October 28 – Novemeber 05.
Friday, November 9th, 2007This was quite a busy week for me, and things are still that way. That’s why I must apologize, for, because I’m busy, this will be a rather short review of events I find rather significant.
On Friday, November 2nd, I traveled from Crossville, Tennessee to Nashville, Tennessee by bus, which was an hour late. I arrived late in Nashville and had to check into the hostel late, as well.
This was my first time staying in a hostel, and, I must say, the first night did not impress me. Not only did my roommate snore, I got to listen to people snoring down the hall. I didn’t sleep well, and was up taking a shower by 3:00 a.m. Blah!!! Not a good way to start my first day of class.
Saturday was a good deal better. As I mentioned earlier, I was up very early. Because this was my first time at the hostel, I spend a good part of the morning wandering around aimlessly. I didn’t know where to go, what to do, etc. I didn’t even know where the common room was, and there was no one awake who could tell me. I should have stayed in bed. Hah!!!
I eventually made my way down to a Krispy Kreme doughnut shop. I spent the morning there writing and drinking coffee (Yes, I had some doughnuts too). That was nice; it gave me a chance to just sit for a bit and prepare myself mentally for the day, and dream of my dearest friend. My thoughts of her always set me at ease. She helps me put things into perspective.
Class started a little after 9:00 and lasted until 5:30. It was a long day- but so much fun. We started off with a game and got to know one another, and we instantly melded into a group of friends. Day one…. a success!!!
By the time I got back to the hostel (I don’t know when for sure), I was understandably tired. I showered and had planned to go straight to bed, but I didn’t. I was sitting in my room on the couch and my roommate arrives… turned out to be an interesting chap. We talked for a while before bed. “Hmmmmmm… this hostel thing has some advantages,” I start thinking.
Sunday morning starts off early like Saturday, but under different circumstances. That morning, I realized that it was good to be up early, for everyone was still sleeping and I could use the shower as long as I wanted. Plus, if I went to the common room (I did find the common room), I could have it all to myself, which is good for me in the morning, for I like to meditate before my day begins. Of course, I meditated on the day ahead, but I also thought of my dearest friend and how much I missed her. I start every day with her.
Class was from 9:00 until 5:30 again, and it was excellent- even better than the day before. This day was more in depth, and we really started learning about TESL. I realize that the real learning will occur when I start teaching, but I feel better knowing that I am preparing. It’s almost like I preparing to learn.
At noon, we had lunch, and a group of us loaded up and went to a nice little cafe. I got to talk to a couple of friends that I made and enjoy a great sandwich. I include that bit of data not because it was eventful, but because it was enjoyable. I love dining with friends, and haven’t got to do much of that lately.
When class was over, I was surprised to find a voice mail waiting on me. It was my dearest friend telling me hello. What a treat for me. Just the sound of her sweet voice is enough to make me smile and laugh. I include this because it was the highlight of my day. Really, it was.
When I arrived at the hostel, I did, indeed, follow through with my plans to shower and go straight to bed. I was asleep by 7:00 p.m.
On Mon, I was up early again, by choice. I spent time in the common room, went for coffee and a doughnut, and packed when I returned. After packing, I did a little shopping for a friend. In Thailand, Jack Daniels is expensive; in Tennessee, it’s cheap. So, I bought 3 bottles to take with me to Thailand in January. It was funny. When I left for Nashville, my bags closed. By Monday, I couldn’t shut them- because of the J.D. and books for my classes. I looked like a pauper with everything he owns in his luggage.
The trip back home was nice. I met another interesting guy at the hostel who ended up riding the same bus I was on.
So, as you can tell, I had a good trip. And, in the end, I came to appreciate the hostel. It’s cheap, relatively clean, and quite friendly. So, I’ll be back next week.
