Holly Mickler, Teacher
It’s hard to believe we’ve been here a little over a week. Or have we? I can’t keep track with all the time changes! I have had some incredible experiences that I will carry with me forever. Many good times!

It’s interesting that this trip has been a bonding experience for some of the staff. I work with these people every single day of the school year; but, I’ll admit, I never truly knew some of them. We have had an amazing time together! When we’re in the hotel at night or in the morning, it’s like a college dorm! We walk in and out of each other’s rooms constantly, and it’s not uncommon to hear laughter, music and the occasional “Can I use your hair dryer?” echoing through the hall.

Yet another good time was our dinner with the top administrators of the school. The Chinese culture is rich with tradition, and that night we quickly learned the tradition of the toast! Believe it or not, the appearance of questionable food items on the Lazy Susan has become something we all look forward to as well! Could you please spin the Susan?

Last night also brought with it one of many good times. A friend and I began to feel this burning sensation in our pockets, almost like a hole was being burned right through. We checked, and yes, sure enough, there was money in there trying to get out! Unable to ignore it, we made our way to the downtown area for Pizza Hut, Haagen-Dazs and jewelry shopping! We had the best time, and we managed to fix the burning problem! We decided we would definitely head back there! After all, we only made it through half of the jewelry floor! What about the other half of it and the other four floors of shoes, purses, and other important items?

Have you noticed a trend of “Good Times?” This morning, we gathered all the students together in a big auditorium. The technology was failing us for a few minutes (imagine that). As I was working with the gentlemen, who speak no English, to fix it, I turned to see my fellow staff members teaching the kids the “wave.” Such a cool moment! The moment was quickly ruined when I heard a certain chant begin—“It’s great to be a Gator,” or something like that. With no hesitation, I began a tomahawk chop in order to teach our friends what they really needed to know! Ha!

So far, we’ve had our share of good times, and I look forward to those that are yet to come!