To prepare for our two week journey around the world, we had to apply for a passport so we were all able to travel outside of the country.
We were relieved and excited when we got word that we were all approved! Our passports arrived rather quickly - and it's a good thing since we were leaving for China in just a few days.
With passports finally in hand, it was time to pack our bags and head to the airport!
China was the first stop on our itinerary. We received our boarding passes at the airport and loaded the plane...we could barely contain our excitement.
Here we are on the plan getting ready for take off!
We arrived in China and learned all about the Christmas holiday - songs, decorations, food and festivities. To bring back a little Chinese culture to our classroom, we made our own paper lanterns and paper chains and decorated our Christmas tree.
Next Stop - England
Many of our current American ideals about the way Christmas ought to be derive from the English Victorian Christmas, such as that described in Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol. The caroling, the gifts, the feast, and the wishing of good cheer to all - these ingredients came together to create that special Christmas atmosphere.
We watched a clip of the original Dickens' 'A Christmas Carol.' We also sang the popular British song 12 Days of Christmas. We made traditional Christmas Crackers that we opened together in a circle. The kids found little gifts inside that they were able to take with them back to the States!
Next Stop - Ethiopia
To learn the customs of Ethiopia, we had the pleasure of a visit from Mrs. Norfleet's husband, Marcus. He brought pictures from his own travels to Africa and shared them with us. He also taught us a couple of songs and dances! We learned that Ethiopians participate in a huge processional to church to celebrate the birth of Christ. Many of them play instruments, such as drums as they walk.
So we made our own drums!
Stay tuned for coverage from our upcoming trips!
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