Days off

I had two days off from work because of what the Italian's call a concorso.  From what I understand, this is where they test new teachers.  These teachers have to pass tests and "win" or "pass" this concorso in order to be hired for jobs in the school system.  Valeria explained some of it to me, and it just seems really competitive for jobs that some of the teachers do not seem to enjoy!  Anyway, apparently they take all of these tests, and some of the current teachers find it pointless.

So, on Monday I used my time to run errands, bought my first coffee (the FIRST coffee III have paid for here in Italy), went to the grocery store, and walked in the rain.  Thanks to Nick's help, I ordered my first fresh turkey from the guy in the grocery store!  I spent the rest of the morning working on blogs.  I had lunch, went out for a walk later, just to get out.  It was dark, but I enjoyed just exploring a little.  I went into a new grocery store; well, new to me!  I did not see anything there I needed, and it was more expensive.  I worked on blogs, made dinner, and then I got to talk to Erin on facebook for longer than normal.  I love talking to my  Erin!  I love talking to all of my people from home; I really do think it has kept me from being homesick.  I spent the rest of the night planning some things, and I heard Alan Jackson on tv...go figure.  I went to bed late, and talked to Nick.  It really was just a nothing sort of day.  Oh, and this morning when I walked the Corso, I saw some of my students; not surprisingly though, because school was out!

Tuesday was even more of a nothing day!  It rained most of the day, so I stayed inside and worked on blogs.  I ate lunch, the best lunch in all of Italy, and worked on blogs more.  

No, your eyes do not deceive you...those ARE tomatoes.  It is really good like this!  It looks like A LOT of food, but it is the perfect amount, and is helping me eat LESS bread!  Yay!  

Later I went out to buy some fruit, and saw my fabulous fruit/veggie people.  I love them so much!  THey are always so friendly and welcoming!  I also stopped and tried on a coat...did not like it!  BUMMER!!  I spent the rest of the night working on my "Christmas in the US" lesson plan, and talking to Nick.  

Boring two days off...I know...but it was somewhat needed!!!