More ground balls than catching...

The month of September started with the introduction of Lacrosse to grades 7 and 8. This game is the oldest sport in North America and was originally played by Native Americans in what are now Canada and New York. Lacrosse brings many athletic skills together to create a fun, physical and fast-paced game. The students first learned how to cradle the ball; the method by which a player holds the ball in the stick’s pocket.

They have also been practicing passing, catching, defending and playing the positions of the field. Many girls enjoyed playing attack wing, which is the most essential position for scoring goals. Other girls have enjoyed playing defense; especially checking sticks!

Catching the ball has proven to be the most challenging, as it requires the use of good hand-eye coordination, quickness and finesse, all while running down field and avoiding defenders. The fluidity of the game has been improving, as students improve their communication, self confidence and socialization. The students have also improved their use of field space and strategies for scoring goals. Most importantly, the students have all practiced respect, fairness and compassion with one another. This speaks volumes of the Christian nature of our Concordia school community!

we do WORKKKKK!!!

Our fitness workout today for 7th and 8th grade girls. The girls are improving everyday on their upper body strength and their endurance. It's great to witness their progression!

Part Deux: Modern dance movement with HS dance ensemble

Music: Yalira by Warm Heart of Africa
Choreography: Laura Fitzgerald

This Weekend's Report: Yu Yuan Garden, A Chinese Antique Shop, Tai Kang Lu and People's Square, aka Times Square of Shanghai

Special thanks to Su Tan at Thai Thai restaurant, who was so sweet to my friends and I when we ate lunch there on Sunday. He is Chinese, but speaks English very well, having lived in New Mexico for more than 13 years. When I told him I was American, he said, "Oh, America! Great country! All the people have big sofa, big TV, big house, but when you open the door, where are all the people?!". My sentiments exactly.

Step outside today! Say hello to your neighbors! Ride your bike to the corner store! Be friendly! Kindness is contagious! Pass it on.

Modern dance movement with HS dance ensemble

Choreography by Laura Fitzgerald
Music: Do Tara Alap by Caina

Happy 4th Birthday to the best dog around!

During the new teacher orientation here at Concordia, the Head of School introduced everyone by sharing anectdotal information about each of us. I was introduced as the teacher who wouldn't accept an overseas post where my dog was not welcome... AND.... the girl who got through the airport without putting her dog through quarantine (much to the chagrin of the other pet owning teachers who went through the heartache and financial burden of quarantine).

So it really should not have come as a surprise to my colleagues when they saw an invitation to my dog's fourth birthday party in our weekly "Updates and Announcements" newsletter. I ended up being the target of many "crazy dog lady" jokes, but also earned the admiration of students and families eager to connect outside of school in a casual environment where the entire family, including four legged furry members, would be welcome.

I planned to have the dog party in a local park, but Shanghai weather is always unpredictable. After a full day of sunshine, mother nature decided to open the flood gates a half hour before my party was to start. I quickly sent out emails and texts to my guests to inform them of a venue change, which ended up being my apartment!! While it was not exactly the most ideal situation to have a bunch of wet dogs and humans with sticky skin from the humidity in a small apartment, everything turned out for the best.

Despite the weather, Dior's birthday party was a success!!! I was so happy my students and fellow teachers came to celebrate with their dogs and share a happy day! It feels great to be part of the Concordia community, and have the support of people who barely know me. It speaks volumes about the Christian character of our school community, and I am so grateful for their support during this time of transition for me and my little family.



I cannot believe that four years ago, I finally got the Maltese I always dreamed of having. I always begged my parents for a dog, but they never gave into my pleading. When I got my dog, I wasn't exactly planning on this nomadic lifestyle I now lead, but I am so glad I have him by my side, no matter what country we're in. My dog brings me so much joy, happiness, and fulfillment that even on days when he is a rascal, I can't help but smile, and thank God that I have my guardian angel.

If you haven't felt the love for a dog, you haven't felt unconditional love!!!

Around town in Shanghai and jumping for joy in class...

Get fit the local way.. and a little birdie?

Local Chinese people exercising with stretches and Tai Chi:



A little birdie found his way into the PE office.. perhaps he wanted to get FIT with FITZ too? :)