Libraries and Earthquakes

This post deals with two completely unrelated topics, but both have affected me in the past 24 hours.

Two days ago, I was handed the keys to the “library.” Right now, the library consists of a few bookshelves in an open area, and the bookshelves have sliding doors on them that do not want to open. My job (apart from my communications work here) is to now start a “new” library and literacy program. Oh boy…

So, here are my thoughts, and let me know if you all have any to add!:

1. I am going to ask for a room to put the library in, one where I can shut and lock the door. Because some of the books are out in the open, they get dirty and are not well taken care of.

2. I am going to start a book club. The kids LOVE new books, such as the Twilight series and other “cool” teen books. NPH received money recently to buy books, so the director said I could give him a list of what I want.

I decided that the kids who go to the book club (1 day/week) will have first dibs at the books. Then, the others can use them. AKA: I am trying to motivate the “chavos” (kids) to join a group where they can read and critically think about the text.

3. Finally, Book It, anyone!? (Do you remember the ‘90s version of book-reading motivation?) I am going to try a program where kids can read books, write a report about them, and after a certain amount of books read, they will receive a special treat. Too bad we don’t have Pizza Hut here…

****

On to the earthquake part of this post. At app. 10:59 p.m. last night, I felt my first earthquake. My bed started shaking, and I called to my roommate to see if she thought it was an earthquake. It stopped after about 15 to 20 seconds. This morning, I looked online, and sure enough, there was an earthquake in Puebla, a town that is about a three-hour bus ride from here. It measured 4.8 on the Richter Scale.

That’s all to report from now. Please, please send ideas to me about the library! Also, if you have any book ideas for the kids, let me know! One thing I’m trying to think about: how to decorate. I wanted it to be calm and sort of Barnes and Noble-ish, if you know what I mean.

PS: Some people said it was hard to comment here, so please send me an e-mail with ideas!

First Week In Mexico: Top 10

I arrived in Mexico exactly one week ago, and it has been an adventure so far. There are many things to share, but I decided to condense as much as possible so as not to bore. So, taking a nod from Letterman, I decided to entertain you with a Top 10 List.

Top 10: Things That Shouldn't Surprise You in Mexico
10. If people don't arrive to pick you up like planned, have no fear! Take a bus.

9. When a teenager is having a conversation with you, it doesn't always mean they think you're cool. In fact, they might just want you to give them the prize they just won in a carnival game. (I am so not as cool as I thought I was.)

8. People (including your Argentinian roommate who hates working out) WILL make fun of you for bringing three extra pairs of running shoes . . . you know, in case you want to train for a marathon this year.

7. Eating out of bowls with spoons for every meal is not only Kosher, it's expected.

6. Teenagers in Mexico are not only extremely nice, they can really go out of their way to make your day better. Hmm...

5. Chicken. It is a luxury. When you pass a chicken stand and all you can think of is, "I would kill for a piece right now," you know you have been in Mexico for a week.

4. Just because a place claims to be a "gym" doesn't mean you will find a "gym." For example, there may only be 1 treadmill, and it is only for walking. Do NOT run on the treadmill . . . you might get in trouble.

3. People know you are an American. Even if you speak perfect Spanish, dress like a Mexican, and have the same mannerisms, they know. Don't try to fool yourself otherwise.

2. The way to make a Spanish word English? Add "ation" at the end. Jane-ation. Esper-ation. Corr-ation.

1. It is summer in the winter. Even though you keep thinking it's July in Minnesota, it is really January in Mexico. Ah, sweet, sweet Mexico.