At last I have a moment to get back to blogging. The birthday dinner for Ashley was so much fun. Food was so-so, the sights breathtaking and visiting as a family fun, fun! The chamber group on the boat played Happy Birthday, and all clapped and sang.
Tonight was the highlight of the whole trip for Aaric! As part of the conference activities, we watched a performance of the Hungarian National Folk Dancers. First, the performance was held in The Hungarian Heritage House - a building started in the late 1700’s and developed over the next 200 years! It is palatial, ornate, and elegant! Here is a photo:We were wined and dined, and treated to the most amazing dance performance! The costumes, energy, agility and skill of the dancers were more exciting than anything we had ever seen before! We had to share this with you – click here to see the video:
The conference has kept me (us) very busy for the last few days! As always, discussing the progress, challenges and futures of education with my global colleagues is very inspiring! There are 29 countries represented at the conference, and while we have unique issues we also have many shared experiences. We come together to review the state of the field and consider directions that will help move us into desired futures – quality education for all. Did you know 2/3 thirds of world's children have access to grade 10 or less? Many have NO access. This is not a situation that will lead us to creating a more civilized, greener world. First, the best education for the greatest number … then we really have the capacity to solve the complex problems of the world.
So, what to do, what to do! Tonight I feel a little overwhelmed, as now it is time to set goals and make decisions about what to focus on for the next year. Usually this is just a professional quest … but this year I believe I have some pressing personal decisions to make as well. What is the best set of activities for my family? Aaric is almost 16! And my health? I would like to state with confidence and accuracy “I am healthy.” Maybe even “I am a vegetarian.” And “I exercise regularly,” “ I feel really good,” “ I am very fit.” Wouldn’t that be nice!!!
Perhaps this is a function of transition ... going home is as big a deal as getting ready to go away for a month! Okay; two more days before we go home ... we're going to make the most of it! Tomorrow the conference ends at mid-day, and we head for the Thermal Bath that Budapest is famous for. Thursday is a whole day for sightseeing ... while I ponder my future(s) ;-).!!!!
More later ......
Hi Doc,
ReplyDeleteLovely to read your interesting blog - it had many levels! Glad to hear you have been able to enjoy the sights and sounds of Europe. Great that Arric was able to see the dancers perform in such a magnificant setting,(enjoyed the video - thank you), and Ashley had a birthday she will never forget. It sounds as though as this conference draws to a close you are bringing away many things to ponder. Will stay tuned for your next batch of thoughts regarding your future. The main thing is to stay as well as possible. After a good rest in your own bed maybe things will look a little different. I can appreciate the global messaege re: education that has confronted you over this past week has been daunting. Please try to get some good R & R for now.
Thanks for your kind words. Hope all is well in your neck of the woods. You are absolutely correct ... as always! Things will look much different in a few days.
ReplyDeleteWe say good-bye to Europe and hello Alberta tomorrow - definitely a mixed blessing. It is snowing at home! Time to start arranging more time on the West Coast ;-).