2011年1月26日 星期三

1/26: Day 3 of the Mayan Trip 馬雅探索:德州牛仔文化歷史與NBA球賽

Hi, KCBS! This is Frankie, more energized and focused, but still jet-lagged and haunted by an irritating cough, reporting from Houston.  You know what they say, the second day is always better than the first and it is certainly true for us folks from Houston~

Today was exciting!  We got to experience the traditional history of Texan cowboys and the modern entertainment of an all-American NBA game between the Houston Rockets and the LA Clippers.  I'm telling y'all, life doesn't get better than this,heeheehee!  (I was almost tempted to say I'd move to Houston! Don't worry, California, you are still in my heart!)

Before leaving for George Ranch Historical Park, the kids had their morning routine, their morning report, and a short lesson on the seven habits of an effective teenager.  The kids' routine in the morning included a wake-up dance, a journal/reflection from different students, and then breakfast.  I would like to say that the wake-up dance is my favorite part, but I'd by lying my favorite part is and always will be breakfast! (I promise to try very hard NOT to focus on the food only)

After breakfast, the students had a lesson on the seven habits of an affective teenager.  It was easy enough for the kids to understand.  I hope the kids will find it helpful by actually applying the habits throughout the trip, their school life, and their future.

The trip to George Ranch Historical Park was a nice glimpse into the life of Texans in late 1800s.  One of the houses had actual tools and the setting; the realism and its fine details satisfied everyone's photo-taking urge.  We all had fun, even I, an anti-photography person, took pictures of the amazing beauty of the traditional West and of the majestic nature around it.  After feeding ourselves with hot dogs, we were ready for the cow drive!  Yes, you heard it right-driving cows from Texas to Kansas.  I forgot to mention that it was just a simulation!  Roles needed to be selected, contract was signed, and supplies were purchased.  As we headed out, we had to utilize our problem-solving skills to come up with solutions against difficulties.  The cow drive was not smooth from the start; all of us started off working for nothing because our boss, whose name I will not mention, decided to spend all his money on supplies.  Oh, yeah,there were a lot whining and complaining along the way.  In the end, we made around 400 dollars, which was pretty back in the late 1800s.  According to the people from the ranch, we were the first group who knew how to escort cows across the river.  I believe that brought smile of pride on all the kids' faces!

After the cow drive, we had to drive our tired selves back to the hotel for dinner.  Underneath all the exhaustion that dragged along our feet and lingered in the air, all of us were excited about the next event ~ NBA game live!  I may be exaggerating, maybe just the boys who are basketball fans and me!

We had good seats and were able to watch the game clearly from the 4th floor.  The experience of watching the game live is something more than words can describe.  The only thing is that you must keep your eyes on the game all the time because there was not going to be any replays.  I missed a couple of sweet fast drives and expected to enjoy it again but I was surely disappointed. Oh well, c'est la vie!

We ended the game with a triumphant walk back to our hotel under a sky full of stars and the air filled with glory.  Even though none of us are real Rocket fans, but the fact that we are in Houston and Houston's home team won, it was hard not be infected with the winning glow!

All right, Frankie certainly feels like a winner after completing this journal entry. Until our next time, here is Frankie and the KCBS kids from Houston!

Frankie









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