August 27th, 2013If only summer was twice as long. I feel like this summer, I basically haven't relaxed at all--it was all just worrying for school, testing for precalc, etc. etc. The one vacation I went on wasn't relaxing at all. I had to teach kids in Beijing English, and I have to say, I have a new respect for teachers. Coming up with lesson plans and powerpoints isn't easy (it's also ten times harder when the hotel you're staying in has no wifi). It takes a lot of work to calm down a rowdy class, too.
But, teaching those kids was one of the best experiences I've ever had. I got to learn about my students and about the Chinese school system. (My students were actually a lot better at English than I expected them to be. Their grammar is even better than the grammar of some of the people who post on twitter or Facebook.) However, some words of advice: when in Beijing, make sure to avoid the poop on the ground. It's literally everywhere. Well, maybe it was just the place I stayed...
Basically, my vacation to China was not really a vacation. I think during all vacations, we have to plan, to work, to stress out in some way. I've never gone on a stress free vacation.
I wish summer would just last a little bit longer--and I'm sure I'm echoing the thoughts of about a million kids right now. Once back in school, it's all about looking forward to a two day weekend again. Last year was a disaster. Hurricane Sandy, WHY!? Just because of that one storm with the really bad attitude, we had no holiday breaks from school the entire second half of the year. Sleeping was the single activity most of the people in my class looked forward too. (other than eating, of course :D)
For those of you who follow this blog, sorry I haven't been posting regularly. I'll post again as soon as possible. Adios for now :)
