This week, my last week with my students at San Juan Bautista, was bittersweet, full of mixed emotions. It was definitely tough to say goodbye to all the kids, particulary since some of them only just realized that they will not be seeing me again next year. It really dawned on me, when it came time to say our goodbyes, how much I care for some of these students, and how affectionate they are towards me. A lot of them were very sad to see me go and kept asking me why I couldn't just come back (one twelve year-old boy, partially in an attempt to get me to stay and also in an attempt to impress the girls in his class, said the following to me: "Elana, are you going to marry me? I love you ...you are very beautiful!". It was cute but also a little uncomfortable at the same time, but at the very least, I was happy that he asked me in English, as this is one of the kids I have trouble getting to speak to me in English!
Althought that was maybe the funniest reaction I got during my last two days, I had time to talk to several students about my time here, their future plans, etc, which was nice, since I havent gotten a lot of time to just talk to them during the year. Since the teachers didn't have all that much planned on Monday and Tuesday, I was able to talk to the kids about something other than school, which I really enjoyed. Also, on Wednesday, we had a graduation ceremony for the 4th year students, which was very nice. Afterwards, there was a reception and I got to meet some of the parents. It was nice to see the kids in a different setting, outisde of school, with their families and friends, relaxing and celebrating their accomplishments. It was also funny because I talked to a few of the parents for quite awhile (in Spanish of course) and all of the kids and parents were amazed at how well I spoke. The kids all know I speak and understand Spanish, but I dont think they had actually ever heard me speak an entire conversation in a language other than English, so it was pretty funny.
Since Wendesday was my last day at school, I've had a nice long weekend to enjoy time with my friends and go out in Madrid a few last times before I have to say my final goodbyes. Several of my closest friends are leaving in the beginning of July, so I want to spent a lot of time with them this week, before they leave. So basically, the last few days have been full of long talks, dinners, and drinks outside with my closest friends here..a very nice and relaxing way to spend the weekend. Now- really all that is left are the final goodbyes, planning for my trip in July, a few loose ends to tie up at school...etc etc. So, while I'm sad to leave, I'm still trying to focus on the time I have left and enjoy it the best I can! I know I still have lots of fun times to look forward to!
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