My final week in Puebla promised to be as only busier than the ones before it. This week we had not only the Christmas Festival for the primary grades, but also the secondary school's fundraiser event "Across the Universe" which was very entertaining. The majority of our time this week was spent in getting prepared for these two festivals. The students at all age levels really kept up a good level of enthusiasm for their events.
On Tuesday, the day before the Christmas festival, I was fortunate enough to work with the 6th grade students for an extend amount of time on their dance routine. This was really a treat for me because I have at least a small amount of experience with stage work and so was able to give several of the male students who were stugling some advice that seemed to make it easier for them. On both Monday and Tuesday the majority of our morning was spent with the students practicing for not only their individual dance routines, but also for the grand finale that showcased all of the students from all of the grades.
The actual event, which lasted all of Wednesday morning, was a lot of fun to watch. I sat in the front row as I told me students I would and took as many photos and videos as some parents I am sure. After wards myself and all of the other faculty (minutes a few) went to eat at an old time hacienda that had been changed into a restaurant. Juice cocktails are the breakfast drink of choice here and I happily ordered a Orange, Apple and Carrot juice drink. I have never had the quantity of salsa and chili for breakfast that I had there. After wards my host family and I went to Central to continue our Christmas shopping.
The last two days after the festival were really nice with lots of goodbyes and promises to stay in touch. I was given what seems like over 50 student emails so that will be exciting if even half of them try to return my emails. While I was at school those last several days I introduced some of the students that enjoyed dancing to some of the basic steps of swing dancing which I hope was an interesting cultural experience for them.
Saturday was highlighted by the salsa bar we went to that night. Not, for, beginners. They were all incredible dancers. I did the best I could under the circumstances of limited Spanish proficiency and pure intimidation at the quality of available partners. It was a unique experience that I am very glad Margarita made available to us and reignited my fervor for Salsa dancing in The United States of America.
In Central again with Monica
Reading over the lyrics to one of the songs for the Christmas Festival
Students preparing to practice the grand finale