Lepatriinu lood

Sunny, snowy, cold!

2012-01-29T06:16:00.000-08:00

Wow! More than -20C at night, -12 and more at the daytime. The sun is shining, I even needed my sunglasses for walking to the city centre. Yes, I did walk! Lots of people on the bike path skiing, walking, jogging, not cycling though. Everybody is enjoying that beautiful delayed winter time. It may mean that tomorrow our younger students are skipping school because of the cold weather. Not bad! Ha-ha!

Snow!

2012-01-19T14:24:00.000-08:00

Yes! Finally we've got some snow! Happy children are playing in the piles of snow. Adults are glad too because everything seems lighter, softer and better now. You can never be completely happy, can you. I already hear complaints from those who have to shovel snow. Not me! :-)

Friday 13th

2012-01-13T10:11:00.000-08:00

Well, I am rather superstitious but this time I totally forgot about the meaningful date and remembered only when I saw an article in our tabloid describing what people believe in.

I had a rather busy morning because I had to go to the migration office to pick up my new ID which looked differently than my old one. New design, more security elements. An absolutely horrible picture of me which I took myself in the photobooth at the office. OK! No one grows younger unfortunately. Later I missed my bus (bad luck?) and instead of walking downhill (pretty far from the city centre!) I went to the mall to have a look at new discounts and took the mall express downtown. My next task was to go to the library and return my book, then I picked up my package at the post office. The best part of the day so far comes now: the clerk looked at my new ID and she didn't believe it was me in the picture! Ha-ha! I received a new bag from ASOS I had ordered recently. I love that e-store! I surely loved my new bag which I didn't need at all, of course.

Back at home I discovered a new message from the postal service. Another package! I guess, from Joe. Back to the post office again? No, thanks! I am dying of curiosity but too lazy to go back. Instead I tidied my rooms and watched one of my favourite movies again (Julie and Julia). Lots of schoolwork to do but not today, perhaps tomorrow!

Welcome 2012

2012-01-01T01:18:00.000-08:00

Here we are, in 2012! What a miracle, we had a thin layer of snow covering the ground in the morning! We started enthusiastically - I decided to fulfil my friend Villi's (my dog!) NewYear wish and took him for a long walk in the nearby woods. It was like in a fairy tale, magic white tall trees, absolutely silently standing there and watching us. Everyone was sleeping after celebrations, no traffic, even Villi's friends, two lovely puppies didn't bark, they only waved their tails for greeting.

Back at home after a cup of coffee I started a really serious work - filling in the questionnaire which was created to count residents of Estonia. Surely it has an official name which I don't know. Anyway, it took approximately 40 mins. I am truly proud of myself, so busy, so hardworking in the first hours of the New Year. Must be a good sign, I believe!

HAPPY, HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Want to know a secret? I've got a new 15,6`` PC and I am anxiously trying to "tame" it. I have a new toy, a Christmas gift!

Happy 2012!

2011-12-31T13:37:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year, my friends!

Our Russian-speaking citizens started to celebrate at 11pm already because of the time difference with Moscow. The sky is full of fireworks, nice! Luckily my faithful dog Villi isn't afraid of that noise and light.

25 minutes left of the old year and there it comes - 2012! I am full of expectations that it will be much better and more interesting than this leaving one!

Back from Riga

2011-12-29T07:40:00.000-08:00

Our trip to Riga was successful! We saw a lot, we heard a lot of interesting facts of history and legends, and we had a lot of free time as well. Everyone enjoyed the trip! I bought on the Christmas fair a nice souvenir for Kev whose birthday is pretty soon. Don't hope I'll tell what it is!

This morning I went to the police to renew my ID. First I thought of renewing my ID-card only but later decided to have a new passport either. You never know when you may have an opportunity to travel in some country which doesn't belong to the EU. I was amazed how well-organized was the procedure in the office! Times have really changed. Ten years ago everything went smoothly too but now... just great!!!

We were told that there really are blue cows in the south of Latvia! We found one in downtown of Riga.

HAPPY COMING NEW YEAR!

Spring!

2011-12-26T07:27:00.000-08:00

Unbelievable! We had a very stormy night and guess what happened! This morning was sunny and bright, no snow, no ice. Green grass and blue sky. Plus 8C outside. One of our old plum trees was broken, saved by the nature, we wanted to cut it anyway.

I walked to the supermarket (appr 4km to go) and in some places it was truly hard because of the continuing strong wind. Back by bus. It was a nice Christmas morning walk anyway!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T10:01:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas, my friends!

I just came back from Christmas dinner in Jogeva. We did have a white Christmas Eve which was great! In the morning I had my little morning walk and there was at least 2cm layer of snow!

Unfortunately by the time we were leaving Jogeva it was gone and nasty icy rain had begun to fall. The road was icy and we all begged that Andres, our driver, was careful and able to manage in these extreme conditions. We made it!

Now I am listening to Christmas music, Villi is sleeping beside me, Siim is watching Home alone! Peaceful and quiet outside. No more food, no, no!

No plans for tomorrow and the day after tomorrow which is good! Done enough already.

On Thursday we had our teachers' Christmas dinner in the Laulupeo museum. Lots of fun! Our next plan is Riga! Long ride but worth to go.

One more time Happy Holidays to everyone! I hope you'll like the video I added.

We wish you a Merry Christmas by Enya

Leap year

2011-12-15T13:25:00.000-08:00

Lucky me! I found in YouTube one of my favourites - Leap Year and enjoyed watching it again. It was a good timing, I guess, because 2012 is a leap year! I'm dreaming of Christmas vacation already although it doesn't seem to be nice and white. Well, nice is enough, we have seen white Christmases before, but rainy ones not very often.

Not many plans yet. A trip to Riga on 28th is the only one in my calendar so far. You never know! At least I have a pile of books I'd like to read and some new DVDs I have purchased recently. Some necessary things to do as well. I have to get a new ID and first of all a new picture for it. I think of it every morning when I wake up, but by the time I get to school I've already forgotten about it. You see, I do need my vacation badly to get my reason back :-)!

One day

2011-12-10T10:57:00.001-08:00

What a day! Full of nice events organised by myself for myself! Sometimes we may allow such things, may we?

This morning I spent in spa again. Although it's more expensive at weekends I didn't care and was the only customer from 9-10. Later some more people joined. Pleasure! Different saunas, jacuzzi, swimming in the pool.

Later I went to the cinema. I had dreamt for a long time of the film One Day.Finally I had time to go. No regrets! It was better than I expected, a bit sad too...

My next destination was a bookstore. I lost a fortune there but I can't tell what I purchased because some of you are the addressees and I hope you'll receive your new books by Christmas.

Hard to believe it's time to light the third candle already! Still rainy here. Some sleet today though.

Christmas season

2011-11-27T06:30:00.001-08:00

It's the first advent. We light the candle and keep waiting for Christmas and our holiday. Our weather is rainy and stormy, not Christmas-like at all.

Last night with our girls was great. There were ten of us and it was really nice to be together again. Mr Kaasik was truly surprised when we brought him lots of flowers and a gift, Riina's last book. He bought us champagne and then we talked and talked a lot about Riina and other things. Our next meeting was arranged to take place at Leevi, in Põlva county, at Aasa's. I have never been there, should be exciting!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-25T12:06:00.001-08:00

I spent a day at school substituting my sick colleague. I liked it! Never taught philosophy and different electives. We had interesting discussions and finally watched a movie together.

Tomorrow I am meeting my old coursemates and we are celebrating our course teacher's 80th birthday.

Happy Thanksgiving!

My heart

2011-11-23T09:41:00.001-08:00

What a story! After Riina had passed away so unexpectedly, I finally decided to take care of myself and visit my doctor because of weakness and pain in my heart. I truly hoped it was the result of stress. It turned out that not really. Indeed, I was tested in different ways and diagnosed as a person who needs permanent treatment. Well, let me drink medicine and pay more attention to nutrition.

My new hobby is swimming in the pool. After my first time in the Aura centre I have been there three more times and once in Kuremaa. I truly enjoy that! I have been very busy recently because of substituting my sick colleagues and it means I haven't had free Fridays and Mondays anymore.

Last Monday we went to Konguta, a small school not far from Tartu. It was fantastic. There were only 55 students in that school, 6 forms. They were so polite and well-behaving, the building was clean and colorful and all the staff very friendly. We had lots of things to learn.

Now we are getting ready to celebrate our course teacher's jubilee. He turned 80 a couple of weeks ago. At least 9 of our girls are coming together and we'll go to the Hansatall, a nice small restaurant not far from the city centre.

The weather is still warm and nice, no snow!

Back at school

2011-11-03T15:35:00.000-07:00

Our fall vacation is over. A week full of hard work, entertainment and grief! We had probably the last nice fall days, warm and colourful, the weathermen predict nice but cool weather for the next decade. Let's see. I enjoyed myself on the first days of my vacation doing nothing except reading, walking, watching movies.

One day I spent at school trying to tidy my cabinets rather unsuccessfully. Another day I spent in Viljandi at the Tiger Leap conference. That was truly great. Lots of new ideas, new stuff, meeting good old friends.

Thursday was the last day of a long-term course. We all were happy to have our certificates and leave it behind.

Friday was shocking. I discovered absolutely occasionally my groupmate's obituary in one of our papers. I couldn't believe it. The day passed in endless phone calls to our groupmates. Riina was my dear deskmate, a very interesting and joyful person. She was the only one from our group who didn't stay at school, she actually never went there. She became a popular aroma therapist and she recently published a new book. I just had to go to her funeral although I don't like such things at all (who does?). No need to describe how sad it was. Fortunately another groupmate who lives in Tln could join me.

Another shocking news today. One of our most popular politicians passed away in China. He belonged to our state delegation. He was only 63!

Good reading

2011-10-22T18:46:00.000-07:00

I was suggested a good detective story - Agatha Raisin and the Quiche of Death by MC Beaton. I loved it! Very British, very witty, absolutely great entertainment!

The first term at school is over and I am enjoying my vacation which began with light fever and sore throat. The more I enjoyed the book.

I hope I'll be OK by Wednesday. I am going to Viljandi then, a conference. I am looking forward to it with the biggest expectations.

Fantastic Friday!

2011-10-07T05:53:00.000-07:00

Our teachers' day celebration went really well. Lots of fun, a nice trip to Luua plus the very best weather! We enjoyed it a lot! So did our students.

My free Friday has been gorgeous so far. I left to town early in the morning to have haircut and go to the Aura center. I had never been there before, weird but true. In October the Aura center celebrates its birthday and they have huge discounts. I went to the pool, different saunas and jacuzzi. Friday is a workday and in the morning the center was almost empty. Lucky me!

Later I had a shopping tour and a long walk in downtown because the weather was sunny and nice. Back at home it became a bit boring, did some laundry and cleaned rooms. The Royal is waiting for me and 2 more free days are coming ahead. Yes!

Happy International Teachers' Day!

2011-10-04T11:38:00.000-07:00

Happy International Teachers' Day, dear colleagues! Our 12-graders have been excited for a long time already getting to become substitute teachers tomorrow. The real teachers are getting ready for celebrations.
We are leaving to Luua, an old manor in Jogeva county. Most of us have never been there but actually it is a nice place to go! More later!

Heat record!

2011-09-30T12:48:00.000-07:00

September is leaving us with unbelievably nice weather. We got a heat record for Sept 30 in several places. 22,6C in Jogeva. People were sunbathing at Parnu beach. It was pretty windy though.

October is a Teachers' month. We are planning a little trip to Luua Oct 5. This is our long tradition already: our 12-graders are teachers that day and the real teachers have a day off (not really!)
I spent this lovely, sunny and warm day mostly outdoors. Only The Royal made me come in and watch TV. I love this telenovela! Sorry, no connection with Mexican soaps at all but I love this word also. Telenovela, sounds so lovely.

Lots of schoolwork planned for this weekend because the term is over rather soon. I have to create tests, torture my students with them and later to read and assess those tests. Well, that's the teacher's life!

My second long weekend

2011-09-18T03:03:00.000-07:00

Not so happy anymore because the weekend has been extremely busy :-(
Friday was very rainy, a real downpour in the morning, a bit better later. I had things to do and I had to dress up really warm incl my wellies and even a hat.

Guess, what I did? I went to hand in my application for pension. The clerk, I met in the office, was lovely. My homework had been done and I spent 20 minutes max filling in different papers. Such a funny feeling - being a pensioner! In the Soviet time it would have happened 7 years ago already!

Later we had our long-term course at school till 4pm. Pretty boring but OK! The same on Saturday (!). This morning I have spent cooking and baking but it's time to start my schoolwork unfortunately...

I do like my schoolwork but there are so many things to do that are more interesting!

First week is over!

2011-09-10T08:22:00.000-07:00

My first long weekend this school year. My schedule is amazingly good! I have classes only on Tue, Wed and Thu. On Monday I should be on the meeting only because I am a mentor for our new vice, she has no experience but she is our former teacher which makes things easier.

My Fridays are free! Although I have been pretty busy this weekend creating plans and my online course I found time to go to the Fall Fair on Town Hall Square and purchase a wreath of onions. The weather is perfect and it isn't easy to spend a day behind my laptop.

Sept 1 we had assemblies only and Sept 2 a museum day, outdoor learning which was great. I took our 7-graders to the National Museum,we had three classes there and lunch.

Happy so far, let's see how it works on my pay check :-)

Almost ready

2011-08-27T06:13:00.000-07:00

Almost ready for school! Last week was rather busy except Monday which was still free.
Nothing serious do at school because construction workers were everywhere cleaning, painting, whatsoever. No computers connected yet, etc

Well, I had more things to do. My presentation in Parnu went rather well, I hope. I enjoyed my trip a lot because the weather was perfect, I met lots of friends and good colleagues and had time to walk around in the city and even do some shopping. I did find the English copy of the King`s speech! Now my next concern is how to get rid of the Estonian version which I definitely won`t read. Not a big trouble, I guess.

Yesterday I was on the EL teachers `s meeting. Interesting but tiring, the more that the weather continues be absolutely perfect!

My annual report for the teachers` meeting has been finished and I actually have nothing to do for school yet. Oh my! As an administrator I would have been running around and preparing for assemblies, etc.
Long live my freedom!

Another festival

2011-08-20T06:29:00.000-07:00

Such an important day! 20 years of independence, my brother's 57th birthday and the Emajõe festival.
Nobody can claim that summers in Tartu when uni students are on their holiday are boring! This summer we have had even more events than ever, several of them international.

Aug 19-20 is the Emajõe Festival + the annual Brass bands festival. The weather though isn't very friendly. It was raining in the morning when there was a fishing competition and old boats' show on the river. Although tens of fishermen were probably in their usual conditions.
I felt sorry for the orchestrants because of the lack of audience. Few brave citizens and surprised tourists only listening to them. The bravest ones went dancing in front of the stage!

I would have enjoyed more but I have a work to do - a presentation for the EATE conference which I have postponed as long as I could but now I have to finish it because the conference is on 23-24 already.

Every free moment I spend reading The King's Speech, it is much more informative than the splendid film was. I had an English copy in the library but I couldn't purchase it for myself and finally I bought the translation into Estonian not to be rid of any. Not the best interpretattion unfortunately. I'll try in e-shops again.

A day in Helsinki

2011-08-14T15:32:00.000-07:00

A monument to Sibelius.

Last Friday I spent in Helsinki in a rather unusual company for me - the retired teachers of Jõgeva. Well, it´s time to get used to it, to be a pensioner. Ha-ha! First of all I´d become one. I certainly will, in 27 days.

I have been to Helsinki rather often but never as a tourist. This time we had a tour guide and we drove around in Helsinki and its surroundings. Lots of places I´d visited before but not all of them we were shown + our guide Jaak, an elderly man, knew many truly interesting stories and legends in addition to facts he told us.

The weather was absolutely beautiful, sunny and not hot which was good for travelling. A 24-hour day was rather tiring but interesting. Pictures later!

One more week of vacation!

Haapsalu Vol 2

2011-08-06T12:18:00.000-07:00

The Gallery of Evald Okas.

Packing! Last night in Haapsalu. We saw a lot, we had a really good service by spa personnel and we were amazed how friendly and helpful people live here.

Unfortunately there were two bad things also - firstly, the time flew too fast and, secondly, the pavements in town were in a bad condition. Indeed, I have never walked along such rough and broken sidewalks as here. Downtown was OK but all these small narrow streets were hard to walk. One of ladies in our spa fell last night walking back to spa and broke her wrist. What a pity!

Haapsalu Vol 1

2011-08-03T00:54:00.000-07:00

This is our third morning in heavenly Haapsalu. We still haven't got bored with this little town which has different opportunities for holiday makers and people who need treatment.

I don´t know this town very well, not to say not at all, and every day is full of new discoveries. Our schedule is not very busy - three procedures in the morning and later we are free. At 6am we usually go for a swim in the pool, which is a good start. Later we have a nice breakfast and our treatments. I have a regular massage every day, electric treatment and sometimes aroma bath(juniper!) and sometimes water massage. The spa seems not crowded which is amazing because we were told it was sold out. We also were told that at the end of August even more people are coming, mostly Finns.

Last night I went to the Episcopal Castle and famous Müüriääre cafe. Some interesting plans for today as well. Endless walks along the Promenade and lovely city every night. I have taken and I keep taking pictures.

Well, I have to run now!

The Circle

2011-07-29T02:42:00.000-07:00

Last night we went to watch an open-air performance by WS Maugham The Ring which was presented in Alatskivi Castle. The castle has been fully restored and looks gorgeous, lots of things still have to be done.

The cast was excellent and we enjoyed every single moment. The play had been sold out for a long time ago but thanks to Oleg we got the advantage tickets and the best seats. Fantastic!

Europeade and the HansaeticDays

2011-07-21T10:27:00.000-07:00

Folk dancers from France. Pay attention to their clogs!

Europeade is in Tartu. It's the 48th time when dancers from all over Europe come together. Downtown of Tartu has changed into a busy European city. Folk dance groups everywhere, walking around in their beautiful costumes, dancing on many different temporary stages. Poor dancers, today we had our this summer heat record -+31,8C! The audience tried to hide in the shade.

This is only the first day. Tomorrow is the opening of Hansaetic Days and Hansaetic Fair. Lots to see and enjoy. I am afraid of being melted!

A new toy

2011-07-19T12:28:00.000-07:00

I finally realized one of my old dreams and purchased a tiny laptop notebook, although yesterday I bought a wire for my old one. Well, my old one is good for school work, this one I can carry around really for notes. It fits in my purse and is really light. I have spent this afternoon trying to tame my new toy. Lots of new things to discover!

My next dream is an Ebook reader!

Enjoying my vacation

2011-07-18T10:50:00.000-07:00

A nice corner in the Botanical gardens.

Truly hot again! I had problems with my laptop wire again and needed to go downtown to fix the problem. Rather overwhelming but successful trip. The problem wasn't as bad as I thought and I could have a new wire for 7 euros. Yes! I was ready for the worst - 45 euros. We depend on our computers more than we think.

My new food project is biscuit cakes. Several recipes are ready for trying. We haven't decided yet when and what exactly we are going to make.

I also have a pile of books and DVDs waiting. Last night I watched again The King's Speech. What a wonderful picture!

Pretty soon I am leaving for Haapsalu with the greatest hope for good treatment and entertainment. I am looking forward to it!

No news from Wendy! I wonder if she has received my tiny birthday gift. Should be there already.

Believe or not - I spent half a day gardening! Must say, I liked it.

Joy and grief

2011-07-14T05:39:00.000-07:00

Hoorah!
Our cyclists who were kept 114 days in Lebanon are free!!!!! I haven't heard or read detailed information yet but it even doesn't matter. They are alive and will be back home tomorrow afternoon!

Our 2-day reunion went successfully. We spent half a day at AHHAA centre, had a lovely dinner at the Crepp cafe and later we walked around and had nice chat in our Botanical Gardens. The next day we spent at Raadi manor and kept talking. So many memories, news...

This morning I got a shocking news: our 15-year old student had passed away the day before yesterday. She had cancer but her mom and doctors were pretty optimistic because cancer was diagnosed in a very early stage and treatment went successfully. You never know....

Her funeral is on coming Sunday. How awfully sad!

Still getting ready for our reunion!

2011-07-09T05:26:00.000-07:00

More nice roses from our Botanical gardens.

We had another "testing" yesterday. We went to see another new film in the Cinamon to be sure whether advise or not that one. Oh my Gosh! I badly wanted to leave in the first half an hour. This film was as bad or even worse than Hangover. Not sure what the exact English title was - Horrible Bosses, I guess.
The only good thing was that the cinema had the AC and it was better inside than in terrible heat outside.
Later we went to our favourite Crepp cafe to have a taste mouthful of their good food. Much better!

This morning I went to the open-air fair on the shore of the Emajõgi. My second time already. Last time I got rid off my old bags, shoes and some mugs and plates and earned 15 euros, this time I had my scarves and beads - 5 euros! Heat and crowd were the signs of this fair. Fun anyway! I think now I'll finish this experience.

Getting ready for our reunion party

2011-07-05T05:16:00.000-07:00

A nice rose in our Botanical Gardens.
Hello July!

Yesterday friends of mine celebrated the Independence Day! Delayed congratulations!

Me and my former group mate from Pedagogical College are organizing our annual reunion in Tartu. Pretty busy but pleasantly.

Now it has been announced that our TFG will continue as a middle school. The agony is finally over, teachers are running away as expected, new ones are coming.

Well, this is not the issue I wanted to tell about! It has been a pleasure to go around in Tartu and think of possible routes and activities for our "girls"! We tasted food in Crepp, went to see Arthur at the Cinamon and had a nice long walk in Raadi park. Fun, fun, fun! Hopefully the weather stays warm and beautiful and everything will go smoothly!

I am glad that I have found a new old friend again. We have lots of plans and ideas what to do together in the future.

Last weekend I went to see an open-air performance in the Song Festivals museum. I liked it. Good laughter is healing!

Believe or not but I did some gardening today! The result - three bandaged fingers! Nothing catastrophic, that's my terribly gentle skin.

Victory day and Midsummer night

2011-06-23T12:23:00.000-07:00

This is it. Last long days, since now days are getting shorter and nights longer. Midsummer.
The Victory day parade was held in Tartu this year.We enjoyed a lot the parade, tattoo, weapon exhibition and concert on Town Hall Square. Later we had our own little Midsummer fire in our garden with the Luutsepps. A truly nice day!

What a relief!

2011-06-21T13:22:00.000-07:00

Yes! Promotion is over, my desk and cabinets are cleaned and tomorrow is my last day at work before summer vacation begins. I enjoyed our middle school leavers assembly, I knew these kids better than high school students. Unfortunately I was brought a pile of roses by them. No, it was not a mistake! I did say unfortunately because I truly don't like bouquets, I prefer flowers in my flowerbeds or potted flowers. I know, it sounds pretty weird, sorry! Well, my roses are in big vases under my apple tree now and seem to be happy. So am I.

Our high school students didn't pay much attention to me which was good. I never taught them (actually I did in Form 8 and 9 but only a few of them) and didn't feel committed.

As always some good colleagues are leaving and new ones are coming. That's the life! This year I got my chance to become a teacher again and leave my hated administrator's position. People at school don't know it yet but I already made a deal with my headmaster and it is a damn good feeling!!! Long live my freedom!

School-leaving parties

2011-06-18T01:28:00.000-07:00

A happy Saturday, no other commitments than to go to a school-leaving party at midday. My niece's son Emil is graduating middle school.

It is pretty windy and unpredictable weather outside. We had a nice long walk with Villi in our nearby forest and now I am trying to decide what to put on and which flowers to buy. One moment there is sunshine and the next moment we'd be ready for downpour. One good thing is anyway - such weather is not the best for gardening!

My gardening time will be here truly soon anyway - next week is the last one at school before my vacation. July 3 I am going to an open-air performance and the last week of July for Haapsalu medical spa.

I also have an invitation to a day-trip in Helsinki and 3-day trip in Sweden. Let's see. Piles of books are waiting for me, new DVDs...

On Tuesday we are seeing off our school-leavers and no-one knows exactly yet what happens next. Some of our young teachers are changing their jobs, some colleagues are retiring... Rather vague future. Why concern, indeed? There has always been a solution, maybe not always the best one.

Heat! Cycling.

2011-06-11T07:14:00.000-07:00

Well, well, well, here it comes, the summer!

Truly hard to go to school in such nice weather - +30 and sometimes even more. I mean, going to school as a process itself is OK! but staying there is a torture!

As soon as our regular classes ended I started to go to school by bike. What a pleasure! Why not sooner? I just hate carrying and changing clothes which is needed after my 20-minute ride in the morning. I do change my T-shirts anyway but casual clothing is better than smart. For better understanding my feelings go to YouTube and listen again to Bicycle Race by Queen!

Lots of paperwork and cleaning in a stuffy school building but the vacation is almost here. A week and a half and we are done! I hate all this paperwork but fortunately there are some nice things every day too. One day of last week we spent at the first aid course which was rather funny but useful, no doubt. The day before yesterday my colleagues went to Avinurme for their recreation trip, I spent my day in Tallinn because of my duty as a mentor. Well, I am not complaining I was happier in Tallinn rather than in Avinurme. The only bad thing was a long bus ride twice a day but everything else was gorgeous.

I probably won't go to Jogeva tomorrow, the first ladies' folk dance festival. I'll have a day off on Thursday which I am going to spend there anyway. But I do have nice plans for tomorrow. Don't be curious, let it be my little secret. Maybe later I'll tell you.

I just received a letter from Claire which probably means that I can go back to Graz in September. I wish it truly happened!

My flowerbeds need watering and my favourite TV-shows are beginning.

June!

2011-06-02T13:38:00.000-07:00

Here we are, it's June already! Tomorrow is the last day of school, last day of regular classes. Later only exam takers and lazy bones will be running around. Gorgeous!

Today we had the last bell for 9-formers and the final assembly for high school. In the afternoon we had a really nasty conversation with a parent of one of our students. Fortunately our student herself was much smarter than her furious mum. A stupid story which I don't want to discuss or even mention anymore!

At the past weekend I went to Jogeva to celebrate 73 of the town and my sister's birthday. The weather was wonderful, we enjoyed the concert, fair, etc. The mayor, my former student, made a speech and invited citizens for a piece of cake and a cup of coffee which was nice. Not sure yet if I'd like to go to the first Women's Dance Festival next weekend. Maybe!

Joe 40!

2011-05-21T06:49:00.000-07:00

There he is, a birthday-boy, hiding behind his Halloween pumpkin! Congratulations on your birthday which was May 19 already but as I know the celebrations are still going on!

I know, I know he wouldn't want the age being mentioned but... 40 is a truly wonderful age especially for men, isn't it? I wish I were still 40...

Everyone who knows Joe here is thinking of him and sending their best.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DEAR JOE!

Eurovision Song Contest

2011-05-16T14:24:00.000-07:00

Look for Getter Jaani and Rockefeller Street in YouTube and you can enjoy our eurosong. Not very successful, though, but lovely!

Sweet!

2011-05-01T03:09:00.001-07:00

The whole world celebrated the Royal wedding, splendid! A happy young couple, lots of family, friends and other people witnessing their marvellous wedding ceremony, glamorous and heart-warming at the same time!

I remembered my very first visit to Westminster Abbey. I succeeded to take part in the service. I guess it was in 1998. I tried to remember each detail then and now a lot of things seemed and sounded familiar as if I had been there and kept watching secretly :-)

I have always been interested in the Royal families, especially British, and gathered material from magazines, papers and web. The week before the wedding was full of interesting information.I liked a lot different British documentaries shown on our TV. First of all because of their language, and secondly the discreet information. I used to be a reader of the magazine Majesty, I probably should renew my subscription.

Alo

2011-04-24T10:14:00.001-07:00

This is Alo Mattisen, a top-twelve composer whose 50th birthday was celebrated in Jogeva Apr 22. Alo was born, grew up and graduated high school in Jogeva. He died very young, at the age of 35. He became famous for his patriotic songs which helped Estonian people keep together those days when we were fighting for our independence. He was a talented pianist and composer.

His home town celebrated his jubilee with a midnight song festival which brought together lots of people from all over Estonia. His friends Ivo Linna and Tõnis Mägi sang Alo's and other patriotic songs, so did choirs. That night was beautiful, stars shining above singers.

My personal connection with Alo was brief, he graduated school in spring 1979, I came to Jogeva in autumn 1979. I met Alo at school anniversaries, I have taught her younger sister Ade and met her mother Helmi. As everyone in Jogeva I was proud of his success and admired his talent.

A year after Alo had passed away, his friends organised a memorial concert in Tallinn Song Festival Field, which also brought together hundreds of people who had loved a talented composer and wanted to honour him.

Harassment

2011-04-08T13:07:00.000-07:00

Still no good news from Lebanon!

I myself have become an object of stupid harassment. Recently I have received snail mail letters from Morocco announcing "good news" about my relative who had been killed in a plane crash and I could have his money now. In my school mailbox appear messages announcing that I have won the lottery and lately I have received weird phone messages asking to call dialling a given number. No names, no hints who sends me those SMSs or who I should call. I have been too lazy to inform the police but one day I'll probably do it when I get really mad.

We finally have spring! A couple of days ago I saw a first butterfly. Snow is melting fast and my backyard has become truly huge without piles of snow. First snowdrops are happy to look out.

There were some nice warm days recently and I forgot to put on my coat taking Villi out. It was a stupid mistake because I caught nasty cold + I cough like a horse (Estonian expression). Fortunately two free days are coming ahead, hopefully I can have some rest and get in a better shape.

What a crazy world!

2011-03-25T04:41:00.001-07:00

Another bad news - 7 Estonian cyclists were kidnapped in Lebanon! Whatever the reasons were, they couldn't be serious, I mean, those men were just tourists. Poor families, most of kidnapped men have wives and kids waiting them home and sitting with no information for three days already. Our government and local authorities in Lebanon are trying to give their best...

My school vacation is almost over, pretty busy though. 3 days on a course, collecting data, reports, etc.

Back to school on Monday, I hate the daylight saving time which is coming this weekend. I am always very sleepy for at least a week. It could be OK if my students felt the same way, unfortunately never!

This morning I had a long walk, I went to the supermarket and chemist's on foot (appr 3-4 km). It was nice, cold and sunny! Now there is a snowstorm again outside. I am safe and sound, having fire in my fireplace and Villi sleeping by my feet.

That's our spring!

Thank you!

2011-03-12T09:45:00.000-08:00

Thanks, my friends, for your good wishes and nice postcards, gifts and flowers! I truly enjoyed my B-day last night.

However, happiness and sadness go together. First, tragic news from Japan, I hope Mai's family is OK, secondly, our former neigbour and my brother's good friend passed away and his funeral was today. He was born Mar 11 too and he always brought me flowers, not any more ...

This long winter has taken away 5 of our neighbours and we don't live in foster care :-(.

Let's hope that spring and summer will be better. First signs of spring are in the air although we had a snowstorm again. Pretty powerless.

Last week I was invited to a concert and to the theatre. Not very impressive though, OK, hopefully better next time.

Happy Independence Day!

2011-02-23T22:53:00.000-08:00

Hello, everyone! Estonia is celebrating its 93th anniversary today. Happy holiday! We decided to celebrate it at home doing nothing except watching TV, eating good food and walking Villi, of course.

Last night I went to the concert hall of Vanemuine with a friend of mine.There was an official celebration with speeches, concert and a glass of wine. No dancing afterwards because Estonia is mourning. We lost 10 children in an awful fire in Haapsalu orphanage last Sunday which is unbelievably sad. Those children were sick in bed and absolutely helpless.

Our long cold and snowy winter has caused lots of bad fires with victims. The snow itself has caused accidents breaking roofs and houses. It is still cold outside and we have to keep making fire every day trying to be more careful than ever. This winter seems endless. Days have become longer and middays are sunny and rather warm (-10C-15C), nights are still clear and cold with moonlight and blinking stars.

A couple of weeks ago I finished my long course in Tallinn, I'd miss it because we had a nice company and truly good lecturers. Well, I am invited to a conference Apr 2 to make a presentation of my experience in Graz. I always wonder why things go so slowly in our country. I was invited to different conferences and other meetings to share my experience in US schools not immediately when I came back, but several years later. I took part in the international project in Graz in 2008 and now I should remember the details?! Funny and hard to understand. OK! I don't want to skip the opportunity to be back in Tallinn, the more I get paid for my presentation :-).

March is almost here and makes me believe that the next school holiday is not far away. Great!

It's February already

2011-01-31T11:44:00.000-08:00

It's hard to believe but January is over and February is knocking in the door. I spent 3 great days in Tallinn recently, taking my assessment course. The last part of it is coming next week. I would say it was better than a school holiday although we had long days full of interesting speakers and discussions. Long walks after "school", nice stay at the Ideons. I am looking forward to the next meeting.

I recently received a postcard from Nepal, from Joe, another one from Tom and Cheryl, Seattle, and the third one from Portland. Delayed New Year wishes, but it is never too late for good things. Thanks, my friends!

Euros

2011-01-15T13:28:00.000-08:00

15 days in the euro-zone! Rather exciting!

Happy New Year!

2010-12-31T09:47:00.000-08:00

Welcome to euros!

It's rather weird (?) to go to the store tomorrow or the day after tomorrow and to have euros instead kroons. Some people are unhappy and feel betrayed. Not me. I admire how well everything has been organised and prepared. We still remember long lines when kroons arrived and we had to exchange our 1500 roubles per person.

Welcome to the capital of European culture!

Joyful celebrations in Tallinn and Turkku.

HAPPY NEW YEAR, MY FRIENDS!

I like the number 2011 and believe it's a lucky number. Hopefully, so do you!

Scarlet's here!

2010-12-25T07:58:00.001-08:00

Scarlet is a younger sister of the snowstorm Monica we had recently. Fun, fun, fun if you have no need to leave your home. Fortunately we don't.We've got enough food and firewood supplies and we may enjoy Christmas at home. The fact is that it became snowing on Friday afternoon and it has been snowing constantly since then.

My trip to the graveyard yesterday afternoon was quite a challenge but I was lucky - my nephew had done the shovelling right before I arrived with my candles. My way back home was rather tricky because pavements were covered with snow and I had to walk on the road sharing it with cars. Luckily I wasn't the only one.

After a night of heavy snow it was quite hard to let Villi out this morning. First of all, we had to push the door open and, secondly, poor Villi sank in a pile of snow immediately. Lots of shovelling again but it was our only concern celebrating Christmas.

Thanks for nice wishes!
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO EVERYONE!

Eat, Pray and Love

2010-12-05T00:23:00.000-08:00

This is a view I can see in my kitchen window.

Oh Gosh! I've always liked snowy, white and peaceful winter mornings home alone. Not exactly alone,with my faithful friend Villi who sleeps in front of my bed or desk guarding me. Almost no traffic in the road... The only sounds are made by my clock on the wall and fire in the fireplace. No need to talk, to discuss what to cook, where to go, who takes Villi for a walk! PLEASURE!

I am having such nice morning right now! If you think, I am going to talk about Gilbert's bestseller, my answer is "yes" and "no". My niece brought me that book when I even hadn't heard of it yet. I must say she takes good care of me educating her old auntie. So I read it in Estonian being in a hurry because everyone else was waiting in a line to read it too. I kinda liked it but not very much. Then I went to the movie. To be honest, more because of Julia Roberts and Javier Bardem. Better! The next step:I purchased those books (Eat, Pray and Love and Committed) in English. Much better! Recently I read an article about Ketut Liyer, a Balinesian medicine man, and it reminded me about those books that were waiting for me on my shelf. I opened them again and I liked them more and more. I wouldn't say I went crazy but there is something that men probably understand very differently than us, women. Let them be!

"You must keep your feet grounded so firmly on the earth that it's like you had four legs, instead of two. That way, you can stay in the world. But you must stop looking at the world through your head. You must look through your heart, instead. That way you will know God" That's what Ketut suggested Liz. Sounds good, especially this snowy morning when no-one is disturbing you and you can order your thoughts.

A couple of nights ago I watched a TV programme about the Estonians living in Australia. I knew that one of my former students had left there with his family. It was a nice new meeting with him because he and his family were shown and interviewed by our reporters. Interesting! The only bad thing was that this talented young man even doesn't think of returning. Should he? Who knows.

Saue 25

2010-12-04T05:56:00.000-08:00

Teachers' choir.

My Year 2001

The week before I spent 4 days in Tallinn. Great pleasure! Snow was falling constantly, it was hard to move around but it was gorgeous!

Old colleagues Leena, Tiia and Elle.

I had to take a 2-day course at Tallinn University. I love that place and I did like the course. Lots of new interesting people and new ideas to use later in my everyday work at school. One day I went to KUMU after my schoolday. Sure, I walked there. Kadriorg looked truly beautiful with its lanterns and piles of snow. I wanted to see John Constable's paintings, the exhibit had been open for a long time already but I hadn't had an opportunity to go sooner. I spent there more than an hour enjpying and admiring every single painting.

Nov 27 Saue school celebrated their 25th anniversary. Saue was also sinking in deep snow. My old school was crowded! So many happy meetings, emotions, nice concert, etc. I was truly touched.

Back at school again! Christmas is right here, three more weeks to go.

Rain, rain, rain!

2010-11-21T00:45:00.000-08:00

Rather gloomy outside, raining every day. In fact this past week began with heavy snowfall if we really could that substance call snow. It was something white, wet, heavy which ended with a real shower later. A big question every morning is what clothes to wear.

I am not complaining! You remember, I like rain! Last week was busy but rather interesting. Sad also. The major of Saue died suddenly while sailing in Latvia, sailing not in the water but on the land, I don't know how to call this sport. His funeral was yesterday. I knew him quite well, his wife used to be my colleague and I used to teach his daughter. He was only 52!

Another sad news was about the death of my former neighbour in Jogeva. He passed away at the age 88.

The whole week flew away creating different new documents for school but I had time to go to the cinema (never ask what movie, I was invited, I joined the company but I have no idea what the title was ;-() ) and a birthday party and nice meetings with old friends.

At the moment I am getting ready for a longer walk (or maybe cycling, I haven't decided yet) to our local supermarket (appr 4km from my place). It is raining, of course, no problems.

A new week takes me to Tallinn on Thursday-Friday, to a seminar. Sounds boring, but I am really looking forward to it because I know, lots of my old friends are coming too. I'll stay in Tallinn for Saue school celebration as well and be back home only on Sunday. Yes!

Last night I purchased new shoes for the party. I love them and I am sure that everyone will be absolutely jealous of me!

Big mess

2010-11-13T09:37:00.000-08:00

Lots of new laws, documents to create, a big mess in the educational system. Vague future. These are the key words this dark November. It is really hard to explain what is going on. Perhaps I should postpone my explanations.

Absolutely clear is that Jan 1 brings euro to Estonia. To be happy, to be worried? Lots of different opinions, mostly positive. I am positive.

Just came back from a meeting with my old friend I hadn't seen for ages. Great! We had absolutely gorgeous dinner at Pierre, a cosy cafe at Town Hall Square. Besides, downtown looks really nice after reconstruction works that lasted long but the result is truly good. Good food, good service, good chat! We forgot about the nasty weather outside.

Getting ready for Thanksgiving? While you are celebrating Thanksgiving, I am in Saue. They celebrate their school anniversary. 25 years already! I am looking forward to meeting my former colleagues and students!

This and that

2010-10-24T05:31:00.001-07:00

Extremely busy after arrival from Krakow! Piles of papers still waiting on my desk. Lots of nice things too - I was invited on the Educators' reception in Tallinn. It was a truly nice event in the dark night. My fellow Fulbright teacher Tiina drove us to Tallinn and back later. The weather forecast sounded horrible - wind, storm, etc. Bad it was but not as bad fortunately. We left Tartu at 2:30pm and arrived in Tallinn at 5 already. Lots of old friends, happy new meetings. The new Ambassador is very popular among old and young people, he gives speeches at different meetings and sometimes lectures in different schools. It was my very first time to meet him and his charming wife personally. Two hours at the reception flew unnoticably. We left Tallinn in strong wind, much better in Tartu. Back at school the next morning.

Last week I had two lectures for foreign languages teachers of Tartu. Fortunately I was supported by a colleague from another school. Much harder than to be in front of students but we did it!

Happily having a fall holiday which arrived with the first snow. Freedom till Nov 1!!!

Happy coming Halloween to everyone!

Krakow Sept 29-Oct 4

2010-10-15T11:23:00.000-07:00

Back in my favourite Krakow! This time with Chorus Forselianus as their interpretor. Not much work to do. I mostly enjoyed myself and the beauty of Krakow. When the singers were free of rehearsals and concerts, we went to see some famous sightseeings as Wielicka salt mine, Gheto, Wavel and countless churces.

As a member of fan club I lived separately from the choir which was actually good luck because our hosts were very hospitable and took truly good care of us. We loved their big friendly dog Opus!

Especially remarkable was our city tour in a "plastic" bus. We felt safe sneaking around in busy streets and listening to our friendly guide who gave us lots of interesting information I hadn't heard before.

Our concerts went successfully and as a fan I was very proud of our choir. I also enjoyed perfomances of Belorussian and Norwegian choirs but I think that ours was the best!

For health

2010-09-25T11:19:00.001-07:00

A great fall day! Tartu city government organized a health day for walkers and bikers. In our school team there were 6 brave ladies who had decided to walk a distance of 6km. That was fun! Each participant got nice little gifts later and each team got a basket full of fruits.

This and that

2010-09-23T11:55:00.001-07:00

Unbelievable but the first month at school is almost over! Still quite messy with all new things - timetable, laws, etc.

Autumn arrived with beautiful sunny weather, the weekend is so close... Next week I am leaving for Krakow which is one of my favourite cities. I would have been happy to be back if it had happened on my vacation. Well, I can't refuse any more and my only hope is that the trip will be great although it means a lot of work before and afterwards.

Marja-Liisa's and Wendy's friends blind date was cancelled because they never received Marja-Liisa's phone number and email address.

Lots of plans for coming weekend!

9/11

2010-09-11T06:10:00.000-07:00

My mom's 91th birthday and 9 years from the terror attack in NY and Washington, DC. I remember that day very clearly because of Christina's and her friends' desperation (Christina was a PC volunteer in our school). I also remember endlessly shown video clips and a question that no one answered - who are these cold-blooded people killing innocent citizens.

Arvo Pärt

Arvo Pärt, an Estonian composer celebrates his 75th birthday today. Especially interesting celebration takes place in Rakvere where maestro went to school (he was born in Paide).

In the centre of the city was erected a new sculpture of a cyclist and on the opening ceremony they are going to perform ballet scenes on bikes. I hope to see it on TV news.

I had a plan to go to the graveyard afterI had returned my books to the library and light a candle for my mom but my plan failed because there was a fall fair on Town Hall Square (I had totally forgotten that fact) and so much to look at, so many friends to meet. Naturally I bought lots of tasty and nice things and had to bring them home. Well, I promise to cycle to the graveyard tomorrow morning!

Blind date

2010-09-10T12:43:00.000-07:00

What a funny story! Wendy's friends are coming to Estonia Sept 21 during their cruise. I truly wanted to be their guide here but I can't leave school. A friend of mine who lives in Tallinn is ready to help but... Wendy's friends left Portland before they got Marja-Liisa's contact number and email address. Wendy tried to reached her friends via SMS and email. So far no success. Such a big mess.

I am getting ready for Krakow although this is the worst time to leave for a trip. Well, I have had more complicated situations, hope to survive.

Thunderstorm

2010-08-21T00:11:00.000-07:00

I probably forgot to mention that Aug 8 brought along bad thunderstorms that caused lots of damage in Estonia. Especially bad in the area called Virumaa. In Tartu there were lots of broken trees in the old city parks. Our surroundings were saved. Only some nice birches were cut into halves in our nearby forest where I take Villi for walks and some thin pines.

Especially bad is the situation in a village called Väike-Maarja and in Eisma which is not far from Pille&Jaak's summer place. They suddenly got an open view to the sea. Could be funny if it wasn't so sad.

Truly over?

2010-08-19T06:59:00.000-07:00

A bus stop in Võru with a slogan on it.

It has been raining heavily since yesterday. Oh my, is summer really over now? Although sometimes it is good to stay inside and order your thoughts, tidy your rooms, do washing-up and laundry...

Last week I had a day-trip to Võru, a city in the south. Võru I know a bit better than Valga but it didn't mean I had been there often. I had seven hours to spend in a nice sunny city. What I used it for?

Photographing, walking, small shopping, 2 museums and the beach! I had a cup of coffee in a small cafe and bought some beautiful scarves. Good Christmas gifts!

The first museum was the city museum. Shame on me but I had never been there before! I was the only guest and paid a lot of attention by the museum lady. It was an interesting place and definitely worth to visit. Later I went to the house of Kreutzwald. Friedrich Reinhold Kreutzwald was actually a doctor, an educated man who had lots of interests and hobbies (we would call them so today). He was interested in Estonian folklore and he wrote it down. He knew well other famous persons of the Estonian wakening period (Koidula, Jakobson, Faehlmann, Hurt). The museum is in his house and other buildings that belonged to his family. Lots of interesting information, several exhibitions, huge backyard and a beautiful garden. I enjoyed my stay there.

The city of Võru is on Lake Tamula, the beach looks gorgeous and was, of course, the best place to stay before departure.

Last Friday I spent in Tallinn getting ready for school. Five hours listening to smart people who discussed the issues connected with the new curriculum. Well, I am not a big fan of this new curriculum but it is better than the old one so...

This week I wanted to go to Haapsalu but I failed again. Absolutely funny reason. I got up at 5 in the morning (it takes appr 4-5 hours to get to Haapsalu) and left home on time. I had to go 100m to the bus stop and ... I got soaking wet on this small distance. I had to return :-(. OK! I wasn't very sad, changed my plans immediately.

Yesterday we went to see a new Swedish movie - Men in swimming suits. Reminded me Full Monty, didn't enjoy it much.

As I said it has been raining all day. Anyway I cycled to the nearby store, I have a good mackintosh and I liked my ride. It's my brother's birthday tomorrow and I spent the rest of the day cooking and baking. I hope he and his wife will appreciate my work.

Back to work on Monday. It seems, I am ready for that.

My small trips

2010-08-06T14:09:00.000-07:00

Nipernaadi (his "father", a writer August Gailit used to live in Valga)

I decided to use my left vacation for smaller trips that are especially good to have on Tue, Wed or Thu when I have a huge discount. Lucky me! My first plan failed but I found another way to have a pleasant day out.

My plan was Parnu, a resort on the beach, but by a stupid mistake I missed the bus. Returning home was out of discussion! I took a train to Valga, which is a city on the border. I hadn't been there for ages. My uncle used to live in a farm not far from Valga and it was a place to go on my school holidays. I have 10 cousins and my uncle invited all of us to visit and help him. Weeding, yes, but cows, pigs and sheep - no! I was a city girl and I was terribly afraid of cows. Anyway, we always had fun!

Last time I was in Valga when one of my cousins got married, I am afraid it was almost 20 years ago, even more. So it was quite a nice discovery! I walked a lot, went to the museum in Valga and the church in Valka (Valga is the Estonian part and Valka the Latvian part of the city), did some small shopping and sunbathing on the river Pedeli.

Well, the city has changed but not as much that I could have got lost. I enjoyed my small trip and I'd like to go back because I depended on the train schedule and there were things and places that I wanted to see but I had no time.

The weather was beautiful, not too hot, a bit windy which was good. I had truly tasty lunch on the border, in a small cafe Riia.

The funniest thing was buying shorts for my sister. She couldn't find right size in Tartu but I noticed some nice pairs in a small corner shop. The shop assistant was very helpful and so I called my sister instantly asking to measure her height, legs, etc and the shop lady carried a pile of shorts which I described on the phone. Well, I did buy nice light grey shorts.

On my way back I met my former student in a train. We had nice chat and the time flew quickly.

The next day I went to see my sister in Jogeva. She liked her new shorts!!!

It's terribly hot today and getting worse.I did some gardening in the morning but mostly stayed in the shade. My hairy friend Villi spent his day under a big lilac bush. I took him for a walk only at midnight.

Poor Russians, I saw the smoke cloud that covers Moscow on TV news. Victims, homeless people, isn't that awful!

Back in heat!

2010-07-22T13:06:00.000-07:00

10 lucky days flew fast and I am back in heat. Don't think there wasn't hot in Varska but we lived on the lake shore plus every afternoon we spent a couple of hours in the pool.

We began our mornings at about 6:30 with walking. I usually had a quick walk to the centre of Varska and back to the spa. It was approximately 6 kms.

From 8 to 10 was the breakfast time and later we had to go and have our treatment. The very first day the doctor told me that my blood pressure was very low. I think something was wrong with his equipment because I felt absolutely good.

Lunch at 2 and dinner at 6. After dinner we hurried to the pool. One day we took a boat trip along Lammijarv and once there was a concert and the other night a performance.

I spent a lot of time in the nearby woods and swimming in the lake. That was gorgeous + mineral water baths, massage and other treatment every day.

We made friends with a nice Russian family, especially we liked their 4-year old grandson Anton, a very smart young man.

On Sunday we visited Seto museum and the last day of our stay went to Varska.

I feel terribly good except the fact that I am melting!!! I already want back!

Boredom!

2010-07-05T00:54:00.000-07:00

What a shame! I have got bored already. Continuous heat in the street (+28-30C) makes me dizzy and slow. I hate it! To go to city is suicidal because I sweat,I get blisters and there is nothing to do! There is nothing to do at home either. No cutting grass, no new plants in this heat, I have to water the old ones though in the evenings. TV? Thanks, no! First of all, there is nothing to watch and, secondly,who watches TV in such nice weather? Reading? Yes, a bit. Cinema? Nothing to watch again. Stupid comedies only. Sunbathing? No, no, no! I hate the smell of burning flesh!

Am I whining? Sure, I am. Well, I guess it's not as hopeless as it seems at the moment. The day after tomorrow is supposed to be a little rainy and I have decided to go and finish my paperwork at school and then I have to start packing for Varska. I need many things for my 10day stay there because you never know what tricks the weather might play. I am going to take my laptop with me and do some research at nights. I need swimming clothes and walking poles, training suit and shoes. Oh my,sounds like a movie star who goes to the holiday with ten suitcases.

The day before yesterday Wendy celebrated her birthday. I am glad she received my gifts on time and she liked them. Yesterday my friends celebrated the Independence Day. The Embassy in Tallinn invited lots of guests to the celebration, incl our headmistress but she denied the invitation :-(. She doesn't know what she missed!

Actually I have more plans for my vacation but I am not going to tell them yet. First Varska and then the next plans :-).

I did some sewing last night. Me?! I haven't done it for ages but I managed. Ha-ha-ha! You have probably got bored by now as I am, haven't you? Well, it's time for new challenges then!

100!

2010-06-26T14:52:00.000-07:00

Did you notice that I have appeared in my blog for 99 times already!
I spent a busy Saturday. Warm and sunny, real summer. First of all, me and my sister and my niece went to the cemetery to plant flowers and clean. My mum passed away 17 years ago and we lit a candle for her.

Our lunch was at my niece's place. Oleg, my niece's husband had cooked a delicious meal for us. He is a good cook. He didn't join us though because he was getting ready for the night performance, he is an amateur actor. Well, we had another plans for the afternoon. We went to the new museum (Laulupeomuuseum) where amateur actors from Torva performed an old comedy. Truly nice! I wanted to see and have chat with two of my old friends, both of them work at school. Kalle was a principal of Karksi-Nuia Gymnasium (he is my former student!) and Valdeko is a vice principal in Torva Gymnasium. They performed so enthusiastically! Their students must be delighted.

Funny, but recently I have met lots of my old friends who I haven't seen for ages.

Year 2010

2010-06-23T07:32:00.000-07:00

Here I am! The very first day of my summer vacation, absolute freedom! Estonia is celebrating the V-day, this year's parade was held in Viljandi. Tonight thousands of people light bonfires and celebrate the longest night of the year when never gets dark. It was raining hard all day long yesterday but it has been sunny and warm today.

No alarm clock any more. I woke up full of energy and went for a walk with my walking poles. Almost 4 kms. When I returned, I cycled to the supermarket and later took my faithful Villi to the nearby forest.

Later I did some ironing, cleaned rooms and got rather exhausted but happy.

The day before yesterday we had a nice festivity at school. Year 2010 had their graduation ceremony. My boys and girls looked gorgeous! I was their class teacher only for a year and I didn't get to know them very well. They took their exams pretty successfully although they had been the laziest students I had ever seen before. No motivation, no working habits, no habit to attend school every day. Disaster, to be honest! Anyway, each of them separately is a nice person and I am sure they'll manage!

I have to go back to school and tidy my desk, my file cabinets, etc because I had no time earlier. It doesn't matter. I can go whenever I want and stay there as long as I want.

In July I am going to Varska again and I am planning some shorter trips. Longer ones are coming in fall - Poland and maybe Scotland as well. Barcelona? Still in my plans.

Choices

2010-06-20T06:48:00.000-07:00

With my former student Ivar.

While whole Europe was watching the Royal wedding Jogeva Gymnasium celebrated its 95th anniversary.

What was my choice? The party at Jogeva, of course. Lots of happy meetings, memories...
Today's students gave a nice concert, nice speeches, dancing in a huge tent. The only bad thing was that it was raining hard outside.No one cared!
There were 8 people from my Year 1982 and less from Year 1985 but they had recently had their own reunion.

I left the party early in the morning because I had to start preparation for the graduation ceremony which is tomorrow. Oh boy!

A Day off

2010-06-14T11:22:00.000-07:00

Two principals

Last Wednesday our teachers had a day off - we went to Viljandi county to see new places and share experience. Our first destination was Suure-Jaani, a small town where are lots of our composers from. We were met by teachers of Suure-Jaani Gymnasium (besides their headmaster is an old friend of mine! I am not going to tell details :-)
We were taken to a tour in the building (they made us really jealous) and later we had a small conversation and sharing experience. The history teacher took us to the cemetery where several famous composers and artists are buried and later we had our lunch in a nice place called At Artur's. Fun!

Our next stop was in Olustvere, a big manor which s open for visitors and has many interesting workshops - ceramics, bread-baking, quilting, etc

The weather was beautiful and we really enjoyed our seeing around in the manor and taking part in different workshops.

Freedom in a week!

Almost over

2010-06-06T05:58:00.000-07:00

Young ladies from Home Defence gave home-made rhubarb cake to passer-bys, yummy!

Can't say the school is over but at least no more regular classes. What a relief! Piles of different papers, exam results, reports, certificates, etc, it seems endless. Fortunately I have had a couple of free weekends. Last week we went to Jogeva because they had their annual town festivity and my sister celebrates her birthday that time. a good reason to go and waste money. I did it quite well, some nice bowls from Siimusti ceramics, a new hat and some things for our wild garden.

The weather was nice which made everything merrier and more enjoyable. My sister's party was crowded! Lots of fun!

Walking around in the city, I met so many friends, former students, former colleagues, etc, that I got exhausted! Must be back on June 19, Gymnasium celebrates its 55!

We had last assemblies June 3, most students are having their vacation already, poor teachers continue working with lazy bones. I am sinking in papers, reports...

I am not whining! Honestly!

Busy weekend

2010-05-09T11:02:00.000-07:00

What an awful week! Finally over! The whole week was very busy but especially the weekend.
Our headmaster was having her regular vacation and I had to substitute. that meant that on Tuesday night I was invited to school twice because of the false (fortunately!!!) fire alarm. First time 1 o'clock in the morning and the second time at 3:30. Why don't I expect anyone to be jealous! Long working hours every day + the National Exam on Saturday. Over by now! Today I was busy writing e-mails, tidying and riding around. I went to the graveyard take flowers to my mum, it's Mothers' Day! Quite happy to be home alone because I have so much to do. That was my holiday wish - to be free for work. Sounds ironic!

May!

2010-05-02T02:25:00.000-07:00

Unbelievable, but true - it is May already, the craziest time at school!
My 12-graders had their last bell Apr 20 and now they are taking their final exams. The next coming is English - May 8.

April was a bad month for Europeans and not only for us - the plane crash in Russia which killed the Polish President and his wife + plenty of VIPs; volcano eruption in Iceland, etc. Is it really the curse of the Metal Tiger? Hopefully not. Our psychics predict that August will be even worse. Please, no!

We happily finished cutting our wild hedge. Finally!!! We also have burnt all the branches and other sort of rubbish that comes while cutting hedge. Now we can have a small rest before it gets warm and we have to start real gardening which I like but I never have time for it.

First daffodils are blooming and birches show their small green leaves. Lots of butterflies, snails (uh!!!) and frogs. Quite chilly, though. Good for students and tired teachers!

Easter!

2010-04-04T05:46:00.000-07:00

(You hopefully remember that the Estonian Easter tradition is dying boiled eggs. I was lazy, I used the stickers sent by Kevin)

Hoorah! Three days of freedom again. The last holiday before summer vacation because May 1 is Saturday unfortunately. Last year I traditionally went to listen Messiah but this year I chose 17 Spring Moments which was a concert of popular Russian film music. The concert hall of the Vanemuine theatre was crowded because we grew up with those songs from 17 Spring Moments, Cruel Romance, Brilliant Hand, A Prisoner of Caucasus, etc. There were 4 performers - singing actors Eduard Toman, Ulle Lichtfeldt and Alexander Ivashkevitsh + a popular singer and artist of musicals Gerly Padar. Oh my God! That was great!

Yesterday I spent my day mostly working but today I decided to go to our Botanical Gardens to see the exhibition of orchids which was wonderful, of course.

Did I mention that the first part of Friday I spent cooking and baking? I actually did. Our fridge is full leftovers for a week, I guess.

Happy boots

2010-03-21T13:17:00.000-07:00

Leap Year movie

Spring has arrived! Not only by the astronomical calendar but physically as well. Thermometres show pluses, sparrows and blue tits sing and snow is melting in seconds.

Shoe stores are short of rubber boots but in the streets you can see them in various types - checked, striped, flowered, dotted, different colours from purple to yellow, etc. Everybody is wearing rubber boots nowadays, at least almost all the women and girls.

Today I met a happy couple splashing water in a big puddle. The best thing was that both of them were in their late seventies but behaved like teenagers. That was fun!

I went to see Leap Year in the Cinamon theatre today. I warmly recommend, if you like humour and beautiful views of Ireland.

School holiday

2010-03-19T13:19:00.000-07:00

It has begun eventually! I mean the school holiday.
This passing week has been very busy and quite stressful. I prepared my students for the meeting with the US Ambassador here in Tartu. He had a lecture at Tartu University and some high school students were allowed/invited to participate as well. Our students were very excited getting ready and even more excited when they returned to school.

On Tuesday afternoon we received a sad news - a young 17-year old footballer passed away. Some students in my Form 12 were shocked because they knew that lad well. I tried to comfort them but not successfully.

Yesterday a Polish plane landed on Lake Ulemiste which is the source of drinking water in Tallinn. Nobody got hurt but there was fuel leak and the rescue brigades worked all night trying to pull the plane on the shore. The lake is covered with thick ice layer and the plane didn't sink fortunately.

I have big plans for my holiday. Hopefully I can realize them.

Birthday

2010-03-17T13:24:00.000-07:00

Lots of you have asked me about my birthday celebration. Well, that was nice. I confused my colleagues, family and friends a bit because they wanted to give me good presents but I refused to have them and said I'd accept only lottery tickets. After long negotiations I won and I got a pile of Travel lottery tickets. I did won some money for my future trips! Let it be a secret how much precisely.

I had a small celebration at school (actually two) and a bigger one with my family in the French cafe. I feel perfect and full of energy in my new age!

After holiday

2010-02-27T12:15:00.000-08:00

Mrs Meri and President Ilves with his wife at the reception.

Feb 24 Estonia celebrated its Independence Day with a traditional military parade in Tallinn, President's reception, this time in the Vanemuine theatre in Tartu, and other smaller assemblies, parties, etc. In case you are interested in our "Penguins' Parade" you can have a look at the pictures from the big reception at http://www.delfi.ee/. The Vanemuine theatre was decorated with decorations of lettuce (honestly) and other green eatable herbs which were taken to Elistvere zoo later. Witty, uh?

In our school we had guest speakers from Home Defence and Defence College. Everybody was excited because it was different from ordinary school days. Especially nice was to see men in uniforms who made our boys straighten their backs and forget their everyday stupid jokes.

Tonight all Estonia is watching the Olympics because our Kristina is competing again. Ladies' 30km. We keep our fingers crossed! She was very disappointed after winning a silver medal but everyone else was happy. Estonian golden days are probably left behind because younger skiers are not as ready to fight as Kristina , Andrus Veerpalu and Jaak Mae are. What a pity!

Silver!

2010-02-15T11:14:00.001-08:00

Hoorah! Our Kristina Smigun-Vaehi won the silver medal on the Olympics!

Happy New Year!

2010-02-14T09:25:00.001-08:00

Here it comes, the White Tiger on Town Hall Square in Tartu.

Lots of people gathered at noon to celebrate the beginning of Chinese New Year. Our vice major made a speech, Chinese people demonstrated martial arts and played national music which sounds quite unusal for European listeners. Nice though.

Finally we could see the Tiger itself made of ice cubes. It will stay on the square until it melts.

HAPPY NEW YEAR and HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

Poor Joe!

2010-02-11T11:38:00.000-08:00

Poor Joe in snowy DC! I watched TV news today and I didn't envy him and the other residents. Snowy, stormy, cold. Our Winter Wonderland seems much better. Hard to move around but nice anyway! Me and my colleague had a long walk today coming back from Tahtvere at the edge of Tartu. We enjoyed every step climbing in piles of snow. Lots of fun.

Last week I received several delayed Christmas gifts from the States. Thank you, friends! I absolutely adore my new calendars, jewelry and ... chocolate! It was truly hard to share such tasty things but I did share, honestly! I mean chocolate.

Winter Wonderland

2010-01-17T05:41:00.000-08:00

Unbelievably nice winter! No sleat, no rain, no warm weather. Normal minuses + snow everywhere! Good for skiing, walking, keeping perfect mood!

One week back at school is done already, 9 more before the next holiday comes. Hopefully flu viruses do not like cold and snow!

It's Christmas time!

2009-12-25T00:14:00.000-08:00

Not much needed for happiness! We do have White Christmas and the world seems better! ( It's our mailbox on the neighbour's gate where all your good wishes land). Piles of food prepared earlier, fire in the fireplace, a blinking Christmas tree and candles, sharing gifts, watching old movies. Nothing can be better! Back to school in 14 days!
MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR, my year, the year of Tiger (begins Feb 14)!

Getting ready for Christmas

2009-12-05T11:53:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow we'll light the second Christmas candle already! It is hard to believe that almost half of December is over and very soon we'll celebrate. It has been raining constantly and it reminds me a lot my Christmas time in Portland when I went to Pioneer Square to listen to the Christmas concert in heavy rain.
Quite depressive Christmas, no extra Christmas money, prices rising all the time, lots of different viruses sneaking around. A couple of weeks ago more than 1/4 of students were absent because of some kind of flu. Now it is back to normal fortunately but new viruses are on their way. 4 people in Estonia have died of swine flu, a 13-year old boy and 3 older men.
Gloomy, uh?
Anyway I went for little Christmas shopping today and tomorrow I'd like to send some gifts to my foreign friends with the greatest hope that they will have them on time.
The picture I added was taken in Varska in October. Since then we haven't seen any snow or even sleat. OK! The dream of White Christmas continues anyway!
Guess, what I am doing next? I am going to watch Sleepless in Seattle, one of my favourites, it's on TV tonight.

Back at school

2009-11-07T11:29:00.000-08:00

Well, the first week back at school is over! Busy-busy! On Thursday night we had a family party at school to celebrate Fathers' Day. It was great! The party was organised by our student government and teachers were only the guests. First the concert in the assembly hall, later workshops (I took part in the story-telling workshop). The school was crowded.

School anniversary is coming and different conferences. Swine flu has arrived in Estonia and doctors threaten with closing schools for a while. Let's see...

My days in spa

2009-10-30T15:46:00.000-07:00

Here I am! The day after tomorrow will be my last day. The time has flown so fast!

My room is on the third floor with a fantastic view on Lake Lammijarv. Every morning I walk appr 4 kms using my walking poles. This is my own programme, not treatment. After tasty breakfast I have 2-3 treatments (mud, electric treatment, mineral water baths, massage, etc). Then I usually walk again before lunch, later watch a bit TV and do my work, in the evening I go to spa to water gymnastics and just have fun. Dinner, a bit more TV and ... sweet dreams!

I truly like being alone among plenty of people. It is very Estonian, no one talks to you even by the dinner table. I am the crazy person who says everyone "good morning" in the corridors and halls and, believe or not, most people look at me like I was sick and answer nothing.

Well, I am tired of communication at school anyway, so the situation is really satisfactory for me. I like to watch people and think my own thoughts walking around in local pine woods. Piles of e-mail messages wait for me every day and some phone calls to answer, it is not possible nowadays to be completely abandoned.

The weather was quite humid at the beginning, now it is sunny and cold. Beautiful! I feel much better and obviously I am ready for school on Monday!

Packing, panicking!

2009-10-25T07:19:00.000-07:00

Uh! I am truly tired of packing. Every half an hour listening to the weather forecast, checking again and again the bus schedule, crazy me! I also did some cooking and baking for Villi and his "nanny". I am exhausted by now and really need good treatment!

There was a bit gardening in my plans as well but it began to rain hard and I had to cancel my plans! Instead we went to the nearby forest with Villi and came back soaking wet but rather happy.

My bus leaves at 8pm only. Because of the light-saving time that turned on the winter schedule today, it is very dark already. Scary! Fortunately the coach takes us exactly by the doors of the spa which is very comfortable because my bag is very hard although I tried to be down-to-earth choosing my clothes and other things.

I am taking my laptop with me, so you probably will hear from me!

Hoorah!

2009-10-23T13:35:00.000-07:00

Hoorah! The first term is over and the holiday has begun! It has been a really hard term because of the economic crisis that is still keeping us in its claws. Fortunately we haven't had to fire anybody but the salary has been lowered several times. Teachers are exchausted and tired.

October is Good Teachers' month. This is a nice new tradition started by our teacher Lauri and his friend Alo from Tartu University. Good Teachers month brought back to school lots of our graduates who taught classes and told about their career and old school memories. Everyone was excited - teachers, graduates and students. A real homecoming.

Last Tuesday I went to Tallinn. I had to lead a workshop for vice principals of Russian schools in Tallinn. I introduced them the Estonian version of the European Language Portfolio and described how foreign languages teachers in our school use the portfolio in their everyday work. I had quite a lot of time to walk in Tallinn and I could walk around on Vabaduse square which has changed unbelievably. The bad thing is that it doesn't fit with its surroundings anymore but the thing itself is gorgeous!

The day after tomorrow I am leaving for Varska to treat my back. My biggest problem is clothes because I don't know what to take with me. It is quite warm now but the weathermen warn that a snowstorm is approaching. You never know, they might be right.

Well, I'll tell you later when I am back!

Teachers' Day

2009-10-06T11:18:00.000-07:00

Martin, the headmaster is making conclusions.

Young happy teachers after tiring school day.

In our schools there is a good tradition to celebrate the International Teachers' Day Oct 5. School leavers substitute real teachers that day and teachers become students.

We followed the traditions and had a terrific day. After school all our teachers went to a short trip to nearby town Poltsamaa to have dinner together and look around in that beautiful little town. Back home by 7 pm, back at school the next morning. Two weeks left before the fall holiday begins. I am going to Varska then!

School

2009-09-12T11:06:00.000-07:00

The new school year has lasted for two weeks already! The weather is still warm, even hot sometimes, but nights have become chilly and mornings are foggy.

I have new groups to teach - very energetic middle school students. I also continue with my high school students. Out of blue I became a class teacher for Grade 12. I can't say I am happy but ...

My garden is a big mess because this year we have got too many apples, plums and everything, I am just too tired to pick them up in the afternoons and by the weekend there are piles under trees. We try to share them with our family, friends, etc, but unfortunately most of it becomes garbage. I feel bad but I have no better idea how to cope with this.

So far a lot of paper work - plans, schedules, lesson plans, etc, pretty soon it will be calmer. I hope.

This weekend we had a fair on Town Hall Square and I finally had time for hair cut. Next weekend I am going to Tallinn, haven't been there for a while. I hope that nice weather will last. I'd like to walk around and do some shopping after I have finished with my duties at Tallinn uni.

Autumn...

2009-08-21T06:55:00.001-07:00

My last week of vacation! tomorrow I'll be busy with a course in MHG, it's time to get ready for school. On Monday I have to start at school. The weather is really summer like but in the mornings there is fog and nights are not warm any more. No yellow or any other colors leaves except green in trees yet. The air smells with ripe apples and plums and we have plenty of them this year!

Last night Estonia celebrated 18 years of the Independence declaration. We celebrated my brother's jubilee. The weather was excellent! We had an open-air party with barbecue.

This weekend I HAVE to finish my project work started in Graz. Oh dear, I truly do not want to. It is so hard to force myself to sit down and read those papers...

Last week I spent half a day in Tartu Botanical Gardens. The same feeling... autumn is in the air. I expected to see lots of gladioluses, I saw none and was truly surprised. Perhaps I just couldn't find them. Bad luck!

Aland July 30-August 3

2009-08-08T05:11:00.000-07:00

I had my this summer trip to the islands of Aland. There are more than 6700 islands. We visited probably 20 or so. It was hard to count because sometimes we had to take a boat, sometimes there were bridges and you even didn't notice getting from one island to another one. Anyway, it was a really good trip for exhausted teachers although by this time I wasn't as exhausted any more as I used to be in spring.

We had a rather big company but I knew most of these people before. They are good travellers, no whining and complaining all the time. Except one bad moment when we had to mend our bus for an hour, everything went smoothly and very calmly. We took a ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki and went via Turku to Aland. Lots of hiking, climbing, ferry rides, nice places, some museums. No hurry. It seemed that the time in Aland has stopped and no one hurries. Although we were told that there are almost 2 mln tourists every summer we didn't see them. Probably they were all around on different islands.

This time I didn't buy postcards and didn't send them anyone (sorry!) but I took lots of pictures and brought some apple cider and apple and chilli sauce for barbecue sausages. We had a stop on an apple farm where local people made those things. i also bought some tasty bread and a CD with local folk music.

Now I am in trouble - I don't know what I liked more - Norway or Aland. Both were great with their beautiful landscape and nice people. I think Norway was more exciting but if I had to choose where to live, I would choose Aland.

Teahouse of the August Moon

2009-07-24T02:33:00.000-07:00

I am not sure that the original title sounds exactly so but my friend Wendy offered this version, I believe she was right. Anyway, last night we went to see the open-air perfomance somewhere in Polva county on the area of the Road Museum. It's an old play by John Patrick and I was told that in 50s there was taken a movie starring with Marlon Brando as Sanaki. My sister's son-in-law who is an amateur actor has a role in a play as well so the fan club jumped into the car and off we went! The weather was fantastic for an open-air perfomance. We arrived almost two hours earlier to grab the best seats and look around in the Road Museum and have a cup of coffee before the play. I had never been before in that museum because it's quite new - appr 5 years. It was interesting. Especially I liked the section of old vehicles.

The play was truly good, I was laughing to tears. It wasn't just for making people laugh, it had a deeper message as well. Actors did their job really well, we enjoyed every minute!

Hansaetic Days

2009-07-18T10:34:00.000-07:00

This weekend Tartu celebrates the annual Hansaetic Days. The weather is fantastic! The Old town is crowded. In Rüütli street there is Hansa Fair where I bought strawberries, homemade bread and pickles today. In my plans for tomorrow is to buy a little basket I saw today but I couldn't carry it around tonight, so I promised to go back tomorrow. On Town Hall square there are stages everywhere for different performances and open-air cafes. There are more places for open-air concerts all over downtown. At midnight will be held Knights' tournament on Dome Hill, boats take passengers for ride along the Emajõgi. In St John's church are held concerts of the Classical Music Festival Glass Pearl Play. Last night we went to listen to the Baltic Youth Philharmonic conducted by Kristjan Järvi. Mendelssohn Bartholdy, Beethoven and Brahms sounded incredibly in that medieval church!

Today we also had a walk in the Botanical gardens, just to hide from heat for a moment. It is like oasis in the middle of city noise. Peaceful, quiet and very nice.

Next week is predicted to be rainy. Let's take from this one what we can!

Reunion

2009-07-12T11:56:00.000-07:00

July 11-12 we celebrated 40 years of our graduation from the pedagogical college. Most of us are still teachers but not all of us in elementary schools.

This time we gathered in the north-east of Estonia and spent two days hiking, sunbathing, having a good time in spa. Our former class teacher Mr Kaasik and his lovely wife Aino always join us.

We had lots of fun, saw plenty of fantastic places, etc. All this short vacation was conducted by our former group mate Kristi and her husband Aivar.

We visited several nice manors (Saka, Kalvi, Purtse, Mäetaguse), did lots of climbing on cliff and falls. Although our feet hurt now it is really sweet pain mixed with the best memories.

Song and Dance Festival

2009-07-06T13:03:00.000-07:00

Estonia celebrated 140 years from the very first Song Festival in 1869. Although there is economic crisis and we should count our money carefully, the celebration was gorgeous. XXV Song Festival brought together more singers and dancers than we've ever had + the biggest number of spectators.

Singers gave two concerts with different programmes and dancers gave three perfomances. The main topic was The Sea.

I took care of our children's choir - 26 young ladies (age 8-11). There were two of us chaperoning but my colleague had her 4-year old daughter with her and it made things a bit more complicated. We stayed in Tallinn for three days (one for rehearsals and two for the opening ceremony and concerts). We lived in a classroom of one of high schools of Tallinn, rather far from the Song Festival Field but fortunately children's choirs were taken to the concerts on their own bus. Anyway, we spent days outdoors, eating right there in the field, back to school late. Exhausting! I didn't see the concerts because I had to be backstage but I had a great opportunity to see the dancers which was great!!!

My feet still hurt after long march during the opening ceremony + another walk from the stadium where the dance perfomance was held to the Song Festival Field. I can't wear normal shoes yet but hopefully I'll survive. I have to be in a better shape by the weekend because we are having reunion in Toila spa.

Raadi manor

2009-06-30T06:19:00.000-07:00

I keep having an active vacation! On Sunday we went with Emil to Raadi manor in the suburbs of Tartu. The manor belonged to the Lipharts' family before they left to Germany.Later there was the Estonian National Museum till WWII. After the war the Soviet Army used it for their military base, they rebuilt some buildings and ruined the original look. At the beginning of nineties when the Soviet Army was leaving Estonia they threw lots of rubbish into the lake and did lots of damage to the buildings. At the end of nineties volunteers started to clean the park and lake, planted new trees, some buildings have been partly restored, the museum keeps some things there and some small exhibits are opened already. Now they have project money and hope to finish the restoration by 2012. We hope so too.

Every Thursday, Saturday and Sunday there are guided tours on the area and exhibits. That's how we happened to be there. We were excited, thanks to our guide, of course!

MJ

2009-06-27T02:39:00.000-07:00

Michael Jackson has become a legend. I have never been his fan but it is sad that he left in such an early age. I don't believe that people really waited for his comeback, it wasn't realistic, but he could have lived for his family, friends and fans and be a live legend...

V-day

2009-06-23T11:40:00.000-07:00

Estonians celebrate V-day June 23 and the longest day of the year on June 24. Never gets dark! This year we had the V-day parade in Jogeva which is close to Tartu. Our president met the parade and had a nice speech. He is an excellent speaker.

I spent a day in Jogeva watching the parade, listening to the army orchestras, tasting army soup, etc. Lots of old friends, former colleagues and students. The weather was absolutely gorgeous. After the parade I occasionally met President and Prime Minister in front of Betti Alver's museum.

Graduation

2009-06-22T11:49:00.001-07:00

As I already said we had graduation ceremonies on Saturday. lots of flowers, nice words, tears and happy smiles.

Freedom!

2009-06-22T11:38:00.001-07:00

Last week we had our teachers' trip to Jogevamaa and we visited theme parks and birthplaces of our famous writers and poets. The first stop was in Kassinurme where an ancient wooden castle has been erected and where is a place for different ceremonies. In this little field will be held a fire-lighting ceremony on June 23 which is our V-day. The fire goes to all counties of Estonia. I am photographed with my young colleague Kristi. She teaches Estonian literature in younger groups and takes her MA in university.

On Saturday we had our graduation ceremonies, one for middle school and another one for high school. Now the school is finally over by this school year! At the beginning of July I am going to our song festival in Tallinn chaperoning our children's choir. I'll be busy but hopefully happy with my task!

Teach First

2009-06-09T12:43:00.000-07:00

Haven't heard from me for a long time, have you? Extremely busy! Exams, exams, reports, etc. Finally my co-worker came back to work, so my load is a bit smaller by now. Two more weeks and I can officially say that I have a vacation. Two more weeks!!!

Last weekend I went to Tallinn to the graduation ceremony of the first group of young teachers from Teach First movement (Teach for America - Estonian version). We have two teachers in our school who belong to this group which has become very popular in a short time. Now we have the first graduate - Helina, who teaches English. We are so glad that she decided to continue her teacher's career. The ceremony was held on Dome Hill, in a medieval building and it was really touching. Lots of good memories from two-year period, flowers, speeches and a huge cake at the end of the ceremony.