Thursady, July 26, 2007

“Follow your genius close enough, and it will not fail to show you a fresh prospect every hour.” -Henry David Thoreau


Today began for Tom and I a little later than for the rest of the group due to an “alarm clock malfunction.” We maintain this has to do with the different voltages that apply to our electronic devices but are still investigating whether or not human error may have played a factor. We are also exploring the possibility that this same “malfunction” may have affected the previous day’s journal. Inasmuch, we were not able to ease into the day.

Today’s ‘Breakfast Special’ consisted of jam-filled crepes with an optional whipped cream topping, in addition to our already ample “normal” breakfast. I must say I enjoy the variety. While we were all finishing our cups of kava or herbatta, we discussed the games to be played this evening with the kids as part of “American Night.” It was decided that a three-legged race, “Quarter-Between-Your-Knees,” Human Wheelbarrow Race, and a “Spoon-On-Your- Nose” race would be the activities. Of course, it was necessary for everyone to practice balancing a spoon on their nose -Ellen is the pro amongst us.

Classes this morning began without a hitch. Jennifer and Ann combined forces for their classes to mix kickball and Dr. Seuss into their curriculum. Ellen, with her group of athletes, crushed Erik’s group 16-1 in a game of football (soccer), although Erik does not remember his team scoring at all. Tom taught his kids how to play knockout basketball while Didi and her kids used body English to identify the names, sounds, and body parts of different animals. Lindsey tried kickball with her students but after discovering they were simply “too cool” for it, returned with them to her table to engage in discussion about plans for an imaginary discotheque. Judy spent her classes teaching all the terms the kids would need to know to survive in any convenience store. For my part, I helped my students draft a chart of different emotions and later began the game of human knots- Twister. I think at this point we are all starting to figure out activities that are both educational yet enjoyable- the challenge for any teacher.

After yet another sumptuous traditional meal for lunch, we piled into a mini-bus for an afternoon of local sightseeing. The first stop was the outdoor architecture museum where we viewed a house that has stood since 1743. Obviously, there had been renovations to keep it standing but the original essence had been graciously maintained. Also on the grounds we went inside an old windmill and viewed many structures built to reflect the architecture of an earlier, simpler time. We finished our tour by viewing the ruins of an old castle replete with an armory featuring everything from archaic swords to WWII artillery, then sitting next to a river to take in some sun and snacks.

After a short break and dinner, our evening activities commenced. America Night went smoothly as the kids ran three-legged, two-armed, cross-kneed and cross-eyed all over the fields. The enthusiasm in their eyes let us know that our games were well-received.
After the field games the kids had a disco party that we were invited to. One thing I am absolutely amazed by is how well kids dance here! They were spinning on the floor, doing hand-stands and just overall impressive. Didi, Ellen, Lynsi and I tried to join in but just could keep up.

I don’t want to leave. This week is has been filled with so many conversations, Polish and English (and Russian, see: Erik) that leaving feels premature. The enthusiasm displayed by the team, kids, and staff each day energizes you to give nothing less than you’re all. In addition, the rapid cultural immersion that has taken place has left us all feeling as though we are amongst old friends and family. Albeit short (for some of us), this program has been a success.

Niech Zyje Polska! (May Poland Live!)