Thursday, August 30, 2012

Back to School Prep

My first inset (teacher training) day is Monday, and the girls come to school starting Tuesday, so I figured it was time to get on with my back-to-school preparations. I've been in a bit of denial that I'll actually be working this year. The last three weeks have been like fabulous holiday, and now the realization that "oh yeah, I have to work, too" is finally starting to set in. I must say, it's been lovely being a tourist in my new city.

To get to know some of my new coworkers, I invited a few of the ladies I'll be teaching with over to the flat for an American-style happy hour last night. They've been so nice to me already and so welcoming, and I really wanted to return their kindness, as well as just get to know them a bit better. I actually had fun cleaning the flat, and shopping and preparing appetizers. Everyone back home knows that I do love to throw a party! :) I decided to make seven-layer taco dip as one of my appetizers since it's something we almost always have at every party or BBQ back home. What I didn't realized was that it's a little trickier to make over here, as American-style Mexican food isn't as common in south London as it is in Washington state, and they certainly don't sell it pre-made like they do at every Safeway back home. I checked a couple corner shops and the Tesco Express for my necessary ingredients, but they didn't have what I needed, so Carlos was kind enough to take me in the car to the larger Tesco, where I found the taco seasoning packets, beans, sour cream (which is a lot more rich and yummy here), salsa, cheese, onions and even some guacamole. Anyways, the dip turned out to be the big hit of the evening, and I was happy to share one of my favorite snacks with my new friends.

I understand now why it's more common for people in a city like London to just meet up in a central location at a pub. The girls who came over traveled from various parts of the city, and all their journeys involved the Tube and a bus or two. And although it's not hard to get here, it's certainly time consuming. It made me feel special that they were willing to make the trek out here to the flat. We had a nice evening with lots of laughs. The girls even brought me presents (including my new favorite candy Fuzzy Pig Tails (strawberry flavored gummies), which was so sweet. We made sure to put the champaign to good use, of course.

My sweet presents.
Today, I met the girls back up at school to get a little work done. Mostly, I just unpacked a few decorations and books that I brought with me from home. I also just took some time to get acquainted with my classroom and the school, and I met a few more staff members. Everyone has been really nice and welcoming at school, which makes me feel more comfortable. Here's a peak at my new school and classroom. I still have some decorating to do. :)

La Retraite Roman Catholic School


Isn't it pretty?

Come on in and see my new classroom!



Now with some PNW flare!

Adding a touch of home!


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