Yesterday was the prettiest, most comfortable day that I've had while here in China. The sky was clear, the humidity was down, and the temps. were very tolerable.... It began with a Sunday morning run that our Head of School hosts. Those who want to go, meet in front of our housing at 7 in the morning. When I met him, he and another teacher (who also hails from the great state of Minnesota), had been running already for an hour! They are training for the Beijing Marathon that happens in October.
I was able to hang with these two guys for about 3 miles before bowing out. But, it really felt good. I think Laurie and I are going to try and run the Beijing 10K. Apparently you run by Tianimen Square (sp?). But the grand daddy that I want to run is the half marathon that is on the Great Wall next spring.... With the steps and hills, I believe that it would be quite tough, but it's something that not many folks are able to attempt to do in their lifetime... I'm not sure if I'll try for the 10K, or the 1/2. I have to see this thing before I make a final judgement.
As a family, we went to the pool and spent some time there. The boys really love the water, and there is a pool just right for them. Kieran has really turned into a fish, as he loves to wear his "nose goggles" and swim around under water. Just a year ago, he really didn't want to have anything to do with going under water. And Kellan likes the water too.
After lunch and naps, I went into school for a few hours. Out my classroom windows, I have a beautiful view of the mountains that surround the Beijing area. I stood there for some time and just looked in awe... I can officially say that I have a view of the mountains from my office... :)
The students that I have this year seem to be wonderful kids. Overall, they love to read, be read to, and most want to get going on math and science... They have parents who truly value education and seem to be very involved as well. It's apparent in how skilled these kids really are.
Last Friday, I must have caught some sort of bug, as I felt horrible all day. On Friday night, the school hosted a barbecue, which I missed because I stayed in bed. I'm not sure if I ate something bad, or all this new stuff has just finally gotten to me and my body shut down. But, I laid in bed (wishing my mom was there to take care of me :)) and felt better the next day.
It's early Monday morning and looks to be another beautiful day. I'm heading out for a run and then off to work with kids.... I'm livin the dream!
2 comments:
I didn't know that you were such a runner! I am always envious of someone with an office view of the mountains. I made up a batch of pilsner tonight. The weather here has also been perfect, and tomorrow I'm putting the boat in the water for a day of fishing. Then on Tuesday we're off and running for another year.
Riley the Runner! look at you go, good for you dude, I've actually started running the last few weeks myself, (can't be an overweight gym teacher now can I!!, that would be quite the hypocrit!) I am so jealous of all of the experiences you guys are getting to do. SOunds so cool!! Mountains out your office!! ALls I got to look at is Mrs. Sniezek and Mrs. Ward! Glad the weather has been nice for you, it's been nice aorund here, humid, but nice. It's finnally raining today, we need it bad! Riley, I'm just enjopying Kindergarten orientation here today, and getting geared up for our first day of jr. high football practice!! I'm pumped! Maybe "Braveheart" drill next week?? I better get back to work, take care, teach hard, miss ya!
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