It's been a stressful week.

I am happy to say that my time actually in classrooms is increasing. I have been repeatedly assuring people that I honestly don't mind doing things like vocabulary and pronunciation drills, or reading the dialogues from the book. That, plus it's actually embarrassing to be sitting in the teacher's room doing nothing, while everyone else in the room is busily working.

Plus, it's rather depressing to show up all ready to go to work only to be told that you're not needed. . . .

A lot of students are still somewhat nervous to speak to the resident foreigner. Many times, when I say hello, students will maybe say "hello" in response, but they'll always giggle or laugh (depending on if it's boys or girls), and try to sneak away from me.

I believe that the solution is to get me in their classes more, so that they become more comfortable with the fact that this giant American is in their midst.

Well, I'm trying. . . .

Still, it's quite frustrating at times. Thank goodness next weekend is a long one. Some friends and I are going on that trip to Hiroshima for a few days. Spending some time away from Kagoshima will probably do wonders for all of our stress levels.

Here's hoping, anyways.

Still trying to maintain that positive attitude. . . .

R