Further Bangkok-ing

So what has been happening in Bangkok.

I signed up for a gym yesterday, at California Wow! Pretty awesome name, huh? I've never been to California so I can't tell you how accurate the name really is, but it's a nice gym. I think working out will be great. Gives me something to do after class, keeps me in shape, boosts my self-confidence, all that crap. They even have a swimming pool on the roof. I mean, I'd pay the monthly fee for that alone. Also, all the classes you could want to take are included in the monthly, so I think I am going to try some pilates, maybe yoga. I could definitely use a little more flexibility in these old bones.

School has been definitely getting better. The kids aren't exactly better behaved, and I wasn't really given any further instructions how to actually educate them, but each week it gets a little simpler. I know how to deal with the kids a little better, and know how to keep them occupied for the full 2 hours (although, I don't think I've ever had a class actually last 2 hours. I am one of those 'cool' teachers that lets their students go just a little bit early each class. Hey, let's face it, I'm cool). I am not scared to go to class any more like I was two weeks ago. Some of the classes are even, dare I say, fun? I also finally got the textbook for my IEP (Intensive English Program) class, and I am about to use it for the first time in about 40 minutes. It has those exercises with an audio CD, and all the people speaking have the funniest fake accents from Europe or Australia. "Voeecaaano, Reeva, Mawntains!" It will be a riot I think (as long as it eats up time, I'm happy).

Last weekend I went all the way across the city (and got a little lost along the way, thanks cabbie) to watch the Old Bangkok Bangers play against the Japanese team. I think I understood rugby a lot better watching it up close, and in a much slower fashion than the professionals. Some of the guys asked me if I was going to be joining them next weekend for practice. I think I told them yes, but the entire time I was thinking about the guy who just had to be carried off the field with a broken elbow. So, I don't think I was lying, but, I might have been? Hey, at least I'll be better shape from pilates.

Also, side not, Bistro 33 catered the game with a buffet of burgers, pizza, and beer. I don't think I had ever been so full in my life. I would have loved to have another beer or two, but I had eaten so damn much that I think my stomach was about to explode. Probably a good idea I got that gym membership.