So, here is my strange update on September 1 - a day I thought I would be in the new school building.
I am on Nantucket. All is well. I return to Egypt on September 22. The schools in Egypt were closed by the government. I am not sure which came first but the two linked reasons are: It is Ramadan and there is no H1N1 vaccine available until October 1. So there you have it.
I chose to come home and enjoy Nantucket's end of summer - delicious! - the company of my sons - which soothes my soul - and the simpatico synchronicity of my friends - who sustain me with all their love, integrity, and strength. As I said, all is well.
Egypt - Agamy - was the most surreal experience. Being pampered and having the days stretch before me to arrange as I please - for the first time in literally decades! - was wonderful and . . . in a way unnerving /isolating even though I was, and will be again when I return, surrounded by truly wonderful and interesting people. So, another flight ( 2 to be exact) and here I am again! I am particularly enjoying the incredulous looks I get from folks who see me around town! I am sure that there are some out there wondering who that MaryAnn Bartlett Look-alike is!
I am getting emails daily from Egypt. My parents, who have both passed away, would be incredulous that I can "work" with folks from Egypt in the comfort of my living room. It is truly amazing isn't it?
I am mostly working on the World History text and syllabus since I have not taught that subject before and want to be at the top of my game when it all starts. My head spins as I do this since there are an infinite number of hypothetical permutations for what to do with a hypothetical combination of students! Yikes! same for the Language Arts curriculum but I can do that with my eyes closed.
So, here I am getting ready to send my sons off to school which I am so glad to be able to do! And to walk the dog a few more times. No more good-byes though said them already!
