our house and then met up with Cid. I saw a few folks while I was out but around 9 decided it was time to come to bed.
Day 250 April 14
Today was the last day of ITBS testing! We had a good day and celebrated a little. We used my Solargraphics paper, which is about 10 years old, and some of them worked, but some did not. It was a fun activity.
I did my taxes at school, but there was a problem and they were returned to me. So I tried again, resent, and heard nothing back.
After school I gave a little more than half my recuperation exams and then walked home with Megan and Eileen. We got a ride with Mario, went to our houses, and reconvened for granitas. We then headed to the salon by the cemetery for hair cuts. 80 lemps for a cut and wash is okay by me.
I left and went to class where we went over my diary of James’ visit. After class I helped Luis shop for a new dress shirt for the French Alliance meeting in Guacamaya.
I went home and got a baleada and juice in Picame. I took out my computer and rechecked my e-mail for wordon my taxes, but heard back nothing. No news is good news, right?
Denny was in Picame and we sat and talked for a long time. After a while, Sierra joined us, but had a hard time understanding the conversation. Around 8:30 Cid came and joined us too, but it was nearing bed time. I hung around a while longer before turning in.
Day 251 April 15
First thing in the morning, I checked my e-mail and there is still a problem with my taxes. Crap. I was pretty distracted all day and did not feel like a teacher. I threw away a lot of my plans and did filler things. They were still productive, but not as productive as my original plans. I had an online chat session with a woman from H&R Block who told me that since I'd already filed my taxes I would have to contact the IRS to find out and fix the problem. Goody.
After a talk with David about extensions, possibilities, and the law, I felt better about the situation and decided to drop it until I go home.
I gave the last of my recuperation exams and turned in my grades to Marisol. While I was waiting to go home, Gilda asked if I had lice. I said that I didn't think so, and I hope no. she said that apparently one of my girls had been full of lice. She had so much hair and it was all full. I am now paranoid again.
I got a ride home with Mario and Megan. I showered and paid the electric bill. I snagged a smoothy with Sierra and went to tutoring. After tutoring, I went to class. I immediately left class and went to the house warming party Micheal and Eileen were throwing for their new house.
The party was a lot of fun and there were some kids there as well as neighborhood kids hanging around outside who wouldn't come in. I went out and played for a while. I was a jungle gym. Kids were hanging all over me. Some of them thought it was a good idea to tickle me Things started getting out of hand after that. I had to hold one of the boys away from my body as he had never been taught what sorts of behavior were appropriate. I was impressed with my strength as I held him out with one arm. When I put him down, I went back inside with the others.
Mom called in response to a panicked tax e-mail I'd sent that morning. She was relieved to hear David had comforted me and I understood that it would all work out. We talked a but about housing as i'm considering living by myself for the first time in my life. We'll see what comes of that.
About 9 I headed home and went to sleep.
Day 252 April 16
Happy Friday! We had a fun day at school. We had both a “Fun Friday” for the last period and a “Shoeless Party” during science class. Why? Because we can.
Though, the day did start strangely. Ferjardo came into my class at the start of the day with his son. He stood in the door and his 1st grade son walked up to me, through my students who were waiting for class to start, shaking. He said, “Good morning Miss,” and still shaking, handed me 5 of my animal figurines. It was pretty awkward because I didn't want to have “the talk” with all of my students watching, but I did want to know what exactly had happened. It would appear that he stole them from me and Ferjardo found out. From the shaking, I hope he has learned his lesson.
I stayed after school for a while to clean up and set up for next week. I then walked home and ran into Rachael and her surprise visitor, Paul in Picame. I joined them for a smoothie. We set up game night and started calling to let people know when and where. I went in and started cleaning up the house. I swept up and made coffee so I could survive the night. I read a little, did some more school work, and showered. I cooked dinner and chatted with Abby.
We both finished up dinner about the time Game Night was supposed to start. Everyone was late by at least 45 minutes. Cid was the first one over and he didn't even know there was a game night until he called to see what I was up to when he got off work.
Ever came over for a bit but did not stay. Eventually Blair, Francisco, Rachael, and Paul came over too. We played three rounds of Mexican Train. I teamed with Cid until Blair left. I am still too competitive for my own good, but by the last round I was doing a little better. I ended up 3rd out of 9. Folks stayed until about 2, but I left to go out around 10.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Week 35: The End of James' Visit and ITBS
Day 239 April 3
James and I met up and got breakfast at ViaVia while we waited for Jesse. A few kids stole a tip from the table behind us and the nice tourist we ended up seeing all over town for several days tried to chase them down. He said they hang out here a lot.
When Jesse arrived, we headed out and as we did James mentioned wanting a machete. We stopped off in a store and bought one, carrying case at all. It was to be James’ for the week and mine when he left (until I bring it home to him.)
We hiked up to Hacienda San Lucas and hung out in the yoga pavilion while Jesse paid the trail fee and got us Jamaica tea. It was a beautiful spot.
We went to Los Sapos Mayan fertility shrine and then headed up toward the waterfalls. Because it’s the dry season, we skipped the waterfalls but found a waterhole to jump in to cool off. We then went to lunch at La Pintata. The kids that were there sang for us and waited very patiently for us to finish so they could have our leftovers.
We hiked back down to the zip line, where we met with Cid and a couple (the woman wouldn’t go alone and screamed a lot.) We had a blast and it went a lot quicker than I think it did the last time I went. One of the guides told me I’m very strong. My favorite part was the last line when we zipped over all the people swimming and picnicking at the river.
We took a truck back but stopped off at the bar in the river, which is only up and operational during Semana Santa, I think. Beers were had and we helped one of the locals we know track down his runned-off daughter. He then offered us a ride back to town, which was a bit of an awkward ride with her right there, fuming.
James and I took showers when we got back. While we were at my house, my roommates came back. Poor Abby and Allan had tried to go to Omoha, which was so packed they couldn’t even swim so they came back early. Sierra came back also after a rough break-up filled vacation.
James and I had dinner at Isaac’s mom’s restaurant and we were both so exhausted that we didn’t talk much. Hopefully Jaqui doesn’t think we hate each other.
We went to ViaVia and Jesse and some friends had a paid show which I really wanted to see, but as it approached 9 I lost all faculty over my mind and couldn’t even help James with the most basic Spanish. (“How do you say,”Inside?” “I don’t know.”) We both decided it was best if I went to bed. I apparently missed the cops breaking up the show because one of the players owed a hotel money.
Day 240 April 4
I was up early for early church at Megan’s house. We ate pancakes and listened to a very good sermon. We sang a few Easter songs and talked over the sermon. It was very nice and, though it was just Megan, Francisco, and me, it was nice to be with the little community we’ve built here.
James and I met in front of the church at 9:55, as agreed. The printed schedule and all word of mouth confirmed that the procession was to start at the top of the hill at 9 and mass would start when they got to this church, at roughly 10. However, when we were about to walk inside, I was alarmed to see the priest run out of the church, hop in a taxi, and drive away. James, who didn’t know it was the priest didn’t understand my confusion. The church was closed and it we waited a while before determining that it could easily be hours before mass would start. We grabbed computers and went to Casa Villamil, where we were able to watch the procession an hour and a half later.
We met Jesse in Picame, bought green mangos-which James had fallen in love with- and hopped on a very crowded bus to Santa Rita. We got there and started down the path to El Ruby, one of my favorite waterfalls. Two boys joined us, which was slightly unnerving, but they were fine and split with us after a while. Jesse did most of the talking with them and I translated amusing or relevant parts to James. When I said, “See, I could be a translator.” One of the boys, who claimed to know me, laughed and looked back.
We decided to go up to the top of the main falls and rock climb back down. James’ new machete came with us and we practically spelunked down the cavern of rocks and waterfalls. James almost lost his leg when he moved a friggin bolder into the river, but all ended well.
When we got to the jumping point, with 25-30 foot jumps into the water below, a lot of Hondurans were hanging around and joined us in a few jumps. A dog that was sniffing around them followed us for the rest of our journey. Sometimes, when she felt like the water was too deep for her, she would whine until we encouraged her to keep coming. When we did leave on the bus, she was heart broken. Also, James got his finger stuck in the mouth of a water bottle and we had to cut it and twist it off to help. He was afraid it would dislocate, but the whole situation was hilarious.
We got back and James took a nap. I showered, bought toilet paper for the house, did some laundry, and tried to call Sierra when Josue came over looking for her.
James and I met up to have Easter dinner at Twisted Tanya’s however, they are apparently always closed on Sundays. Instead, we went to the Marina Copan and were waited on my student, Fernando’s, mother. It was delicious.
We went to ViaVia, and I left James for a while with my buddy Mark to meet up with Kelvin as it was his last night in town. Kelvin wanted to go back to ViaVia, so we did and then he left about 10 minutes later. I didn’t stay out late, as I was worn out again.
Day 241 April 5
I was up at 7:30 and James came by early. The power had gone off at 7, so I showered in the dark. James and I caught a rushed breakfast at Vamos a Ver before going to his hotel to catch our ride to the coffee tour. Our guide was an aquantance of mine from town named Edgar.
The tour was a lot of fun. I learned more about my good friend coffee and discovered that I already knew a fair amount more than I realized. The plantation was beautiful. Like I do on any type of tour, I’m sure I confused my guide with the types of pictures I took, though I also took pictures of coffee related items, I mostly focused on the ants.
The van ride back was blasting some 80s classics and James and I had fun with those. We went by Villamil for a coffee. On the way back to his hotel, I stopped by the correo to pick up the package I had known about 10 days ago, but had been unable to get because the correo was closed the whole time. We took it back to James hotel, and he opened it on his bed.
This, we would soon learn, was a mistake. One package of peeps had been discovered by a colony of red ants who had moved into my package so much that they had eggs. I never spotted a queen, but that doesn’t mean she wasn’t there. We killed about 200 on his bed and I took the package out to slowly pick through the salvageable items. Everything but that one package and the plastic bags was fine.
Luckily they were already planning to change James’ room. We explained about the ants and went to ViaVia, across the street, to wait for the owner to come back so we could switch rooms. While we were there we briefly ran into Cid, invited Mark to join us, and Heidi came by to tell James how special he is to me.
We went back to change James’ room and as I left him to set up, I ran into Jose. He said he was hungry but didn’t want to come over to have me make him something. I saw Edgar in the park and asked how his other tour had gone. Apparently, they always go well.
Once home, I finally started planning for the school week. I cleaned up my room a bit. Memo came by, looking for Megan, and this time I could help him. I dropped off copies myself for the first time and then went to get James.
We went up to the Fort, but the museum was closed. We did however see a beautiful sunset.
I took him to Katia’s mom’s comedor to have the best baleadas in town. He agreed. We then went back to town to watch the Hurtlocker at ViaVia. When we left the movie, Cid was sitting downstairs, but I simply didn’t have the energy to not be in bed. I went home and collapsed.
Day 242 April 6
I was up at 4:45 and left by 5:25. I put up my new spring time decorations from Nana and Granddaddy and prepared for the day. The kids started out really talkative, but calmed down and we had a great day. By the end of reading groups, James had arrived. (When they first arrived at school I was bombarded with, “And your brother, Miss?”s)
He set up for a little lesson during recess and it was really nice to have a second person to help manage all activities. We had a lot of good activities and they loved James.
James said if he had to keep a pace like that all day he’d be exhausted. Yes, that is why I go to bed at 8:30. I had prior permission to leave at 1:45 during the two days that my brother was in town, so I was able to skip the “emergency meeting” that apparently then turned disastrous. Sierra came home while James and I were preparing our next move and was near tears because of the fight she and Mr. John had as a result of the meeting. Oh dear.
James and I went up to the fort again and climbed up in one of the towers. We decided to skip the museum and went back to town to do a little tourist shopping. I helped him pick out something for his girlfriend, but I just showed him the sort of thing he wanted to look at. He did the picking.
We broke open the Johnnie on my roof. We then tried to have dinner at Twisted Tanya’s for the second time, but they were apparently vacationing in Tela. Instead we went to Llama del Bosque, which was fine.
For a variety of reasons, all the usual bars were closed, so we went to the Lost Monkey and met up with Cid and a couple of tourists. Shortly after the couple went to bed, I departed, leaving James and Cid at the Lost Monkey.
Day 243 April 7
I left for school at a more normal time. We had a good morning and the kids did well on their first ITBS test section. I only had to teach one real class and then they had PE or Library. However, the second ITBS was pretty horrible.
It was a reading comprehension test, 25 minutes in length. I had about 7 kids refuse to read the passages and finish before 10 minutes was up. I tried to explain they needed to go back and read the passages…to try. I can’t force them to do it, though and they can’t keep still and quiet for that long (I’m not supposed to let them talk, read, draw, or do anything except work on the test.) We had a long talk after about the importance of trying on these tests, which was particularly important because in the morning they’d have the second part of the reading comp and I wanted them to do better.
The last class of the day was okay, but not great. Though, in the closing meeting Yoela said, “Today, we were bad Miss and I was very bad.” She and I talked about it some and hopefully things will get better.
I rushed past other teachers to get home and found James waiting in Picame. He had gone hiking and had gotten back about 15 minutes ago. He was hungry, so we went to Jim’s Pizza for lunch. When we were done eating, we went down to the Hedman Alas station to get him a bus ticket. I was afraid he’d have to take the 7, get to San Pedro at 10, and wait until his flight at 5:30, but there was a 10:30. Much better.
We caught a taxi to the bird park and as we pulled in another taxi was pulling out with tourists who explained that it wasn’t open. I have no idea why. We went back to town and I set up a massage appointment at Casa de Café.
We saw Mark on the way over and chatted for a bit. I was afraid of being late to the appointment, but that was silly. I obviously forgot what country I’m in. I had my computer so I continued trying to figure out the ins and outs and setting it up how I like it.
James loved his massage. It rained and thundered some during it, which added to the effect. We went back to town and I hung out in Jesse’s store while James showered. We went for a second round of baleadas at Katia’s mom’s place and found Travis the Peace Corps volunteer eating there. We sat and chatted for a while. He only has 2 weeks left in his time here.
After dinner, we made sure James had everything from my house and I got the machete. I set him up at ViaVia, where he later ran into Mark. We said our goodbyes and I went to bed.
Day 244 April 8
The kids did much better with the ITBS reading comprehension section. It seems as though they actually read and tried. Lecture success.
We were doing an “Up and at ‘em” math activity when Megan came by for a 5 minute observation. It’s the first one of those that I didn’t feel like I was floundering.
I had spelling tutoring after school, but still wasn’t tutoring for Isaac. We had talked about how my brother had been in town and I couldn’t this week, but his mom called because he didn’t understand the spelling words. I told her I still couldn’t come, because I had a prior obligation, but was also frustrated because studying for spelling is something anyone can help him do and he could, were he motivated enough, so it on his own. He’s not that motivated, but she doesn’t need to know English to help him study for that.
My prior obligation was to help Urban Promise clean up their new office. I tackled a bathroom and, if I do say so myself, it was beautiful when I was done with it. We made baleadas, which were the greasiest I’ve ever had, but very good. Abby came by at the end and we talked for a while.
I headed home with her and grabbed a shower. There were about 12 people coming over, which I hadn’t known, for dinner. After about 2 weeks without much time to myself the idea of 12 people, several of whom would be children, in my face seemed terrible. Maybe had it been a different day I would have been happy to stay.
Hsuan arrived while I was still in the shower and he was in need of a shower, so when I was done we offered it to him. I left as the others started arriving. I ran into Marlon, from Hsuan’s orphanage on my way out and he wanted to know where Hsuan was (after a big hug, of course). I brought him to the house, asked Abby if she had enough to feed one more mouth, and then left. As I turned onto the park, Marlon was there, running from the other direction (he had apparently done a circuit looking for me as he didn’t understand why I was leaving.) I explained that I had already eaten and was meeting a friend. He went back to the house. I love that kid.
I went to Casa de Café and hung out with Cid until I needed to go to bed. I headed home and saw Hsuan and Marlon leaving. They both looked happy and full. We chatted for a moment and Abby was impressed with my timing as everyone had just left.
Day 245 April 9
The kids behaved well considering the length of today’s tests. I promised them that if they were good we’d have a Fun Friday and we almost didn’t make it, but we did. I passed out their report cards before they left. I spent my free periods grading and working on the new computer.
I didn’t stay long after school because it was so hot. I got home and showered. I met Megan for granitas to go and we went to the seamstress’ house to see if Megan’s things were reading and drop off mine. Megan’s were not, and I showed her all the things I wanted work on, which were many.
I stopped by UPH on my way back to talk to Francisco about game night. I headed home to cook for said game night only to discover the veggies I had planned to cook for my brother and never had the chance were molded. I read for a while and had a 30-45 minute conversation with my 4 year-old-neighbor through my window. She is cute as can be.
I met several of the teachers at Twisted Tanya’s, which was open again. I only stayed for half an hour and then I left.
I picked up chips on the way to Francisco’s house and called Luis to see if he wanted to walk together. I haven’t heard from him in so long, either. He said he’d be coming late, so I went on without him. No one else came for about an hour, but Francisco and I had a lovely chat. Luis ended up not coming at all and Megan, Jorge, Allan, and Abby all arrived at about the same time.
We ate chicken and potatoes and played 4 rounds of Mexican Train dominos. I won the first round and was 3rd of 6 in the over all scoring. It was intense at times and a lot of fun.
I left to head back into town and saw Sierra with a crowd headed to Jesse’s house. I stopped in for a bit but didn’t stay long. I met Mark and Cid at Barcito. We sat and chatted for a while. Sierra came by later for my keys and to ask if some people could sleep in our downstairs. I said sure. A while later, Nash, Theo, Vanessa, Jesse, and a few tourists came by. Theo had a bottle of Jameson’s which I haven’t seen in a while.
When Barcito closed we all migrated to Papa Chango’s. We were the only people there for a while. I actually got up the nerve to dance a little. Eventually, I got sleepy and headed home.
There were a variety of people sleeping downstairs and I used to my phone light to get to the kitchen and back to the stairs.
James and I met up and got breakfast at ViaVia while we waited for Jesse. A few kids stole a tip from the table behind us and the nice tourist we ended up seeing all over town for several days tried to chase them down. He said they hang out here a lot.
When Jesse arrived, we headed out and as we did James mentioned wanting a machete. We stopped off in a store and bought one, carrying case at all. It was to be James’ for the week and mine when he left (until I bring it home to him.)
We hiked up to Hacienda San Lucas and hung out in the yoga pavilion while Jesse paid the trail fee and got us Jamaica tea. It was a beautiful spot.
We went to Los Sapos Mayan fertility shrine and then headed up toward the waterfalls. Because it’s the dry season, we skipped the waterfalls but found a waterhole to jump in to cool off. We then went to lunch at La Pintata. The kids that were there sang for us and waited very patiently for us to finish so they could have our leftovers.
We hiked back down to the zip line, where we met with Cid and a couple (the woman wouldn’t go alone and screamed a lot.) We had a blast and it went a lot quicker than I think it did the last time I went. One of the guides told me I’m very strong. My favorite part was the last line when we zipped over all the people swimming and picnicking at the river.
We took a truck back but stopped off at the bar in the river, which is only up and operational during Semana Santa, I think. Beers were had and we helped one of the locals we know track down his runned-off daughter. He then offered us a ride back to town, which was a bit of an awkward ride with her right there, fuming.
James and I took showers when we got back. While we were at my house, my roommates came back. Poor Abby and Allan had tried to go to Omoha, which was so packed they couldn’t even swim so they came back early. Sierra came back also after a rough break-up filled vacation.
James and I had dinner at Isaac’s mom’s restaurant and we were both so exhausted that we didn’t talk much. Hopefully Jaqui doesn’t think we hate each other.
We went to ViaVia and Jesse and some friends had a paid show which I really wanted to see, but as it approached 9 I lost all faculty over my mind and couldn’t even help James with the most basic Spanish. (“How do you say,”Inside?” “I don’t know.”) We both decided it was best if I went to bed. I apparently missed the cops breaking up the show because one of the players owed a hotel money.
Day 240 April 4
I was up early for early church at Megan’s house. We ate pancakes and listened to a very good sermon. We sang a few Easter songs and talked over the sermon. It was very nice and, though it was just Megan, Francisco, and me, it was nice to be with the little community we’ve built here.
James and I met in front of the church at 9:55, as agreed. The printed schedule and all word of mouth confirmed that the procession was to start at the top of the hill at 9 and mass would start when they got to this church, at roughly 10. However, when we were about to walk inside, I was alarmed to see the priest run out of the church, hop in a taxi, and drive away. James, who didn’t know it was the priest didn’t understand my confusion. The church was closed and it we waited a while before determining that it could easily be hours before mass would start. We grabbed computers and went to Casa Villamil, where we were able to watch the procession an hour and a half later.
We met Jesse in Picame, bought green mangos-which James had fallen in love with- and hopped on a very crowded bus to Santa Rita. We got there and started down the path to El Ruby, one of my favorite waterfalls. Two boys joined us, which was slightly unnerving, but they were fine and split with us after a while. Jesse did most of the talking with them and I translated amusing or relevant parts to James. When I said, “See, I could be a translator.” One of the boys, who claimed to know me, laughed and looked back.
We decided to go up to the top of the main falls and rock climb back down. James’ new machete came with us and we practically spelunked down the cavern of rocks and waterfalls. James almost lost his leg when he moved a friggin bolder into the river, but all ended well.
When we got to the jumping point, with 25-30 foot jumps into the water below, a lot of Hondurans were hanging around and joined us in a few jumps. A dog that was sniffing around them followed us for the rest of our journey. Sometimes, when she felt like the water was too deep for her, she would whine until we encouraged her to keep coming. When we did leave on the bus, she was heart broken. Also, James got his finger stuck in the mouth of a water bottle and we had to cut it and twist it off to help. He was afraid it would dislocate, but the whole situation was hilarious.
We got back and James took a nap. I showered, bought toilet paper for the house, did some laundry, and tried to call Sierra when Josue came over looking for her.
James and I met up to have Easter dinner at Twisted Tanya’s however, they are apparently always closed on Sundays. Instead, we went to the Marina Copan and were waited on my student, Fernando’s, mother. It was delicious.
We went to ViaVia, and I left James for a while with my buddy Mark to meet up with Kelvin as it was his last night in town. Kelvin wanted to go back to ViaVia, so we did and then he left about 10 minutes later. I didn’t stay out late, as I was worn out again.
Day 241 April 5
I was up at 7:30 and James came by early. The power had gone off at 7, so I showered in the dark. James and I caught a rushed breakfast at Vamos a Ver before going to his hotel to catch our ride to the coffee tour. Our guide was an aquantance of mine from town named Edgar.
The tour was a lot of fun. I learned more about my good friend coffee and discovered that I already knew a fair amount more than I realized. The plantation was beautiful. Like I do on any type of tour, I’m sure I confused my guide with the types of pictures I took, though I also took pictures of coffee related items, I mostly focused on the ants.
The van ride back was blasting some 80s classics and James and I had fun with those. We went by Villamil for a coffee. On the way back to his hotel, I stopped by the correo to pick up the package I had known about 10 days ago, but had been unable to get because the correo was closed the whole time. We took it back to James hotel, and he opened it on his bed.
This, we would soon learn, was a mistake. One package of peeps had been discovered by a colony of red ants who had moved into my package so much that they had eggs. I never spotted a queen, but that doesn’t mean she wasn’t there. We killed about 200 on his bed and I took the package out to slowly pick through the salvageable items. Everything but that one package and the plastic bags was fine.
Luckily they were already planning to change James’ room. We explained about the ants and went to ViaVia, across the street, to wait for the owner to come back so we could switch rooms. While we were there we briefly ran into Cid, invited Mark to join us, and Heidi came by to tell James how special he is to me.
We went back to change James’ room and as I left him to set up, I ran into Jose. He said he was hungry but didn’t want to come over to have me make him something. I saw Edgar in the park and asked how his other tour had gone. Apparently, they always go well.
Once home, I finally started planning for the school week. I cleaned up my room a bit. Memo came by, looking for Megan, and this time I could help him. I dropped off copies myself for the first time and then went to get James.
We went up to the Fort, but the museum was closed. We did however see a beautiful sunset.
I took him to Katia’s mom’s comedor to have the best baleadas in town. He agreed. We then went back to town to watch the Hurtlocker at ViaVia. When we left the movie, Cid was sitting downstairs, but I simply didn’t have the energy to not be in bed. I went home and collapsed.
Day 242 April 6
I was up at 4:45 and left by 5:25. I put up my new spring time decorations from Nana and Granddaddy and prepared for the day. The kids started out really talkative, but calmed down and we had a great day. By the end of reading groups, James had arrived. (When they first arrived at school I was bombarded with, “And your brother, Miss?”s)
He set up for a little lesson during recess and it was really nice to have a second person to help manage all activities. We had a lot of good activities and they loved James.
James said if he had to keep a pace like that all day he’d be exhausted. Yes, that is why I go to bed at 8:30. I had prior permission to leave at 1:45 during the two days that my brother was in town, so I was able to skip the “emergency meeting” that apparently then turned disastrous. Sierra came home while James and I were preparing our next move and was near tears because of the fight she and Mr. John had as a result of the meeting. Oh dear.
James and I went up to the fort again and climbed up in one of the towers. We decided to skip the museum and went back to town to do a little tourist shopping. I helped him pick out something for his girlfriend, but I just showed him the sort of thing he wanted to look at. He did the picking.
We broke open the Johnnie on my roof. We then tried to have dinner at Twisted Tanya’s for the second time, but they were apparently vacationing in Tela. Instead we went to Llama del Bosque, which was fine.
For a variety of reasons, all the usual bars were closed, so we went to the Lost Monkey and met up with Cid and a couple of tourists. Shortly after the couple went to bed, I departed, leaving James and Cid at the Lost Monkey.
Day 243 April 7
I left for school at a more normal time. We had a good morning and the kids did well on their first ITBS test section. I only had to teach one real class and then they had PE or Library. However, the second ITBS was pretty horrible.
It was a reading comprehension test, 25 minutes in length. I had about 7 kids refuse to read the passages and finish before 10 minutes was up. I tried to explain they needed to go back and read the passages…to try. I can’t force them to do it, though and they can’t keep still and quiet for that long (I’m not supposed to let them talk, read, draw, or do anything except work on the test.) We had a long talk after about the importance of trying on these tests, which was particularly important because in the morning they’d have the second part of the reading comp and I wanted them to do better.
The last class of the day was okay, but not great. Though, in the closing meeting Yoela said, “Today, we were bad Miss and I was very bad.” She and I talked about it some and hopefully things will get better.
I rushed past other teachers to get home and found James waiting in Picame. He had gone hiking and had gotten back about 15 minutes ago. He was hungry, so we went to Jim’s Pizza for lunch. When we were done eating, we went down to the Hedman Alas station to get him a bus ticket. I was afraid he’d have to take the 7, get to San Pedro at 10, and wait until his flight at 5:30, but there was a 10:30. Much better.
We caught a taxi to the bird park and as we pulled in another taxi was pulling out with tourists who explained that it wasn’t open. I have no idea why. We went back to town and I set up a massage appointment at Casa de Café.
We saw Mark on the way over and chatted for a bit. I was afraid of being late to the appointment, but that was silly. I obviously forgot what country I’m in. I had my computer so I continued trying to figure out the ins and outs and setting it up how I like it.
James loved his massage. It rained and thundered some during it, which added to the effect. We went back to town and I hung out in Jesse’s store while James showered. We went for a second round of baleadas at Katia’s mom’s place and found Travis the Peace Corps volunteer eating there. We sat and chatted for a while. He only has 2 weeks left in his time here.
After dinner, we made sure James had everything from my house and I got the machete. I set him up at ViaVia, where he later ran into Mark. We said our goodbyes and I went to bed.
Day 244 April 8
The kids did much better with the ITBS reading comprehension section. It seems as though they actually read and tried. Lecture success.
We were doing an “Up and at ‘em” math activity when Megan came by for a 5 minute observation. It’s the first one of those that I didn’t feel like I was floundering.
I had spelling tutoring after school, but still wasn’t tutoring for Isaac. We had talked about how my brother had been in town and I couldn’t this week, but his mom called because he didn’t understand the spelling words. I told her I still couldn’t come, because I had a prior obligation, but was also frustrated because studying for spelling is something anyone can help him do and he could, were he motivated enough, so it on his own. He’s not that motivated, but she doesn’t need to know English to help him study for that.
My prior obligation was to help Urban Promise clean up their new office. I tackled a bathroom and, if I do say so myself, it was beautiful when I was done with it. We made baleadas, which were the greasiest I’ve ever had, but very good. Abby came by at the end and we talked for a while.
I headed home with her and grabbed a shower. There were about 12 people coming over, which I hadn’t known, for dinner. After about 2 weeks without much time to myself the idea of 12 people, several of whom would be children, in my face seemed terrible. Maybe had it been a different day I would have been happy to stay.
Hsuan arrived while I was still in the shower and he was in need of a shower, so when I was done we offered it to him. I left as the others started arriving. I ran into Marlon, from Hsuan’s orphanage on my way out and he wanted to know where Hsuan was (after a big hug, of course). I brought him to the house, asked Abby if she had enough to feed one more mouth, and then left. As I turned onto the park, Marlon was there, running from the other direction (he had apparently done a circuit looking for me as he didn’t understand why I was leaving.) I explained that I had already eaten and was meeting a friend. He went back to the house. I love that kid.
I went to Casa de Café and hung out with Cid until I needed to go to bed. I headed home and saw Hsuan and Marlon leaving. They both looked happy and full. We chatted for a moment and Abby was impressed with my timing as everyone had just left.
Day 245 April 9
The kids behaved well considering the length of today’s tests. I promised them that if they were good we’d have a Fun Friday and we almost didn’t make it, but we did. I passed out their report cards before they left. I spent my free periods grading and working on the new computer.
I didn’t stay long after school because it was so hot. I got home and showered. I met Megan for granitas to go and we went to the seamstress’ house to see if Megan’s things were reading and drop off mine. Megan’s were not, and I showed her all the things I wanted work on, which were many.
I stopped by UPH on my way back to talk to Francisco about game night. I headed home to cook for said game night only to discover the veggies I had planned to cook for my brother and never had the chance were molded. I read for a while and had a 30-45 minute conversation with my 4 year-old-neighbor through my window. She is cute as can be.
I met several of the teachers at Twisted Tanya’s, which was open again. I only stayed for half an hour and then I left.
I picked up chips on the way to Francisco’s house and called Luis to see if he wanted to walk together. I haven’t heard from him in so long, either. He said he’d be coming late, so I went on without him. No one else came for about an hour, but Francisco and I had a lovely chat. Luis ended up not coming at all and Megan, Jorge, Allan, and Abby all arrived at about the same time.
We ate chicken and potatoes and played 4 rounds of Mexican Train dominos. I won the first round and was 3rd of 6 in the over all scoring. It was intense at times and a lot of fun.
I left to head back into town and saw Sierra with a crowd headed to Jesse’s house. I stopped in for a bit but didn’t stay long. I met Mark and Cid at Barcito. We sat and chatted for a while. Sierra came by later for my keys and to ask if some people could sleep in our downstairs. I said sure. A while later, Nash, Theo, Vanessa, Jesse, and a few tourists came by. Theo had a bottle of Jameson’s which I haven’t seen in a while.
When Barcito closed we all migrated to Papa Chango’s. We were the only people there for a while. I actually got up the nerve to dance a little. Eventually, I got sleepy and headed home.
There were a variety of people sleeping downstairs and I used to my phone light to get to the kitchen and back to the stairs.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Week 34: Semana Santa and James' Arrival
Day 232 March 27
I had the laziest morning and afternoon. I woke up around 7:30 and lounged around. I took a shower, finished my book, The Witch of Portobello by Paulo Coelho (I really enjoyed this story. Especially compared to the last two I tried to read. Coelho shows how to do different perspectives well and cohesively. Some things were repeated through different eyes but each voice and each character were different. It was pieced together like history even though it was wholly fictional. Pushing the Bear, which was history, was constructed so poorly I wanted to disagree with her viewpoint even though I agreed with her.), and went back to sleep around 10.
I woke up at 12:30 and had missed 3 calls from Luis. I called him back and he informed me that it was too late. Sleepy and confused I asked for what. Apparently the Correo was closing at 12 and would remain closed for the rest of the week for Semana Santa and I had a package. I was too late. Ah well.
I spent the next few hours listening to music, cooking, cleaning, sitting, typing, drinking coffee, and all in all not doing much. Allan, Abby, and her parents are in Antigua for I don’t know how long and I had the house to myself. I decided to take advantage of this fact.
Megan called me and we set up a dinner and a movie date for 7 in ViaVia. I continued in my lazy day.
I’m becoming increasingly aware of how long it takes a peeling sunburn to go away. It never even hurt that much, but it’s been a week and a half and I can’t stop my skin from peeling. Ah well, it is the nature of the beast. Luckily it’s only happened once before and I find it relatively easy to avoid.
I did not leave my house until just before 7 and I met Megan for dinner. Fransico and two of his friends happened to be getting a couple of drinks there, so they joined us and the 5 of us had a lovely chat.
Around 8:30 Megan and I left and outside of Jesse’s store I found Jesse, Marion, Cid, and a few others gathered on the side walk. I sat with them until we all migrated to Jesse’s old house. We picked up a couple of tourists who hung out with us and we all spoke a menagerie of English, Spanish, and French. Spanish being the main common language. I actually managed to stay up well past my bedtime, but when the time came I was dead.
Day 233 March 28
I was up earlier than desired, but that’s the way sometimes. I got ready to go to church with Megan and Francisco. Since the church is always full on special Sundays, we agreed to meet outside at 9:30. However, when I got there, it was empty. When they got there, it was still empty. We took a seat beside a fan near the front. As we waited, until10:40, we read Bible verses, discussed the protestant/catholic divide in Central America, and discovered the reason for the lack of crowd.
Only the Catholics celebrate Easter to any real degree. Only the Catholics celebrate Palm Sunday. The running theory is that it is a way for the protestants to be as non-Catholic as possible. I don’t know if this is the case, but it’s the best theory we have right now.
Also, the majority of the congregation came in together at 10:40 after doing a Palm Sunday procession from the Catholic church up the hill. We missed it, but it was fun to watch everyone come in with their palms together.
After mass, we met at Picame for lunch and we talked for a long time about religion and other things. I was actually able to get a partial translation of the homily. We sat from 12:30-3 talking, eating, and drinking coffee. We then dispersed and I met Alex at Villamil for some interneting. I got to Skype with mom and dad, and during the conversation, David came over.
Around 7:30, I met up with Cid and we went to “Blake30!” for Blake’s 30th birthday party. It was fun and there was a large group of people, from many different circles in town, at the party. I think Blake had fun and the party went through a variety of stages including everyone wearing fake mustaches.
Franqui invited me to come watch Ice Age 3 with him and Nilvio sometime, but we never settled on a time. I mingled a lot and enjoyed the lime-watermelon juice.
Around 11 I headed home for bed.
Day 234 March 29
I was up and out by around 9. I met Megan for coffee and sent off an e-mail to reserve a room for James and me when he gets to San Pedro. Megan and I chatted, gossiped, and I did my homework.
I left to go to class and Luis and I talked about the party some. I read about the Mayans and was given the homework of “write a story.” We’ll see what I can do.
After class, I went straight to the market and brought everything with me to Megan’s so I wouldn’t be too late for lunch, which she invited me to.
Jorge was already there and we watched some Mr. Bean while enjoying our tuna melt sandwiches. I left at 2 to drop off my groceries and meet Kelvin, who just got back into town, for coffee.
Kelvin and I started at Yat Balam and moved to ViaVia. We then hung out at my house, talking and catching up on the last month and a half since he moved until 5 when we went to Alex’s house to meet Alex, Megan, and Jorge for a showing of the Newsies, which I had never seen. It was a lot of fun and now there is talk of a weekly musical night. We need to get our hands on some musicals first.
Alex, Kelvin, and I moved down into town for some food and drinks at ViaVia. We stopped by Jesse’s store to chat and Cid called and met up with us. Our table was very transient as different folks we new from town came and went. At one point we had me, Cid, Kelvin, Alex, Alex the archeologist, Mark the archeologist, and Diana. After a while we moved to Barcito.
We didn’t stay in Barcito for very long, but while we were there, we met a couple of tourists including a young man who’s working in the peace corps elsewhere in Honduras and was the president of my brother’s freshman hall at RMC (Chad Ryerson?). It was toward the end of my night so we didn’t talk a whole lot, but it was interesting and sometimes I am just amazed at both how large and how small the world is.
Day 235 March 30
I tried to go to the bank around 8:30 but quickly realized that I was standing in a 2 hour line. I left and, for the first time, used my ATM card. It works! Megan was running late, so I picked us up cappuccinos to go. We went shopping for about an hour and it was very successful. During the last 8 months my clothes have begun to stretch out to where they were not as wearable, get holes, they were bleached (both by me and when I took them to be washed), lost, and otherwise becoming difficult to wear. I didn’t have much to begin with, but now I was really feeling a lack of options, except long sleeves, which are becoming less and less useful. It is hot these days!
Megan was perfect to shop with and during our perusing I picked up a pair of shoes, three shirts, and a pair of jeans for about $35 total. It was very productive. When we split ways I went to the bank and got out my pay before they close for the rest of Semana Santa and James arrives.
I went to the Cruz Bueso and picked up some more grocery items after budgeting my monthly spending (this much a week, this much for my caseta bill, this many classes at Guacamaya, etc.) I finally picked up nail polish remover and repainted my toes.
I then went to Villamil where I came across Alex. We talked for a while and I finalized reservations for San Pedro, chatted with Mom, got flight confirmations from my brother (who will only be here 7 days, not 10.)
Around 2 I left and came home to nap. I read about a chapter in my book and went to sleep for a little less than 2 hours. I woke up when Abby, Allan, and parents came home. I came downstairs and started up my laundry while I made coffee and chatted.
A bit after 5 they left to go to the hotel and I finished my laundry and cleaned up the kitchen some. I took a shower, read, and listened to music for a while, enjoying the downtime.
Around 6:30 I went into town to meet up with Jesse, but got distracted in the park by, first, Heidi, and, later, Judy. They liked my new clothes. We chatted for a while and I got to pet Heidi’s dog Baby (Side note: I forgot to mention after my dinner at Dona Nora’s that I fell in love with her dog, Mocha, who is a white cocker-poodle mix and looks just like Wallie. Normally Mocha doesn’t take to people very well, so Nora was impressed with how well we got along.)
Sometime after 7 Cid called and met me in the park. We left the ladies and he informed me that while he’d been calling around checking for hotels for James to stay in, he’d learned that not only was the bus schedule different on the Thursday and Friday of Semana Santa, but that this week they were not existent. There’s not one bus service working between here and San Pedro.
To take the buses, I’d have to go tomorrow and stay 3 nights. James would have to stay 2 nights and we’d come back on Saturday. No thanks. Cid said he could get us a ride with a friend, who I also know as the father of one of Abby’s students. He was actually hanging out in the park with his wife and daughter so we set up a ride and negotiated a pricing, getting a $30 discount for being us.
After setting up the ride, we marched to a hotel across from ViaVia and Tun Club, which I think is a good location for James and closer to town. I asked to see a room, but they’re full, so I couldn’t. Cid says they’re good rooms, and the price is right (and they have vacancies!), so I put down a reservation. They wouldn’t give us a discount for the weekend, just because it’s Semana Santa, but for the other days James will stay there we got a discounted rate, which evens out to about 20$ a night.
Having all of that sorted out, and being saved by Cid The Incredible, we went to hang out with Jesse for a while. Cid’s cousin met up with us for a while and we went to Barcito before going to ViaVia. I made an earlier night of it than usual and went home at 10.
Day 236 March 31
I woke up and as I came down the stairs Abby, Allan, and parents came in the door. They were having breakfast before going to see the missionaries work. I chatted with them before they headed out. I showered and did my homework before going to class.
I went to class early so that I could get some school work done and e-mail the hotel in San Pedro to tell them I was not coming and they should not pick us up at the airport. I do not like Spanish keyboards.
Class was two hours and I drank a lot of coffee. I feel it was productive but I think our 1 hour sessions are better.
When I left class I came home and cleaned up. I did the dishes, swept out the house, and started doing general prep for James’ arrival. At 2, Cid called and he and his cousins picked me up in a taxi to go to the bird park. I met two more cousins and a “niece.” It was a little chilly for swimming, but it was nice all the same. I taught the niece, Suna to make boats with leaves and twigs. I also showed her insect eggs in the leaves. This was all fascinating for her and I was less timid with my Spanish. I feel as though my timidness with my Spanish has gotten worse, not better as time went on. I need to fix this.
We hung out at the bird park for a few hours and Megan called to invite me to the river, but we agreed to meet up later instead. We did meet at Picame for dinner, which was fun.
Shortly after they left, Judy came by. She was having a rough night and was locked out of her house. I offered her one of the many available sleeping spots in my house and she almost stayed the night but while we were talking (and I was cleaning) her landlord called and said they’d been able to get it open. She decided to wait a while so that her husband, who’d been drinking, would have time to get to sleep.
Shortly after she left I went to sleep.
Day 237 April Fool’s
I met Megan and Heidi in the park to get some coffee. I met Saul for the first time while we were at ViaVia.
When I left then I finished my house cleaning and got Saldo. I rigged up a list of things James and I could do while he was here before going to meet my driver.
He spoke English, and so we spoke Spanglish the whole way to San Pedro. It was a fine ride. I was hit on while I was waiting for James and the new starter lines tend to be “So, are you married?” or “How many kids do you have?” In this case, we had just been talking about my job and so I told him I had 20. No,no, he said, how many kids do YOU have. Oops.
I spotted James coming through immigration and gave mom a quick call. We hopped in the car and chatted the whole way back to Copan.
We got James set up in his hotel and I showed him my house and roof. We went to dinner at the restaurant on the corner for a nice Honduran experience. Cid met us there and joined us for a drink.
We went out to the park to see the Catholic church making mats in the street. They had it blocked off from cars and many different vibrant colors of sawdust which they lay down with stencils to make a variety of patters. They were beautiful. We ran into several people that I knew and I got to introduce them to James.
Francisco, James, and I went to ViaVia to do a rough plan of his week here. We walked to my house to get James my alarm clock, walked him back to the hotel, and then Fancisco walked me back to my house before we parted ways.
Day 238 April 2
James woke up early and came while I was in the shower. I finished getting ready and we headed out to the ruins. There was another groups going with Juan Carlos and they allowed us to join them. We chipped in for the guide, but it was much less than if we had gotten one for ourselves, which was good since the ruins will no longer recognize the Mayatan discount. They still claim to, but “we don’t have a list.” It frustrates me.
We bought tickets to go in the tunnels also, which was really cool, but I probably won’t have someone buy me a ticket to do it again. It was a “now I’ve done it” sort of deal. After the tour, James and I stuck around a little more to explore other nooks and crannies that aren’t as impressive and the guides never go to. I was glad to get to see some new things and places. We also got to snag a few more pictures without fear of holding up the family. We came across a storage place for replicas and ruins being pieced together, which was interesting.
We got back and were hungry for some lunch. We went to Villamil where I introduced him to some new foods and we interneted a little. After lunch, James wanted a little nap time and so I took the opportunity to edit my photos.
On James’ way back to my house he saw Cid and told him we’d pop by the hotel for a bit of coffee, so we did. When we got there, Cid wasn’t there. Angela set us up out on the patio. Cid joined us for a bit and then we headed to Twisted Tanyas for drinks.
We ate dinner at Picame, where James had his first baleada. Delicious.
We went up on the roof and chatted for a while before hitting ViaVia, Tun Club(which was not doing karaoke), and Barcito. We met up with a number of people, some I knew and some I didn’t and I finally headed home to bed at 1.
I had the laziest morning and afternoon. I woke up around 7:30 and lounged around. I took a shower, finished my book, The Witch of Portobello by Paulo Coelho (I really enjoyed this story. Especially compared to the last two I tried to read. Coelho shows how to do different perspectives well and cohesively. Some things were repeated through different eyes but each voice and each character were different. It was pieced together like history even though it was wholly fictional. Pushing the Bear, which was history, was constructed so poorly I wanted to disagree with her viewpoint even though I agreed with her.), and went back to sleep around 10.
I woke up at 12:30 and had missed 3 calls from Luis. I called him back and he informed me that it was too late. Sleepy and confused I asked for what. Apparently the Correo was closing at 12 and would remain closed for the rest of the week for Semana Santa and I had a package. I was too late. Ah well.
I spent the next few hours listening to music, cooking, cleaning, sitting, typing, drinking coffee, and all in all not doing much. Allan, Abby, and her parents are in Antigua for I don’t know how long and I had the house to myself. I decided to take advantage of this fact.
Megan called me and we set up a dinner and a movie date for 7 in ViaVia. I continued in my lazy day.
I’m becoming increasingly aware of how long it takes a peeling sunburn to go away. It never even hurt that much, but it’s been a week and a half and I can’t stop my skin from peeling. Ah well, it is the nature of the beast. Luckily it’s only happened once before and I find it relatively easy to avoid.
I did not leave my house until just before 7 and I met Megan for dinner. Fransico and two of his friends happened to be getting a couple of drinks there, so they joined us and the 5 of us had a lovely chat.
Around 8:30 Megan and I left and outside of Jesse’s store I found Jesse, Marion, Cid, and a few others gathered on the side walk. I sat with them until we all migrated to Jesse’s old house. We picked up a couple of tourists who hung out with us and we all spoke a menagerie of English, Spanish, and French. Spanish being the main common language. I actually managed to stay up well past my bedtime, but when the time came I was dead.
Day 233 March 28
I was up earlier than desired, but that’s the way sometimes. I got ready to go to church with Megan and Francisco. Since the church is always full on special Sundays, we agreed to meet outside at 9:30. However, when I got there, it was empty. When they got there, it was still empty. We took a seat beside a fan near the front. As we waited, until10:40, we read Bible verses, discussed the protestant/catholic divide in Central America, and discovered the reason for the lack of crowd.
Only the Catholics celebrate Easter to any real degree. Only the Catholics celebrate Palm Sunday. The running theory is that it is a way for the protestants to be as non-Catholic as possible. I don’t know if this is the case, but it’s the best theory we have right now.
Also, the majority of the congregation came in together at 10:40 after doing a Palm Sunday procession from the Catholic church up the hill. We missed it, but it was fun to watch everyone come in with their palms together.
After mass, we met at Picame for lunch and we talked for a long time about religion and other things. I was actually able to get a partial translation of the homily. We sat from 12:30-3 talking, eating, and drinking coffee. We then dispersed and I met Alex at Villamil for some interneting. I got to Skype with mom and dad, and during the conversation, David came over.
Around 7:30, I met up with Cid and we went to “Blake30!” for Blake’s 30th birthday party. It was fun and there was a large group of people, from many different circles in town, at the party. I think Blake had fun and the party went through a variety of stages including everyone wearing fake mustaches.
Franqui invited me to come watch Ice Age 3 with him and Nilvio sometime, but we never settled on a time. I mingled a lot and enjoyed the lime-watermelon juice.
Around 11 I headed home for bed.
Day 234 March 29
I was up and out by around 9. I met Megan for coffee and sent off an e-mail to reserve a room for James and me when he gets to San Pedro. Megan and I chatted, gossiped, and I did my homework.
I left to go to class and Luis and I talked about the party some. I read about the Mayans and was given the homework of “write a story.” We’ll see what I can do.
After class, I went straight to the market and brought everything with me to Megan’s so I wouldn’t be too late for lunch, which she invited me to.
Jorge was already there and we watched some Mr. Bean while enjoying our tuna melt sandwiches. I left at 2 to drop off my groceries and meet Kelvin, who just got back into town, for coffee.
Kelvin and I started at Yat Balam and moved to ViaVia. We then hung out at my house, talking and catching up on the last month and a half since he moved until 5 when we went to Alex’s house to meet Alex, Megan, and Jorge for a showing of the Newsies, which I had never seen. It was a lot of fun and now there is talk of a weekly musical night. We need to get our hands on some musicals first.
Alex, Kelvin, and I moved down into town for some food and drinks at ViaVia. We stopped by Jesse’s store to chat and Cid called and met up with us. Our table was very transient as different folks we new from town came and went. At one point we had me, Cid, Kelvin, Alex, Alex the archeologist, Mark the archeologist, and Diana. After a while we moved to Barcito.
We didn’t stay in Barcito for very long, but while we were there, we met a couple of tourists including a young man who’s working in the peace corps elsewhere in Honduras and was the president of my brother’s freshman hall at RMC (Chad Ryerson?). It was toward the end of my night so we didn’t talk a whole lot, but it was interesting and sometimes I am just amazed at both how large and how small the world is.
Day 235 March 30
I tried to go to the bank around 8:30 but quickly realized that I was standing in a 2 hour line. I left and, for the first time, used my ATM card. It works! Megan was running late, so I picked us up cappuccinos to go. We went shopping for about an hour and it was very successful. During the last 8 months my clothes have begun to stretch out to where they were not as wearable, get holes, they were bleached (both by me and when I took them to be washed), lost, and otherwise becoming difficult to wear. I didn’t have much to begin with, but now I was really feeling a lack of options, except long sleeves, which are becoming less and less useful. It is hot these days!
Megan was perfect to shop with and during our perusing I picked up a pair of shoes, three shirts, and a pair of jeans for about $35 total. It was very productive. When we split ways I went to the bank and got out my pay before they close for the rest of Semana Santa and James arrives.
I went to the Cruz Bueso and picked up some more grocery items after budgeting my monthly spending (this much a week, this much for my caseta bill, this many classes at Guacamaya, etc.) I finally picked up nail polish remover and repainted my toes.
I then went to Villamil where I came across Alex. We talked for a while and I finalized reservations for San Pedro, chatted with Mom, got flight confirmations from my brother (who will only be here 7 days, not 10.)
Around 2 I left and came home to nap. I read about a chapter in my book and went to sleep for a little less than 2 hours. I woke up when Abby, Allan, and parents came home. I came downstairs and started up my laundry while I made coffee and chatted.
A bit after 5 they left to go to the hotel and I finished my laundry and cleaned up the kitchen some. I took a shower, read, and listened to music for a while, enjoying the downtime.
Around 6:30 I went into town to meet up with Jesse, but got distracted in the park by, first, Heidi, and, later, Judy. They liked my new clothes. We chatted for a while and I got to pet Heidi’s dog Baby (Side note: I forgot to mention after my dinner at Dona Nora’s that I fell in love with her dog, Mocha, who is a white cocker-poodle mix and looks just like Wallie. Normally Mocha doesn’t take to people very well, so Nora was impressed with how well we got along.)
Sometime after 7 Cid called and met me in the park. We left the ladies and he informed me that while he’d been calling around checking for hotels for James to stay in, he’d learned that not only was the bus schedule different on the Thursday and Friday of Semana Santa, but that this week they were not existent. There’s not one bus service working between here and San Pedro.
To take the buses, I’d have to go tomorrow and stay 3 nights. James would have to stay 2 nights and we’d come back on Saturday. No thanks. Cid said he could get us a ride with a friend, who I also know as the father of one of Abby’s students. He was actually hanging out in the park with his wife and daughter so we set up a ride and negotiated a pricing, getting a $30 discount for being us.
After setting up the ride, we marched to a hotel across from ViaVia and Tun Club, which I think is a good location for James and closer to town. I asked to see a room, but they’re full, so I couldn’t. Cid says they’re good rooms, and the price is right (and they have vacancies!), so I put down a reservation. They wouldn’t give us a discount for the weekend, just because it’s Semana Santa, but for the other days James will stay there we got a discounted rate, which evens out to about 20$ a night.
Having all of that sorted out, and being saved by Cid The Incredible, we went to hang out with Jesse for a while. Cid’s cousin met up with us for a while and we went to Barcito before going to ViaVia. I made an earlier night of it than usual and went home at 10.
Day 236 March 31
I woke up and as I came down the stairs Abby, Allan, and parents came in the door. They were having breakfast before going to see the missionaries work. I chatted with them before they headed out. I showered and did my homework before going to class.
I went to class early so that I could get some school work done and e-mail the hotel in San Pedro to tell them I was not coming and they should not pick us up at the airport. I do not like Spanish keyboards.
Class was two hours and I drank a lot of coffee. I feel it was productive but I think our 1 hour sessions are better.
When I left class I came home and cleaned up. I did the dishes, swept out the house, and started doing general prep for James’ arrival. At 2, Cid called and he and his cousins picked me up in a taxi to go to the bird park. I met two more cousins and a “niece.” It was a little chilly for swimming, but it was nice all the same. I taught the niece, Suna to make boats with leaves and twigs. I also showed her insect eggs in the leaves. This was all fascinating for her and I was less timid with my Spanish. I feel as though my timidness with my Spanish has gotten worse, not better as time went on. I need to fix this.
We hung out at the bird park for a few hours and Megan called to invite me to the river, but we agreed to meet up later instead. We did meet at Picame for dinner, which was fun.
Shortly after they left, Judy came by. She was having a rough night and was locked out of her house. I offered her one of the many available sleeping spots in my house and she almost stayed the night but while we were talking (and I was cleaning) her landlord called and said they’d been able to get it open. She decided to wait a while so that her husband, who’d been drinking, would have time to get to sleep.
Shortly after she left I went to sleep.
Day 237 April Fool’s
I met Megan and Heidi in the park to get some coffee. I met Saul for the first time while we were at ViaVia.
When I left then I finished my house cleaning and got Saldo. I rigged up a list of things James and I could do while he was here before going to meet my driver.
He spoke English, and so we spoke Spanglish the whole way to San Pedro. It was a fine ride. I was hit on while I was waiting for James and the new starter lines tend to be “So, are you married?” or “How many kids do you have?” In this case, we had just been talking about my job and so I told him I had 20. No,no, he said, how many kids do YOU have. Oops.
I spotted James coming through immigration and gave mom a quick call. We hopped in the car and chatted the whole way back to Copan.
We got James set up in his hotel and I showed him my house and roof. We went to dinner at the restaurant on the corner for a nice Honduran experience. Cid met us there and joined us for a drink.
We went out to the park to see the Catholic church making mats in the street. They had it blocked off from cars and many different vibrant colors of sawdust which they lay down with stencils to make a variety of patters. They were beautiful. We ran into several people that I knew and I got to introduce them to James.
Francisco, James, and I went to ViaVia to do a rough plan of his week here. We walked to my house to get James my alarm clock, walked him back to the hotel, and then Fancisco walked me back to my house before we parted ways.
Day 238 April 2
James woke up early and came while I was in the shower. I finished getting ready and we headed out to the ruins. There was another groups going with Juan Carlos and they allowed us to join them. We chipped in for the guide, but it was much less than if we had gotten one for ourselves, which was good since the ruins will no longer recognize the Mayatan discount. They still claim to, but “we don’t have a list.” It frustrates me.
We bought tickets to go in the tunnels also, which was really cool, but I probably won’t have someone buy me a ticket to do it again. It was a “now I’ve done it” sort of deal. After the tour, James and I stuck around a little more to explore other nooks and crannies that aren’t as impressive and the guides never go to. I was glad to get to see some new things and places. We also got to snag a few more pictures without fear of holding up the family. We came across a storage place for replicas and ruins being pieced together, which was interesting.
We got back and were hungry for some lunch. We went to Villamil where I introduced him to some new foods and we interneted a little. After lunch, James wanted a little nap time and so I took the opportunity to edit my photos.
On James’ way back to my house he saw Cid and told him we’d pop by the hotel for a bit of coffee, so we did. When we got there, Cid wasn’t there. Angela set us up out on the patio. Cid joined us for a bit and then we headed to Twisted Tanyas for drinks.
We ate dinner at Picame, where James had his first baleada. Delicious.
We went up on the roof and chatted for a while before hitting ViaVia, Tun Club(which was not doing karaoke), and Barcito. We met up with a number of people, some I knew and some I didn’t and I finally headed home to bed at 1.
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