To Cardiff

I'll keep this one short and simple... or at least try to.

To set the scene, it was February half term and as is typical for teachers, I started my break with a sore throat... believe it or not, I even lost my voice. Regardless of my illness, I decided to go away for a few days. I asked a Canadian friend, whom I met on induction day way back on the first day I was in England, if she wanted to travel together. She agreed. We met in London and headed to Cardiff Wales for 2 nights. Our first stop was to find our hotel, the Big Sleep Inn. Oh my goodness, that was quite the place... retro. I mean our room had fur baby blue curtains. After calming down from our initial reaction, we went to explore the town. We went on a walk through Sophia Gardens, had a drink at an exotic cocktail bar, and had a pint of Guiness and a steak and Guiness pie at an Irish pub.

The next day, we took a tour bus around the sites. We saw the Cardiff Canal, the Dr. Who museum, and an old Church. We went on a small boat ride through the canal (though it was freezing cold), had a hot chocolate and a cake at the Rouge Cafe, explored the Cardiff Castle and crashed back at the hotel before going out for the night. Later, we went to a Spanish Tapas restaurant, and then to a Karaoke bar for a drink. At this point, I was absolutely voiceless and exhausted, but did have fun people watching.

Unfortunately, I went to the hospital in Cardiff the next morning because I was terribly sick and wanted to know what was wrong. They told me it was a serious viral infection and so we left Cardiff earlier than planned so I could start to rest. But let me tell you, that train ride back to Chichester was already long... line 5 hours, but it felt 10 times longer when I was not well enough to even drink water. I was so poorly, that I stayed home from work for a whole week. I've never missed work for more than a day before, but I just couldn't even stand comfortably. I was very grateful for Skype during that week, because I was able to Skype mom nearly 3 times a day everyday. Finally after like 5 weeks of not feeling 100%, I am now feeling like myself.

January - Inspection at the school

Hi all,

Once again, it has been far too long since I've updated my blog. I am so sorry friends and family. I have lots to cover since I last wrote - Ofsted, Cardiff, Olivia, Easter break in the Lake District and hiking in Wales. I suppose I should start again where I left off... so if you have nothing better to do... enjoy!

OFSTED...
The new term at school started with lots to do and to think about as everyone was anxious for the dreaded call of OFSTED. This is a government inspection agency in the UK who ensures all schools meet high standards. To explain just how anxious the staff at The Academy, Selsey felt, I should mention that the last time the school was inspected they received the lowest outcome - an inadequate school with special measures needed. Hence, a new headteacher came in to make significant changes. So the management team and the teachers have worked so hard to help the students and the school progress. We knew to expect OFSTED after Christmas, but we didn't expect them so soon. In the middle of February, they phoned one afternoon and told us they were visiting the next two days. The afternoon that they phoned the headteacher gave us encouragement about how hard we have worked and that we were ready to face the inspection. After her speech, I clapped and was cheering on everyone. Instead of others joining in, as I had hoped, everyone just looked at me and laughed. While they were mocking me, I know they were disguising their appreciation for my motivational cheer. And so we were on...
The school was abuzz. The students and parents were informed and the teacher were catching up on any marking and preparing and writing formal lesson plans, while trying to remain calm. Let's just say that those nights were late nights at work with lots to keep me busy. My lesson plans were printed and I was ready to show any observer my lessons.
First lesson... working with Jim - observed. I wasn't observed, Jim was. I'm so glad I witnessed that and sort of knew the right things to say if/when they came into my classroom.
Second lesson... year 7s, they behaved okay (well for the most part), my lesson was opened and ready - not observed.
Breaktime... my duty in the Hall, I was smiling at all my students and doing my bet to ensure all of their uniforms were immaculate.
Lesson three... year 9s, I started out prepared, but my students were challenging me and were making it difficult for me to teach, especially if I were to be observed. Fortunately, I was again not observed. The rest of the day and of the inspection I waited in anticipation to be observed.
The last chance lesson to be observed... my lesson was going well, I was prepared to be observed... I was watching the clock... only half a lesson left will they come now? 15 minutes left, nothing... the lesson had finished. I was not observed and left so let down. I worked so hard and no one could see that.
My initial disappointment didn't last very long. That afternoon, we had our debriefing from the head, hoping we would learn of our results. Unfortunately, the head couldn't tell us anything. The following day, the head spilled the beans and told us that the inspectors were probably going to give us an inadequate. Expectantly, she was quite disappointed. some of my friends were observed and received inadequates. They were absolutely devastated, especially since their inadequates were due to their students' poor attitudes and constant messing about. I was relieved that our Osted result was not because of me. The headache of Ofsted was over for that week. But starting the next week, we had to implement new strategies and practices that came from conversations with Ofsted. So the pressures of Obsted continues. I only wish teaching to help students was the focus here. Unfortunately, it seems as though we're too focused on looking good to the government and end up forgetting about why anyone should become a teacher... to help students grow and learn.

From Chichester to Cornwall - A Month of Christmas!

Hiya!

During December I have felt so blessed and taken by the Christmas spirit.

On the 2nd of December, I led Kid's church and we talked about preparing for Jesus' birth. We focused on how Elizabeth and Mary must have felt being told by God that they were both to have a child... Elizabeth's son was to prepare the way for Jesus and Mary's son was to be the Son of God. The verse that really stuck out to me was that "Nothing is impossible with God" (Luke 1:37). 

My church had a Christmas Carol sing on the 6th of December. The music and lights and the mince pies after were so beautiful! I loved that I recognized many songs... again another example of how an unfamiliar place can become so familiar. One song that I heard several times this Christmas was "In the Bleak Midwinter".  Here are a few of my favourite verses...

Our God, heaven cannot hold him
Nor earth sustain;
Heaven and earth shall flee away
When he comes to reign:
In the bleak mid-winter
A stable-place sufficed
The Lord God Almighty
Jesus Christ.

 

Angels and archangels
May have gathered there,
Cherubim and seraphim
Thronged the air -
But only his mother
In her maiden bliss
Worshipped the beloved
With a kiss.

What can I give him,
Poor as I am?
If I were a shepherd
I would bring a lamb;
If I were a wise man
I would do my part;
Yet what I can, I give him -
Give my heart.

The line that stood out over and over again for me was "yet what I can, I give him- give my heart." Do I give my heart to God under all circumstances that I find myself in? Or do I only pretend?  Or do I only give my heart when things are going wrong and I want God to change the direction of the wind? In the new year I hope to look at this more... to give my heart in all I do. 

On 11th December, R&A had their small group over for a meal, which they invited me to. It was great, we had jacket potatoes, salads, meats... and mulled wine. (See if you can pick up the Christmas food traditions in England :))

The next day, my small group met for a Christmas dessert night. There was Chocolate fridge cake, mince pies, strawberries and cream... it was delicious. After our desserts, we read Ephesians 1:1-14 and talked about what it means to be "in Christ". I pray that while I experience many blessings during my time in England, I will be able to share my blessings and love with many people that I encounter.

The staff Christmas party was loads of fun! There were finger foods, drinks, karoke, dancing and lots of merriment! This picture is of Natalie and I dressed in our best dresses before the night began.

On 16th December, Revelation church (the church my host family goes to) had their Christmas Children's program.  My little brother, Ben was holding my hand and because he's so comfortable in the church he pulled me behind him and showed me to his friends. Then during the program, he went up to the front with the rest of the children to sing and dance. It was so adorable! After the program, there were mince pies and mulled wine... see what I mean - a Christmas tradition here.

A lot of Christmas at school happened during the last week. On Tuesday I went to a friends' house for homemade mince pies, mulled wine, and snacks. Then on Thursday night was the Christmas program. The year 11s put on a Pantomime, there was lots of singing, and readings... even the Christmas story from Luke was read (something that probably wouldn't happen in Canada, unfortunately.) The staff choir -which I was apart of- sang "Gaudete", a beautiful Latin song about Christ's birth, which I think we presented quite well for not being professionals. Then on Friday, the students we allowed to dress in non uniform and we had a talent show. This is why I teach... to see my students shine. My school is full of so much talent! I was overwhelmed by the singing, dancing and overall talent. After the talent show, I had a Christmas party with my tutor group... we did our secret santa gifts, we played games (I introduced some of them to dutch blitz), and had snacks. Then the kids went home early so the staff could say some goodbyes and open our secret santa gifts. It was great to have most of the staff in one room to celebrate our successes this past term! I am now 1/3 of the way finished my first year teaching! Wowee!!

Christmas Break!!!

 My host family had our Christmas on Friday evening. I got a huge heating bottle, some chocolates and a notepad! I gave Joe a Charlie Bear talking bear and Ben a Winnie the Pooh and a Car's sticker set. The Charlie Bear was a success... unfortunately, Ben wanted it too. Ah well. After the boys went to bed, R & A and I had Fish 'n chips while watching "The Pursuit of Happiness".

Greg, Natalie and I were off to Cornwall on the 22nd. The 4 hour journey boasted lots of rain and flooding, but we made it to St. Dominick safe and sound. We went to evening mass at Greg's parents church then came back to a delicious Nigella Lawson stew and "Strictly Come Dancing". The next morning we went to Plymouth to finish our Christmas shopping and Natalie and I went outdoor ice skating. That absolutely made my day... a little bit of home.

Then we went to a live nativity that Natalie's parent's church put on. It was brilliant how they did it. There was an adult for each main part and then as children came in, they were given an outfit to participate. There was also a narrator and a choir that lead the group in singing. There was a huge turn out, yet there was enough minced pies and mulled apple juice for everyone! To me... that was the true meaning of Christmas... Christ's birth celebrated by so many people!

On Christmas Eve, we had a relaxed day wrapping presents, skyping family and friends, and going to a service at the Catholic church. It was a great place for me to contemplate and reflect about just how significant Christmas is... I mean, God sent his only son so that we may experience his love and grace in our lives... that's so incredible!

When we returned from the service, we had a lamp roast... which was absolutely delicious! Then Greg and Natalie took me to the local pub for a drink and my first game of darts. After staying up until 2am... I was able to skype mom, Michael and others at an Annual Christmas Eve Party... a great end to my Christmas Eve!

Christmas morning...
We woke up quite late, had breakfast and opened presents. It was my duty to be "Santa" and to hand out the gifts. I was shocked by how many gifts were for me... a teacher friend sent her gift for me with Natalie with specific directions for me to open it on Christmas morning. She gave me "The Velveteen Rabbit" and a Keep Calm and Carry on Sniff... a pack of tissues. Greg and Natalie gave me a cross necklace - for those who know me - that's again a super meaningful gift. Then we had a 4 course Christmas meal. For starters we had a prawn and smoked salmon salad with bread and pate. For main, we had Turkey, potatoes, bread sauce, carrots, and pigs in a blanket. Then we had Christmas pudding with Brandy butter... lush! After sitting for nearly 2 hours we had our final course of a cheese, cracker and grape plate. The cheese here is absolutely gorgeous! To work off some of the calories we had, we went to the park behind their house and played. Then Greg's brother and his wife came to open our stockings and play games. I learned a new game... Articulate... loved it!

Christmas # 2 in Liskeard...

So we packed up the car and headed to Liskeard for Christmas with Natalie's family. We opened our Christmas crackers, ate a lush meal with homemade Yorkshire Puddings, opened presents, played games and sang songs.

Ellie and Sal (niece and nephew)

Time to explore Cornwall.

This was a day of many firsts... My first trip to a sandy seaside in England, my first Cornish Pasty, my first Pantomime, my first trip on a car ferry from Devon to Plymouth, and my first few minutes of a James bond film.

First stop... Looe - a historic fishing village. Loved it! Here are a few of my favourite pictures...

I'm very proud of this picture.

Then to "Dick Whittington" a Pantomime in Plymouth! For those of you who do not know... a Pantomime is an interactive production meant for children but has humour appropriate for all ages. It was so ubber exciting! I got right into joining in singing and shouting. "Oh yes I did!"

The next day was again epic! We were world travelers all in one day... we went to the Mediterranean, South Africa, California, and the rain forest in South America. It was quite the adventure... and the best part is... there was no uncomfortable traveling... and it we saw it all under one roof... the Eden Project... google it! It was so remarkable! Here are just a few pictures which really do not do it justice...

My final day in Cornwall (well at least for this trip)... Plymouth Hoe and Barbican.

Mayflower memorial

Thank you Greg, Natalie and families for such a great Christmas! Although I was thousands of miles away from my biological family, I felt so blessed by all of the people I met! I have done so much this past year because of the support and love I feel from family and friends! Thank you all for being significant in my life! Also, congratulations for reading to the end of my Christmas blog!

Love and prayers for this new year! May it be filled with many blessings and may it cause you to give thanks always!

Peace,
Kristen

Trip to London

Hi all,

I have not added to my blog in a very long time. I'm sorry to those who are interested in what I've been up to. I don't have time to write everything, but I will update you on significant things and things that I have pictures of. So on 3rd December I went to London for a day trip. The purpose of the trip was to see a Matt Redman concert/ worship evening at the House of Praise in London. He was part of a Big Church Night In event that was hosted in London. It was incredible to see 2 and a half thousand people all worshiping under one roof in London, England! But I couldn't have gone to London without seeing some of the London sights. So my friend Chis and I took the train to London in the morning to explore a bit. 

The first stop was at a pancake stand where we had pancakes filled with nutella, bananas and cream. YUMMY!

 

 

The London Eye

Westminister Abbey

Big Ben

Parliament buildings

London City scape

            












After walking around the big London attractions we stopped by a Red Carpet event at Madame Tussauds. I met some very famous people. Here are just a few pictures I use as proof...

Usain Bolt (this one's for you Bobby)

I met the Queen a second time.

The best rock band as far as I'm concerned!!

And I did all of that in a day trip to London! While visiting the big London sights and seeing all of these famous was exciting, I think the day ended on an absolutely uplifting note! I loved singing familar Matt Redman songs in an unfamilar city.... it reminded me once again of how grand our God is.

Lots of love,
Kristen

Family: new and reunited

Dear family and friends,

There is no need to send out search and rescue for me. I do apologize that I have not written a blog in far too long! It has been quite busy here with teaching, lesson planning, traveling around England, preparing for Children’s church, participating in a Life Group, and moving to a new home. Once again I have felt so blessed! Where should I begin? 

Let’s start with my new home because many of you have asked about that. Two Fridays ago I moved to a new house. My first week has been absolutely fantastic! I truly feel like part of a family. I live with R and A and their 2 boys B and J (3years and 15 months). They are an absolutely beautiful family and have welcomed me with opened arms. I get up at 5:30 and leave the house by 6:40 in which time the boys are awake and wave bye to me from their living room window. When I come home, the boys greet me with big smiles and hugs and because I am often not home in time for tea at 5pm, they prepare me a plate and set it aside for me with a cover on it and my name on it. I then eat my food and hang out with the boys until it’s time for them to go to bed. Once they’re in bed, I mark papers and lesson plan in front of the tele with the company of R or A, depending on who’s home and who’s not at a meeting or volunteering somewhere. 

Today was the first Saturday that I was living here. I thought I would be able to sleep in and chill out… but I just couldn’t sleep in much longer than 7:30. I heard my new ‘nephew’s’ and wanted to play with them right awayJ. But it was not a problem at all, it was just perfect for me today. B and I had a cuddle this morning while the tele was on. He’s told me that he likes me, which makes me feel so good. 

The Stewarts have only known me for a short time and have already invited me to their family Christmas this year and told me that their expectation is that I join them for family events and things on their calendar. They also clarified that if I’m able to join them, not to feel bad because they do understand that I am still young and will have my own plans. I just feel so blessed to have a family in England.

Speaking of family… for half term break (26 Oct – 4 Nov) I had the opportunity to visit some family in northern England. First I went to Sheffield to visit some friends of dad’s – she used to live on the same street as dad’s family when he lived in England. I had such a good time with them. She is a retired teacher and has recently taken to researching ancestry. She has done so much work for find our family tree on the Ollies’ side and on the Buchanan’s side and found people as far back as 1850s. It was pretty neat to read about their jobs and their travels. By reading through census and other papers, she even found another Ollies (generations ago) who moved to Hamilton, Ontario. She also found one who ended up in Southern England (where I am now) – It’s sort of like a circle. Unfortunately, that family never carried on. She also found that the name Ollies has had several variations… Hollas, Ollis, Olliss, Ollis… so it still is a unique name J.

 

Looking through a window.

Family friends (Barbara and Brian)

Hardwich Hall

John Ryland's library

Uncle and Autie

After Sheffield, we drove through the bleak, yet beautiful Pennines to go to Manchester to visit dad’s Uncle and Auntie. We did so much in 3 days. We visited an art gallery, a historical library still in use, the Manchester Cathedral, had fish ‘n chips, watched Les Miserables – an opera version- in the comforts of their home, and drove through the peak district to visit a picturesque village surrounded by mountain peaks. It was all so brilliant. 

 

The next leg of my journey was to Chester to visit my long lost Ollies’ relatives. What a superb end to a great week! I got off the train in Chester, I knew right away who my cousin (2^nd cousin to be specific) was – Andy looked just as I thought he would from his facebook photos. It was not awkward at all meeting him because we had so much to talk about – family, jobs, and friends. He brought me back to his house where his girlfriend had Mexican food ready for us. After tea, they took me to a pub overlooking the town from a hill… it was dark, but the house lights still made the view gorgeous. We were at the pub for just over an hour and were talking quite comfortably during that time. The next day, we took his girlfriend’s family’s dog for a walk by a river, went for a walk around Chester, and was treated with a bottle of Champaign from his uncle at a local pub. 

 After being warmly welcomed by Uncle, we went to the Cathedral in Chester. It may have been the best Cathedral, I have visited so far. It was so elaborate and huge. We explored during the right time, because there was an evensong while we were there and lots of organs and singing. After our little adventure into town we got ready to meet the rest of the family at an Indian restaurant, but first we quickly skyped mom and Michael so they could be introduced to some other Ollies. The meal was delicious and the company was grand. Tony and Paul were talking about the taboo happenings of the family and about their memories of their cousin, my dad. 

Indian food with the Ollies

After tea, Andy, his girlfriend and I went to meet their friends. Guess where we met them…. That’s right at another pub (the third one in 2 days J). Though the music wasn’t the greatest, it was just fun to play fuse ball and to mock the music. 

Mocking the 'Heavy Metal Music' at the pub.

Andy (my 2nd cousin), Mal, Tony and Paul (cousincs to my dad)

We left the pub kind of early and went back to Andy’s place. That evening we stayed up to the early morning hours and talked and talked about life and so so much. Finally, on Sunday I met the rest of the family, showed them the Ollies’ family tree, exchanged stories and took family photos. When Andy’s Auntie first saw me she commented that I looked just like Clive. I love hearing that… 1^st someone who knows my dad and 2^nd someone who comments that I’m like him. They all took me to the train station and wished me well. It was actually pretty hard for me to leave. In fact on the train, Andy and I were texting each other and each time I received a text from him I just cried. It was just so surreal to visit people who were related to me for the first time and who shared some mannerisms with me. I will absolutely visit that family again in Chester and I hope they will be able to visit Chichester sometime soon!

Half term was a well needed break from school and was a great time to rejuvenate… though I admit that this week was pretty hard to get into the swing of things. Though, as for school, things do seem to be settling down. I hope to write about all of the ins and outs of teaching at the Academy next post. 

Till then... keep being yourself, find something to give you hope and continue loving.

Lots of love,

Kristen

ps. Hopefully the next post won't be so far away :).