Ramblings from Russia

I started my first official day of teaching today and the kids were oh so helpful. I kept reminding them that sometimes people do things in different ways. They love active learning for sure and I'm into that. I brought a small photo album showing pictures of my town and family, so I may do a mini Alaskan unit since they are very interested. Thanks Zach and Suzanne for the many beautiful whale, swan, bear etc. photos. They are really into the animals.

The weather is definitely Juneau like. I wear rainpants and a hat and gloves walking to and from work each day. I am learning to walk like a Russian with my head bent down and no eye contact with passing folks. The body language and trust factor is very different, though the people I work with are more than friendly.

I have attached myself to the two female American teachers in the building though I am old enough to be their mother they include me in dinners out etc. It's very isolating not being able to speak the language or read the signs.

Over the weekend I played tourist and went to Catherine's Palace and walked the grounds taking many photos. Families were out gathering beautiful fall leaves and making garlands for their hair. I also visited the Hermitage which is a HUGE museum. I spent two hours just looking at Impressionist paintings. I found I was overwhelmed standing in front of the work of VanGogh, Picasso, Cezann, Manet, Monet, Rembrant, Leonardo da Vinci, Michaelango, Gaugin and Matisse. I have to say I'm now into Matisse. They say if you spent only 1 minute looking at everything in the Hermitage it would take you 11 years!

I'm reading a great book about the 900 day seige of St. Petersburg during the war titled City of Thieves. It's a good one book group friends! It's so interesting to be in the place where the story took place. I actually walk over the bridge in the novel on my way to work. I think I need a "lighter" novel next.

I was able to shop for groceries in a huge Fred Meyer like store and came home with three bags of essentials for only $40.00. Amazing. I was quite surprised at the quality and freshness of the fruit and veggies. I made a pot of lentil soup on Sunday to eat for lunch all week.

Last night I went to the Mirinskiy Theatre to see the ballet "Le Corsaire" Amazing! The Russian teacher I went with took me back stage to see all the costumes and props since her husband works there.