ABC's Kindergarten!

Well I finally made it to the school in Guzhen! To be honest... I really had no idea what to expect. Alice (our chinese coordinator) picked us up as we got off the ferry from Hong Kong. We said our farewells to the other groups (sad) and were on our way! Alice is the most smiley and amazing person you have ever met. Getting things started off has been pretty rocky. This whole "Head Teacher" thing is rewarding... but very hard. We haven't had access to the internet and haven't had hot water or gas or anything for the past few days. (I haven't showered in three days, don't judge) We have squatters in our apartment! Sometimes... it makes a gurgling noise and then a few seconds later dirty water spews up. It gets some pretty good air. I have been the victim of its attack a few times. I wouldn't say its the most pleasant experience. All of that really wouldn't be a problem for me. I really enjoy life here and realize how blessed we are to have the things we have. But my teachers... I can't exactly say the same for them. For most, this is their first time out of the country and away from home. The fact that we didn't have access to the internet was daunting for most. They wanted to speak to their families and let them know they arrived safe. It made me realize how lucky I am that I don't have to worry about that sort of thing. I know my family loves me and cares that I'm safe... but they aren't going to panic if they haven't heard from me in 4 days. They know that I can take care of myself no matter where I am. I freaking love my family. We're awesome. It is so hard to keep these teachers positive about China. It was so easy for me to fall in love with China! I hope that my teachers will eventually love it as much as I do.

So things are fabulous. I feel like this has truly been the real chinese experience. It is SOOOOO cold here. I wasn't prepared for that at ALL. I was told it would be so hot! So all I brought was a super light jacket. Its rainy season here and so we all just huddle together as we run to the school. The kids. OH MY GOODNESS! The kids are tiny. I have never taught babies this small before. We have only been teaching 4 days and they already have completely melted my heart. I LOVE IT HERE! I don't have much time on the internet but know that things are going great and I love life here more than ever! I hope this finds you all safe and happy. Remember how blessed you are to have running water, microwaves, HEATERS!, toilets, dry clothes, clean sheets, mattresses, jackets, ovens, and normal bread. Haha.