I’m busy trying to write lesson plans for restive 8-year-olds and rebellious, judgmental teenagers. Soon I go to my fourth intensive Spanish class, for which I just finished homework: an article about how embarrassing it is to learn another language. I can’t speak Spanish but I’m starting to speak English with a Mexican accent. When Kim didn’t perform something as I expected her to, I heard myself say, “Is that all choo can do?”
Bull- and cock-fights are common pastimes here. And soccer is huge. (Pachuca is where soccer entered Mexico). I would be disgusted by the former and bored by the latter, but I can’t help but think I should go for the cultural experience.
I looked up a new word for my homework. It’s vergí¼enza, which means “embarrassment” or “shame.” It’s a word that will no doubt bring about same for me one day, because if you accidentally add an innocent little “s,” it becomes “genitals.” How very Catholic.
When I came to Mexico I brought all kinds of presents to give those who have helped me here: jelly bellies and a variety of candies. I’ve already eaten most of them. The calendars are the only things that are safe.
Since I have nothing else to say for myself, here are some things my girls sent me. First, two pics YoNenny sent from her cellphone: Jason and their new dog (why do you guys keep getting dogs?); YoNenny’s new mode of transportation.
Molly and I had a brief video chat. My connection is so bad that she keeps freezing, but at least I get to see her in motion from time to time.
YoNenny: as I’ve told you, you need to get chat going on your computer, too.
Finally, here is a video Molly linked me too. It is John Cleese talking about the human brain. I think I’ll use it in class to confuse my students. Something like, “Listen to this and write me a summary of the key points.” Actually, I really could use it as a lesson in intonation. Anyhow, thank you, Saint John:
[flashvideo filename=wp-content/video/brain.flv image=wp-content/video/brain.jpg /]
Well what do you expect us to get if not dogs?
Would you prefer babies?
I thought not.
I haven’t finished reading this post, but before I forget: Molly and I talked today, for a good, healthy (SISTERLY!) 45 minutes, and discussed the chat thing; it’s in the works.
John Cleese is SO GOOD at that! But not as much as dearly departed Boopy, I don’t think.
Or as tall.
P.S. I wonder what the experience of a “testate effect” would be like.
Cock-fights, eh? *leer*
‘Leni’s little dogling has laser eyes in that first picture. It is quite an intimidating effect.
I’m glad you enjoyed my Cleese. He is quite the freak of a man.
And yes, I got to talk to my SEESTER today! It was the finest thing ever.
i think he’s saying” this is your brain. and this is your brain on….”
Yo-Nenny: Well, okay. Get more dogs, if you must.
Lulu: Get your mind out of the gutter.
Elsie P: Brain on WHAT? I want some!
xo to all.