Sunday 25^th November, 2018 1130

The Chinese curse struck again at school this week. One of my classes advised they had spoken to someone (I suspect the Dean) regarding “my” plan to use an English activity in lieu of formal exams. It was deemed unacceptable. Could I come up with another plan?

I pointed out it was not in fact my idea but Janet's. I didn't say I had been against it from the outset and suggested they talked to her. In the evening I emailed her to find out the score. The activity is cancelled “for different reasons”. I doubt I will ever be told said reasons but it now means a scramble to organise proper tests.

The quickest way of testing such large classes (44 students in each) is a recital and marks being awarded for pronunciation instead of English cognizance and ability. I can get that done in a fortnight. Next term they can have real exams and I will schedule three weeks for that – regardless of any “plans” anyone comes up with!

This means the coming week I have to inform them and they have three weeks to select and memorise a passage of their choice from an English book. Week commencing 1^st December is art week so I shall not be teaching. Roll on the 28^th when I am on holiday!

I had a dreadful night's sleep last night. I kept being disturbed by pain in my face. It didn't seem like toothache and my lips felt swollen. I also felt “cruddy”. When I finally got up at 0900 and went to the bathroom it was the first time it had been light, I never turn the light on when I need to go. I wondered what the hell I was looking at.

My top lip and lower half of my nose looked as if a Botox application had gone disastrously wrong. I no longer looked like me. I informed the gang tomorrow's meal was probably cancelled, at the time I was convinced I would be eating soup for a few days. I couldn't open my maw. Suspecting an infection from food which had worked its way into my gum via a broken tooth, I broke out the amoxicillin. Three hours on, although I still look a fright, it is abating. With luck by tomorrow morning I shall be much improved. If not it will be a trip to the hospital.

And you all know how much I love putting myself in the hands of doctors.........