Homer Simpson's Postcard

I just had to grab and post this from last week's Post Secret. It adds a bit of laughter to an otherwise difficult week full of clouds and rain in Spain (Madrid anyway) and ash clouds from the Icelandic volcano over other parts of Europe. Wednesday was the birthday of the mother of two of my students and I took her a little gift. She excitedly told me to guess where they were going on Friday and I said, "Don't tell me you're going to Pepe's!" Pepe's is what we call our local Chinese restaurant, because that's the name the owner has given himself. "No", she answered, "we're going to Paris for the weekend!" It was just going to be the two of them as the aunt was going to stay with the kids. Without thinking too much, I answered that I hoped the erupting volcano wouldn't affect their trip. I felt really bad for them when they returned while I was giving the younger child class on Friday afternoon. When I finished class, I said, "I hope you don't think I'm a witch!" I had little idea that air traffic in Europe would practically come to a standstill. I suppose it was lucky they didn't go to Paris on Friday because who knows when they would get back - by plane anyway and I think the French trains were on strike too!

We've had all of 5 minutes' sun today. Around 2 p.m. it was as if it were at least 8 p.m. and I knew we were in for real drencher. The building across the street has big ledges and when the rain came they made a nice waterfall. It reminded me of when we were little talking about getting some soap and going outside for a shower. I think it was just talk because I don't remember ever doing it. The tree in front of my windows has lost all its blooms. I know at this time last year it still had lots left on it. It's got plenty of green leaves though. There's a saying that claims that a year of a lot of rain brings wealth. One thing is sure: we'll have water to drink.

We have enough economic problems already, so I hope things get back to normal very, very soon in Europe at the airports. If not, there will be disastrous results, not only for the airlines. Hope everybody has a sweet week, preferably with doughnuts. Me, I've just remembered that I'm going to be a great-aunt again any day now!