Friday, July 10, 2009

Sharing the Experience





We reluctantly departed London and I think I took a lot of London with me to the states. We all vowed to class up our wardrobes with a bit of European flair--perhaps Ms. Duncan and I will even purchase some leggings. lol! (Not from Harrod's however.) We had a nice flight back watching movies and they fed us like 6 times on Continental. Guess they want the world to know we are well-fed in the good old USA.

As we were bringing Ms. Duncan home, we heard the news that Michael Jackson had "just passed away." (Rest in Peace MJ...) Ms. Duncan was really sad. I sat emotionless for some reason; it sort of felt the way it was suppose to be for me. I don't really understand why. Mr. Stephens and I was at a store in London when Michael Jackson's song 'Beat It' was playing (before he passed away). The lady was really gregarious and explained, "I don't care what they say about Michael Jackson; I think he and his music are terrific!" I realized at that moment how loved he is all over the world.

I was excited to share with students on Tuesday the photos, currency and items we had purchased for the museum. They asked many inquisitive questions most of which dealt with how we were able to go... (Fund for Teachers) and how the monarchy works. It amazed me that many students went back for a second look at some of the photos. I explained how intertwined American and British Cultures are. They seemed really excited about the taxis and the double decker buses and by the fact that one must pay each day to drive within the city of London. The fact that they are learning and many are inspired to visit sometime within their lifetime makes me excited to create the museum for them and makes me realize just how worthwhile the trip really was to us all! Hope you enjoyed the ride!

I just spoke with my friend Ms. Duncan who is now in Australia!! Can you believe it? Two fabulous trips in one summer. You can follow her blog by clicking here.

Mr. Stephens and I would like to again say "Thank You" to the remarkable people at Fund for Teachers who made this AmaZING trip possible for us. We truly learned and grew as teachers and people due to this remarkable adventure and promise to nurture young minds with all of our adventures and discoveries. To those of you who have an opportunity such as this one... "Go for it!" Working on the grant was an opportunity to learn and grow in and of itself; the result of that hard work was truly remarkable to us! Thanks so much!