Body Jam

Tonight, I attended a Body Jam class (however you spell it). I stumbled awkwardly to the dance moves instructed to us by a highly energetic Philipino man with a spring in his step, who had us as his third class for the night (How insane is that?! I was out of breath after one class. Crazy man). He yelled so many instructions at us that I lost track and started flinging my limbs any which way they would go. It was awful. But he is a kind man and nice to you about your obvious failure in athletics. So I'm probably going to join this gym and go to his classes whenever I can.

This all might change depending on how I feel in the morning.

Peace out.

Fancy fountains and other such things.

About a week ago I went out for dinner with a friend next to this beautiful fountain of magnificence. Little children squealing when the music started, people from all over the world running to get as close as possible and take pictures, lovers holding hands whilst watching from benches scattered all over the boardwalk. It was truly a beautiful evening. I took pictures of the Dubai aquarium inside the mall, but unfortunately, the camera I took them with failed me, and so, you shall have to wait until I go again before you can behold an inadequate depiction of the amazing combination of marine life in that one huge box of water. Or you can google it. Whatever suits your fancy.

I started teaching about five days ago, and I am already tired. But I love my students and my trusty morning coffee is always there to greet me when I wake up groggy and mostly unaware of my surroundings, so that helps things. I am trying to sort through my red pen fever and sticker fever, but otherwise, I am very much comfortable in the classroom with my students. I am so glad I was assigned to teach fifth grade girls. They are the best. And I'm pretty sure they think I'm the best too.

I hope to hear from you soon. You must e-mail me. I have not heard from some of you in so long that it is no longer acceptable. Yalla.

His,
Carmen

Secret's Out ...

... Finally, after assessment tests and several demo lessons later, I have been assigned my grade. You're looking at a fifth grade English teachers of all girl classes. Girls and boys are segregated into different classes in different buildings, starting with the fifth grade. Finally knowing where I'm going to be is a relief.

In other news, I've been adjusting to life here and to the other girls on my floor. Dubai gives a sense of glamorous emptiness. The buildings' architecture is ridiculously impressive; the malls are often too huge to walk through (sometimes you have to drive from one section to the other); and the city consists of all huge roads. This does not bode well for a person who needs to walk around to get a feel for the place. I have also been sick in bed over the weekend. I still hold that the sharp contrast between the hot weather and AC does something to throw your system off balance.

I have yet to meet people outside my building, but I am very much looking forward to it. Today, three Emarati students gave us a presentation on life and culture in the UAE. It taught me a lot. For example, eating with your right hand is a cultural norm, and it's offensive if you use your left hand instead.

Due to the lack of opportunities to trek around the city, I have had ample time to spend time with the Lord and sit at His feet. I also think about you all often.

I hope you are well, and I hope to hear of your news soon.

His,
Carmen