UN Day

Today was UN day at the kids' International school.  A great day towards promoting peace among countries and introducing the kids to each other's cultures.  61 different nationalities are present in their school of just over 500 kids in grades 1-12.  The kids dressed in clothing representative of their country and then each country's group gathered together to walk in a parade around the school and park.  Cheering, chanting, singing, etc.  It was great!  The largest group of kids were Swedish but the US made up the second largest.  Max realized that he doesn't have any friends at school from the US so he ended up walking with Tabitha and her one American friend.  Calvin has two friends from US so he was good to go.

The principal of the school then gave a great speech from the balcony before singing a beautiful version of "No Man is an Island" a cappella, followed by a solo version of the United Nations anthem on the trumpet.  Very, very impressive!!

As you can see from the pictures, we have been enjoying 55 degrees for the past 2 days while I hear reports of snow from home!

After leaving the kids to the rest of their day at school, I set out on foot to run some errands.  In 45 minutes, I had hit the grocery store, dry cleaners, post office, cosmetics shop, and was back at home.  I can honestly say that I do not miss having a car at all!!

I finally have the footwear figured out...  Good, supportive, warm, waterproof shoes that are still cute... And, good thick socks without any holes because you always have to take off your shoes when you go into someone's home.

Now, I just have to figure out the outerwear...  It rains, it snows, the sun shines, it's warm, it's cold... all in the space of one day.  But, without a car to leave your hat or your umbrella or whatever in, you either have to carry it all with you or really think it through.  So, far, I am either too warm or too cold.  I will get there...