Friends Come in all Shapes and Sizes. (& Colors too!)

This week was a bit challenging. The temperature got colder… Welcome Fall! And because of the cold temperatures and the fact that I was not as prepared as I thought (I only packed a light jacket instead of a coat...) the morning bike rides took a heavy toll on me and left me with a bad cold. Luckily, some tea and early to bed nights helped a bit. Although I still am pretty stuffy, and my head feels like it weighs a ton, I’m feeling much better. It amazes me how perceptive children are, especially when it comes to emotions and the emotions of others. I’ve gotten more hugs this week then I have my whole time here and I can’t help but think that’s because they knew I wasn’t feeling well and could use a hug. It has been unique working in three different classrooms with three different teachers. It’s always an adjustment because once I get used to being in one classroom, it’s time for me to move to the next. The three teachers I am with have been great, however, they do all have different personalities. (As they should.) The one room where I feel I am most respected and seen as another teacher is with Juf Pim. During the morning drop off/greeting time and the end of the day pick up/greeting time, Juf Pim makes it a priority that students also address me and say good morning or good bye. She always says, “…and don’t forget Miss Gina!”. Over the weekend, I visited Utrecht again. But this time I was able to learn some of the cities history because I met up with Hans! Kelsey, Chase and I met with Hans in Utrecht’s central train station. From there, we walked around the city and our brains filled with new information. Fun Fact: The original central canal in Utrecht was taken away and made into a four-lane high way… Many years later it was decided that the canal was a better choice and the high way was taken away and the canal was brought back! This is only one of the many tidbits of information we received on our walk. Later in the early evening Hans made dinner for us and we talked about our experiences. It was a wonderful day and I am very grateful for Hans! Next week’s theme in school is Fairy Tales and I star in the play Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs! Five teachers (including me) and seven students (Guess what their role is) are acting out the story for Groups 1-2. I am the Evil Queen/Old lady! I hope Snow White eats one of my apples. Greetings from The Netherlands!