Shaken not stirred

Feeling a little overwhelmed by the last week. The SKWID (Skills for Working in Development) training was challenging on a number of levels, particularly since I have never travelled anywhere in the developing world. Masses of personal learning to be had and great opportunities to learn from each other and reflect on other people's styles and approaches. Lots of tips about how to get people involved and fully participating in the process of change. I have also had my first motorbike lesson. Initially I took to it rather well and was even beginning to enjoy myself. Then we went out onto real roads and I found I couldn't cope with gear changes and junction manoevres at the same time. A bit unnerving to keep finding you have changed into neutral instead of second gear and have no oomph in your bike. I kept grinding to a horrible stand still in the middle of the road. Still, I have three more days training to get it right and I know I will have a real sense of achievement when I master it. I have now had my placement in Ghana officially confirmed. Only took 7 weeks. A little taster of how fast wheels turn over there I suspect.

Processing the emotion

Well, Monday morning and no school to get up for. What a magnificent send off I had from all my dear friends and colleagues at Loughton Manor First School. The generous donation to VSO, the Ghanaian playground song and the gorgeous finger painting on canvas done by the children in Monkeys class (under the able direction of Katie Corrigan!). I feel really valued and affirmed, thank you all so so much. I held it together pretty well all week and am now allowing myself the luxury of a little processing of emotion! While away at our nieces wedding in the North East this weekend, our son Peter and his wife Abi have moved in ready to house sit while Mike and I are away. Bed frame in the hall, boxes everywhere but a pleasant evening of chatting and laughter, so all will be fine. Am now going to do my pre-reading for the Skills for Working in Development course starting on Saturday. This will culminate in my motor bike assessment day on Thursday when they will assess how many days training they think it will take for me to pass my test. Could be embarassing. Thanks again to all you plotters who made my last few days so memorable and full of wonderful surprises.

Feeling the strain!

Feeling a bit overwhelmed with all the things that need to be done before the end of term.