Yesterday was a holiday, so I had a nice long weekend. Lena, my flat mate went to Salzburg with 3 other ESI teachers. I stayed at home because I was really buzy and it was nice to have the place to myself. Sunday was great. I went to have lunch at the restaurant where one of my students (Vladka) is a waitress. She was so glad I came. She invited me to a pub later that night where one of classmates would be celebrating his 19th birthday. I went home and made a big batch of chocolate chip cookies. I took some to my next door neighbors. They have helped us in so many ways. They were so excited that they invited me for "American Coffee." Maria, the wife speaks a little English. Jiri speaks none. We had an interesing time with broken English and Czech but it was very nice. I left with some apples and a standing invitation to come over for coffee anytime. Jiri says he will teach me Czech and I can teach him English.

Later, I went to the pub with Vladka. I gave Filip, the birthday boy, some of the cookies I baked and a "Don't Mess with Texas!" sticker. He loved both and was very glad I came. Although, I doubt he will remember much of it. He was quite drunk. I had a coffee and a great conversation with two of my students, John and Boris, about films and attitudes about Americans. I had such a good time that I didn't even mind walking home in the rain.

Today I received a nice package from my friend Penny. She sent some magazines and books and a nice fleece sweatshirt! It is a nice surprise. One of my students just asked for a Rolling Stones magazine. I hope they don't all start asking for things. There is no way I can get them everything they want. Well, that's all for now. Next week is Thanksgiving and the Central Europe team (Czech Republic & Hungary) will have a retreat together in South Moravia. We will have Thanksgiving Dinner prepared for us by the hotel. It should be great. I will let you know.
Jessica