A different way of doing things....

Probably the hardest thing to get used to in another county (especially a third world country) is how they do things differently than one is used to doing them. For example, when I came home from work last week this is how I found my kitchen after the cleaning gal had been to my house that day. This is typical...I'm told they do these things to let you know they did indeed clean in the cupboard that day! :) They will move things around on your dresser or table so you know they cleaned there too. :) I only have her come every other week, but it is lovely coming home to a clean place and usually a wonderful meal as well!

The beggar ladies are another interesting group. I watch them from the windows of my apartment. They are sitting in front of the cafe/bakery across the street. Some people will give them money, others will give them a loaf of bread when they leave the bakery. In reply, the ladies give them a big toothless smile and say "Shook-rahn" - thank you! They will touch their hands to their hearts and wave good bye! (sooooo sweet!)

This is another example of doing things differently....I asked our assistant administrator if she would translate in French for me the night of "Parents Night" last week. I was welcoming the parents and introducing the students and their work that evening. A few of my parents do not speak any English, so I would say a few words and she would translate, I'd say a few more and ......on and on the evening went.  Parent-teacher conferences are the same. Sometimes this is so hard and very frustrating, but very necessary!

One of my little boys the night of Parent Night. Isn't he adorable with the scarf and all? I thought he looked very European that night. The kids all wear uniforms during the day (which is something I have not had in past schools), so when we have evening activities and they can dress up it is fun to see them in colorful, fun clothes! :)

This is different than home too. The classrooms go right outside to a covered hallway. There are times that this is nice....like in the mornings when I arrive and hear and see little birds along the ledge. There are times when it is not so nice....like on stormy, windy, rainy days....the wind blows the rain in on us, so we have to wear coats and take umbrellas when we go to Music or lunch or PE or where ever!

So, life in Morocco is just that...different! I love parts of it and parts of it have been very challenging! The past couple of weeks I have been having car problems.....that's a whole other story....later! I'll just say, it pays to pay a little more (well, a lot more) and get a little closer to quality service.  :)