Bound 4 The Nations

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2009-09-18T05:35:00.001+02:00

First.egg on Aviary.

As a teacher, I'm still learning...

2009-03-23T13:42:00.001+01:00

This is my 4th year teaching in Budapest. I've been at the same school all these years. After teaching the same thing year after year, I sometimes forget what/how I should be teaching. At the mid-year mark, I asked my students what they think we shoud do to make their English better. I got lots of responses from students, such as "play more games" and "watch more English movies (with subtitles.)"

I feel that in the right environment, those could be very good activities. But why? Well, a young lady wrote this response to my question, and I wanted to share it with you all. For her privacy, I'm not publishing her name, but I did get her permission to share it.

(I have not edited this at all)
"Speaking English is VERY important to me. Not just because I wouldn't ever get a diplom without having at least one language exam. English is really a beautiful language, I can be myself while using it.

I think we should help each other in a way that really helps. I mean the first thing the others shoud "learn" is how to enjoy speaking English. For a long time, I don't care so much about my marks anymore, I'm just trying to enjoy speaking, improving my knowledge. It means a lot more to me to watch a flm in English and understand it without subtitle, than to get a 5 in school.

So maybe watching more films would help. Or a nother good thing is I think reading. So maybe we could read more books in English. But I guess it would eb difficult to chose one that everyone likes, so each of us could find a book for him/herself. Than give a bookreport, or just talk about it after reading it.
Well, I hope my ideas will help you!"

What wisdom from an 11th grader. Wow...a student wanting more than a mark (grade) as a reason to learn a language.

Virtual Experience

2009-02-08T20:16:00.003+01:00

As part of my preparation to enter the world of EdTech, I joined Second Life. It's been quite a learning experience. I pretty much hang out in educational regions (mostly ISTE Island) where I've met other educators who use technology.
This evening, I was part of a tour of a teaching hospital designed for medical students/interns. It was neat to see all that they had created for simulations. I was part of a surgery, sat in a delivery room bath, and even operated a mammogram machine. Talk about attention to detail, there were even hand-washing stations!

It was a bit cumbersome with 20 other avitars on the tour. With a slow connection and computer, I spent a lot of time bumping into walls, and having my view blocked by other people or equipment I couldn't get around. Getting around Second Life is like learning to walk and talk again. The tour guide did have a voice system, so I could just listen.

I know some of the classes I would take for the M.E.T. actually take place in SL. I'm a little excited. I'm glad that one requirement is that the students should have about 20 hours of SL experience. I've still got some work to do.

One thing I found is that there are a lot of very nice people who hang out in SL. Other educators and students! I've met and made friends with several. They've helped me with changing my avitar's appearance, and teleporting from place to place. Some people I've talked to in Real Life, are skeptical about SL. They think it's just for gaming and less moral activities. But, just like Real Life, there's no limit to what you can do in SL. I've found a couple of places that hold actual ESL classes! Native teachers meet with students around the world and hold English classes.

The more I learn about new technology, the more excited I'm getting about getting my M.E.T. Here are some screenshots from the tour.

Lying on an examination table in the ER.

Washing my hands.

Getting an x-ray.

Final Decision...

2009-01-26T11:45:00.001+01:00

About this time the past 3 years, I've made a decision. It's always been an easy one. But this year is a little harder, because I know the outcome will be different. It's around this time that I decide whether or not to return to Hungary and teach with ESI.

So, this year, the decision is different. My time in Hungary is coming to a close...for now...for the foreseeable future. I've decided that it's time to "re-enter" and make some changes in direction and career. I've loved my time in Hungary, and it's not a matter of "culture fatigue" or "stress." Living here has really been a joy. It's a strange feeling: having peace, but still being sad. I'm sad to leave Hungary...a country and people I love. But I have peace that this is the right decision for this time.

I'm ready for a change. To this experience's credit, this is the longest I've ever done anything. Four years in the same job! Even at 36, for me, that's an accomplishment. I've given the last 6 years of my life to Hungary. It's been well spent...definately worth it.

I'm sure many of you have questions, so here's the FAQ:

1. When are you returning to the States?

I'll be back in the States the end of June. After the ePortfolio conference in London, I'll fly to D.C. to atten NECC (National Educational Computing Conference). Then mom and I are taking a trip to Boston for the 4th of July to see the Boston Pops' "Pops Goes the Fourth."

2. Where will you live? Alaska? Washington?

I'll be in Puyallup, Washington, living with my mom for at least the first year. This is so I can work on my masters in Educational Technology, and mom and I can work on our book. Yes, we're planning to write a book. Again...more on that later. We're also planning on doing some worshops and working more closely on Ed. Tech. stuff. Of course, a visit (or two) to Alaska will be in the works. :-)

3. What's next?

I'm going to work on my Masters in Educational Technology. That was part of the decision to move back. While I COULD remain overseas and work on the degree, I think for such a huge undertaking, it would be best to be home. I think it's fitting that I make this announcement using technology!

4. (Hungarian friends) Will we ever see you again?

Of course! I'll be back to visit, at least! Thinking about summer 2010!

So, there it is.

I appreciate your prayers as I prepare to close up my life (and flat) in Hungary. I'll have lots of items for sale, including kitchen items, clothes, furniture, DVDs, and a bicycle!

Hope you have a blessed day!

Erin

Back 'n' Forth

2008-12-23T17:55:00.002+01:00

That's where I am as far as making a decision about next year. I don't feel any reason to leave Hungary. I've invested 4+ years of my life here. Over 4 years of learning the language, how to get around, and adapting to the culture. So why leave? Plus, moving back to the States, I would need to get a job. I'm not sure how the economy would effect my ability to do that. Plus, I have a great deal here with housing/health insurance/access to a classroom.

I wrote to Boise State, and a representative from the EdTech program wrote back with information on the program. The fact that they encourage students responding to assignaments from the point of view of whom they teach. Very cool. How can I use technology with my ELLs? Also, the program seems very interactive. Good for me...knowing my learning style.

So...leaning towards staying. Step closer to grad school.

Thankful

2008-11-27T16:44:00.002+01:00

I'm thankful for lots of things. Here's a recent list. No particular order...just as they come to me:

1. Salvation and a Way to the Heavenly Father!
2. His grace in my life as I really need it sometimes.
3. His people. So blessed!
4. His provision.
5. My family.
6. The fact that we finally got our own internet connection!!!!

Happy Thanksgiving! Spend it with someone you love! Tell them you're thankful for them!

God Bless...and I'm thankful for you; for reading!

Erin

Surgery update

2008-11-02T21:13:00.000+01:00

Hello all,

Just wanted to take a moment to fill you all (some for the first time...sorry) in on my upcoming surgery. Tomorrow morning (Monday) I'll go to the hospital here in Budapest for the "pre-op" stuff and meet with the anesthesiologist and get set for surgery on Tuesday. I won't have to spend the night on Monday.

I'm going to have a procedure called F.E.S.S. (Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery.) I've got polyps and tissue completely blocking my ethmoid sinuses. Those are the ones right between the eyes. It's meant lots of headaches and frequent sinus infections. I've been dealing with this for about a year. They polyps were discovered last spring. So, they're going in to clean me out. Someone said it sounds like a "roto-rooter" procedure. That's kind of what they're doing.

So it's a relatively minor surgery and will only have to remain in the hospital for one night, then two weeks on "house arrest" after that. I've gotten a sub for my classes (pray for Marcus!) and my mom's even here to help take care of me! I really like the doctor and he's very patient with my many questions and he's said to be the best ENT in Budapest.

I should be back to e-mail/blog/facebook by Wednesday evening (Hungary time.)

Feel free to check my blog or Facebook for updates.

Pray that the surgery goes well, and for a complete recovery.

Blessings,
Erin

ePortfolio conference in Maastricht, Netherlands

2008-10-24T22:54:00.003+02:00

I've been at the ePortfolio conference in Maastricht for the past couple of days. I went to the first two days of the conference, and skipped out on the final day (today.) I learned a lot the past couple of days. I also feel like I really got inspired to do more with ePortfolios. During my experience here at the conference, I was wondering what more I could do using technology to help my students. Could students use ePortfolios to help with their language learning? What does it take to implement an ePortfolio for ELLs.

The specific theme of the conference was focused on employability and use of ePortfolios for work and not just in an educational setting. My mom, an international ePortfolio expert, believes that ePortfolios can be used for just about any aspect of someone's life. There was a lot of discussion (and debate) about what an ePortfoliio is, what tools are best, and why someone should have one. There were some good discussions. Basically, what I got from the conference: an ePortfolio can be used for WHATEVER THE USER WANTS IT TO BE USED FOR!

On the first day of the conference, I started my first, intentional ePortfolio. I've included my digital stories, my CV, and plan to include a vlog. I'm not much of a blogger, so needless to say, I do better if there's a "creative" aspect to my reflection.

Spending this time in the technology, learning environment has heightened my thinking about "What's next?" I've felt like my time in Hungary is coming to a close. I've gone as far as I can for now at Gundel. I love my students, but feel like it's time for a change. Of course I'd like to go on living overseas, but may need to return to the states, if I'm to continue my education. Continuing my education is something I'll need to do at this point.

What I'd like to do, is see how I can take my ESL experience and combine it with eLearning. I've got the ESL certification and experience. What I really need is the Technology aspect. So, who knows...who knows what the future holds.

Home and luggage-less

2008-08-24T07:48:00.003+02:00

I made it back to Hungary....my luggage didn't! At least I was coming home and had clothes here! :-)

I did some figuring on the flight yesterday. I figured out that since my first trip to Europe in 1999, I've crossed the Atlantic Ocean 19 times! That's 9 1/2 round trips! I don't know about you, but that seems like a lot. I was amazed at the fact that 10 years ago, I didn't even have a passport, and here I am...LIVING in Europe!

Coming back to BP has been like coming home. I slept in my own bed (not to say the beds in America weren't more comfortable). Soon, I'll be back into my own routine. And I'm speaking Hungarian again! Other than a few language teaching sessions at training, I really didn't speak Hungarian all summer. I'm not sure how much I've lost, but it can't be that bad. I'll find out more when I go to school on Monday, and try to tell my colleagues about my summer (many of them don't speak English.)

So, here begins year number 4 at Gundel School in Budapest. I'm going to have all the same students as last year, plus 2 new groups of 9th graders. I'll be teaching 22 hours, seeing each group 2 or 3 times per week. Our school is still looking for 5 new English teachers. They've added some new classes and programs, so there's more demand for teachers of English and other subjects.

I'll leave you with some prayer requests:
1. For the beginning of school.
2. English teachers!!!
3. Health for me and Catherine and protection of our flat.
4. The new teachers as they adjust to life in Hungary and Central Europe.
5. For me to be balanced in personal, spiritual, and professional areas.

Thanks for reading! God Bless, e.

Summer 2008

2008-08-22T09:19:00.002+02:00

Well, it's almost over. I just finished packing my last big bags. I leave in about 18 hours. Here is a slide show of some of the highlights of my summer.

For explanations of the photos go to my facebook album.

If you're in Hungary...I'll see you soon! If you're in the US...I'll see you next summer (I hope.)

God Bless!
Erin

Training

2008-08-04T20:25:00.002+02:00

Hi all...Hope you're still reading. I'm in Pasadena, CA at William Carey International University at TeachOverseas annual training. Since I'm considered an "alum" I get to help train and equip the new teachers just starting their journey teaching overseas. I've taught lessons on teaching, and I've even had the opportunity to teach some Hungarian! Those are the funnest lessons! The new teachers are grasping the language so well! I'm really impressed.

I'm also moving into a new role this year. In addition to teaching and ministry to my students, I'm going to be a Central Administrator for Hungary. As a Central Administrator (CA), I will have 4 teachers that I will support and oversee in country. Two of the teachers are brand new to teaching and life overseas, and two started the same year I did! I'm excited about taking this journey with them. Please pray that I will be a caring, loving and effective leader for them. I'm receiving some very good CA training myself. Today was the training session.

I'm going to be at training for another week. On Tuesday (8/12) I'm flying to Seattle to spend time with my family before flying back to Hungary on the 22nd! Then I'll have a week to prepare for school to start.

So that's the latest on me. The server here at WCIU is a bit tricky, so I'll post some pictures when I can.

Blessings,
Erin

Time to Defrost the Freezer...again!

2008-07-11T07:24:00.003+02:00

Months since my last blog post: 4 months, 7 days.

Countries visited since then: 2

Flights since then: 5

Times I tried to start a blog entry since: about 20

Ok, I know it's been a while. But from what I can tell, it's only Mom and Dad that actually ever read this thing...oh, and MJ. Just in case I'm not one of your offspring, here's a quick update on me.

The year ended without a bang. Students got their marks (grades), I cleaned off my desk, and made my last journey home on the metro until September.

I spent 2 weeks in Alaska catching up with friends and attending a Reunion at my church.http://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gif

I'm now in Puyallup, WA helping my mom settle into her new home, and hanging out with my nieces.

On Tuesday, my mom and I are going to fly to Orlando, FL to meet my brother and his family for a week of Tori's dance competition, and then a few days at DisneyWorld!

On the 24th of July, I fly to LA to attend Heather's (my teammate from the past two years) wedding. Then I'll spend a couple weeks at training with TeachOverseas.

On the 12th of August, I'll come back to Puyallup to prepare for my return to Hungary on the 22nd.

Whew! I'm exhausted typing about it!

I'll post some photos sometime in the future.

Blessings to you all!!!

Defrosting the freezer

2008-03-02T21:57:00.005+01:00

Our freezer got a bit "crusty" over the past few months. I think I defrosted it last spring...or maybe fall...don't remember. But it was high time for another defrosting. I emptied all the food from the fridge. Put the frozen stuff in a cooler and the other perishables in a bag and put them on our enclosed balcony with the window open(it was still cold, but above freezing.)

Then, I set up a space heater in front of the open freezer and put towels on the three shelves to catch the water. HA! Heather got up the next morning and mopped the floor. Note to self: Don't do this overnight!

Oh, and now the door won't go back on right. OOPS!

Enjoy the pics!

Hungarian Politics

2008-03-02T21:47:00.003+01:00

This is a billboard just down the street from my flat. It says:

"Thank you, no!"

(Picture of a brain being washed)

"You can say 'no' on March 9th."

This is an ad for the opposition party here in Hungary, the Democratic Party (or something like that.) It's referring to the Hungarian Socialist Party. Attack ads aren't just for American campaigns!

Student Day

2008-02-08T16:34:00.000+01:00

January 31st was "Diaknap" (student day) at Gundel. This is a typical tradition for Hungarian schools. The school provides fun activities to break up the mid-winter rut. There was a fashion show, teacher's quiz and karaoke. All were a blast and students stayed at school well past the final bell.

Since there wasn't any teaching that day, I didn't have to go in. But I saw this day as an opportunity to spend some time with the students. So, between the teacher's quiz (I didn't get to the final round) and karaoke, I did some work in my office. It wasn't long before Tamas and Kriszian approached me to sing karaoke. I told them the only condition under which I'd sing, is if they'd get up and dance. They were takers! See the video below.

So, that's the latest from Gundel.

Embarrassing moment (click to see video):

Teachers' Quiz

New addition to the school

Students enjoying karaoke

What happened that weekend?

2008-02-03T23:41:00.000+01:00

Well, here it is...

I did go to Szeged the afternoon of the 18th. Arden met my train and after a Subway dinner, we went to the service. It was a good time of worship and Jim teaching from the Word. I met some new as well as old friends. It was a great time. After the service, Mary Jill, Sherry, and I went back to Arden's place and we watched a movie.

The next morning, we slept late! I think I got up around 10:30! MJ and Sherry left around noon, and Arden and I played around with photos and videos from the service the night before. We then headed out to do some shopping for dinner. We came back to her place and I made dinner while Arden talked to her parents on Skype. The next morning we got up early and drove to Arad, Romania. Getting over the boarder was no problem and we made it in less than three hours.

Arden playing with pigeons...

There wasn't much there! It was a nice drive, and Arden and I had nice conversation. We walked around the city, taking pictures and popping into a couple churches. Since it was Sunday, there were services taking place, so we didn't stay in there too long.

Then, we drove back to Szeged and I was able to catch the 3:42 train back to Budapest. I made it home by 7:30! So, that day, I had breakfast in Szeged, lunch in Arad, and dinner in Budapest. What a day!

Long weekend

2008-01-19T22:27:00.000+01:00

Also check out my teaching blog (link to the right) for a new story.

I have Monday off. Friday was the end of the 1st term, so Monday is a "work day" for some of the teachers. But not me. :-) So last week, I started plotting what I could do for the long weekend. The last time I had more than the weekend off, I went to Prague with my mom in November. So, I was wanting to travel...wander-lust, I guess they call it. So I was looking at train schedules to Arad, Romania. I have never been. I already had a trip to Szeged planned, but only for Friday night. Wasn't sure what I was going to do afterwards.

So, I went down to Szeged and attended the Friday at 7 worship and Bible study. It was great to see my friends Arden, Persons, and Mary Jill. An old friend Sherry was even in from Ukraine for the weekend. At some point in the evening, Arden said she'd be up to going to Arad with me...hhmmm looking up!

So after the meeting, Arden, Mary Jill, Sherry, and I went back to Arden's flat to watch a movie. I was exhausted. I slept 4 hours the night before and taught 5 lessons before taking the train to Szeged. I put my earplugs in when I went to bed and was dead to the world until 10:45am! I guess I needed the sleep. I had some breakfast with MJ and we chatted a bit. MJ and Sherry left for Debrecen around noon. Arden and I played around with pictures and videos I took at the meeting, so we didn't get around to going to Arad. We went out to get food at Tesco for dinner..made several stops looking for a waffle iron. I made dinner while Arden talked to her folks in America. We watched Lake House (I had never seen it) and now I'm heading to bed soon.

Tomorrow, Arden and I are getting up early to drive to Arad (about an hour away.) We'll come back to Szeged by about 3pm for church on the internet (part of life in Hungary) and then I'll take train back to Budapest. I think I'll take it easy on Monday, maybe run some errands that I usually can't because of my work schedule.

So, what I thought was going to be a fun, adventurous weekend, turned into a nice relaxing time at Arden's place.

Guess God knew I really needed that.

Who's Packing Your Parachute?

2008-01-19T22:24:00.000+01:00

I found this on another site. No copyright infringement intended.

Who's Packing Your Parachute?

Recently, I was sitting in a restaurant in Kansas City. A man about two tables away kept looking at me. I didn't recognize him. A few minutes into our meal he stood up and walked over to my table, looked down at me, pointed his finger in my face and said, "You're Captain Plumb."

I looked up and I said, "Yes, sir, I'm Captain Plumb."

He said, "You flew jet fighters in Vietnam. You were on the aircraft carrier Kitty Hawk. You were shot down. You parachuted into enemy hands and spent six years as a prisoner of war."

I said, "How in the world did you know all that?"

He replied, "Because I packed your parachute."

I was speechless. I staggered to my feet and held out a very grateful hand of thanks. This guy came up with just the proper words. He grabbed my hand, he pumped my arm and said, "I guess it worked."

"Yes, sir, indeed it did," I said, "and I must tell you I've said a lot of prayers of thanks for your nimble fingers, but I never thought I'd have the opportunity to express my gratitude in person."

He said, "Were all the panels there?"

"Well, sir, I must shoot straight with you," I said, "of the eighteen panels that were supposed to be in that parachute, I had fifteen good ones. Three were torn, but it wasn't your fault, it was mine. I jumped out of that jet fighter at a high rate of speed, close to the ground. That's what tore the panels in the chute. It wasn't the way you packed it."

"Let me ask you a question," I said, "do you keep track of all the parachutes you pack?"

"No," he responded, "it's enough gratification for me just to know that I've served."

I didn't get much sleep that night. I kept thinking about that man. I kept wondering what he might have looked like in a Navy uniform -- a Dixie Cup hat, a bib in the back and bell-bottom trousers. I wondered how many times I might have passed him on board the Kitty Hawk. I wondered how many times I might have seen him and not even said "Good morning," "How are you," or anything because, you see, I was a fighter pilot and he was just a sailor. How many hours did he spend on that long wooden table in the bowels of that ship weaving the shrouds and folding the silks of those chutes? I couldn't have cared less...until one day my parachute came along and he packed it for me.

So the philosophical question here is this: how's your parachute packing coming along? Who looks to you for strength in times of need? And perhaps, more importantly, who are the special people in your life who provide you the encouragement you need when the chips are down? Perhaps it's time right now to give those people a call and thank them for packing your chute.

J. Charles Plumb

Teaching blog

2008-01-04T09:03:00.001+01:00

My teaching blog has been updated. There's a great story at the beginning of it...read on...

Merry Christmas!!!

2007-12-15T22:56:00.001+01:00

Dear Family, Friends, and supporters!

Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas! I hope and pray this letter finds you well and surrounded with His love this season.

I love this time of year. Not only is the weather getting colder, but the city is all lit up with white lights and Christmas decorations. Heather and I decorated our flat last weekend and...It's Beginning to Look a lot Like Christmas!!!

There's only one week of school before our too short break. This week, I don't expect to get too much "teaching" in. It's going to be hard to get the students to focus on comparatives and superlatives when their break is so close. So, I'm planning some language games with a Christmas theme. I've prepared some reading lessons on the true meaning of Christmas, and we'll be working on pronunciation while singing Christmas carols! I'm excited about this week. Pray that the students will catch on to the true reason for the season.

Here is some bits of news from the past couple of months...

Thanksgiving 2007
I got to have two Thanksgivings this year! The first was November 8-10, with my extended Teachoverseas.org team in the Czech Republic. The second was the Sunday after the real TG, with Mary Jill, the Persons, and other friends here in Budapest. I got all the trimmings I would have had at home. It was truly a blessing!

Mom's visit
My mom came to Central Europe for two weeks, after a quick conference trip in the Netherlands. She came to school with me for one week, and watched me teach, talked with some of my students, and even taught a class about using portfolios in language learning. After a week of school, I had a break from school. The first couple of days, we went to Debrecen to visit "The Real da Vinci" exhibit. It was a really good exhibit showing just about all of his work. Then we spent three nights in Prague. Mom had never been before, so it was a treat for her. My friend Kelly, who lives in Prague, met us and was a wonderful tour guide!

Rézkígyó Kávéház (Brass Serpent Coffee House)
This is a YWAM base ministry here in Budapest. I often come here on Friday evenings to visit with some of the staff and other ex-pats living in Budapest. I've sang there on several occasions. I've also started inviting my students so they can practice English outside our 90 minutes a week. A couple of weeks ago, I had 10 students show up when I was singing. It was fun to meet with them outside the school...I think for them too. I usually go a couple Fridays a month.

Hungarian lessons
I had my last Hungarian Lesson (magyaróra) this. We took a test and I got a 5 (equivalent to an A in the states!) I'm planning to take a break from traditional classes for a couple of months. I'm going to be meeting privately with a Hungarian teacher at my school. This way, I can keep up the language learning, and not have to go out two nights a week in the cold winter months!

Support
An important part of my work over here is having the support of people back home. I get so many e-mails and comments on my blog that people of praying for me and my students. Another important part is your financial support. I love being involved in ministry here and invite you to partner with me.

You see, I am still $1500 short of my support-raising goal. Will you pray about giving a special year-end gift toward my account? As finances are extremely tight this year, please reply to this email with your pledge. This will help me track my account status. This is the best Christmas gift you could give!

To contribute, you can follow this link:http://www.TeachOverseas.org/contribute. It's that easy, but is such a huge blessing to my ministry.

Thank you for reading about my life and ministry over here in Budapest! I would love to hear from you and your family, so please send me a message!

God Bless,
Erin

P.S. I will be in the States for Christmas from Dec. 22nd to Jan. 1st. If you'd like to call me, send me a message, and I'll send you my phone number. I'm almost always available on Skype (Skype name: bound4thenations).

Christmas Survey

2007-12-05T16:08:00.000+01:00

1. Christmas tree up yet?
no...but I could have it up in 5 minutes...mini one...small flat in Budapest!

2. Any Christmas decorations up yet?
Nope

3. what are you asking for Christmas?
Haven't thought of it yet. I'm going home for Christmas..that's enough. But I know my mom will get me something for my computer, or some type of technology gadget.

4.What do you usually do on Christmas Eve?
Well, Christmas will be different this year (as well as last year since my folks' divorce). I'll go with my brother and his family for dinner with my dad's family. Then just go back to mom's house and stuff stockings and get to bed late.

5. What do you usually do on Christmas Day?
We play with our new "toys" and watch football. Then eat, of course.

6. Do you own any christmas clothes or jewelery?
Some...not much. I sometimes borrow mom's stuff.

7. Do you use white or colored christmas lights?
Well, I'm not much of a decorator, but I prefer white lights.

8. Do you cook Christmas cookies?
Not since I was a kid with my grandma.

9. Do you buy Christmas presents for your whole family?
Yes, I hope to get most of them here in Budapest before I leave.

10. How many friends do you buy presents for?
I'll get one for my teammate, and probably give trinket/ornaments for some other friends.

11. Is there a Santa Claus?
Of course ;-)

12. Favorite Christmas Carol?
Have Yourself and Merry Little Christmas

13. Would you rather it be a white Christmas, or a warm Christmas?
White!!!

14. Was last years Christmas a good one ?
It was hard because it was the first since my parents separated.

15. Which Christmas color do you like better?
GREEN!!!

16. Do you get a real Christmas tree, or is it artificial?
I like real, but too much trouble and a fire hazard. Fake with pine-sol works.

17. When you get older, will you get a real or artificial tree?
not sure

18. Do you hang stockings?
yes, then stuff them and lay them around living room until morning.

19. When opening presents, does your family all open them at the same time?
well, the tradition at my Aunt Kathi's when I was a kid was opening them one at a time, from youngest to oldest. At our house it was a free for all.

20. What is usually in your stocking?
Chap-stick, tooth brushes, candy, batteries (which was often a clue to a wrapped gift), school supplies, and always a mandarin orange in the toe.

21. Do you get up early on Christmas day?
when there are kids (i.e. my nieces) then yes. Otherwise, I do like to sleep in, no matter what the day.

22. Does your family eat breakfast before or after opening presents?
This is a tradition I HATED as a kid, but appreciate it now. When we woke up, we got into our stockings. Then we had to get dressed, and have waffles. Every Christmas since birth! Then the kids passed out gifts around living room (according to where everyone wanted to sit) while the adults cleaned up from breakfast. Then we went for it.

23. Do you have a favorite ornament you hang on the tree?
hhmmm...So many...hard to say. I like my mom's angel.

24. What Christmas movie do you like to watch the most?
White Christmas, Elf!

25. What do you like better, Christmas Eve or Christmas Day?
Christmas Day. Nothing really to do, but spend time with family!

Blast from the Past

2007-10-13T03:34:00.000+02:00

I found an old school mate on My Space a while back...or at least, I think she found me. Anyway, she sent me this photo of our Gifted and Talented class. It's either 3rd or 4th grade. I only know where one of these kids are (Holly is in the lavender shirt in the back. I'm in the early 80's orange outfit in the front.) The others are (clockwise from left) Deborah Foulton, Lisa Hollowel, Holly, Mike, Roy Strandberg, Desmond Moore, and me. I don't remember Holly or Mike's last names, and I'm not sure I spelled the others right, either.

I wonder where these people are today?

Surgery saga continues

2007-10-11T21:32:00.000+02:00

I went back to the surgeon yesterday, and he took out left-over suture number 5! I asked him how many would typically be used in a surgery like the one I had. He said they could have used up to 10! So, I could only be half way there!

I'm pretty sore tonight. This was by far the largest and most painful so far.

Paul asked 3 times for God to remove his thorn. My only hope is that God must think I can handle this, because it's been 5 times, and more may come.

Autumn Day Bike Ride

2007-10-06T18:44:00.000+02:00

My friend, Marcus, and I met around noon today and rode all over Budapest. We met at Deák, then went to Margit Island. We rode all over the island and stopped for lunch at one point. We then left the island then went to Váci utca to a cute little tea house and had some delicious chai tea.

I just got home and boy, are my legs tired. I'm going to shower then go off to a party! Life never stops.

Enjoy the pictures...

Erin

Update

2007-10-05T11:54:00.001+02:00

I've updated my "teaching blog." So check it out if you'd like to read more about my students.

Things are going well here. Aside from the horse bite, here's a bit of a rundown...

Old surgery woes:
Four years ago, I had surgery here in Hungary. Well, as I've discovered, it's common practice to use non-dissoluble sutures on internal incisions. So, over the past couple of years, they've been making their way to the surface. Long story short- Another one's emerged! It was taken out last week by a very nice doctor who didn't speak any English. And there seems to be another one working its way up too. Pray for the quick resolution to this annoyance.

New Bike:
I bought a bike! It's red! They didn't have any green ones, so that's why it's red. Oh well, it's still fun.
I've been riding it a couple times a week, about 10 miles a day. It's about 5 miles into the center of the city, so that's a good journey. I've ridden to church and just around. I'm going again tomorrow with some friends, if the weather holds out. It's supposed to rain in the morning, but should clear up by mid-day.

Visitor!
My mom is coming to visit at the end of this month. We'll spend one week at school together. She's going to help me put together a teaching portfolio, complete with video of my teaching and samples of some of my lesson plans. We're also going to help one of my classes start a language portfolio for themselves. This is a bit of research for my mom and will be more of an experiment..we'll see how it goes.

The second week she's here, we're going to Debrecen and then Prague! I've been to Prague a couple times, but mom hasn't. It's going to be fun...and hopefully a bit relaxing!

Hungarian lessons:
I've started taking Hungarian lessons again. It's been a year since I've cracked my course book. I was placed in a group with only two other students! It's a great sized group and we all get along well. Our teacher is Tibor...he speaks very little English. But that's good, because it helps our Hungarian. It's been interesting to be on the "other side of the desk." I get a little taste of what my students experience. I've even had some colleagues make comments about how they appreciate when a foreigner comes to Hungary and at lease attempts to learn the language. The other day, Agota was helping me with my homework, and Janos came in and made a comment something like, "I don't know how ANYONE could learn Hungarian outside of Hungary." I had to agree with him. It's so unlike English...or any other language for that matter.

Teachers' Trip:
A couple weeks ago, the teachers from my school all took a trip to Hortobagy National Park in the eastern part of Hungary. There were so many adventures, but I really wanted to share this photo with you. My colleague, Kata, took it and it's one of my favorites.

Old Times:
Last weekend I got together with the original team I worked with when I first came to Hungary. Mary Jill, the Persons, Edith, and Kata were all in Szeged last weekend for a student ministry "kick-off" event. I went down for the day as well. It was great to see everyone. The concert was great, with a guy from Croatia who has an anti-drug ministry, a hip-hop group from Debrecen, and a wonderful worship service at the end. It was a long day, but really wonderful. Read " Mary Jill's blog ." for more info.

Nice pic of all of us... Click on photo for larger view.

A little more fun in this one!

Prayer Requests:
1. Students! They are why I'm here. Pray for opportunities to get to know them better and to share my life and faith with them. Today I had a student ask me if I liked the musical group Mercy Me. It surprised me he knew of them. Maybe he's a Christian.
2. Colleagues. I have so many helpful colleagues. Even the ones that don't speak English are very friendly, and especially patient when I try to speak to them in Hungarian.
3. Team. Heather and I are doing well. We hardly see each other as she has Hungarian classes on Mon/Wed, and I on Tue/Thu. We either see each other late at night or on the weekends. Pray that the times we ARE together are meaningful and co-supportive.
4. Support. If you'd like to be a part of what God is doing with these students in Hungary, you can send donations to the following...

TeachOverseas.org
444 E. Huntington Drive
Suite 200
Arcadia, CA 91006

Write "Acct. 205125" in the memo line of the check. All donations are tax deductible.

Thank you for praying and for your support. God bless you!

Blessings,
Erin

Horse bitten!

2007-09-25T21:52:00.000+02:00

Hi there. I've had it on my Facebook that I'm recovering from a horse bite. Well here's the story...

I spent last weekend on a teachers' trip to the eastern part of Hungary. On Sunday, we were visiting an Archaeological Park in a small town called Polgar, near the Hortobágy National Park. I was taking pictures of a horse they had in a corral, apparently for pony rides, when I guess I got a little too close and the horse didn't like his picture taken. Me=paparazzi; horse=Keanu Reeves. I'm not sure exactly what happened, but I wound up falling backwards after he bit me. I either tripped, or the horse actually knocked me over.

I found the other teachers and they took me to the first aid station (a bench outside the park entrance) and cleaned the wound (no broken skin, but pretty scraped and red). I was wearing a long sleeved shirt, so that's probably what saved the skin.

After the tour was over, they guide took me and Kata (to translate) to a doctor in Polar. I got a tetanus shot. Ouch...still hurts today! Then it was back to the group (we were gone less than an hour, while they all had lunch) and back on the tour bus. As we were leaving the park, Kata got on the loud speaker, as she did every time we were going to a new destination to explain our next stop, or give some information about where we were going. I usually understand about 25% because of course she does it in Hungarian. But this time I recognized my name. She was sharing all the details of the trip to the doctor; what the wound looked like, the shot they gave me, what we had to pay! We actually didn't pay anything...the park took care of that. I leaned over to one of my collegues and said "rolám beszél?" "Is she talking about me?" She nodded and I rolled my eyes. Nothing is private in Hungary..especially at my school.

For the rest of the afternoon, everyone kept asking if I was ok, "does it hurt?" All in Hungarian of course. I just wanted to say "I'm not part of the tour...not an exhibit..leave me alone!" But I didn't. I just let them know I was fine, and just a bit sore.

When I got home, I removed the bandage and it was very swollen. It looked like I had a sock stuffed under my skin. I put some ice on it, then later that night some more. By morning, the swelling was still there, but better. It was on Monday, that the arm I got the tetanus shot in started hurting. It was extremely sore and stiff today (Tuesday).

It's still sore. I didn't realize how much I bump into walls and door jams. No matter which side, it hurts.

So that's the saga. I'm recovering and the bit is turning a lovely shade of green!

Re-entry to the Blogosphere...

2007-09-17T23:59:00.000+02:00

I know I've been neglecting this blog for a while, but I'm back.

I've been back in Hungary for about three weeks, and teaching almost as long. Since coming back, a lot has happened. A couple cool things are some purchases I made in the past few weeks. I bought a dining room table! So now we can have dinner parties and not have people eating with their plates on their laps.

I also bought a bike. BTW, pictures will come later. It's fire-engine red with only 6 speeds, but it does me just fine for Budapest biking. I've been out on it twice now. I'm pretty saddle sore, but I'm sure that will go away with more use. Tonight, I rode from my place all the way to the Danube River. I haven't figured out how far that is, but it's pretty far. I was out for 2 hours! I'm tired and a bit sore, but feel really good. Gotta love those endorphens (sp?)!

So, off to bed with me now. I'll be sending out an e-mail update by next week.

Blessings,
Erin

Riding the Train

2007-05-20T20:25:00.000+02:00

Heather took this picture of me on our way back from the retreat in Vajta. We had a great time just being together and enjoying the peace and quiet of the country side.

Mac'n'Cheese Night!

2007-05-16T23:31:00.000+02:00

Some students from my 12e class came over for some good ol' American Mac'n'Cheese. Of course, there's nothing like it in Hungary (they don't go much for the chemical-cheese-powdered stuff.) We had a good time. It was intended as a "good-bye" for the class, but only 4 (out of 12) could come. We had fun anyway...and they really liked the M'n'C!
Anita, Szidi, and Andi

Tamás

Balagás

2007-05-16T23:20:00.000+02:00

So, what exactly does that mean? In Hungarian it means to walk or to stroll. It's a tradition in Hungary for the graduating students to walk through the school with their classes. They sing songs and carry loads of flowers from friends and family. It's a very important rite of passage to them. The interesting thing about it, is it's done before the students even take one exam! But, I guess the reason is that exams are so stressfull students tend to burn out towards the end. So they get the Balagás in before exams, otherwise, it might not happen. That's just what I think.

Well, here are some pics from the 2007 Balagás. (I don't have any from last year because my camera died just as they were starting.)

9a Class trip to Pécs, Hungary

2007-05-14T18:55:00.000+02:00

Beautiful old part of Pécs. Those are my students in the group.

Waterfall by the entrance to the underground museum of an ancient Christian burial ground.

Inside the museum...very cool!

Waiting for the museum to open

Easter Trip to Venice

2007-05-14T17:56:00.000+02:00

Sorry these are late getting up but here are some pics from our trip to Venice, Italy. Tracey, Rachelle, Heather, and I went for Easter.

(Top to bottom)
Heather and me on a canal with the Bridge of Sighs behind us.

Here we are on our gondola ride. Our gondolier was named Fabio.

Nice night shot of the Grand Canal

Latest update

2007-05-14T17:24:00.000+02:00

"Miss Barrett! I was at my job this weekend, and I had a customer who was American. I told her that I speak English, and she was so happy! She said that she almost never finds waiters that speak English in Budapest. It was really good for me to talk to her." Tamás was supposed to be working on a dialogue with a fellow student, but he had some exciting news he just had to tell me. At times, that can be annoying to me, but in this case, it just reminded me of what kind of service I'm offering to my students.

Most of my students will wind up working in a restaurant. Maybe abroad, but most likely in Hungary. But for those that learn English, they have a better chance of traveling.

This month, the leavers (graduating seniors) are taking their written exams and preparing for orals in June. Each part accounts for half of their final mark, and that mark determines the rest of their lives. There is a lot of excitement in the air at school! The non-leavers are effected by this time of year too. The hallways are less crowded, the weather is much nicer (80 today!), and they are getting restless and ready for summer. They still have a month left of school. So I'm having to come up with clever and interesting lessons to keep them from going crazy (and driving me crazy!)

It's hard to believe I'm almost done with my second year teaching at Gundel school. I've grown so attached to my students and colleagues. I will have some of the same students next year, and there will also be a new batch of anxious language learners. This year, God has taught me the value of relationships. That's what this ministry is all about. Sharing Christ's love through my relationships with my students. I don't know what it is, but native English speaking teachers have a different relationship with their students than do the Hungarian teachers. Maybe it comes down to teaching style and philosophy, or just personality. Whatever it is, God has used it to allow me to bless my students.

A couple of weeks ago, I went on a class trip with my 9th graders. While the leavers are taking their big written exams, the rest of the school got 3 days off to travel around Hungary and have a break from the books. We went to Pécs (pronounced pay-ch), in southern Hungary. This was my first time there. The kids were so much fun, and really took care that I was enjoying myself. They are first year English speakers, and I was still impressed with their willingness to translate for me and help me understand all that we were seeing. It was as much a blessing for me to be with them.

So, as I wrap up another year, and look forward to next year, I ask that you join me in prayer. Teenagers in Hungary have many of the same worries and concerns at those in the US. Sex, drugs, alcohol, peer-pressure. All of it. As a Christian teaching in a public high school in Hungary, I may be the only person praying for my students by name. What an awesome blessing.

I'm going to be returning to the States for a couple months this summer. I'll arrive in Seattle on June 27th. I'll be going to Alaska sometime in August (around the 12th, I think. No definite plans yet.) They I fly back to Budapest on August. 27th.

If you're in either of those areas, please look for me and I'd love to see you and share in person the joy that I get from pouring into these students' lives.

God bless!
Erin

**Note about support.
Like any mission endeavour, it takes not only the prayer, but financial support of God's people. If you'd like to contribute, you can send a check to:

TeachOverseas.org
444 East Huntington Drive
Suite 200
Arcadia, CA 91006

Make checks payable to Teachoverseas and please put "Acct. 205125" in the memo line to reflect on my account.

Thanks!

Alaska Quarters

2007-04-13T12:39:00.000+02:00

Finally! Alaska was the second to last state to join the union, so we got to wait for years until our quarters came out. Well, they haven't come out yet...below are the choices. Personally, I like number 2! I read on another blog where someone asked "Where are the oil rigs?" Funny!

Good Eats at Gundel

2007-03-31T01:15:00.000+02:00

Tonight was the annual Gundel International Culinary Competition. Culinary students from all over Europe (Germany, Finland, Croatia, Norway, and, of course, Hungary...to name a few) spent all day creating wonderful goodies. The judging was this afternoon, and this evening, we got to help the chefs fulfill their purpose..feeding people.

The place was packed with wonderful creations and delicious works of art. It was a pitty to destroy some of them, but they were yummy!

Haven't blogged in a while....

2007-03-28T21:54:00.000+02:00

...so what's up?

Not much. Same ol'e same ol'e. Teaching, teaching, teaching. Oh yeah, I'm a student too. I started a pre-DELTA (Diploma of English Laguage Teaching to Adults...kinda getting tired of typing that!) and it's going well. Next year I'll do the full 10 month DELTA course. I'm hoping this will open up opportunities to be able to do teacher training in TEFL.

Heather and I have been cooking a lot lately. Our new favorite thing to cook is soup. Real, home made, from scratch soup! We've made a chicken soup...used a whole chicken, and this week a ham and potato soup. We've almost finished the ham and potato soup. Heather bought a huge pot and we've been making double and triple servings.

I went to Prague a couple of weeks ago, with my friend, Tracey. It was a short trip and we stayed with a friend. We had one hardcore day of sightseeing. Then, the second day we were planning to go to the castle, Tracey got sick and my neck was hurting. So, our second day in Prague was spent at our friends' flat! Bummer. But we made it home and still have fond memories of the weekend.

Not sure what else to write about. When I'm going through my day, I often have moments of reflection and contemplation that I think about blogging, but they don't last too long and then get forgotten. Oh well...I'll get something written some day.

Drop me a line and let me know IF you're reading this blog.

Blessings,
Erin

My New Cooking Show!!!

2007-02-15T15:07:00.001+01:00

Future in Cake Decorating???

2007-02-02T23:09:00.000+01:00

My friend Jan is moving to South Africa. I made her a cake for her going away party. It was fun and I wasn't sure how I would do it, until the day I made it.

Heather also made a greek salad (her new specialty.) We didn't have a serving bowl large enough to serve 25+ people, so we took this tub from our cupboard. We usually use it to store smaller tupperware-type containers and lids.

The disappearance of distance

2007-01-21T00:35:00.000+01:00

I was just on a Skype video conference with my nieces. I live in Budapest, and they live in Puyallup, Washington. Tori read her award winning poem, Aimee showed my her new dolly, and I got to hear a live performance of a minuet by Bach...all over the Internet.

I wonder if I'm missing out on the true overseas experience, by having such easy access to my family via the internet. I really don't care. We now live in a connected world. I know missionaries from ages past didn't have Skype and Internet video technology, and I can't imagine how hard it was for them. I guess it could be one of those "if you don't know what you're missing" things. I just know that I love those little girls and hate to miss anything about their lives.

Some day, there will be technology that will allow my brother to be filming my nieces live in the theater and I can be watching via satellite, or cell, or whatever, sitting at my desk in my flat.

What a (connected) world we live in now.

Random Entry...with pictures :-)

2007-01-17T20:43:00.000+01:00

We had an awesome sunset the other night. Of course most of it is because of air pollution, but I still think it's pretty.

Recently I was reading a Hungarian English text book. I was reading an article about contradictions in Hungarian culture. The one that I can remember the most is about the contradiction in food. It seems that there are countless fruit and vegetable stands and fresh food markets in Budapest. But when you go to a nice restaurant in Budapest you mostly see nothing but fatty fried food on the menu...and THAT'S "high society."
Below is one example...fried boar!

I Spy!

2007-01-05T00:39:00.000+01:00

Remember that book when you were a kid. You had to find certain items in a picture of massive amounts of random items.

Well, this is a picture I took on my dest at work. It's something I look at every day, but thought I'd share it with you and see if you can find any of the following items:

Palm tree
Ruler
Kite
Hand lotion
Cassette tapes (2)
Bandana
Scotch tape
Kleenex
Vitamin C

Well, hope it was fun for you!

Erin

FREE HUGS!!!

2006-12-27T02:48:00.000+01:00

OK, I'm too addicted to YouTube.com! But check out this video...

Merry Christmas...grab a hankie

2006-12-26T02:20:00.000+01:00

You'll need one when you watch this!

It's a video of little Heather Martin singing a song that her mother wrote about her brother serving in Iraq.

Below are the lyrics.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eVFF98kNg8Q

Lyrics

You were almost sixteen when I came into the world.
Mom and Dad had you first then 3 more boys I'm the baby girl.
I sure have a lot to look up to in you, you're really smart and funny with a big heart too.
After one year of college you knew what you had to do.
It's just like you wanting to help with the war.
So you joined the army when I was only 4.
This time of year we talk of big plans but you're over seas in some distant land.
You can't be here for Christmas, I don't understand.
Chorus:
When are you coming home, Shaun?
When are you coming home?!
We lit up the house like we always do but it doesn't seem bright 'cause we can't have you.
In my prayers I ask God to keep you safe.
And I'm trying to be really brave.
Tell me that the fighting's through.
Come home!
I really miss you.

It's hard to enjoy the holidays without you.
But we're so proud of you and all the red white and blue.
Remember that Jesus is your best friend,
And someday our families will be together again.
Wow! You know we'll have a great big party then.

Chorus

I want to show you how tall I've grown and introduce you to my new friends at school.
Maybe we could go and get some ice cream together but I really don't care what we do.

Chorus

I'm gonna have to try this....

2006-12-04T14:54:00.000+01:00

Living in a foreign country can get frustrating...this might bring some laughs into MY life...

Happy Thanksgiving

2006-11-27T22:18:00.000+01:00

Here's the picture from the 2006 Teachoverseas.org Central Europe Thanksgiving Retreat.

We were a grand total of 57 persons! We had a great weekend of food, talent, and of course...TEFL.

Another quote

2006-11-07T10:59:00.000+01:00

Sometimes I lie awake at night, and I ask, "Where have I gone wrong?"/ Then a voice says to me, "This is going to take more than one night."
- Charles M. Schulz

Snow...sort of

2006-11-03T10:35:00.000+01:00

Heather knocked on my door this morning and told me "It's snowing!" That got me out of bed really quick! You can't really see it in the pictures, but you can on the leaf of the plant outside our window.

YEA! SNOW!!! Not sure it will stick though.

Giving Directions

2006-11-01T22:53:00.000+01:00

Something happened tonight that happens often to me in Budapest. I feel like I've gotten to a place in learning the language where I can be pretty confident in using it in public. Tonight I think was a little too confident and some poor guy was sent on a wild goose chase because if it.

My teammate, Heather and I were leaving church tonight, heading for the metro. A man approached us and was asking directions to Ferenc Korut. I said that I knew where it was and promptly sent him to the 74 bus several blocks away. It wasn't until after he walked away that I sent him to the wrong "Korut." In fact, in the opposite direction of where he should have gone on the 4/6 tram. I felt so bad! I said a quick prayer and hoped that he was able to get proper directions before he got too far off course.

HHmmm...could there be a spiritual message here? Who are you asking directions from? Are you sure they know the way?

Meet my Teammate...

2006-10-31T23:10:00.000+01:00

Here is me and my teammate,

Heather

. She arrived almost a week ago. We've spent the past several days just getting to know each other. Heather's also been getting acquainted with Budapest and life in Hungary.

We will teach at separate schools, but we share a two-bedroom flat.

Heather is from LA and is already FREEZING!

Well, that's all for now!
Erin

Quote

2006-09-27T09:53:00.000+02:00

In three words, I can sum up everything I've learned about life- it goes on. -Robert Frost

Erin Barrett <bound4thenations@yahoo.com>
http://bound4thenations.blogspot.com

\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/
Az Úr, a te Istened közötted van; erõs õ, megtart; örül te rajtadörömmel, hallgat az õ szerelmében, énekléssel örvendez néked.
SOFÓNIÁS 3:17 (Zeph. 3:17 in Hungarian)
<>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <><

It's Official! :-)

2006-08-17T09:31:00.000+02:00

The University of Blogging

Presents to
bound4thenations

An Honorary
Bachelor of
Boredom

Majoring in
Gossip

Signed
Dr. GoQuiz.com

Blogging Degree
From Go-Quiz.com

Where, oh, where has the summer gone?

2006-08-06T08:07:00.000+02:00

I'm just about done with my summer vacation. On Monday, I'm going to the beach for 5 days with my mom, dad, grandma, and two nieces. Then I'm back to Seattle for a week, then back to Hungary.

It's been good being back and getting some rest. I'll admit I haven't done much, but I've gotten caught up on some TV watching. :-)

I'll arrive back in Hungary at August 19th, just before Szt. Istvan Day (Saint Stephen's Day).

I'm looking forward to seeing my students and colleagues again.

Hope to hear from some of you soon...if you read my blog, please let me know!

Blessings,

Erin

"All nations will come and worship before You!" Rev. 15:4

\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/

Erin Barrett

http://bound4thenations.blogspot.com

bound4thenations@yahoo.com

Update from Erin (a-f)

2006-05-25T10:05:00.000+02:00

Hello all!

**Well, it's been a crazy spring. There hasn't been an update in a while because my computer crashed in March, and I lost ALL my addresses. Fortunately, I had several backed up on Yahoo! but not all of them. So please talk to people that you know know me and ask if they got this. If not, please forward it to them and have them write to me, so I can update my address book.**

Below you will find a link to my latest newsletter. You can choose to download a 5MB color version, or a smaller black and white. Just click one of the links marked Spring 2006.

My itinerary for the summer is included at the bottom of the newsletter.

http://homepage.mac.com/hbarrett/Erin/FileSharing49.html

Have a blessed day!

Erin

Erin Barrett <bound4thenations@yahoo.com>
http://bound4thenations.blogspot.com

\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/
Az Úr, a te Istened közötted van; erõs õ, megtart; örül te rajtadörömmel, hallgat az õ szerelmében, énekléssel örvendez néked.
SOFÓNIÁS 3:17 (Zeph. 3:17 in Hungarian)
<>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <><

Carnival!!!

2006-02-04T23:37:00.000+01:00

I went to a Carnival party tonight. I was fun! Here are some
pictures of me as a clown!

A Day in Dubrovnik

2005-12-29T14:00:00.000+01:00

Hello all!

What a day we've had and we have just only finished lunch! We started our day with a walk around the old wall. It only took us 2 hours (2 kilometers!) It was so beautiful! What amazes me is that people actually still live in the old city. After a while we just got used to seeing people's laundry hanging out their windows and across the narrow streets.

There's an interesting feeling being here. About 68% of the old city was bombed and destroyed during the war of 1991. They've done an amazing job rebuilding. But it's interesting to see the 32% that survived the war and the new parts. One guide book says that they had a hard time matching the new roof tiles with the old ones.

As soon as I send this, we're going on a walking tour of the old town. So I'll probably have a lot more to tell about Dubrovnik. I'll be done walking after this!

I hope to be able to post some pictures tomorrow, as our accomodation says they have internet access...we'll see.

Check out this page for more info on Dubrovnik!
http://www.dubrovnik.hr/
Blessings to you!

Erin (Karen & Tracey, too)

P.S. Mom and Dad, when you come this summer, be ready to do a lot of walking!!! And STAIRS if you walk the wall.

Erin Barrett http://www.bound4thenations.org \o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/ Az Úr, a te Istened közötted van; erõs õ, megtart; örül te rajtadörömmel, hallgat az õ szerelmében, énekléssel örvendez néked. SOFÓNIÁS 3:17 (Zeph. 3:17 in Hungarian) <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>< <>

Random Rambles

2005-12-05T22:19:00.000+01:00

I've been looking at some random blogs and realized that I don't put enough on mine. So here's some random thoughts from my life:

Yesterday, I was taking the bus to choir practice when an elderly woman got on the bus a few stops after me. She had a hard time getting on but eventually found her seat..facing me. She got off a stop or two before me. Here's the fun part...when she got up she didn't say anything to me, but used my knee to help herself up. I was a little shocked at first, then just found it funny. It was no big deal, just kind of unusual. I'd never had that happen before. Made me laugh.

Salagavato (hope I spelled that right)

Last night my school had their "ribbon giving" ceremony. It's when the graduating students are given the ribbon that identifies them as just about to finish school. So part of the Salagavato is that the students prepare dances to perform for family and friends. Each class selects a style and local choreographers donate their services. The teachers even prepared a dance (I was part of this.) It was fun. Then, at the end the students dress in white dresses (girls) and tuxes (guys) and do a traditional waltz. That was beautiful!

I need a haircut. I got one just before leaving the USA and it wasn't even a good one. So I have an appointment on Wednesday to get it cut. It's grown out enough I think that it will be good.

I've discovered the ease and joy of "just add water" food here in Hugnary. Knorr is one of my favorite brands of spaghetti sauce and soup mixes. The best part of Knorr is that the instructions are in English! Not sure how good that is for me, but it'll do with my schedule.

I hate sweating! Seems no matter what time of year, or the weather, I can't NOT sweat! I walk into class sometimes and my forehead is just dripping. My students must think I'm nervous about something, but I'm not...just sweating! One good think is that I don't seem to have a BO problem..not that I can tell anyway. :-)

Well, enough rambling for now.

December Already?!?!?!

2005-12-03T23:52:00.000+01:00

Hard to believe! I know it's been a while since I've posted...but I'm not sure who reads this blog...oh well.

Here's a link to my latest newsletter.

Enjoy!

Erin

Technology is a Wonderful Thing

2005-10-16T22:44:00.000+02:00

Now, I'm not just talking about how it makes life easier, but how it
can enrich one's life.

I'm sitting in my flat in Budapest, Hungary. I spent the day at the
thermal baths and I'm exhausted, ready to go to bed. I also just got
off Skype (www.skype.com) with my family in Washington. My niece
played a soccer game to day (her team won!) and they are getting
ready to go to a party at my aunt's house. It amazes and satisfies
me to know all this stuff going on in their lives.

I even talk on Skype with my 80 year-old grandmother! The only cost
to me is the internet connection which is $20/month (I split the
total with my roommate.) I'd spend a lot more on that for a phone
call, and a lot more time writing letters (and maybe getting a
response.)

This type of technology has made it easier for me to live overseas.
I talk to my parents almost every day. We know what's going on in
each others' lives...with a continent AND and an ocean between us!

Amazing!

What happened in September?

2005-10-01T11:13:00.000+02:00

Read my newsletter...Click Here!

Clean Cat-couldn't resist

2005-09-20T18:30:00.000+02:00

AP Photo/ A cat in Louisiana being cleaned after being rescued.

Erin's quote "Now, do you really think this cat is grateful for this? Some rescue!"

Culture shock...finally!

2005-09-19T17:48:00.000+02:00

Since I've lived in Budapest before I didn't think I would experience culture shock quite as hard as before. ("Before was 10 days in a Hungarian hospital!) Well today was probably the closest I've come! I was on time for work. Just two metro stops away when something (in Hungarian) was announced over the speakers and everyone got off the train. I just sat there thinking "this is a popular stop." Well the controller came on the car and said "Vég allomás" which means "last stop." I was like, "what?" Something was wrong on the track. Long story short...I eventually found the "alternate transportation" after trying to call Janna several times, only to have my phone's battery die, and got to school one hour and 20 minutes after leaving home...it usually only takes 40 minutes max!

Needless to say, I didn't even make it to my first class. Zsuzsi, that class' form teacher was super and stepped in and gave them a task. I'll find out tomorrow what that task was. From what it sounded like, that kind of thing happens and Hungarians are just used to it. Several of the students were late today for the same reason. Kati, another English teacher was actually on the train that broke down to cause the back up. She had a great story to tell of walking from the train over the tracks to get back to the station.

So, I made it through the rest of the day with no excitement (12e class is a story for another time!)...punks! But I still love them. :-)

Quotes to Ponder

2005-09-06T21:52:00.000+02:00

These are two quotes of the day:

"Under capitalism, man exploits man. Under communism, it's just the opposite."
-John Kenneth Galbraith

"Laughing at our mistakes can lengthen our own life. Laughing at someone else's can shorten it."
-Cullen Hightower

Interesting English

2005-08-30T09:31:00.000+02:00

I was at a restaurant with some friends the other night. It was on a boat on the Danube River. Nice place, good gulyas! But the menu translation is what really caught my attention. Quite funny...

"WE WELCOME YOU ON BOARD OF THE FORTUNA BOAT!

SNUG YOURSELF, ENJOY SLEW OF THE WAVES, STROKE OF THE WIND AND NOT LEAST THE CULINARY EXPERIENCE SERVED BY US.

WE WISH YOU A PLEASURE AMUSEMENT AND DO NOT FORGET WE WAIT FOR YOU BACK!"

Looks like I've got my job cut out for me as an English teacher here in Hungary!

Blessings,
Erin

Jet Lag!

2005-08-24T04:04:00.000+02:00

Well, it's 4am here in Budapest. I arrived yesterday afternoon at about 5pm. I'll probably see this time a day for the next few days. Oh well!

Arrived save and sound to overcast and rain! Nice break from hot southern California.

Blessings,
Erin

Dashboard

2005-08-22T10:29:00.000+02:00

This blog entry is being made on a widget on my dashboard. This new Tiger OS X is awesome!!!

(No, I'm not in my car...if you're not a Mac user, you might not know what I'm talking about...but that's ok) :-)

Erin

Last "State-side" Entry for a while

2005-08-22T10:11:00.000+02:00

I'm off tomorrow for Hungary! We leave around noon.

Training was great. It really helped prepare me for what I am going to do. I also think it's prapared me for a bit of the unknown too. One of our favorite mottos here at training is "lower your expectations!" Of course they don't mean of God, but of situations.

I'm so blessed to be going back. I know that this is what God has for me.

Here you can download my Fall Newsletter

Thanks for checking in on my blog. Write a comment and I'll try to answer!

Blessings,
Erin

TeachOverseas Teachers

2005-08-14T21:04:00.000+02:00

Here we are. There are more this year than there have ever been. Over 200 including returning teachers. Almost 100 are new teachers.

Name for my Song

2005-08-14T10:47:00.000+02:00

Well, I've been playing it a lot the last few days. I don't think I'll
be putting words to it. At least not right away. I'll just name it and
put it into Garage Band. The first song for my CD! I want to name it
for someone. Not sure yet. "_______'s Theme" or something like that.
I'm up for suggestions!

When I get it into my computer, I'll post it for you to hear, then maybe
a title will come.

Blessings to all,
Erin

4 down--1 to go

2005-08-13T09:18:00.000+02:00

Four weeks of training is done! And things are starting to settle down a bit. Tonight I was actually able to sit and enjoy a couple (that's right...a couple) of movies.

I feel so blessed to be part of this organization. Today we visited the head office and saw the "brain" of ESI. The brain is an interesting part of the human body. It controls every aspect of our biological functioning. It tells the arms to hug, the heart to beat, and the eyes to cry. It's a wonderful, complex thing. When a brain works well when there aren't crossed wires or "rouge" parts. ESI is very well run, but yet there's heart and passion in everyone who works there.

This time has been at least a year and a half coming. When I left Hungary last September, I wasn't sure I would be going back. Of course, my heart's desire was to, but I did struggle with doubt. And in the course of my time in Alaska, doubt creaped up even more. I'm feeling like I'm finally on the "right track." Teaching is what I'm called to do...and to share Christ's love. ESI is allowing me to work fully in that...to answer that call; "Here am I, send me!"

I'm not a expert when it comes to knowing God's will. But there has always been a sure-fire way that I know that I'm in God's will. It's when I have true peace in my heart. I'm not anxious about going to Hungary. I'm excited and prepared. My financial support is pledged and things are working out.

So all the glory goes to God.

Something else is happening. I'm writting music. This is something I've wanted and prayed for for years. So far, I've got the music for one song. Now I just need words. I'm not sure where it's going yet, but I'll keep you posted!

Thank you all for reading and praying.

God Bless!

Click here for pics of me and my teammate.

Ah, the Pacific Ocean

2005-08-02T08:47:00.000+02:00

We did get a break in the gruelling schedule last weekend. We spent an evening at Huntington Beach! Quite a fun and unique thing for this Alaskan girl! We all had a great time.

Before the wave hit.

Right after.

Training

Training continues to be busy and packed full. I hardly have 15 minutes to relax all day. We go from 8am to 9pm or later. But it continues to be very good training and all worth while.

It was a long time getting here and I'm very glad to have made it this far. God is faithful!

My teammate Janna arrived today after two weeks at her graduate program at Azusa Pacific University. She has just one more semester of work for her Masters in TESOL. She's worked very hard. We've already clicked very well as friends and we are looking forward to getting to know each other better and finding out how we will work as a team.

Well, I should get to bed. Another long day tomorrow.

Thanks for reading,
Erin

Kids yelling in the car?...try this.

2005-07-26T07:08:00.000+02:00

OK, I know it's a bit harsh, but funny!

Heat Stroke!

2005-07-25T08:11:00.000+02:00

Well, I'm not sure if that's what I had, but it was not fun. This
afternoon, after I had lunch, I took a nap in my room. It was upwards
of 91 degrees outside today (actually had cooled down) and I woke up
just sweating like crazy. i drank some water, but didn't feel really
thirsty. So I took my temperature and it was 100. So I took a cold
shower and moved to an air conditioned room to work on some homework. I
was in there for about an hour and a half and it helped a lot. I also
found some ice for my water.

I'm just not used to this heat! I'll have to be careful to keep the H2O
intake up! I don't know how people live here! And Pasadena is not even
the hottest place in the country or world right now. I guess some
people just have different metabolism and ways to keep cool. Not sure.
Oh well, in the mean time, I'm trying to keep cool.

Note: If you're reading this blog leave me a comment to let me know that
you're reading. :-)

Blessings,
Your melting friend,
Erin

Day in Pasedena

2005-07-24T05:00:00.000+02:00

We had a fun day today (both in the literal and sarcastic sense). The ESI staff had been keeping this secret from us all week. We had an "All Day Event" on our schedules, but no explanation.

So it turned out to be a scavenger hunt in downtown Pasedena. I did manage to "cool off" a bit today....to 85! Still hot, and we were walking for most of the hunt (we tood the bus into downtown).

The hunt consisted of clues to locations were we were to find out some piece of information (what color a statue was, the cost of something in a coffee shop, etc.) then we called a number and were given our next clue.

I had a gung-ho team that was very competative. It was an interesting exercise in team work. We even identified a couple that don't seem to be team players...very interesting.

Well, long story short...MY TEAM CAME IN 2ND!!! Of course we were hoping for 1st, but there was still a prize for 2nd...a $5 gift card to RiteAid (there's one really close to the campus.)

To top off the day, as we were finishing lunch, a fellow teacher found out that her grandmother had died suddenly and unexpectedly. And on the way back to campus, the bus blew a radiator or something (lots of green liquid pouring out of the bottom of the bus) and we had to wait for a replacement.

I have a huge blister on my foot and my ankles are really stiff. But, praise God in it all! It was a fun day, and I'll never forget it.

At Training

2005-07-22T08:56:00.000+02:00

Well, I don't know where to begin this update. I've only been here at
ESI training for 5 days, but it's been super intense. We are going from
8am to 9:30pm, with no more than a few 15 minute breaks and meals.

Let me explain a little of what the training consists of.

There are about 150 new teachers going over seas this summer. With all
the returning alumni, there will be over 300 teachers serving in central
Europe, Morocco, central Asia, and China.

At training, we attend various workshops and seminars on Teaching
English as a Foreign Language (TEFL), Group Dynamics, and ministry.
Like I said, we've only been at it for 5 days, and we've done so much.

The training is intense. We are put through some very hard, emotional
experiences. It's definitely like a boot camp. Our trainers are
providing an environment that can be stressful and frustrating at
times...all intentional and with a purpose. They are creating scenarios
that are similar to what we will be experiencing overseas.

And in the midst of us receiving a lot of input, we have also started
practice teaching. I've taught two nights so far this week. We are
teaching at a local church, using real ESL students. That has been my
favorite thing so far. Even though most days we only have an hour to
plan (again, intentional on the staff's part).

Because we are in Pasadena, California, I don't think I have to tell you
how this girl from Alaska is fairing. It's HOT! Most rooms have A/C,
but our dorm room does not. And for our practice teaching sessions we
have to dress up, so sometimes that mean trousers for me. But I'm
getting by, learning to take cold showers and avoiding the mid-day sun.

So, please pray for me. Not that this will necessarily be easy, but
that I will be changed by this experience. One of the core values of
ESI is "transformation." They definitely provide for that.

I have gotten involved with the worship team (yes, in addition to all
the crazy training). I led last Sunday and it was awesome. This
Sunday, I'll be up again, and with a great team.

Thanks for praying. Since I do have internet now, you can write me. I
would live to get your encouragement. Please understand if I don't
respond right away. I AM staying up late tonight to get this out, but
there will be little time for me to spend on e-mail.

I can also receive letters and packages (hint hint). I didn't have time
to collect pictures of Alaska to be used in some of my lessons, so if
any of you are so inclined, it would be great to receive a bunch of
postcards from Alaska! The address MUST look like this.

WCIU
Aylward
c/o Erin Barrett
ESI - TeachOverseas Teacher (write this line BOLD)
1539 E. Howard
Pasadena, CA 91104

Please note, this address will not be good after August 20th!

Thanks again for praying. It's midnight now, so I must go to bed...6:30
is fast approaching.

God bless all!
Erin

--
\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/\o/
Erin Barrett
E-MAIL: bound4thenations@yahoo.com

BLOG: http://bound4thenations.blogspot.com
HOME: http://homepage.mac.com/hbarrett/Erin/Menu33.html

On the road again

2005-07-15T21:07:00.000+02:00

Turned out to be an injection coil or something like that. Dad will
probably send a more technical explanation later. But for now, I'm
typing this quickly and then will be on the way. Dad's getting the Jeep
now and I'm packing.

Still hot here.

Love,
Erin

News from the road

2005-07-15T20:21:00.000+02:00

Went to top up the gas tank and the Jeep wouldn't start...argh! Had to
call AAA. Tow truck came to get us and we dropped the Jeep at a repair
shop just across the highway from the hotel. May be fuel pump, fuel
filter, or something. It's turning over, but not catching.

So, we'll call in the morning to see if they can repair it
tomorrow...maybe we'll get to Pasadena by tomorrow night...may have to
drive in on Saturday...will know more when repair shop opens at 8am.

Stopped by the Center for Digital Storytelling in Berkley...nobody
home! Drove over the Bay Bridge into San Francisco, parked and walked
from Pier 39 to the street cars. Line was too long to wait for a ride
on the street car...looked like a 3 hour wait!

Drove back over the Bay Bridge to San Jose to find flee market, but it
was mostly closed (slow day) by the time we got there. We did drive
over the section of the freeway that had collapsed in the quake of
'89...the only "new" section.

We got some retail therapy in at Gilroy. Dad got some garlic and we
both bought some clothes...productive visit to the outlet mall!

Weather's hot...I got a sunburn at Pier 39. They are saying there's a
40 degree spread in temperatures in a 25 mile radius of the Bay Area.
Yesterday we drove through 100+ degrees...might have contributed to the
car troubles.

Well, will keep you all posted. We'll send an e-mail tomorrow morning
(love this high-speed-internet-in-the-hotel stuff!) Number here is
(408) 776-7676.

Love you all!
Erin (and Dan/Dad/Grandpa)

July Update from Erin Barrett

2005-07-09T20:21:00.000+02:00

Hello all!

I'm still here in Seattle. I'm leaving tomorrow to make my way down to
California for training with Educational Services International (ESI.)
I've been enjoying this break. I've spent time with family and had some
time to relax after school got out. And today I attended the wedding of
my cousin Scott. But starting on the 16th, my vacation is over.

Below is a rough time line for the rest of the summer:

July 10 Train to Eugene, OR.
July 12 Picked up in Eugene and leave for California (driving with
my dad)
July 16 Training starts with ESI
Aug 23 Arrive in Budapest, Hungary
Sept 1 Start teaching

So there's the basics. Thank you for your support and prayers. God has
been faithful. All of my upfront support has been pledged. (note: if
you are still planning to contribute follow instructions at the end of
this e-mail).

I have a web page and blog that I will try to keep updated.
http://homepage.mac.com/hbarrett/Erin/Menu33.html

Here are some prayer points:

PRAISE: For God's faithfulness and provision.
PRAISE: For my team of financial supporters
PRAISE: For a great time with family.

PRAY: For the team formation in California. I will be meeting my team
for the first time. Their names are-
Janna, Danielle, Erick, Skye, Jon, Tracy, Sam, Janelle, Brady, Matt,
Kimberly, Joanna, Sarah Jane, Lidia, and Steve.
Janna and I will be roommates and working at the same school. The
others will be in (or near) Budapest.

PRAY: That Janna and I will become good teammates/roommates. Pray we
will learn to get along and live together.
PRAY: For safety in travel.
PRAY: That God continues to provide for me as He always has.
PRAY: For divine appointments at training and after arriving in Hungary.

Thank you for praying!
God Bless,
Erin

Information about support:
Prayer is the most important way you can support me. By receiving my
monthly e-mails you will be informed monthly about how to pray and hear
about answered prayer.

Another aspect of my support team is financial. ESI has an agreement
with the schools in Hungary that makes it possible for me to live
inexpensively. But my involvement with ESI does require me to raise
$250/month (September - June) in administrative support. This money
goes towards providing for team retreats, a resource library, and
special projects. So far, I have had $150/ month pledged. If you would
like to pledge $10 or $20 a month keep reading for instructions on
sending it in.

Make checks payable to Educational Services International. In the memo
line, be sure to put "Acct. # 205125." In order to receive a tax
deduction, DO NOT put MY name on the check. Use the account number.

Mail check to:
Educational Services International
444 E. Huntington Drive Suite 200
Arcadia, CA 91006

If you are interested in having your contributions automatically
deducted from your checking account, contact Linda Binder at
<lbinder@esimail.org>. Unfortunately, ESI does not do credit cards.

Check out this link...

2005-07-06T11:09:00.000+02:00

A speech from Steve Jobs, CEO of Apple & pixar, given at a college
graduation ceremony.

Click here

Long time...much to share

2005-07-06T10:19:00.000+02:00

I know it's been a while since my last entry. So much has happened. So I'm not sure who will be reading this, but if anyone is interested, here goes...

October 2004-June 2005
Taught 8th grade language arts at Heritage Christian School
Substitute taught for Anchorage School District
Volunteered at "The Bridge" ministry (food ministry at my church)
Volunteered with Alpha ministry
Was accepted to ESI ministry to Hungary.

Well, that's it in a nutshell.

Hope to keep writing.

Let me know if you read this.

Blessings,
Erin

A new culture...in my back yard

2004-12-12T08:29:00.000+01:00

I've always said that I like to experience new and different cultures. Today I went with my friend Linda to the Alaska Native Heritage Center. They had a special emphasis today on the Aleut people. This a group of Alaska Natives that live on the Aleutian Islands and part of south west Alaska. Linda, herself, is Aleut, but has never been to the Aleutians and hasn't really experienced her own culture. So today I decided to go with her and we experienced it together. She had quite a different experience than I did, but I expected that. I was excited to be there and see all the native artifacts and do some craft projects, but I think something much deeper was going on with Linda.

We attended a little dance workshop, where we learned the "Halibut Dance." Native dancing tells a story. While I found the movements exhausting, it was fun. A way to express myself using another culture's method. After the class, Linda went to talk to the teacher, her name is Crystal. Long story short-they're related. Not a surprise.

They talked about their connected relations and shared some of the traditions of the Aleut people. They made plans to get together and Linda is even thinking about joining their dance group. Very cool!

So for one day, I was among the minority in my own town...and it was great. I learned a lot and truly appreciated another culture.

Substitute Teachers

2004-11-02T05:35:00.000+01:00

I liked having them when I was in school...I wonder if the kids enjoy it today. I've been subbing for about a month now. It's been very interesting on the "other-side." I try to remember how I felt and what I was thinking when I had a sub. I was a pretty good kid. I wasn't a behavior problem (if you don't call never doing work a behavior problem.) I only remember one particular sub in elementary school. Her name was Ms. Smith (not joking.) She seemed shy and unsure. I don't remember if we gave her a hard time or not, but I do remember how scared she seemed to me. I was nice to her...I think the fact that she was young, pretty and blonde made it better for her...we seemed to respond well to her.

So now, I'm the sub. I've pretty much stuck to elementary classrooms (K-6 so far!) I have to say, I like the older grades better...4th being my fave so far. It also helps that I know some of the teachers I've subbed for. They've also been pre-arranged.

In the training we received, they said that a positive attitude is the number one key to success as a sub. I think one more could top the list. Don't worry about doing it JUST LIKE the regular teacher does it. While I try to follow the lesson plans as closely as possible, sometimes it's difficult to teach 6th grade math, when you could barely pass the college statistics class (bare minimum for your college math requirement.) Especially when it's this "new math-estimating multiplication." What's that? Luckily, when I was subbing a 5th grade last week, they kids were in PE for an hour before the math lesson so I had time to learn this new method of long multiplication.

Subbing has really taught me some very useful skills. Learning new names has been the #1 thing I've been working on. With all the new fancy names these days "Bobby and Jane"' are not so common. Saiida, Lehae, and Mai Pa Hoa are some of my favorite.

You also learn how to choose your words. I never realized how much I said "Good job." I had to find new ways to praise kids for doing a "good job." "Super! Awesome. Well done. You did it." Those started popping up in my mind.

I've also learned to be flexible. I think that's one thing that the students and the sub learn in the same day. Things just aren't the same for them too. Think about it...they have a routine. I can usually tell how good the regular teacher is by whether or not the kids interupt me in unison and say "we don't do it that way!" So this is a "teachable moment" for most kids...not everyone is the same and it can be fun to do it a different way; it's not better or worse, just different.

I know I won't be subbing forever, but I also know that I'm enjoying this moment in my life and really having fun. Believe it or not, I'm learning some things along the way.

another entry

2004-06-14T01:08:00.000+02:00

Ok ,here's another entry. not much special has happened, but I'll tell you...

Yesterday I got back from a night in the country. Mary Jill has a place up there, and Edith and I joined her for one night. I went up early and Edith came later. Yesterday morning, we slept until whenever and had lunch out under a small tree in her yard. I didn't put on any sunscreen and I'm paying for it now. We were out there for about 4 hours, reading, singings, and talking....and frying.

Needless to day, I'm hurting.

I went to Bethany's tonight and she had some aloe vera gel. I had tried to go to a pharmacy earlier today, but the woman didn't understand what I was asking for.

Well, I guess I'm enjoying this "down-time" now because my summer is going to be getting busy soon.

Catch you later...don't know who YOU are...but if you read this, "hi."

First Post

2004-05-29T22:52:00.000+02:00

This is my first blog post. I'm not really sure what it's all about, but I'm sure I'll find out soon enough.

Later,
Erin