¡hola¡
Wow, what a day...not even quite sure where to begin...kind of a roller coaster of emotions. Started at our sites this morning. I am in a kindergarden class close to our neighborhood. Language barrier for sure, though was partenered with a girl that was almost fluent. Had no expectations, wasn´t sure what our roles were to be. So, I just sat down and started coloring with the kids - can´t go wrong wth that right? Talked about colors and then my magical moment happened; I was handed the pencil sharpener. Amazing how important this little tool made me feel...I had all the kids crowded around me excitedly waiting for their pencil´s turn. Keep in mind there is only ONE PENCIL SHARPENER - it is the teacher´s, and it is kept in her apron. I felt very important. All I could think about is how annoyed any one of us at home might become with this little plastic sharpener, but this was like gold to them. My fingers were getting sore, but there was no way I was stopping! Then, I was able to give them the job of putting the shavings in the basuda por favor (trash please). It was like I was giving them magical fairy dust in their hands! Throughout the day I also joined in some games - singing, dancing, clapping. I even was able to help Professoria Maria wiht some English pronounciation that I wrote on the board.
A good portion of the day however I think I felt very well, unuseful, in the way, and very very lost. Wasn´t sure what their 'normal' routine was and I certainly didn´t want to step on any toes. I felt like I was an observer. I do have to keep in mind - it was only the first day.
Once we were picked up and came back 'home' to eat lunch we had a little de-brief. I think my partner was very unhappy - says she´s not going back. She´s a teacher back home and even though she says she as well had no expectations, I think she was hoping she could have more of a direct impact...I just feel lucky to be able to hang out. I talked tonight with another volunteer that was placed there for awhile - she gave me some pointers. That was helpful. I have some ideas - I look forward to tomorrow...
adios for now (this time spelled properly!)
christin