Why Is College Only 4 Years Long?

Having this week off was wonderful but also a little harmful to my mentality.  I try not to sugarcoat my situation too much, but I cannot say that I love living in Nicaragua.  I am trying my best to stay positive about living here, but honestly, it's not the most fabulous place I have ever visited.  It has lowered my expectations, however, which should make it easier to find my own place once I'm back in the states!  Even though the country has a few shortcomings, I truly do love the school and the people/students I have met here.  Just 7 1/2 weeks left!

Seeing family, friends, and my boyfriend was more than wonderful though.  I am just so lucky to be blessed with such wonderful friends and family and so lucky to have a boyfriend willing to fly home just for 5 days to see me. Keeping this in mind will surely make it easier over the next couple of months!

Today was my first day in first grade!  I was a little nervous to work with the little ones, but they are already growing on me.  It's hard to since they are so adorable!  I miss my 5th graders dearly and got a few big hugs today when they found me and realized I was back.  Some even tried coming into the classroom!  Disruptive, but so cute.  A few observations I noticed from day 1 in first grade:

• Parents. Are. Rediculous.  Today is spirit week, which means the kids can dress up (similar to homecoming week in the states).  Some students had faces painted like tigers or costumes and would come in late, parading in while their parents were taking videos and pictures while my cooperating teacher was teaching!  Couldn't believe this. 
• First graders trust people much faster than 5th graders.
• The classroom is MUCH hotter than the 5th grade classroom.
• The students fight about who's pencil is who's instead of cyber bullying, name-calling, and racial slurs
• I think there will be more to come, but since I still feel like I'm in "vacation mode" and I've only been in the classroom for one day I don't have very many observations yet.

Please put in some prayers for me as I begin the dreaded job search!  Also, happy St. Patty's day on Thursday!