Happy Birthday to me?

Sorry it's been so long between blogs. With my roommate gone, it's been hard to get to a computer. I've been working hard with Renee, the volunteer who teachers fourth, fifth, and sixth grade English. She has been extremely frustrated with the lack of respect and poor behavior of her students. We implemented some individual and group reward systems, and the difference is incredible. I am absolutely thrilled that it is working so well and feel like I have really won over some of the kids. One of the head honchos here indicated that there may be a position for me here next summer coaching the teachers, which I would LOVE. I had a super weekend! I celebrated the Feast of San Pablo with some of the pequen~os on Friday and followed up with a good ole American Fourth of July BBQ at the Volunteer House. On Saturday, I was invited to go to the city with friends for a little descanso from the ranch. We got a hotel, sat by the pool, went out for dinner and salsa dancing, and altogether had a fantastic time. Unfortunately, I became violently ill the next day. My birthday, of course. I've decided that I'm now going to celebrate it the 5th since that day was so much better. I didn't do a thing but sleep Sunday and yesterday, and Donna and the new visitors have taken wonderful care of me. I'm feeling much better today!!