There are moments on this trip that I hope stay with me forever. Today was one of them. We visited a typical Chinese village today, one like you would find all over rural China and the way most Chinese live. The home we visited was a cave home, dug out of the side of the hill where 5-8 people typically live. In China people are registered to a city so they can move from the city but they can't receive certain government benefits, such as education, from a different city which forces people to stay. The village has no running water so they must cart in all their water. There is no plumbing and heat is from a stove fueled by coal at the end of the large bed. Wen Wu, who once lived in this village spoke of the obstacles he overcame to be able to leave this village, get a college education and to study in the US. Wen Wu brought us here to show us the "real China". He spoke to how the Chinese government will "put makeup on the face of China but will ignore the body". Although we've been in some smaller cities that rarely see tourists, we have seen more of the face of China, now we see the body.
Despite the extreme poverty, the family generously shared their watermelon with us. It was a sacrifice for them but they did it willingly. One of the people I am traveling with brought a Polaroid camera so we took a group photo to give to them. I know it will stay on their wall.
There were five children playing near us, so filled with laughter and playfulness. It hurt to look into their eyes and realize that they will be living this life indefinitely unless there is something miraculous that happens. Yan Ji, our interpreter, told us that his parents are from a village like this but even more remote. His parents were able to move to a bigger city because they were one of the 4% of students who passed their examination for college entrance that year. If they hadn't achieved this, Yan Ji would still be in that village instead of studying at the university and dreaming of studying in America.
I've kept up with the state shutdown and the debt ceiling debate somewhat since I've been here and although it frustrates me, I also am reminded how fortunate we are to be able to have these debates. I've struggled in China because of my independence and strong opinions. This is a country that does not value the individual and places great value on fitting in with the group. The opportunities we have are not without struggle and sacrifice but we have them. It is good to be reminded that this is a freedom that should never be taken for granted.
I've uploaded two more albums of photos to Shutterfly.
http://joaninchina2011.shutterfly.com/
Sunday, July 31, 2011
The touring continues.
The touring continues. I have my Chinese name now which is Hu Ya Jing which means patient, calm and quiet. I guess they know me well in China! LOL. I went to see a man who specializes in this and using my birthdate and time he used all kinds of calculations to figure out my balance of the five elements (wood, fire, gold, and two others) to find my name. I'm lacking in gold, by the way. Roger??
We were rained out on Thursday. We were in the hotel most of the day because the heavy rains make traveling difficult. The streets often flood. We were suppose to visit a small village nearby and see a cave home but that didn't work because it was too muddy. The Yellow River rose and was also very muddy.
We continue to eat well. We've had some meals that are very special and not for the commoner. Yesterdays meal featured 32 dishes.
We have visited a number of shrines. My favorite so far is the Flying Rainbow Pegoda surrounded by shrines. It is in a remote area but is more detailed and intimate feeling than any I've seen.
Last night we had dinner at Anli's home. She is a chinese teacher who was a great support to us in Linfen. We met her husband, son, father and mother-in-law and grandmother all who live in the same home. She and her husband have another home about a 25 minute walk from this home so they divide their time. She rarely has to cook because her MIL does it. The food was delicious and we laughed until our sides hurt. Despite the language barriers, I loved the wonderful humor of this family.
We have two more days in Huozhou then we leave for Datong and then on to Beijing and home in 8 days.
We were rained out on Thursday. We were in the hotel most of the day because the heavy rains make traveling difficult. The streets often flood. We were suppose to visit a small village nearby and see a cave home but that didn't work because it was too muddy. The Yellow River rose and was also very muddy.
We continue to eat well. We've had some meals that are very special and not for the commoner. Yesterdays meal featured 32 dishes.
We have visited a number of shrines. My favorite so far is the Flying Rainbow Pegoda surrounded by shrines. It is in a remote area but is more detailed and intimate feeling than any I've seen.
Last night we had dinner at Anli's home. She is a chinese teacher who was a great support to us in Linfen. We met her husband, son, father and mother-in-law and grandmother all who live in the same home. She and her husband have another home about a 25 minute walk from this home so they divide their time. She rarely has to cook because her MIL does it. The food was delicious and we laughed until our sides hurt. Despite the language barriers, I loved the wonderful humor of this family.
We have two more days in Huozhou then we leave for Datong and then on to Beijing and home in 8 days.
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Our touring continues.
Our touring continues. On Tuesday we left for Xi'an and spent time at a very famous pagoda and then went to our hotel and the night market. It was strange for us to see people who weren't Chinese in the city since we have been in cities not frequently visited by tourist. We found ourselves staring at the caucasian people!
The highlight was visiting the site of the Terra Cotta Warriors. These soldiers, chariots and horses were built in the third century BC and depict the soldiers of the first emperor. They were discovered in 1974 by a farmer digging a well and there are an estimated 8000 individual sculptures. It's quite awe inspiring.
We returned to Huozhou last night and will be here until Sunday when we start making our way to Beijing.
I fit in my sixth massage today and it was probably the best and most what I expected from a Chinese massage. There was plenty of grimacing and groaning but I feel fantastic. The massage people treat us well.
I received my Chinese name today. When I understand more about the process and meaning I will share it with you. I'd share it now but I already forgot it.
The highlight was visiting the site of the Terra Cotta Warriors. These soldiers, chariots and horses were built in the third century BC and depict the soldiers of the first emperor. They were discovered in 1974 by a farmer digging a well and there are an estimated 8000 individual sculptures. It's quite awe inspiring.
We returned to Huozhou last night and will be here until Sunday when we start making our way to Beijing.
I fit in my sixth massage today and it was probably the best and most what I expected from a Chinese massage. There was plenty of grimacing and groaning but I feel fantastic. The massage people treat us well.
I received my Chinese name today. When I understand more about the process and meaning I will share it with you. I'd share it now but I already forgot it.
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Continuing with our theme of change...
Continuing with our theme of change, we only stayed one night in our fifth floor hotel room and were moved to a different hotel in Huozhou. It has an elevator but we could not figure our Internet access until tonight. Thankfully one of the college students came to Huozhou to spend more time with us and has helped us with this hurdle. He also helped me by sharing his wifi info so I can use my iPad. It's wonderful to have more time with Yanji.
Today was a great day. We went to a local mountain park and did some hiking. It was a tough but beautiful hike. Surprisingly there were food stands along the trail where people were selling freshly prepared food. I will post photos as soon as I can because it was stunning. I will be in a number of family albums in China as people would stop me to have photos taken with their children. Even teenage boys wanted a photo. It's really strange to get used to. I heard someone say yesterday that they had a couple of Americans visit Houzhou last year. We are an anomaly. I'm wondering how my family will make me feel so special when I get home!
I just woke up from my daily nap and will eat again shortly. We are being well cared for. Turns out that massages in Linfen were a bit of an extravagance. Massages are only $3 here. That's next on my list!
Today was a great day. We went to a local mountain park and did some hiking. It was a tough but beautiful hike. Surprisingly there were food stands along the trail where people were selling freshly prepared food. I will post photos as soon as I can because it was stunning. I will be in a number of family albums in China as people would stop me to have photos taken with their children. Even teenage boys wanted a photo. It's really strange to get used to. I heard someone say yesterday that they had a couple of Americans visit Houzhou last year. We are an anomaly. I'm wondering how my family will make me feel so special when I get home!
I just woke up from my daily nap and will eat again shortly. We are being well cared for. Turns out that massages in Linfen were a bit of an extravagance. Massages are only $3 here. That's next on my list!
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Friday, July 22, 2011
We left Linfen yesterday...
We left Linfen yesterday after our final school session. There were tears and hugs all around after a wonderful and challenging week. Saying goodbye to the Chinese college students was even more difficult. My views of China and the people will be forever changed because of their generosity and honesty. I've had some deep discussions with them about what they see as the best and worst of China as well as their perceptions of the US.
We are in Houzhou, a smaller town where four teachers have been living and teaching for the past two weeks. We are on the fifth floor of a hotel that looks quite modern but we had brown-outs about every 10 minutes last night, and there is no elevator. It is nice to be back together as a group finally. I hope to see the other school site today and maybe just wander a bit. Today was the first day we got to sleep in since arriving in China.
We are done teaching now and next begins some touring. We don't have a firm plan but we will stay in Houzhou for four days, the on to Xian to see the Terra Cotta Warriors and the final four days will be in Beijing. There are a few other days that are yet to be determined.
There is Chinese opera type music blaring outside my window at 8 am.
We are in Houzhou, a smaller town where four teachers have been living and teaching for the past two weeks. We are on the fifth floor of a hotel that looks quite modern but we had brown-outs about every 10 minutes last night, and there is no elevator. It is nice to be back together as a group finally. I hope to see the other school site today and maybe just wander a bit. Today was the first day we got to sleep in since arriving in China.
We are done teaching now and next begins some touring. We don't have a firm plan but we will stay in Houzhou for four days, the on to Xian to see the Terra Cotta Warriors and the final four days will be in Beijing. There are a few other days that are yet to be determined.
There is Chinese opera type music blaring outside my window at 8 am.
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Minneapolis in the news
I forgot to mention that the Minneapolis heat wave made the news in China! We were getting a massage when there was a news story that mentioned the Minnesota Twins and the incredible heat. It must have been a slow news day for that news to travel the world! Either that or I'm in a country that fills the news with stuff like that versus the heavy political news.
Well, kids, let me tell you...
Well, kids, let me tell you how China is different than the US. I was at McDonald's today grabbing a quick lunch after my lunchtime massage when a young college student came up to our table. Her English name is Cathy and she speaks quite fluently in English. She was a delight to visit with and as we continued talking, she inquired about our plans for the rest of our visit. We shared that we were leaving tomorrow and had things to do this evening. She said she was so disappointed because her mother wanted to invite us to her home to learn to do some Chinese cooking. Well, this is an opportunity that can't be passed up so we made arrangements for her to meet us in the hotel lobby this evening. Her father's driver picked us up at 6:00 (along with Cathy) and we drove to their apartment about 15 minutes from the hotel. Cathy informed us that they had invited some other family and some friends over since we were visiting.
When we arrived at her home, there were a number of people there and we were invited to sit in the living room for some tea and snacks. This included moon cakes, lychee fruit, and other area treats. We went into the kitchen and got to help roll and put together dumplings and then each of us (Pat, Janelle and I) each made a dish in the wok. I was told my wok skills are excellent :-) We continued to eat the amazingly delicious food (made with love, as Cathy says) and ended the evening with photos and a walk to the park nearby. I will try to post photos soon. I laughed tonight as I reflected that I would not likely go to the home of a stranger I meet in McDonald's in the US but I will in China.
It's hard to sum up the warm feelings I have for the people of China. Tomorrow will be a difficult day as we say goodbye to the Chinese college students, students and people of Linfin who have been gracious beyond words in welcoming us to their city that seemed so foreign to us just 12 days ago.
When we arrived at her home, there were a number of people there and we were invited to sit in the living room for some tea and snacks. This included moon cakes, lychee fruit, and other area treats. We went into the kitchen and got to help roll and put together dumplings and then each of us (Pat, Janelle and I) each made a dish in the wok. I was told my wok skills are excellent :-) We continued to eat the amazingly delicious food (made with love, as Cathy says) and ended the evening with photos and a walk to the park nearby. I will try to post photos soon. I laughed tonight as I reflected that I would not likely go to the home of a stranger I meet in McDonald's in the US but I will in China.
It's hard to sum up the warm feelings I have for the people of China. Tomorrow will be a difficult day as we say goodbye to the Chinese college students, students and people of Linfin who have been gracious beyond words in welcoming us to their city that seemed so foreign to us just 12 days ago.
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
The CLIMB kids planned a Halloween party...
The CLIMB kids planned a Halloween party last night for the Chinese kids. What a hit! The students brought Halloween costumes and the Chinese kids decorated masks, facepainted, went trick or treating from room to room, and just had a great time. The place was packed with families. I will upload more photos shortly.
The welcome that I've received from the people of China has been humbling. I was in a cab yesterday and the driver was so excited to be driving us. He asked (through the interpreter) for us to teach him some words so we did- taxi, hello, goodbye, slow down, don't hit any cars! He spoke of how honored he was that he could drive us. He then called his daughter on his cell phone and handed me the phone so she could talk to me. The restaurant owners both at Tuesday night's dinner and at yesterday's lunch also spoke of the honor of having us visit.
The last day of teaching is today. I love my students and will miss them. I've learned so much through this experience and I'm told that this is life-changing for the students and teachers here. I was also told that everyone is impressed with how hard the American teachers work. It's nice to have that acknowledged.
Off to another day. Tomorrow we leave Linfen.
The welcome that I've received from the people of China has been humbling. I was in a cab yesterday and the driver was so excited to be driving us. He asked (through the interpreter) for us to teach him some words so we did- taxi, hello, goodbye, slow down, don't hit any cars! He spoke of how honored he was that he could drive us. He then called his daughter on his cell phone and handed me the phone so she could talk to me. The restaurant owners both at Tuesday night's dinner and at yesterday's lunch also spoke of the honor of having us visit.
The last day of teaching is today. I love my students and will miss them. I've learned so much through this experience and I'm told that this is life-changing for the students and teachers here. I was also told that everyone is impressed with how hard the American teachers work. It's nice to have that acknowledged.
Off to another day. Tomorrow we leave Linfen.
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Evening in Linfen
After classes today a bunch of us headed to the massage place. I really can't get enough of the massages, especially at 32 yuan each ($5). It was the first massage for a couple of the teachers and they were impressed. As we floated down the road with Caroline and Yanji (our college students and interpreters), Yanji suggested a restaurant. It was our best meal ever. Photos are going on Shutterfly as I write. We were led to a small private room with a round table. This is typical in China- to have the glass lazy susan in the middle with all the food served on it. We just use our chopsticks to each what we want. The funniest part was seeing the family that owned the restaurant who spent the entire time peeking around corners and through the glass wall to watch us. At the end of the meal a young man came in who spoke English to explain what an honor it was that we came to his restaurant. He requested photos with each of us individually. It was the best meal we've had yet along with plenty of laughs.
We ended the night on the square where some of us lined danced and some of us took photos. :-)
We ended the night on the square where some of us lined danced and some of us took photos. :-)
Morning on the Square
Linfen, and I believe most cities in China, have public squares throughout the city. It's a gathering place for people in the morning and at night. I've been out at the square at night several times but today I was out at 6 am to see the activities. The square was full. There were older women doing a dance with a ball on a paddle, some high impact aerobics with rock music, line dancing, people stretching, tai chi, and people walking the perimeter of the square like a track. It is quite inspiring and makes me realize what isolated lives we lead because we have the luxury of space.
I left the square having only taken photos without getting the benefit of exercise and went to the street market. The fruits and vegetables are beautiful. I managed to negotiate buying a bunch of bananas. I was greeted by a woman who spoke limited English. She was very sweet and insistent that I visit her hair salon. I managed to get out of it but it was a bit awkward and a little funny. We both used our limited skills to fake each other out, I believe. I pretended not to understand her request, she pretended not to understand my no.
We only have two days left to teach and I'm starting to feel very sad to leave the children and the college students we've met here. I feel privileged to have spent time with them and to have learned so much from them. What a difference a week makes. We will leave on Friday afternoon. Packing should be interesting.
I'm updating photos and will have another blog post about last night soon. It was our best night in Linfen yet.
I left the square having only taken photos without getting the benefit of exercise and went to the street market. The fruits and vegetables are beautiful. I managed to negotiate buying a bunch of bananas. I was greeted by a woman who spoke limited English. She was very sweet and insistent that I visit her hair salon. I managed to get out of it but it was a bit awkward and a little funny. We both used our limited skills to fake each other out, I believe. I pretended not to understand her request, she pretended not to understand my no.
We only have two days left to teach and I'm starting to feel very sad to leave the children and the college students we've met here. I feel privileged to have spent time with them and to have learned so much from them. What a difference a week makes. We will leave on Friday afternoon. Packing should be interesting.
I'm updating photos and will have another blog post about last night soon. It was our best night in Linfen yet.
Monday, July 18, 2011
I've uploaded some more photos....
I've uploaded some more photos, mostly in the classroom. I'm not sure how much I've told you about the school but we are now in week two and I'm still getting 3-5 new kids each day. Others show up on an irregular basis and there are about 8 regulars. Those who are coming regularly are making amazing progress. They have a pretty extensive vocabulary but now their speaking skills are catching up a bit. We sing all the time- The Ants Go Marching, There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly, Old MacDonald, Hokey Pokey, and the days of the week and months of the year. The students love the games we teach them both inside and outside.
I am feeling blissful because we finally located the $5 one hour massage place a couple of blocks from the school. It is on my agenda every day at noon until we leave on Friday. The massages are different than the US- lots of emphasis on the feet and using their knees and elbows on my back as they stretch and dig deep in to the muscles. There were five beds in the room today and you stay fully clothed. It's a lovely indulgence.
The contrast between primitive and modern, hard work and relaxation is stark here. You can see donkeys pulling wagons of building materials next to a luxury car on the roads or rusty old bicycles pulling huge wagon loads of stuff next to modern motorbikes. People dress quite stylish here- way more so than me. The people are clean but the streets are filthy. It's not uncommon to have people clear their throats loudly and spit while I'm walking down the road or a toddler to be peeing in the street. Babies rarely wear diapers here, either bare bottomed or with pants that split down the center so when they squat it separates. Life is hard here but the streets are nearly empty in the early afternoon as everyone is home for lunch and resting. We were in a mall today with goods that exceeded USA prices and other stores that are way below our prices. It's fascinating.
I have to shower and get ready for another day, and another massage. Check out the shutterlfy page for more photos!
I am feeling blissful because we finally located the $5 one hour massage place a couple of blocks from the school. It is on my agenda every day at noon until we leave on Friday. The massages are different than the US- lots of emphasis on the feet and using their knees and elbows on my back as they stretch and dig deep in to the muscles. There were five beds in the room today and you stay fully clothed. It's a lovely indulgence.
The contrast between primitive and modern, hard work and relaxation is stark here. You can see donkeys pulling wagons of building materials next to a luxury car on the roads or rusty old bicycles pulling huge wagon loads of stuff next to modern motorbikes. People dress quite stylish here- way more so than me. The people are clean but the streets are filthy. It's not uncommon to have people clear their throats loudly and spit while I'm walking down the road or a toddler to be peeing in the street. Babies rarely wear diapers here, either bare bottomed or with pants that split down the center so when they squat it separates. Life is hard here but the streets are nearly empty in the early afternoon as everyone is home for lunch and resting. We were in a mall today with goods that exceeded USA prices and other stores that are way below our prices. It's fascinating.
I have to shower and get ready for another day, and another massage. Check out the shutterlfy page for more photos!
Sunday, July 17, 2011
How are things in China?
TUESDAY, JULY 12, 2011
How are things in China?
I am just able to start posting after a great deal of challenges here in China. Facebook, blogger and YouTube are all blocked and wireless is very difficult to find here. I finally found one that isn't protected by sitting outside the school so I can email my posts.
Honestly, things have been challenging here for a number of reasons but since I've already whined to my family, I will share what I love about China.
1. The food is amazing. It is fresh, wonderfully flavorful and a bit adventurous. I feel I indulged.
2. The children I am teaching are adorable, bright and happy. They try so hard and catch on quickly. All the work I put into the lessons and materials have paid off.
3. I can confidently cross the road and walk down the street. This is bigger than you could imagine as there are no discernible traffic laws in China. There are traffic lights but they seem to be suggestions. The road is filled with people in all directions on bicycles, motorbikes, cars, rickshaws and on foot. You just keep walking and everyone honks.
4. I have a sit-down toilet in my hotel room. We aren't staying with families. I also figured out how to flush the "gutter" type toilet in the school by pulling on a cord that is hooked to a water tank near the ceiling which sends water down the gutter until all is washed away. Yes, I have a photo.
How are things in China?
I am just able to start posting after a great deal of challenges here in China. Facebook, blogger and YouTube are all blocked and wireless is very difficult to find here. I finally found one that isn't protected by sitting outside the school so I can email my posts.
Honestly, things have been challenging here for a number of reasons but since I've already whined to my family, I will share what I love about China.
1. The food is amazing. It is fresh, wonderfully flavorful and a bit adventurous. I feel I indulged.
2. The children I am teaching are adorable, bright and happy. They try so hard and catch on quickly. All the work I put into the lessons and materials have paid off.
3. I can confidently cross the road and walk down the street. This is bigger than you could imagine as there are no discernible traffic laws in China. There are traffic lights but they seem to be suggestions. The road is filled with people in all directions on bicycles, motorbikes, cars, rickshaws and on foot. You just keep walking and everyone honks.
4. I have a sit-down toilet in my hotel room. We aren't staying with families. I also figured out how to flush the "gutter" type toilet in the school by pulling on a cord that is hooked to a water tank near the ceiling which sends water down the gutter until all is washed away. Yes, I have a photo.
China so far...
I have to be honest and say that the last week has been a challenge, full of frustrations and challenges in a culture that is unfamiliar to me. I have been blessed with a family and colleagues and friends who have been a sounding board for me so I will instead post about what I love about China.
The food is amazing. It is fresh, flavorful and mostly very healthy. We have mostly vegetables for breakfast. We only drink bottled or boiled water so morning beverage is mostly hot rice water with a bit of sugar. It's good. We went out for food from street vendors a couple of nights ago. I shared a noodle dish so big we couldn't finish it together and some fry bread with spicy topping and a Coke- all for $2 for both of us.
I'm learning so much about teaching. I have about 20 students in my class who have some basic vocabulary but not a lot of functional language. They try so hard and are doing amazingly well. There's nothing like a rousing rendition of "There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Spider" or We Wish You a Merry Christmas (their idea, not mine). We read The Very Hungry Caterpillar yesterday and they are working on retelling the story with pictures. That's a challenge!
I feel like a celebrity most of the time. We have children following us just to get a wave or hello. People on the street stop and stare. We are the only Westerners we've seen in the city of 4 million (though I haven't met all 4 million). Sometimes I feel like a freak but mostly not. Usually a smile and a greeting brings one in return.
I can cross the street without dying! The traffic here is the craziest I've seen. There are some traffic lights but they seem to be mere suggestions. Cars, bikes, motorcycles, bicycle rickshaws, buses, trucks and pedestrians all share the same road. Lane markers are mostly ignored and driving into oncoming traffic seems common. Usually it is too busy to get much speed going but I can now fairly confidently walk out in traffic and not get hit.
The sense of community is strong here. There is a large public square near the hotel and in the morning it is filled with people doing tai chi or drumming, in the evenings there are thousands out for the street market where you can buy anything from "intimate apparel" to food to cell phones. In the evening there are children's dance groups (mostly jazz dance), ballroom dancing and hundreds of people line dancing. That's a sight to see! With nearly everyone living in condos, this is there backyard.
I have school supplies! Teaching without paper, crayons or pencils is a challenge but now we can write and draw.
Experiencing a new culture brings out the best and worst in me. It's unsettling and exciting at the same time. I am fully aware of the freedoms I enjoy in the US that I often take for granted. Caring for our environment becomes a harsh reality when I am living in a place where the air burns my throat and the sun rarely shines and children haven't seen the stars.
Although I can't see Blogger or Facebook, I do see your comments (but can't approve them to post the comments) so thank you. It makes home seem a little bit closer.
The food is amazing. It is fresh, flavorful and mostly very healthy. We have mostly vegetables for breakfast. We only drink bottled or boiled water so morning beverage is mostly hot rice water with a bit of sugar. It's good. We went out for food from street vendors a couple of nights ago. I shared a noodle dish so big we couldn't finish it together and some fry bread with spicy topping and a Coke- all for $2 for both of us.
I'm learning so much about teaching. I have about 20 students in my class who have some basic vocabulary but not a lot of functional language. They try so hard and are doing amazingly well. There's nothing like a rousing rendition of "There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Spider" or We Wish You a Merry Christmas (their idea, not mine). We read The Very Hungry Caterpillar yesterday and they are working on retelling the story with pictures. That's a challenge!
I feel like a celebrity most of the time. We have children following us just to get a wave or hello. People on the street stop and stare. We are the only Westerners we've seen in the city of 4 million (though I haven't met all 4 million). Sometimes I feel like a freak but mostly not. Usually a smile and a greeting brings one in return.
I can cross the street without dying! The traffic here is the craziest I've seen. There are some traffic lights but they seem to be mere suggestions. Cars, bikes, motorcycles, bicycle rickshaws, buses, trucks and pedestrians all share the same road. Lane markers are mostly ignored and driving into oncoming traffic seems common. Usually it is too busy to get much speed going but I can now fairly confidently walk out in traffic and not get hit.
The sense of community is strong here. There is a large public square near the hotel and in the morning it is filled with people doing tai chi or drumming, in the evenings there are thousands out for the street market where you can buy anything from "intimate apparel" to food to cell phones. In the evening there are children's dance groups (mostly jazz dance), ballroom dancing and hundreds of people line dancing. That's a sight to see! With nearly everyone living in condos, this is there backyard.
I have school supplies! Teaching without paper, crayons or pencils is a challenge but now we can write and draw.
Experiencing a new culture brings out the best and worst in me. It's unsettling and exciting at the same time. I am fully aware of the freedoms I enjoy in the US that I often take for granted. Caring for our environment becomes a harsh reality when I am living in a place where the air burns my throat and the sun rarely shines and children haven't seen the stars.
Although I can't see Blogger or Facebook, I do see your comments (but can't approve them to post the comments) so thank you. It makes home seem a little bit closer.
We only taught in the morning...
We only taught in the morning on Saturday so we had some time to tour China. Two of our college interpreters offered to show us Linfen so we took off about 2:00 for China Gate and a shrine. It was a wonderful afternoon of history, beautiful sights and plenty of laughs. We enjoy Caroline and Yanji. Most of the students here choose an English name along with their Chinese name. It makes it so much easier for us but I also feel a bit torn about the need for them to do that because we have such a hard time with names. Some students didn't have English names so we gave them options to choose from if they wanted.
We ended the day at a restaurant that specializes in hot pot. It's very much like a Chinese broth fondue and was delicious. I'm still trying to figure out how they put a pan of broth by each spot on the table and kept it at a rolling boil with a tablecloth over the heating element but it worked.
Sunday was a school field trip. We left at 6 am. for a regional park about 5 hours from Linfen. We drove along ways back into the mountains and when we got closer to the park and were driving the switchback roads, our bus couldn't make the turns. Someone would hop out of the car behind, find some large rocks and prop the wheels while the driver ground the gears to get the bus turned properly. After about three rounds of this, we got out and walked the rest of the switchbacks. The park was beautiful but quite cloudy. It was at a high elevation and the air was clean. I posted some photos on the Shutterfly site. http://joaninchina2011.shutterfly.com It felt great to be out of the city for a while and to see the beautiful mountains.
I hesitated getting on the bus after the trip up the mountain but went ahead and sat down. We started down the mountain and at the first curve they wanted some of us to get out. That was my cue. I walked the rest of the switch backs. It was a long afternoon getting everyone back down the mountain. We returned to Linfen at about 9:30 and the bus transmission died about two blocks from the school, refusing to shift higher than first gear. Yikes.
We made a quick trip to KFC and headed back to the hotel for some sleep. Today is our last week of teaching.
We ended the day at a restaurant that specializes in hot pot. It's very much like a Chinese broth fondue and was delicious. I'm still trying to figure out how they put a pan of broth by each spot on the table and kept it at a rolling boil with a tablecloth over the heating element but it worked.
Sunday was a school field trip. We left at 6 am. for a regional park about 5 hours from Linfen. We drove along ways back into the mountains and when we got closer to the park and were driving the switchback roads, our bus couldn't make the turns. Someone would hop out of the car behind, find some large rocks and prop the wheels while the driver ground the gears to get the bus turned properly. After about three rounds of this, we got out and walked the rest of the switchbacks. The park was beautiful but quite cloudy. It was at a high elevation and the air was clean. I posted some photos on the Shutterfly site. http://joaninchina2011.shutterfly.com It felt great to be out of the city for a while and to see the beautiful mountains.
I hesitated getting on the bus after the trip up the mountain but went ahead and sat down. We started down the mountain and at the first curve they wanted some of us to get out. That was my cue. I walked the rest of the switch backs. It was a long afternoon getting everyone back down the mountain. We returned to Linfen at about 9:30 and the bus transmission died about two blocks from the school, refusing to shift higher than first gear. Yikes.
We made a quick trip to KFC and headed back to the hotel for some sleep. Today is our last week of teaching.
I wish it were easier...
I wish it were easier to post from China because there are so many interesting photos and stories. The adrenaline has definitely worn off and I find myself getting into a routine of waking at 5:30 (even though I can sleep until 6:30), preparing for the day, heading to breakfast and knowing what each item in the buffet is, eating with chopsticks, drinking broth rather than tea or water, then heading to the hotel desk to renew my key daily and making the 20 minute walk to school, dodging cars and motorbikes along the way. I don't jump as I'm honked at anymore, just keep moving and being aware of where I am in relation to others. We have a routine for our class now and we start with circle time, the calendar and songs.
We are covering a lot of vocabulary in the class. Students have a lot of writing and vocabulary skills but we are spending a lot of time talking and singing. I am seeing progress even after a short time. The school where we teach is huge- usually 6000 students with 70 to a classroom. The floors are crumbly concrete and the furniture is primitive with narrow tables for two and small, narrow benches (a 2" x 4" x 12" seat). The is a blackboard in the front and back of the classroom and our only supplies are the few I've requested and what we brought. I immediated rearranged the classroom making two large tables from 6 tables each and opening up area for a group space and small group areas. It makes it sound spacious but with our 25 kids in the afternoon, it's not. They range in age from 4-13 in my group. We always have parents in the roon and often other unidentified adults. I've been photographed and videotaped and observed to the point I don't even notice it anymore.
Things have changed from our original plans. The camp attendance isn't what they hoped for so the second session is canceled. We are instead spending time touring China which I am very excited about. We will be staying in the same areas we originally planned but seeing more things.
Many of us are feeling the effects from eating and drinking here, without going into many details. The heat can also be oppressive so that may be part of the problem as well. It's hard to drink enough when I have to be so careful about where I get water. I am starting to only have a hard boiled egg at the buffet, then head to my room for a banana and some International Coffee mix I brought from home. I eat a decent lunch and then I'm rarely hungry for dinner so we often pick up something at the grocery store to munch on. I haven't been sick but I have felt a bit off at times.
I appreciate your messages. It makes home feel just a little bit closer.
We are covering a lot of vocabulary in the class. Students have a lot of writing and vocabulary skills but we are spending a lot of time talking and singing. I am seeing progress even after a short time. The school where we teach is huge- usually 6000 students with 70 to a classroom. The floors are crumbly concrete and the furniture is primitive with narrow tables for two and small, narrow benches (a 2" x 4" x 12" seat). The is a blackboard in the front and back of the classroom and our only supplies are the few I've requested and what we brought. I immediated rearranged the classroom making two large tables from 6 tables each and opening up area for a group space and small group areas. It makes it sound spacious but with our 25 kids in the afternoon, it's not. They range in age from 4-13 in my group. We always have parents in the roon and often other unidentified adults. I've been photographed and videotaped and observed to the point I don't even notice it anymore.
Things have changed from our original plans. The camp attendance isn't what they hoped for so the second session is canceled. We are instead spending time touring China which I am very excited about. We will be staying in the same areas we originally planned but seeing more things.
Many of us are feeling the effects from eating and drinking here, without going into many details. The heat can also be oppressive so that may be part of the problem as well. It's hard to drink enough when I have to be so careful about where I get water. I am starting to only have a hard boiled egg at the buffet, then head to my room for a banana and some International Coffee mix I brought from home. I eat a decent lunch and then I'm rarely hungry for dinner so we often pick up something at the grocery store to munch on. I haven't been sick but I have felt a bit off at times.
I appreciate your messages. It makes home feel just a little bit closer.
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Have I mentioned-
Have I mentioned that I don't have wireless access in the hotel and no where nearby? Both Blogger and Facebook are blocked in China. I just learned of a way to update via email so I hope this works.
Sent from my iPad
Sent from my iPad
Great Wall of China
I wish I had the words to describe the Great Wall and lots of interesting facts to share but I don't have Internet access to get the facts but I know it's about 3000 miles long. We got to our entrance later than we planned so we only had about an hour and a half at the wall. It gave us enough time walk on the wall and to get a sense of awe from the beauty of the area and the remarkableness of the structure. As you can see, we were not alone on the wall.
As you can see, it's quite a workout, especially in the heat. I think it would be even harder if those stones were wet.
I have a lot more photos but I can't post them yet due to the Internet limitations.
As you can see, it's quite a workout, especially in the heat. I think it would be even harder if those stones were wet.
I have a lot more photos but I can't post them yet due to the Internet limitations.
Patience!
I was awake at 5:30 this morning and was at the airport by 9:30. I hadn't thought about the fact that I would see 31 hours of daylight today as I cross 13 time zones. I'm writing this on the plane where I've been sleeping on and off all day and it's currently 12:30 am Minnesota time and who knows what time on our way to Japan. I think we still have 10 hours of travel time until we arrive in China with two and a half hours left of this flight.
Do you have any more times I could calculate as I sit here?
Do you have any more times I could calculate as I sit here?
Thursday, July 7, 2011
I'm leaving on a jet plane
All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go. (based on lyrics to a song for you young'uns) I have 110 pounds worth of luggage which pains me because I like to pack light. 35 pounds is teaching materials in one suitcase and about half of my 45 pound suitcase are either gifts or things that won't come home with me. Then I have my 25 pound carry-on with everything I need to survive should my luggage not arrive in China.
I got up and swam laps today, I'm enjoying my espresso and I'm nearly ready to leave for the airport for my 19 hours on an airplane (about 23 hours including time in the airport). I'm so excited and nervous!
See you in China!
I got up and swam laps today, I'm enjoying my espresso and I'm nearly ready to leave for the airport for my 19 hours on an airplane (about 23 hours including time in the airport). I'm so excited and nervous!
See you in China!
Saturday, July 2, 2011
Packing dilemma
I've been packing the past few days, focusing on gifts and teaching supplies. I'm in a bit of dilemma because my suitcase already weighs 40 pounds and there is a 50 pound limit. This may not seem like a problem but I haven't packed any clothing yet! My suitcase is nearly full with teaching supplies and gifts (along with toilet paper!). I've tried to be conservative but all of this stuff takes up space (even when I took the games out of boxes and put them in ziplocs. Good thing that we are going in the summer so clothing should be lightweight and minimal since we will have our laundry picked up every 4-5 days.
My plan is to bring one carry-on suitcase with everything I need for 2-3 days and the rest in my checked bag. Thankfully I haven't packed much in the carry-on yet so I should be able to pull this off.
Thank goodness for all the great teaching resources online. I've been putting resources together to teach the animal and food units. Any good food songs you'd like to share? Oh shoot- I just realized I still need to pack peanut butter and jelly (for a food lesson and to sing that great Peanut Butter and Jelly song). That's heavy stuff!
Oh my goodness, five more days. I'm so excited and nervous.
My plan is to bring one carry-on suitcase with everything I need for 2-3 days and the rest in my checked bag. Thankfully I haven't packed much in the carry-on yet so I should be able to pull this off.
Thank goodness for all the great teaching resources online. I've been putting resources together to teach the animal and food units. Any good food songs you'd like to share? Oh shoot- I just realized I still need to pack peanut butter and jelly (for a food lesson and to sing that great Peanut Butter and Jelly song). That's heavy stuff!
Oh my goodness, five more days. I'm so excited and nervous.
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