Newbies

This has been a crazy time in Kuwait. The new teachers are here and settling in nicely – a good group, I am pleased to see.

Some of them are new teachers, fresh out of college. One has never flown before. One of the returning staff is fascinated by the fact that this particular teacher has a suitcase – only one – and it has no wheels. Who knew they even made such luggage anymore? I admire people like that – starting a new career in a new country and a whole new culture surrounded by people you have never, ever met. As one of our newbies said, “do I want to be a citizen of Wyoming, or a citizen of the world?” It is great to see so many choose ”world.”

We have been taking them shopping, feeding them, walking with them, showing them the school and the area and easing them into the wonderful world of Kuwait and all its glory. There have been glitches and they have been patient. What makes me most happy is their attitude. They have come with open minds and open hearts. They want to be here and want to do and say the right things. I told our new boss the only problem she may have is that they want to work hard – maybe too hard too fast. That is a nice problem to have.

I am enjoying my new job in my new classroom. I have a new computer with a wonderful new sound system for my iPod – all set up by my personal computer guy. After three years in first grade I am so happy to be back in special education again, with administration that appreciates me and that I respect. There will be problems, but that is expected. We will deal with them as they come.

Meanwhile, the important things are coming in September – cooler weather and American football season. There is also the decision of where to spend Christmas – does Jordan go to Egypt or do I go to Istanbul.

Yeah, life is real tough in Kuwait (wink, wink!)