I'm still alive!

Even though I haven't written for ONE month, I promise I'm still alive!  One week ago I returned from a 6-day adventure to Peru.  I'll retell the tails of my Peruvian excursion in my next blog.  I might need to write several posts to fully describe its rich depth.  I'll have to put aside a solid chunk of time to update my blog (time I don't have right now...I'm actually sitting in the English room about to start a meeting for my English debate team), but I'll for sure update soon.

I do have to write one thing quickly.  Today must have been "Give-presents-to-Ms.-Kristen-Day."  I received THREE gifts today for no reason.  A bracelet and home-made chalkboard eraser pillow thing from a 5th grade girl.  It was so sweet!  And, a freshman boy found a picture of me online that was in "La Estrella de Iquique" (the local newspaper), printed it, and then framed it in a pink picture frame!  He wrapped it in pink heart wrapping paper, and then presented it to me this morning.  He approached me timidly, and then using his best English said, "This is for you, Ms. Kristen."  Precious.  These three little teacher love gifts really helped my spirits.  Recently I've been struggling with "Why the heck am I here" Syndrome mixed with "Am I really making a difference" Disease.  

But now, as I sit at my computer after a full day of teaching and gift-receiving, drinking a Coca-Cola Light, I feel rejuvenated and re-inspired to take on this Chilean challenge.

A few pictures from my Peru trip (I took 500 pictures!)...

http://www.new.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2312557&l=98be0&id=10206224