Today I met more wonderful Austrian students and I must say, I had a really good time. Walking in to a class of kids with smiles on their faces is a great feeling. I'm still only introducing myself, so it is quite easy, but we've had some fun talking about differences between the US and Austria, as well as some fun slips of tongue ("My name is green" was my favorite so far--students had to say their name, fav food, and fav color).
Of course, in one of my lessons, I admitted to being a goody two-shoes and was promptly taken down a peg by a terrible spelling mistake--I mixed up "capitol" and "capital!" Honestly, very embarrassing, but I just laughed and explained that I'll just be a goody one shoe from now on.
Today I was also invited to take part in the Shafaufbratln with the rest of the Handelsakademie teachers--this is a tradition in October when the sheep are brought down out of the mountains and slaughtered. I explained to the students that this seemed rather sad--to make the sheep shuffle off the mortal coil directly after their joyous homecoming. At the risk of making a fool of myself, I asked the students today where they get new sheep, and they explained that the farmers keep the babies.
I have plans for tomorrow to try to hike the nearby hill up to the St. Leonhard's Church. I can see it out my window every day and it beckons to me. I also sent out a barrage of e-mails today to local clubs and groups so I can meet some folks in the community. Possibilities for activities this season (depending on the replies I get) include: Bushido (!), an Italian language course, Russian folk dancing, a local choir, or a traditional dance group.
On that note: One teacher came up to greet me at the school today--she saw me last night at the local guest house having dinner, but wasn't sure it was me. Now, she says, we can sit together if we see each other out and about. I also had a quick chat with my neighbor who is also brand new in Tamsweg--he also has a place in Salzburg and will be returning every weekend with the bus, just like me. Maybe I can talk him into buying a car and taking me with? Either way, I'm excited to be planting the seeds for potential future friendships.
Tomorrow is my final "first day" as I'll be journeying to my third school, the Multiaugustinum in St. Margarethen (a nearby village). I am excited and nervous to meet the students and teachers there.
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