As I write this, Christina is playing with the cat. We are all listening to "9 Lessons and Carols" on the radio, live from Cambridge, England. It's Christmas Eve, and I'm actually home!!
The last day of school was quite interesting. I had moved almost all of the stuff from my current class into my new classroom, so the room yesterday was quite empty. We enjoyed some time with the kids coloring, handing out presents, and watching movies. I had to bring my suitcases with me to school, because we were leaving as soon as the kids did, at 11:30.
The ride to the airport went without a hitch. Very uneventful, which was actually appreciated :) I went to the airport with three other people, and we were all quite hungry when we got there. We found a Burger King for lunch, and actually ran into 4 teachers from another school in our system in the same restaurant. What are the odds that something like that would happen??
I was on the same flight as another teacher, so we parted ways with the other people from our city so we could go through security. I put my stuff through the scanner thing, and wasn't ready for what would happen on the other side--the guy asked me if I had scissors in my bag. I did, but I had made it through security in the US and Tokyo with them, no problem, since they were under the 4 inch limit. Both of those places would measure the scissors, and then hand them back. This time, however, the guy just took them away and didn't even measure them. He then asked for my passport, and wrote some information in a little book. I wonder if that has put me on some kind of watch list for Chinese security??
Got on the plane, and we were told that as soon as we were cleared for take-off, we would be on our way. Then, about 15 mins later, the captain came back on saying that something was wrong with their computers and that they didn't have required information for take-off. About 90 minutes and a visit from technicians later to reset circuit breakers, we were finally on our way. Flight was mainly uneventful, except for periods where I wasn't feeling too well. Thankfully those didn't last long!
We landed in Chicago about 5:10, Chicago time. My flight was supposed to start boarding in an hour...I was getting worried. I hadn't gone through customs yet. We taxied for about 15 minutes (thought we would NEVER stop!!) Once I finally got off the plane and to the customs line, I basically knew I wouldn't be making the flight. The customs line was humongous! It took about 20 minutes to get from the back to the line for the agent. I finally got through the agent, got the stamp, and high-taled it to get my check-in bag. There was a lady helping us figure out where to go. She saw that my flight was for 6:40, and told me that I had missed my flight. (It was about 6:25 when I got to this point.) I was so disappointed. I didn't want to be stuck in the O'Hare Airport on Christmas Eve. I got up to the counter to book another flight, and the lady told me that my flight was in Terminal 2, and actually had been delayed till 7:30. I wanted to leap for joy! I have never been happier to hear a delay notificiation in my life! I made it to the right terminal, through security, and to the gate, only to find out that the flight was actually taking off at 8:00 now. But I didn't care. I was going to be on the flight, rocketing towards Norfolk!!
The plane that we got on was TINY!! One seat on the left, and 2 on the right. When I was getting on, a guy made quite a funny comment about the size of the plane: "It's like a pack of gum with wings." This comment was so true! I have never been on such a small plane! Flight from Chicago to Norfolk was uneventful, except for quite a lot of turbulence.
When I finally landed in Norfolk, I was so glad that I didn't have any gate checked items. Practically everyone else did, so they had to wait for the suitcases to be brought to the gate. I, however, had a backpack and a laptop case. So I quickly made my way to the gate, through the terminal, and to where mom, dad, and Christina were waiting. Everything in me wanted to run, but I thought against it. It was SOOOO nice to be able to finally hug them again, and not look at them through a computer screen!!
The ride home was so fun, yet so strange. The thing that amazed me the most was how calm and quiet the traffic is here. No constant horns honking. No zooming in and out of traffic. Everything here is so organized! We made it home pretty late, and went to bed. My bed is sooooo soft compared to the one in China!! Bed in China: brick covered in cloth. Bed here: laying on cotton!
I am still trying to get ofer the idea that I am actually able to be home for the Christmas season!! Can't wait for the 4 weeks I get at home!! Yahoo!!!
Merry Christmas everyone!
Saturday, December 24, 2011
Friday, December 16, 2011
6 1/2 days and Counting
In a week, I will be on a plane, heading for American soil. It's hard to believe that it's this time already.
Tonight was our Christmas Jubilee. Our students have worked long and hard to put this play on, and all of the staff was worried about how it would turn out. It was quite an interesting beginning, when welcomes and instructions took really long. Welcomes and introductions were given by the adults in English, then Chinese, then Korean. Then the high school students came on, and gave instructions for how to behave during the concert. Those were given in English, Chinese, Korean, and Japanese. Quite a fun time, and certainly not something you would see in the states.
Thankfully, our play went well, and it seemed like everyone enjoyed it. After everything was over, our principal went on stage and said several thank you’s. He began handing out bouquets of flowers to people that had helped with the play. I was quite surprised when I heard “Miss McKee” being said. I was not expecting anything for the relatively small part I played in helping, compared to everyone else. I was very appreciative, though J I had ridden my bike to school that morning, so I knew the ride home was going to be quite interesting. I managed to get from school to our apartment very carefully. The flowers didn’t fit nicely in my bike basket, so I had to carry them. I was somehow able to steer my bike using one hand and two fingers on my other hand. Thankfully since I was going back at 8:30 at night, there wasn’t much traffic on the roads, or else it would have been MUCH more difficult…
Continuing to look back at my time here, I realize that I have also grown more confident. I used to second guess myself a lot. “Can I really do it…” “Did I do that right?” etc., or want someone else to do it for me. Now, since I’m on my own, I have to do things for myself. I’m enjoying this newfound sense of independence and confidence. When I first got here, I wasn’t a fan of going to the store because I would get stared at, and constantly hear “Wai guo ren” (Pronounced “why gwo ren”, means: foreigner) everywhere. Now, it’s just a part of living here, and I could care less. I just go in, get what I need, and don’t really pay attention to the stares I’m getting. It is fun, though, to return stares with a smile and wave. They don’t know what to do when I respond to their gazes J
In the next few days, I will, once again, get suitcases down, and begin the “fun” process of packing. The one thing that makes packing easier—knowing your final destination and knowing that when you finish packing, you are heading for somewhere fun. As much as I detest packing, I know that it’s kinda necessary if I want to have stuff to take home J
Countdown: 4 ½ days of school left.
6 ½ days in China.
Tonight was our Christmas Jubilee. Our students have worked long and hard to put this play on, and all of the staff was worried about how it would turn out. It was quite an interesting beginning, when welcomes and instructions took really long. Welcomes and introductions were given by the adults in English, then Chinese, then Korean. Then the high school students came on, and gave instructions for how to behave during the concert. Those were given in English, Chinese, Korean, and Japanese. Quite a fun time, and certainly not something you would see in the states.
Thankfully, our play went well, and it seemed like everyone enjoyed it. After everything was over, our principal went on stage and said several thank you’s. He began handing out bouquets of flowers to people that had helped with the play. I was quite surprised when I heard “Miss McKee” being said. I was not expecting anything for the relatively small part I played in helping, compared to everyone else. I was very appreciative, though J I had ridden my bike to school that morning, so I knew the ride home was going to be quite interesting. I managed to get from school to our apartment very carefully. The flowers didn’t fit nicely in my bike basket, so I had to carry them. I was somehow able to steer my bike using one hand and two fingers on my other hand. Thankfully since I was going back at 8:30 at night, there wasn’t much traffic on the roads, or else it would have been MUCH more difficult…
Continuing to look back at my time here, I realize that I have also grown more confident. I used to second guess myself a lot. “Can I really do it…” “Did I do that right?” etc., or want someone else to do it for me. Now, since I’m on my own, I have to do things for myself. I’m enjoying this newfound sense of independence and confidence. When I first got here, I wasn’t a fan of going to the store because I would get stared at, and constantly hear “Wai guo ren” (Pronounced “why gwo ren”, means: foreigner) everywhere. Now, it’s just a part of living here, and I could care less. I just go in, get what I need, and don’t really pay attention to the stares I’m getting. It is fun, though, to return stares with a smile and wave. They don’t know what to do when I respond to their gazes J
In the next few days, I will, once again, get suitcases down, and begin the “fun” process of packing. The one thing that makes packing easier—knowing your final destination and knowing that when you finish packing, you are heading for somewhere fun. As much as I detest packing, I know that it’s kinda necessary if I want to have stuff to take home J
Countdown: 4 ½ days of school left.
6 ½ days in China.
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Different Perspectives
When we are kids, we want time to go by faster so that we can be a grown-up. We don't take the time to enjoy life, instead we rush through it. However, as the years go by, our perspective on life changes. Instead of wanting life to speed up, everyone wants it to sloooowwww ddoooowwwnnnnn.
I have noticed recently that I feel the same way. I am finding it hard to believe that I will be back home in VA, 3 weeks from tomorrow. It seems like just yesterday I was leaving Norfolk on my way to China. Now, I'm leaving China...going back to Virginia for a month. Have I really been here for about 4 1/2 months??
Looking back on my time here so far, there are many ways that I have changed, or am changing. I am truly blessed to work with amazing people. This is my first full year of teaching, and I wasn’t sure what to expect, especially being in an International School setting. During my college years, I had some difficult times relating to practicums and Student Teaching. There were times that I wanted to give up the education major all together. However, something (or Someone) told me to keep at it, don’t give up. I endured some not fun experiences, and finally managed to persevere, and make it to graduation. However, I still harbored many negative feelings about my abilities in the classroom. Since coming here, I have discovered that all my feelings due to experiences in college are thankfully not how things are going here. There have been several times when I have received compliments on how I am teaching…from my principal, other teachers, and the Pre-K teacher that works with me a lot. I have found myself gladly leaving behind the thoughts, feelings, and memories of experiences from college, and happily embracing the world of knowing that I am capable of not only teaching, but doing a good job. I like this new world, and I sure am looking forward to all the experiences that are yet to come :)
I have noticed recently that I feel the same way. I am finding it hard to believe that I will be back home in VA, 3 weeks from tomorrow. It seems like just yesterday I was leaving Norfolk on my way to China. Now, I'm leaving China...going back to Virginia for a month. Have I really been here for about 4 1/2 months??
Looking back on my time here so far, there are many ways that I have changed, or am changing. I am truly blessed to work with amazing people. This is my first full year of teaching, and I wasn’t sure what to expect, especially being in an International School setting. During my college years, I had some difficult times relating to practicums and Student Teaching. There were times that I wanted to give up the education major all together. However, something (or Someone) told me to keep at it, don’t give up. I endured some not fun experiences, and finally managed to persevere, and make it to graduation. However, I still harbored many negative feelings about my abilities in the classroom. Since coming here, I have discovered that all my feelings due to experiences in college are thankfully not how things are going here. There have been several times when I have received compliments on how I am teaching…from my principal, other teachers, and the Pre-K teacher that works with me a lot. I have found myself gladly leaving behind the thoughts, feelings, and memories of experiences from college, and happily embracing the world of knowing that I am capable of not only teaching, but doing a good job. I like this new world, and I sure am looking forward to all the experiences that are yet to come :)
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Decorating Time!!
So...I can tell that things have been very busy. I just realized that it has been a while since my last update..I'm sorry!!!
Things in the classroom have been pretty much the same since last update.
Last weekend, however, we got a really nice present--the administration treated all of the foreign staff to a weekend retreat in Suzhou!! It was so much fun :-) We left after school on Friday, spent the night in a nice hotel, and got to spend all day Saturday shopping!! I got really giddy when we went into a foreign import store, and I found something I had been craving since July--Cooler Ranch Doritos!! I completly ignored the price, and just bought them. A piece of advice I was given when I first came here--"If there is something you have been craving, don't look at the price and just get it." I have done that several times...and so totally worth it!! I know that they are pricey, so I make it last. I actually made the small bag of chips last for an entire week, which is a big deal for me :-)
Yesterday was our Thanksgiving dinner at school. I have had Turkey day meals at our fellowship back home with international students, but it's not the same...it's still in the states. Our dinner last night was a whole new experience--being in a school, in China, and sharing an American tradition with fellow Americans, as well as Chinese, Indians, Pakistani, Australian, British, and other nationalities. It was a very special experience. I really enjoyed seeing all of these cultures coming together, sharing what we are all thankful for, and knowing that Dad has placed all of us here at this time in this place for a reason. He sure does have a plan in store for all of us, even though it might not seem like it at the time!
Now that Thanksgiving is over, let the Christmas decorating begin!!! A group of us went to Stuff Mart today. You have to be in the right mood before going to this store. It is a group of about 5 buildings, each with 3 floors, PACKED with little shops. They don't have set prices, and will usually tell you a really hiked up price. You have to haggle for what is OK, and be prepared to walk away if they won't budge. We all went today with the intent to get Christmas decorations. I wasn't sure what we would find, and I was very pleasantly surprised :-) There was a lot of cool stuff!! After almost 2 hours there, my roomie and I found a tree, lights, ornaments, and a wreath for our apartment. I also picked up other decorations for my classroom: a small tree for my desk, lights (regular and presents), snowflakes for my window, and other decorations :D As I sit typing this, I am grinning because we were able to find a tree, lights, and our apartment is ready for Christmas!! I am probably going to go back to Stuff Mart again before the holidays, and end up with more decorations...
I can't believe that I will be home in less than a month...didn't I just get here???
Things in the classroom have been pretty much the same since last update.
Last weekend, however, we got a really nice present--the administration treated all of the foreign staff to a weekend retreat in Suzhou!! It was so much fun :-) We left after school on Friday, spent the night in a nice hotel, and got to spend all day Saturday shopping!! I got really giddy when we went into a foreign import store, and I found something I had been craving since July--Cooler Ranch Doritos!! I completly ignored the price, and just bought them. A piece of advice I was given when I first came here--"If there is something you have been craving, don't look at the price and just get it." I have done that several times...and so totally worth it!! I know that they are pricey, so I make it last. I actually made the small bag of chips last for an entire week, which is a big deal for me :-)
Yesterday was our Thanksgiving dinner at school. I have had Turkey day meals at our fellowship back home with international students, but it's not the same...it's still in the states. Our dinner last night was a whole new experience--being in a school, in China, and sharing an American tradition with fellow Americans, as well as Chinese, Indians, Pakistani, Australian, British, and other nationalities. It was a very special experience. I really enjoyed seeing all of these cultures coming together, sharing what we are all thankful for, and knowing that Dad has placed all of us here at this time in this place for a reason. He sure does have a plan in store for all of us, even though it might not seem like it at the time!
Now that Thanksgiving is over, let the Christmas decorating begin!!! A group of us went to Stuff Mart today. You have to be in the right mood before going to this store. It is a group of about 5 buildings, each with 3 floors, PACKED with little shops. They don't have set prices, and will usually tell you a really hiked up price. You have to haggle for what is OK, and be prepared to walk away if they won't budge. We all went today with the intent to get Christmas decorations. I wasn't sure what we would find, and I was very pleasantly surprised :-) There was a lot of cool stuff!! After almost 2 hours there, my roomie and I found a tree, lights, ornaments, and a wreath for our apartment. I also picked up other decorations for my classroom: a small tree for my desk, lights (regular and presents), snowflakes for my window, and other decorations :D As I sit typing this, I am grinning because we were able to find a tree, lights, and our apartment is ready for Christmas!! I am probably going to go back to Stuff Mart again before the holidays, and end up with more decorations...
I can't believe that I will be home in less than a month...didn't I just get here???
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Conferences and other Ramblings
4 months...seriously?!?! 4 months? Has it been that long? I can't believe that next week will mean I have been here for 4 months...time sure does fly!!
Last week we had Parent Teacher Conferences. When I was Student Teaching, I sat in on some conferences. When I was long-term subbing, I conducted a few conferences. Therefore, I went in to these conferences with an idea of how to handle them. However, there are differences between conferences in the states, and conferences here...Parents here are VERY concerned about how their children are doing. I had one Korean mom that didn't believe me when I kept saying that her daughter was doing very well. (She is! She is one of the top students in my class.) The mom kept saying, "Don't be nice. How is she really doing??"
Something that made a few of the conferences last longer--I had to go through translators. The parents of my 3 Korean kids all needed translators, so I would have to say something, stop and wait awkwardly while the translator relayed it and listened to the response, and then reply...you get the picture. Kinda strange.
Conferences were really good though. I got to talk to the moms a lot more, and find out how their child is while at home--and there were a few that were surprising differences. The biggest one: one of my girls is very talkative and energetic in class, but her mom said that at home, she is painfully shy. I couldn't believe the difference in her!
The weather is finally turning colder! I was getting tired of the warm weather...I wanted to be able to pull out my winter earrings...long sleeves...cold clothing...etc. Yay! Keep getting colder!
While in the store this evening, I heard something quite unexpected over the loudspeakers--Christmas songs! I heard "We Wish You a Merry Christmas," "Winter Wonderland," and one more I can't remember. You expect to hear things like that in the states. Wasn't expecting it here in China...
I hope that all is going well back in the states!! Can't believe that I will be back there in about a month and a half...seems like I just left!!!
Last week we had Parent Teacher Conferences. When I was Student Teaching, I sat in on some conferences. When I was long-term subbing, I conducted a few conferences. Therefore, I went in to these conferences with an idea of how to handle them. However, there are differences between conferences in the states, and conferences here...Parents here are VERY concerned about how their children are doing. I had one Korean mom that didn't believe me when I kept saying that her daughter was doing very well. (She is! She is one of the top students in my class.) The mom kept saying, "Don't be nice. How is she really doing??"
Something that made a few of the conferences last longer--I had to go through translators. The parents of my 3 Korean kids all needed translators, so I would have to say something, stop and wait awkwardly while the translator relayed it and listened to the response, and then reply...you get the picture. Kinda strange.
Conferences were really good though. I got to talk to the moms a lot more, and find out how their child is while at home--and there were a few that were surprising differences. The biggest one: one of my girls is very talkative and energetic in class, but her mom said that at home, she is painfully shy. I couldn't believe the difference in her!
The weather is finally turning colder! I was getting tired of the warm weather...I wanted to be able to pull out my winter earrings...long sleeves...cold clothing...etc. Yay! Keep getting colder!
While in the store this evening, I heard something quite unexpected over the loudspeakers--Christmas songs! I heard "We Wish You a Merry Christmas," "Winter Wonderland," and one more I can't remember. You expect to hear things like that in the states. Wasn't expecting it here in China...
I hope that all is going well back in the states!! Can't believe that I will be back there in about a month and a half...seems like I just left!!!
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
You Know You Live in China If....
Something fun to lighten your day:
You Know You Live in China If...
You Know You Live in China If...
- the constant sound of horns honking doesn't make you jump out of your skin.
- you are used to having fireworks go off at least 3 times a week.
- you pay more attention to see if there are cars coming across the road than the blinking red light if you are trying to cross the street.
- the sight of trash all over the place doesn't phase you.
- you can fix your wireless internet in about 2 minutes since the power goes out so often.
- the conversion factor from RMB to USD is something you could do in your sleep.
- getting stared at wherever you go doesn't bug you.
- Chinese phrases seep into your English conversation without you realizing it.
- the phrase "ma fan" (bother, trouble, annoyances, etc.) is used a lot in conversation between you and friends.
- having to go to the grocery store at least every other day is a normal part of weekly life. (Fridges here are so small, they can't hold much. Therefore, the milk containers and other containers are teeny, and you have to go several times a week.)
- spitting doesn't gross you out.
- you know that just because you should have the right of way, doesn't mean others will actually give it to you.
- you expect to see cigarette butts on the floor of the elevator, even if there is a clearly posted sign stating "no smoking."
- seeing kids in split pants (or no pants) is not shocking. (I will admit...even though I am used to it, there are times that I still get grossed out...)
- it is easy to find those hidden restaurants and shops that other people don't know about.
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Mai de long vs. Mai don lao
I have been in China for 3 months...MAN does time fly!! I am learning so much about myself on a daily basis, as well as how to function in a country where you don't know the language...quite interesting!
In my time here, I have had several interesting encounters revolving around transportation, none of which would be experienced in the states.
Yesterday, a friend and I went to Metro, which is the Chinese version of BJs or Sam's Club. We knew how to say "Metro" in Chinese (Mai de Long), and told this to our cabbie. However, as we were traveling, we realized that something wasn't looking right. When he pulled over to the side of the road, we realized that he had taken us to McDonalds (Mai don lao). Luckily, we had a bag from Metro, and it took a bit to communicate with the cabbie that we didn't want to go to McDonalds. Thankfully, he understood, and ended up not charging us for the mistaken ride. It was quite entertaining, and thankfully, we got to our destination!!
In China there are two types of taxis: Legit taxis that use meters, and black cabs, where you have to barter for the price. When we were leaving Metro, we found a black cab for a good price, and took it. On the way back, our cabbie took us through a sketchy area through a dark underpass. I was sooooo glad that it wasn't at night! It would have been MUCH more sketchy at night.
Buses in China are quite an experience. They are usually full, and often VERY packed. It is a common sight to see a bus so packed, that you don't think another person could possibly squeeze on there, but somehow they do. After a gathering this morning, I rode the bus to get lunch, and that bus was moderately occupied. The bus from lunch to my apartment, however, was another matter entirely. When I got on, there were 8 people on the bus, including the driver and myself. I have never seen a bus that empty. By the time we got to the stop for my apartment, there were 3 people: driver, me, and one other person. I had a nice time taking advantage of the quiet, peaceful ride to realize how blessed I am. I live in a great city. It's nice and quiet, not a busy city like Shanghai or Beijing. I have amazing coworkers, great school, small class (which makes it easier to individualize needs), and an incredible that has been so supportive throughout the whole process of me moving over here, and handling whatever life throws my way. I couldn't ask for anything better! Thanks, guys, for everything!!
In my time here, I have had several interesting encounters revolving around transportation, none of which would be experienced in the states.
Yesterday, a friend and I went to Metro, which is the Chinese version of BJs or Sam's Club. We knew how to say "Metro" in Chinese (Mai de Long), and told this to our cabbie. However, as we were traveling, we realized that something wasn't looking right. When he pulled over to the side of the road, we realized that he had taken us to McDonalds (Mai don lao). Luckily, we had a bag from Metro, and it took a bit to communicate with the cabbie that we didn't want to go to McDonalds. Thankfully, he understood, and ended up not charging us for the mistaken ride. It was quite entertaining, and thankfully, we got to our destination!!
In China there are two types of taxis: Legit taxis that use meters, and black cabs, where you have to barter for the price. When we were leaving Metro, we found a black cab for a good price, and took it. On the way back, our cabbie took us through a sketchy area through a dark underpass. I was sooooo glad that it wasn't at night! It would have been MUCH more sketchy at night.
Buses in China are quite an experience. They are usually full, and often VERY packed. It is a common sight to see a bus so packed, that you don't think another person could possibly squeeze on there, but somehow they do. After a gathering this morning, I rode the bus to get lunch, and that bus was moderately occupied. The bus from lunch to my apartment, however, was another matter entirely. When I got on, there were 8 people on the bus, including the driver and myself. I have never seen a bus that empty. By the time we got to the stop for my apartment, there were 3 people: driver, me, and one other person. I had a nice time taking advantage of the quiet, peaceful ride to realize how blessed I am. I live in a great city. It's nice and quiet, not a busy city like Shanghai or Beijing. I have amazing coworkers, great school, small class (which makes it easier to individualize needs), and an incredible that has been so supportive throughout the whole process of me moving over here, and handling whatever life throws my way. I couldn't ask for anything better! Thanks, guys, for everything!!
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
"They're More Like Guidelines Anyway!"
At each intersection, there are traffic lights, and little count down monitor things for when you can and can't cross. You would think that if the numbers are red, you can't cross, and if they're green, you can. However, here, it's more like, "Okay, I see that the countdown thing is a red 20, but the intersection is clear, so I'm just going to ignore the thing telling me to stop, and go anyway, and just hope no cars run me over." I have a few friends that have actually started doing that. Me, however....I'm not that gutsy. I have been on the receiving end of when people choose to not heed the "don't go" countdowns: I have the right-of-way (as it were in China), and have, several times, almost been in an accident because someone else didn't want to wait, cut in front of me, and seems to not be able to find their breaks in time. Therefore, I have to quickly grab the breaks on my bike, and try to stop before we bash into each other. This has happened with me vs. bike, scooter, car, and bus, none of which are fun...
I have also seen instances where posted signs inside of restaurants are not always followed. While I went out to dinner at a restaurant with friends in Beijing, I started smelling a LOT of cigarette smoke. I mentioned it to a friend, and she remarked that yes, the restaurant does have a no smoking policy, but it's not always followed. (There are other examples, but I will leave it with just these 2 main ones...)
I have, therefore, come to the conclusion that while there are rules, posted and not-posted, that "They are more like guidelines anyway!" (Hence the Pirates of the Caribbean picture at the top.)
If I had a lot more computer expertise, I would LOVE to make a spoof of the video that I posted: America vs. China. That would be entertaining. On the ride back from the store, I actually started picturing how I would want it to look...that would be fun!!
Friday, October 7, 2011
Beijing Adventures
This past week, I got to visit Beijing! Some of the time was for a company conference, but I also stayed behind with several friends and got to play tourist. Below are pictures taken during my trip :-)
I had some problems putting them in chronological order, so I hope the captions help to explain the pictures. Enjoy!! For those of you that have facebook, there are more pictures on there.
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| Pictures from the train ride to Beijing |
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| From the Train |
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| Our mystery speaker--C. S. Lewis |
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| Random cannon sitting in cement. |
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| STEEP stairs |
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| Great Wall of China!! |
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| I did this shot when I was 13 on my first trip, so I figured why not do it again? |
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| Very steep Great Wall |
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| Summer Palace |
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| Bridge in Summer Palace |
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| Entrance to summer palace |
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| Part of the summer palace |
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| View from the cable car |
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| Our ride up the wall--cable cars |
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| Taken by a friend while we were in one of the towers |
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| View of part of the wall |
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| You mean I can't bring my flamethrowers?? Oh man! |
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Has It Been 2 Months??
It's hard to believe that I've been here for over 2 months now...it seems like just yesterday I was making sure everything was packed, and heading for the airport. In my time here, I have thankfully been able to adjust relatively quickly to how life is different here.
I can certainly say that you get exercise here! Unless you depend on cabs or busses, if you are heading anywhere, you will get a workout. 90 percent of the places I go, I either walk or ride my bike. I am soooo glad that I got the bike! Makes going to school more fun, and a lot shorter. I am also getting used to being stared at wherever I go. When that happens, I just return their gaze with a smile and a wave. That usually elicits interestingly shocked responses..hehehe...
Another interesting occurrence is with the guards that are in our complex. When I leave for school on my bike, I always smile and wave to them. They have gotten so used to seeing me on my bike, that when I don't use it (like on Sundays when I take the bus to Fellowship), on the way back they always ask where my bike is. I didn't realize how much attention Chinese people pay to our habits and routines. Goes to show how we live under a microscope, and you really have to be careful, since you never know who might be around.
In school, things are getting into more of a routine. My newest student (who is also the youngest), has proved to be quite...interesting. When he came a week or two into the year, he knew barely any English words. He could count to ten, say "yes" and "no", and quickly learned "home" on the first day. Thankfully, he could understand more than he could speak, so it made communicating slightly easier. He has been improving drastically, much to my delight! On Friday, we had a huge break through: we were getting ready for naptime. He was on his mat, and I put the blanket over him. He looked up at me, smiled, and said, "Yes! Thank you teacher!" I was giddy with delight! He is learning English words really quickly, and even using them in correct complete sentences!! I hope this continues, which will make communicating with him a LOT easier.
On Saturday, we will all be taking a train to Beijing for a conference with people from all of our schools. Afterwards, several of us will be staying behind and playing tourist. I'm not sure what internet access will be like, but I will certainly be taking LOTS of pictures. If I don't have access while in Beijing, I will certainly post an update when I come back, including pictures!!
Off to get things ready for tomorrow....why can't weekends last longer??
I can certainly say that you get exercise here! Unless you depend on cabs or busses, if you are heading anywhere, you will get a workout. 90 percent of the places I go, I either walk or ride my bike. I am soooo glad that I got the bike! Makes going to school more fun, and a lot shorter. I am also getting used to being stared at wherever I go. When that happens, I just return their gaze with a smile and a wave. That usually elicits interestingly shocked responses..hehehe...
Another interesting occurrence is with the guards that are in our complex. When I leave for school on my bike, I always smile and wave to them. They have gotten so used to seeing me on my bike, that when I don't use it (like on Sundays when I take the bus to Fellowship), on the way back they always ask where my bike is. I didn't realize how much attention Chinese people pay to our habits and routines. Goes to show how we live under a microscope, and you really have to be careful, since you never know who might be around.
In school, things are getting into more of a routine. My newest student (who is also the youngest), has proved to be quite...interesting. When he came a week or two into the year, he knew barely any English words. He could count to ten, say "yes" and "no", and quickly learned "home" on the first day. Thankfully, he could understand more than he could speak, so it made communicating slightly easier. He has been improving drastically, much to my delight! On Friday, we had a huge break through: we were getting ready for naptime. He was on his mat, and I put the blanket over him. He looked up at me, smiled, and said, "Yes! Thank you teacher!" I was giddy with delight! He is learning English words really quickly, and even using them in correct complete sentences!! I hope this continues, which will make communicating with him a LOT easier.
On Saturday, we will all be taking a train to Beijing for a conference with people from all of our schools. Afterwards, several of us will be staying behind and playing tourist. I'm not sure what internet access will be like, but I will certainly be taking LOTS of pictures. If I don't have access while in Beijing, I will certainly post an update when I come back, including pictures!!
Off to get things ready for tomorrow....why can't weekends last longer??
Friday, September 16, 2011
I'm Singin' in the Rain...
So, I had a really fun experience tonight...certainly not something I would expect to do in America...
A couple of the staff members met up and went out for dinner tonight...on our bikes. We had JUST left the apartment complex, and started to feel light drips. (There had been storm clouds looming for a while, so we figured this was coming.) About a minute into our journey, it began to POUR. I mean cats and dogs...and I was the only one in the group of 5 with glasses, which get very wet very easily. I was having a very difficult time seeing, due in part to the fact that it was dark, and also due in part to the massive amount of water that was pouring down upon all of us. To add to the fun times--I was wearing flip flops...very slippery. At one point, when we were nearing our final destination, I almost crashed...There as a scooter that came out of nowhere!! I saw it just in time to stop, but we slightly bumped vehicles. Thankfully, there was no damage to my bike :-)
When we finally got to the restaurant, we were saturated. There was not a dry bit on us anywhere. We all felt sooooo bad because we were creating Lake Erie in the restaurant with all of the dripping that our clothing was doing...After ordering our food (at the Chinese version of KFC), we had to find a place to eat outside, since we didn't want to soak their seats. We ended up sitting on random red fire hydrant looking things, which were quite uncomfortable. But the food was GOOD!!!! I have found a fun favorite: Chicken and Cola in a cup. It's a big cup with coke in the bottom, and a separate container goes on top of the cup with little chicken nuggets in it. You can eat and drink in the same cup :-) Love it!!
After dinner, we went to a nearby Gillato (sp??) place for dessert...YUM!!! Love the Mint Chocolate Chip one!
Thankfully, the ride home was dry, and quite entertaining.
All in all--very entertaining night, and full of many fun memories. :-)
A couple of the staff members met up and went out for dinner tonight...on our bikes. We had JUST left the apartment complex, and started to feel light drips. (There had been storm clouds looming for a while, so we figured this was coming.) About a minute into our journey, it began to POUR. I mean cats and dogs...and I was the only one in the group of 5 with glasses, which get very wet very easily. I was having a very difficult time seeing, due in part to the fact that it was dark, and also due in part to the massive amount of water that was pouring down upon all of us. To add to the fun times--I was wearing flip flops...very slippery. At one point, when we were nearing our final destination, I almost crashed...There as a scooter that came out of nowhere!! I saw it just in time to stop, but we slightly bumped vehicles. Thankfully, there was no damage to my bike :-)
When we finally got to the restaurant, we were saturated. There was not a dry bit on us anywhere. We all felt sooooo bad because we were creating Lake Erie in the restaurant with all of the dripping that our clothing was doing...After ordering our food (at the Chinese version of KFC), we had to find a place to eat outside, since we didn't want to soak their seats. We ended up sitting on random red fire hydrant looking things, which were quite uncomfortable. But the food was GOOD!!!! I have found a fun favorite: Chicken and Cola in a cup. It's a big cup with coke in the bottom, and a separate container goes on top of the cup with little chicken nuggets in it. You can eat and drink in the same cup :-) Love it!!
After dinner, we went to a nearby Gillato (sp??) place for dessert...YUM!!! Love the Mint Chocolate Chip one!
Thankfully, the ride home was dry, and quite entertaining.
All in all--very entertaining night, and full of many fun memories. :-)
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Jumble of thoughts...
Have I really been in China for almost 2 months? It seems like just yesterday, I was stuck in the Detroit airport, continually getting bad news after bad news...It seemed like I would never ever get to Shanghai Airport...I blink, and now I have lived here for almost 2 months, and have gotten used to life here in a foreign country.
I had a few "firsts" this weekend, all of which were very nice!
A coworker of mine had been telling me about a local massage parlor, and recommending it to me, but I hadn't actually gone yet. Her family flew back to the Philippines to visit this weekend, so she's alone for a whole week. The two of us went to the massage parlor, and got the 60 minute "foot massage". However, it's not just a foot massage. They brought in a bucket of a hot liquid (we weren't sure if it was water or tea), and we soaked our feet in it, while they massaged our neck, back, and shoulders. We then turned around, and they massaged our arms, while our feet dried off. After the arms, they started on our feet. They were REALLY good!! After about 30 minutes on just our feet, they brought these small glass jars out...sprayed something inside, and then lit it. They then...screwed the jars on our feet. It was kinda strange..and I have no clue what they were for. After we left, the lady I went with had to go somewhere else, so I got to take my first bus ride. Thankfully, I knew the route well enough, that it wasn't bad, and I got off without any problem!
It was interesting on the bus ride back home, all of the cop cars I saw. I was wondering, if since this weekend is the Mid-Autumn Harvest Festival, if the cops come out in full force, like they do back home on New Year's Eve. During my entire time here so far, I haven't seen a single police car, and now I see a lot. Quite interesting. Good to know that they are here!!
A benefit from the festival, we have a day off on Monday. The Chinese staff gets a holiday. We still have to go to school, but there won't be any students there. So, we kinda get a 2 1/2 day weekend...but I'll take it! Plus--we get to dress casually. That's always an added bonus!!
Okay...off to try to be good and complete lesson plans. Let's see if I actually get them done...
I had a few "firsts" this weekend, all of which were very nice!
A coworker of mine had been telling me about a local massage parlor, and recommending it to me, but I hadn't actually gone yet. Her family flew back to the Philippines to visit this weekend, so she's alone for a whole week. The two of us went to the massage parlor, and got the 60 minute "foot massage". However, it's not just a foot massage. They brought in a bucket of a hot liquid (we weren't sure if it was water or tea), and we soaked our feet in it, while they massaged our neck, back, and shoulders. We then turned around, and they massaged our arms, while our feet dried off. After the arms, they started on our feet. They were REALLY good!! After about 30 minutes on just our feet, they brought these small glass jars out...sprayed something inside, and then lit it. They then...screwed the jars on our feet. It was kinda strange..and I have no clue what they were for. After we left, the lady I went with had to go somewhere else, so I got to take my first bus ride. Thankfully, I knew the route well enough, that it wasn't bad, and I got off without any problem!
It was interesting on the bus ride back home, all of the cop cars I saw. I was wondering, if since this weekend is the Mid-Autumn Harvest Festival, if the cops come out in full force, like they do back home on New Year's Eve. During my entire time here so far, I haven't seen a single police car, and now I see a lot. Quite interesting. Good to know that they are here!!
A benefit from the festival, we have a day off on Monday. The Chinese staff gets a holiday. We still have to go to school, but there won't be any students there. So, we kinda get a 2 1/2 day weekend...but I'll take it! Plus--we get to dress casually. That's always an added bonus!!
Okay...off to try to be good and complete lesson plans. Let's see if I actually get them done...
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Joy in the Little Things
Last weekend, I finally found the time to go and buy something I have been wanting since I moved over here: a bike!!! (happy dance) Now, a trip that used to take 15-20 minutes on foot takes about half that on a bike! I am loving my new purchase, and still get a lot of exercise with it! I didn't realize how taxing riding a bike could be on your legs...forgot that small detail.
My eyes are also being opened to finding joy in the smallest of things. Something that might seem like nothing to someone else, means something entirely different in this situation. Things like hearing your kids use full sentences in English, with almost correct grammar; having your new student (who came in knowing no more than 3 or 4 words in English) improving his vocabulary and using more English (slowly) every day; the smiles you get from nationals when you use the smallest amount of Chinese (like telling the lunch lady "yi dian dian" which means "just a little", or "go la" which is "enough". I didn't realize that would elicit such reactions of joy); being able to understand something that the cashier at the store is telling you, or something that a fellow Chinese teacher is telling you; and so much more. These would be things back home that people might take for granted, but I am learning to really appreciate them while here. This is one thing that I was not expecting to happen, but am very grateful that has happened: my eyes being opened to sooooo much! I hope that you all remember that: don't rush through life. Take time to stop, smell the roses, and enjoy the tiny things in life :-)
My eyes are also being opened to finding joy in the smallest of things. Something that might seem like nothing to someone else, means something entirely different in this situation. Things like hearing your kids use full sentences in English, with almost correct grammar; having your new student (who came in knowing no more than 3 or 4 words in English) improving his vocabulary and using more English (slowly) every day; the smiles you get from nationals when you use the smallest amount of Chinese (like telling the lunch lady "yi dian dian" which means "just a little", or "go la" which is "enough". I didn't realize that would elicit such reactions of joy); being able to understand something that the cashier at the store is telling you, or something that a fellow Chinese teacher is telling you; and so much more. These would be things back home that people might take for granted, but I am learning to really appreciate them while here. This is one thing that I was not expecting to happen, but am very grateful that has happened: my eyes being opened to sooooo much! I hope that you all remember that: don't rush through life. Take time to stop, smell the roses, and enjoy the tiny things in life :-)
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Mixed Feelings...
I have now officially made my first big purchase with a credit card: tickets home for Christmas! I got my paycheck yesterday, and spent a lot of time Thinking about it, planning, budgeting, and everything was working out perfectly! So...I jumped at the opportunity, and bought the tickets since they were at a good price.
I leave Shanghai on the 23rd, and get into Norfolk around 10 p.m. the same day. That means I'll be able to be at home for my yearly date with my dad: 10 a.m. on Christmas eve. Radio goes to the BBC for the live broadcast of Nine Lessons and Carols from Cambridge, England!!! I didn't think I'd be home for this, but I will be! **happy dance**
Too bad my insides can't agree....some of them are sooooo excited to be going home!! The others can't believe I just spent that much money....there's a battle going on inside. Off to get something to help..what will it be??? Hm...Cookies? I have Oreos...sounds good. Chocolate always helps!!
So, Virginia: I will be seeing you again in less than 4 months!!!!
I leave Shanghai on the 23rd, and get into Norfolk around 10 p.m. the same day. That means I'll be able to be at home for my yearly date with my dad: 10 a.m. on Christmas eve. Radio goes to the BBC for the live broadcast of Nine Lessons and Carols from Cambridge, England!!! I didn't think I'd be home for this, but I will be! **happy dance**
Too bad my insides can't agree....some of them are sooooo excited to be going home!! The others can't believe I just spent that much money....there's a battle going on inside. Off to get something to help..what will it be??? Hm...Cookies? I have Oreos...sounds good. Chocolate always helps!!
So, Virginia: I will be seeing you again in less than 4 months!!!!
Monday, August 29, 2011
My, how time FLIES!!!!
Finally started one...
After much procrastination, I have finally started one of my own. Most of the delay was caused by my not knowing how blogging works...but I finally figured it out! Here we go!!
It’s hard to believe that I have already been here for a month! I can’t believe how fast that time has flown by! There are several things that you learn very fast when you move not only to a different city, but also to my city:
1) Always bring your umbrella or raincoat anywhere you go. I happen to live in a city where it rains almost constantly. You might start out a walk and it is dry, but minutes later, there is a deluge outside.
2) Get used to shirts that are stiff. Since there are not dryers here, everything has to air dry. Thankfully, for now, it’s warm enough that stuff dries fast. However, I’m not sure what it will be like in the winter when it is really cold…
3) There are times when you go out to a restaurant, that you have to just offer up arrows, and hope that the food is cooked (if meat), or clean (if fresh fruits and veggies).
4) Be ready to change your lesson plans due to activities taking longer than expected, since you have to explain things differently because of the lack of English skills.
5) Expect the unexpected. You can think that something will go one way, but at the last minute, things take a 180ยบ. About 2 hours before the end of school today, I was told that one of my students would be flying back to Korea for 2 ½ weeks…so I had to hurriedly put some activities together for her, from what I knew we would be doing.
I have been teaching for going on three weeks now, and I wanted to show you all what my walk to school is like every day.
After leaving the building, there is a really pretty bush that I always pass. This is the “butterfly bush” as everyone calls it since a lot of butterflies always take up residence on it. Here is one of the butterflies on the right.
Between my apartment and the road to school is a little dip. There are a few ways to get across: via bridge (left) or seesaw (below and right).
View of the skyline after getting over the bridge or seesaw. 
Something that is quite unique—there are several random sculptures all around the place. This is one of the many. And in the background, you can see the street that I have to cross, FULL of busses and cars…
Street that I have to cross getting closer…
After crossing the street, I turned around…it is difficult crossing that when it is sooo busy.
The road that I walk after the busy street…I have seen a lot of…interesting sights along here that you wouldn’t see in America :-)
This is the view from the bridge. I got it on a good day…normally the water looks a lot greener.
Just like back home: Cranes and construction everywhere!!
Get to cross another street soon….
The outside of our new gym. I forget when it was built, but it is newer than the school.
Some pretty flowers that I see every morning. Not sure what they are, but they look nice!
While these are nice to walk on when the ground is wet (which is often, since I live in the rainy city), they are very unevenly paced. Some are far apart, and others are really close together. Not made for the cadence of a normal person, but very helpful!
The front of our school. That’s my roomie on the left, and my principal on the right.I hope you enjoyed “walking” to work with me! This walk should become interesting when the weather turns colder…
And I am very glad to hear that everyone back home is safe, after Irene swept through. Please know that you all were in my thoughts through the entire time.
Until next time!!
Sarah
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