A day off during a busy season

One of my favorite things about living and working abroad are all the random days off that are sprinkled throughout the year.  I'm not sure if Argentina and Thailand really have that many more of these days than the US does or if I just notice them more since I don't expect them, celebrate them, or have anything I need to do on them.  I love Memorial Day, for example, but it doesn't have the same time of freedom that a random Tuesday off does.  As much I miss the family gatherings on such secondary holidays, not having anything to do and having them fall in the middle of week makes them such delectable little treats.  

Today, in honor of Coronation Day, I slept in, had a lovely tea and quiet time, cleaned and organized my house, went out to lunch, bought groceries, made granola, and had afternoon tea with a good book. I'm even getting a change to blog, and it's still just 4:00! Like I said, delectable little treats, they are :)  

It is a welcome repreive from the May Madness that settles over international schools each year.  In the weary last month of a school year we cram in concerts, banquets, visa appointments, graduations, a clothing exchange, and any number of end of the year events in addition to farewells for those who are leaving, garage sales for us to buy what they're leaving behind, and the general wear and tear that is a part of the end of any school year.  I usually board that plane in early June completely exhausted to the core, but this year I am bound and determined to have something left in the gas tank at the end.  I'm being more proctective and selective with my time and energy than usual. We'll see how well it works...

At work I've been busy with all the usual middle school stuff, as well as doing everything I can to get things done for K4. I've scoured the garage sales for gently used toys that the room needs, in addition to some teaching and organizational supplies.  I've got some of my things ready for Open House and the first day of school.  It's been a lot of fun, and has confirmed to me that I made the right decision in the switch. 

Coming home from garage sales last Saturday. We filled my front basket with stuff, hooked the baskets on bought onto the front and bike of the bike, threw everything else into a huge Ikea bag for Karly to carry, and we were on our way!  Intending only to go a few blocks to the nearest moto taxi stand, we were having too much fun and I drove us all the way to Karly's house.  

The start of the rains has meant lots of really impressive sunsets, which I've been able to enjoy while getting down time on my nights in. 

I ordered some things, including the cute shirt he's wearing, for my nephew a while ago and had them delivered to my mom's house.  My mom and sister opened them with me via Facetime while they were there this past weekend.  Little Man is growing so fast that I thought she better open them before I get home (one month from today)! I simply adore this solemn little guy and can't wait to meet him!