Thai - robics!

Hello! We've had a pretty busy week here in Thailand! Thank goodness it is almost wan suk (Friday). I guess I could abbreviate that TGIWS!

Last weekend the group and I went to Ayutthaya and explored ancient ruins and temples. Some of us even rented bikes and rode around this old capital city. We were careful to dodge cars and scooters and tuk-tuks (three wheeled taxis) and stray dogs and potholes and tourists. Come to think of it, biking took some impressive maneuvering!

This week has been full of classes and learning! We learn so much each day in our Thai class that it is hard to keep up! But I can already read, write, listen, and speak a bit of Thai! "A bit" is very important to remember here...In our teaching class, we are practicing developing and utilizing lesson plans. Yesterday, I partnered with my friend Paige to design and teach a class on ways to describe and ask about family and friends. We taught our lessons to the rest of the group. It was helpful to hear suggestions and ideas for effective teaching methods and fun activities. We are teaching again tomorrow, so I'll be working on a new lesson plan this evening! It is great to get this practice, since in about 3 weeks we will be teaching in a classroom of 40 - 50 Thai high school students!!

Last night I had the chance to take part in a lively Bangkok experience: Aerobics in the Park! Picture this: over 200 people (a majority women) all standing in rows facing a little stage at the front. The instructor on stage is this fit and lively Thai man decked out with a microphone, spandex, and leg warmers. Right after the 6pm National Anthem plays over the park loudspeakers (which it does throughout Thailand at 8am and 6pm everyday), a bizarre techno version of "Richard Simmons era" music starts blasting. With the instructor showing us the moves, all 200 of us start "aerobicizing!" I promise I'll bring a camera sometime and get some evidence (maybe even video footage) of this crazy, and exhausting, workout!

This weekend each ETA is staying with a Thai host family! Should be an interesting and informative experience - as most things have been so far!

Oh, I almost forgot! There is a huge vegetarian festival happening right now in Thailand. This is an ancient Chinese festival that takes place for nine days! Vendors who are part of the festival have yellow flags all over their stand, and you can be sure they are cooking up some delicious, herbivorous, food! yum!

Well, I think that is all for now! Lots of Love!

เคท