Appalachian Life Skills +

At the Literacy Council, we are always trying to focus on relevancy--have the students work on something that they can go out and use.

Today, there was an article in the paper about a bear that has been seen in Kingsport, not too far from where my Chinese student lives.  So our life skill training today was reading the article and learning what to do if you encounter a bear.  His eyes got as big as saucers when he found out there was a chance that he might actually have to use his new-found skills.  (Alan pointed out that the dumpster in back of the restaurant where my student works might be prime bear habitat.)

On another note:
Alan and I celebrated our 19th anniversary on Sunday.  We went to Priceline and got a 3 1/2 star hotel in Asheville for $50.  It was the Crowne Plaza Resort--usually $170 a night.  I am sure we will be using Priceline again for last-minute jaunts.

I had fun looking through our wedding pictures and remembering what a great day it was:  Sharon, who was so incredible coordinating all the logistics--having to oversee changing everything from a garden wedding to indoors because of a deluge. Doreen with her arm in a sling from a bicycle accident.  Maria holding my bouquet--(At the end of the evening, she reminded me that I had forgotten to throw my bouquet, so I threw it to her.)  Joe, Tommy, and Steve in rocking chairs on the porch, giving a toast to the camera--and many more wonderful memories.  It has been a fantastic 19 years.  Thank you Donna for introducing me to Alan.