Academia et al

Has it really been almost 2 months??? I knew it had been awhile, but that's ridiculous.

The last couple months have not been without their fun and points of interest. In fact, a lot happened which would account for the lack of posts.
I am now a grad student at Payap University. I am working towards a Masters in TESOL. I have a great class. There are a total of 15 (excellent class size in my opinion) students and every one of them is interesting. We have just completed the second week of classes (its all day Thursday and Friday) and already I think we feel at ease. I have been doing a lot of academic reading, but am happy to find that I believe it will end up quite practical as well. Our class is also diverse in terms of native and second language English speakers so it really aids in discussions.

I've also moved into an "apartment" of sorts. Basically a room with a bathroom (and a wee little back "porch"). It has been full of pillows and other miscellaneous bedding. Therefore, no pics - it's a disaster! However, this week I finally was able to get a shelf home on the motorbike (I'm getting the hang of this Thai transportation thing!) and so now there is beginning to be order. Pics to come.

Student-wise things are okay. The students appear to be enjoying their classes. Frankly, I feel a bit out of touch. I only teach three classes and all to the 1st year students. We've had some issues with health. Nothing too major, but still, a few students (or kids as it were) out of 20 and it seems like a lot. relatively speaking, I've spent a bit of time in local hospitals.

Getting out and going to school has increased my proficiency with a motorbike. Prayers for my general safety are of course appreciated! If I think about it, it kind of scares me. But if I want to live here and actually feel a little bit independent - well, motoring around it is. And I do find it fun.

This past summer Ben and I instituted weekly fahrang nights. This entails going out on Wednesday night for food that is more like what we are accustomed to. Now our group has grown to include two of the new teachers and another guy that is staying here as well. It's fun to be able to get out. Having all these native speakers around has done wonders for my vocabulary! It had been on the decline, but I'm happy to see it pick up. I'm sure my masters level reading helps a bit too. ; )

I should really post some pictures and will probably do so in the next couple days.

Just in general, to all those at home that I have done an awful job of emailing, I'm sorry I haven't been keeping in touch! I do think about everyone often!