Finally taking a breath

The worst feeling in the world is being consumed by a single thought. Only one goal, one wish, one desire, one burning, fiery passion. Right now, for me, that is itching. I have Swimmers itch, which is when tiny bugs get into my body and die, and then I produce an allergic reaction. It's like poison ivy on steroids. I feel nothing but an itch. I have no idea what to even do during the day because my skin itches so badly. There are so many bumps all over my body, and they just keep growing and appearing in new spots. My face, the back of my knee, my toes. It's so distracting.
On the up side, today was the first day of school! We arrived at 7:30 for staff worship where we sang songs and had a short worship thought. Then we went out to meet the kids! Mine were already lined up by the door with their parents waiting to meet me. Instead of the shy, timid kids that I imagined, I had 10 screaming 2nd graders. They all shouted "Hi Miss Chelsea" as I arrived, as if they'd known me for years. They all plowed into the classroom, showing me their shoes and new backpacks and a marble that they found on the ground. After I finally got them settled, I explained who I was and then it was time for chapel. Shoes went back on and we trampled off to the church. They filled up a whole pew! We listened to Dr. Flores's speech and sang some hymns. Then it was back to the classroom. After playing some games to get to know the kids names, we all went to the gym for recess! I taught them predator tag and we played freeze tag, duck duck goose, and some other new games they taught me. Then we went inside and I explained the rules and procedures. There are procedures for everything! When they arrive, when they need to go to the bathroom, when there's a fire alarm, when handing in papers, when changing classes, when getting my attention, and when leaving for the day. They were all so sweet and precious and energetic. Oh my goodness, I can't imagine how kids can talk so much and only say one sentence! Mariah wanted to show me her singing, and how she will be a pop star. Shayne made me a house of sticks to keep on my desk. Mikani told me how much he loved basketball and reading. Ichiro told me he didn't know how to read. They told me they loved me. They hugged me. Kylie drew me a picture. Martin told me I always had to be it in tag. Ked needed help packing his backpack. Mizora wanted help sharpening her pencil. And on and on and on it goes. We had lots of free time to play games, with blocks, with stencils, and read. We also visited Carl in the library and they were quiet! For a few minutes anyway, then back to the chaos. I honestly don't know yet how I will teach them anything. It is such a huge challenge and I just want them to learn! After school, when all the kids had gone home, I straightened up and then went to the bank. I opened a bank account so I can get paid! Then we went to Surangles and got tons of drinks. This weather makes me SO thirsty. We waited until evening and then headed back to school for a meeting with the board members. They were all very sweet and helpful, and my "mother" was there and gave me food! It was so nice. I really like her and her family. Jeanine, Tammi, and I spent the next three hours making dinner, talking about politics, and I explained many things about America to them. It was quite fun and a perfect end to a crazy day. And just think, it happens again tomorrow! On the up side, tomorrow is our first meeting with our dive instructor! It should be so nice to finally get started!