First Day of School- September... no wait, March 3rd

I apologize for not writing in a while. Things have been a bit stressful getting ready for school and actually starting it. We began on Monday and I learned that the first graders remember nothing from last year, so my activities were way over their head, therefore, they didn't want to listen. So, I adjusted my lesson for the next day and it was much better. Except for on Tuesday, second grade stopped listening. So then I became discouraged. I feel like the week's kind of a blur already but I do know one thing, everyday, one of the classes went really well and the other class, not so much. So far I've learned that if I want to teach them a different language, I need to play games almost constantly. The games have worked out most times so I'm encouraged that that's my way to go, but with first grade, I still feel like I'm not sure how to keep them on task and sitting in their seats constantly. I'm thinking I'll be giving out a lot stickers this next week. They absolutely love stickers. Anyone want to donate some? Sorry this entry isn't the most exciting. I'm a bit burnt out at the moment but I figured you guys may be wondering how my first week went. Prayers would completely be appreciated.

I'm really starting to appreciate the temperature here. Random thought, I know, but I saw on my alarm clock/thermometer last night that it was 59 degrees in my room and I'm thinking, wow, I remember in the States when I needed it to be around 73 or something. Yes, my toes are cold at the moment, but if I would just put socks on, I'd be ok. I'm used to the cold now, but from what I hear it gets a lot colder in the winter, so then I'll be writing about how much I appreciate our fireplace. Another thing I now love is the view from the classrooms. We're on the third floor and the view is priceless, just a long line of mountains close by.

On the left, this guy was on the third floor working on putting in windows, not scared at all that there was nothing to keep him from falling 30 ft.

Below, before picture of the second grade room.

Top left, Hannah and Destiny cleaning the school. The rooms were completely filled with all that dust. Top right, after picture of second grade. Left, first grade class.

As a side note, for anyone who is completely generous enough to send me a package, PLEASE do not make it more than 4 pounds or more than $100 worth of stuff. Making it one or both of the above means that I need to go into a special room and I can only get there between 8:30 and 12:30 in the morning/afternoon and I'm not able to do that with school. Plus, if it's over $100, I have to pay tax, half of whatever the box costs. Thanks!