So, the past week has been all about getting into the groove – as much as that is possible in Greece! My school week started on Tuesday and it was my week to start teaching! I was just assigned spelling and language arts, so it was pretty simple. Tuesday is also when the Greek class meets. It’s an Introduction to Greek class – so we started with learning the alphabet and the different pronunciations of the sounds. I think, because of this experience, I’ll be better able to relate to my students as they learn the phonemic structures of English! It’s a fun class and I’m learning a lot!
However, the public transportation system decided they would try to rain on my parade – they went on strike. For no apparent reason. Getting to school wasn’t too bad – only about 5 or 10 minutes longer than the normal 20 minutes it usually takes. However, getting home was a whole different story. It took us over an hour in stop and go – bumper to bumper traffic. Not my definition of fun, but this is life in Athens.
Wednesday was a special day at school because the 4th grade put on an OXI day presentation. OXI day is a national holiday in Greece. It celebrates the day the Greek Prime Minister, Ioannis Metaxas, said “OXI” or “NO” to Mussolini. The Axis powers wanted to enter and occupy Greece and it is rumored that Metaxas replied with a single “OXI!” He actually said “Then, it is war!” Either way, it was a historic day for Greece, even though the Axis powers did eventually invade and occupy Greece.
The 4th grade did a great job of presenting the story, as well as Greek poetry and songs. They also told stories of what life was like for children under the Axis occupation. It was a very informative and entertaining assembly –but it also meant that we had very little time with our students in the classroom.
Thursday was much of the same – this time because of the Halloween parade. The whole school gathered in the courtyard and the youngest grades showed off their costumes. They were soooo cute! Then, the 5th grade danced to the Monster Mash. They did a fantastic job, but again, we didn’t see much of them in the classroom!
Friday, October 28th, is officially OXI Day, so we didn’t have school. I took advantage of the long weekend by not setting an alarm clock! J I wandered around my neighborhood, Plaka, Syntagma, etc. On Saturday, I went all the way out to the Athens Mall. I spent most of the afternoon there, but only bought boots. Everyone in Athens wears boots, so this is my step toward fitting in! J
On my way back from Mass on Sunday, I walked right through the middle of a (peaceful) protest in front of Parliament. I also saw the changing of the guard. It’s definitely something to see if you get to Athens!
Well, that brings us to today. I’m teaching spelling/language arts and reading this week. I’m getting great feedback and support from Ms. Coklas. I just love working with her and with these kids! The rest of the week should go smoothly – well as smoothly as possible at ACS! And Brianna will be here Friday –so that’s really really really exciting!
You’re all in my thoughts and prayers – as I settle into a rhythm here and figure out the steps in Athens, I hope you’re taking it one step at a time!
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