I'm trying not to think 27 is "old" because I keep getting stares from older people. But, ya know, it's getting close to 30 and....never mind. I just need to be thankful I got to live another year. :)
For breakfast, Michael left the house to get a surprise. It was McDonald's! I know many of you are gagging at that, but when you live in a land with few western options, even Mickey D's is good--some of it anyway.
For lunch, I wanted dumplings. I didn't know where to get any good ones, so I asked our driver friend to take me wherever he thought was best. He went in with me and ordered. All I told him was that I liked meat. He kept ordering...and ordering...and I looked at the prices and thought they were soo high! While waiting, through my terrible Chinese, I asked how much I had spent...thankfully it only turned out to be $7. :) haha When the server brought the to-go boxes out, there were SEVEN boxes! There were 10 dumplings in each box! Ahh! We barely even made a dent, so I gave some boxes away...had to. And there are still 2 boxes in the fridge that will probably go in the trash. Sad.
For dinner, we get together as a team on birthdays. I requested Mexican food, and they came through! Scrumptious. Then they showered me with gifts and dessert. Michael surprised me again with a kindle cover. He's good. :) So thankful to be on a team that cares about each other. I know there are some foreigners here alone--I just can't fathom it.
To end it all, I got a text from my brother at 1.20am. :) Not sure if he meant to do that or not...
Friday, December 31, 2010
Christmas!
Being away from family, friends, and traditions was tough, but we still had fun! Here's the run-down:
Christmas Eve: Christmas story, snackeroos, and white elephant game. We ended up with a giant bottle of Paul Mitchell conditioner (the giver cheated and gave something over the price limit, but I sure didn't complain! She wasn't using it anyway...) and Michael gave his gift away because it was what we brought. :)
Christmas morning: We opened gifts in record time because we were in a time crunch. We got Josiah some new toys. His new faves are the book Grammie and Papa Mueller recorded reading to him and his mini basketball goal. He now says "gooooooal!" all the time. Michael already knew it, but he got an iPhone. (used) This may change our lives in China. It has an app where he can draw a character and it will tell us the meaning. Why is this so important? Think of living in a place where you can read zero of the signs. You don't know what stores are, what road signs say, if there is a warning to not do something--NOTHING. Now we will be able to find out. :) And Michael surprised me with a kindle! I had been throwing around the idea of getting one because books are just too heavy to carry back and forth in a suitcase. Glad the kindle will solve that problem. :) AND he gave me spending money to decorate our home! I've been holding off because we were supposed to move in a month. But, that got called off, and now I want something on the walls! IKEA, here I come!!
Christmas mid-morning: Then we headed to Christmas with our team. We ate breakfast and opened presents from our secret santa. Always a blast with them!
Christmas afternoon: Then we all went home to cook up a storm. I made sweet potatoes and seared chicken legs. Both turned out just how I wanted them to. (Quite a success here...)
The next day, we skyped with both sides of the family. It was a bit overwhelming--each family had at least 10 people--but so nice to see and hear everyone.
There are just TOO many pcis to upload. Click here if you want to see them.
Christmas Eve: Christmas story, snackeroos, and white elephant game. We ended up with a giant bottle of Paul Mitchell conditioner (the giver cheated and gave something over the price limit, but I sure didn't complain! She wasn't using it anyway...) and Michael gave his gift away because it was what we brought. :)
Christmas morning: We opened gifts in record time because we were in a time crunch. We got Josiah some new toys. His new faves are the book Grammie and Papa Mueller recorded reading to him and his mini basketball goal. He now says "gooooooal!" all the time. Michael already knew it, but he got an iPhone. (used) This may change our lives in China. It has an app where he can draw a character and it will tell us the meaning. Why is this so important? Think of living in a place where you can read zero of the signs. You don't know what stores are, what road signs say, if there is a warning to not do something--NOTHING. Now we will be able to find out. :) And Michael surprised me with a kindle! I had been throwing around the idea of getting one because books are just too heavy to carry back and forth in a suitcase. Glad the kindle will solve that problem. :) AND he gave me spending money to decorate our home! I've been holding off because we were supposed to move in a month. But, that got called off, and now I want something on the walls! IKEA, here I come!!
Christmas mid-morning: Then we headed to Christmas with our team. We ate breakfast and opened presents from our secret santa. Always a blast with them!
Christmas afternoon: Then we all went home to cook up a storm. I made sweet potatoes and seared chicken legs. Both turned out just how I wanted them to. (Quite a success here...)
The next day, we skyped with both sides of the family. It was a bit overwhelming--each family had at least 10 people--but so nice to see and hear everyone.
There are just TOO many pcis to upload. Click here if you want to see them.
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
daily life
I shared some things we experience in our daily lives a few months ago. Oh, but there are so many more...
1. We have to buy all the water we use/consume. Toilet water, sink water, drinking water. Everything. Granted, it's VERY cheap..but still. And none of it is even clean except the drinking water! Buying dirty water is cool. :)
2. Speaking of drinking water, this is how we buy the 5-gallon jugs. (Think of those jugs/dispensers you see in an office with the little paper cups. Yep, that's what we have!) We call the water store in our apt. complex. Usually within 15 mins, someone hauls the heavy jug up 8 flights of stairs. Sometimes it's a g'pa and we feel so badly for him! But, he does it! We hand them a pre-paid card and they take our empty jug. Our dispenser is electric and should be able to give cold and hot (boiling) water. The cold side is broken--which is fine. I'm now used to room-temp water. The hot water is what I like the most! (not by itself, like all of China drinks it..but to make tea, cocoa, etc. I have consumed 1 cup of hot water this winter. I consider that an accomplishment.)
3. In the produce section at the store, there are at least 6 weighing stations. When you pick out your produce, you have to take it to the station closest to that food. You cannot take it to another one--even if one has a huge line and another has no one. I suppose they only have specific buttons programmed. I often get scolded when I take my carrots to the wrong lady. But then they look up at to see it's a foreigner and they become a bit more kind. :)
4. China is still on a mostly cash system. Credit cards are starting to move in. Debit cards can be used at the grocery store. Restaurants and shops are all cash.
5. Now that we're into winter, everyone wears several layers of clothes. (I'll work on getting a pic--especially of the babies.) Last week, we had a few days in the 50s and took Josiah out to play. I knew I'd run into some g'mas that would scold me if I didn't have him in layers. So I conceded. He wore pj pants, jeans, long-sleeve shirt, coat, and hat. I would never put him in so many clothes in the States! We were playing and I felt a tug on my jeans. I thought it was a dog. Oh no, it was GRANDMA! She then began scolding me for not having layers on. I was already sweating with what I had on. I then proceeded to show her that Josiah had more layers on, but his pj pants had ridden up a bit so his ankles showed. I got scolded again. I'll never win.....
6. We only have black taxis here. No one is legit. No one has a meter. They set their own price. It's mostly a rip-off. To get 1 mile into town, they charge 15rmb ($2. Sure, not much in dollars...but we're thinking in Chinese money here) We have a friend driver that gives us a discount--10rmb. Woo! We call him all the time. But, he also has his way of making more money. Example: our teammates flew back to the States last week. He charged 300rmb one-way. On their way home, they took a legit Beijing taxi and the meter only went up to 200rmb. Hmmmmmmmmmmmm..... I choose the bus or bike as often as I can. :)
7. We are lucky enough to have cable. Our landlord pays for it. No one else on the team has it. We have 59 channels. 1 is in English (news), the other 58 are mostly soap operas/dramas.
8. If I want to wash dishes in hot water, I have to fill a bucket from the hot water heater in the bathroom. I'm usually too lazy to do this. Thus far, we haven't gotten sick. (Stop freaking out, Mom.)
9. Being stared at (like, in-your-face staring, not discreet staring) and having pictures taken of me/us is completely normal now.
10. If I have Josiah with me and we decide to take the bus, I'm guaranteed a seat. There is even a sign posted to allow the elderly, disabled, pregnant, and those with little ones to have a seat. I walk on the bus, and immediately someone gives up their seat. Pretty amazing...and soooo not like America. :)
Can't wait for Christmas! The next 3 days are jam-packed with parties, shopping, and baking!
1. We have to buy all the water we use/consume. Toilet water, sink water, drinking water. Everything. Granted, it's VERY cheap..but still. And none of it is even clean except the drinking water! Buying dirty water is cool. :)
2. Speaking of drinking water, this is how we buy the 5-gallon jugs. (Think of those jugs/dispensers you see in an office with the little paper cups. Yep, that's what we have!) We call the water store in our apt. complex. Usually within 15 mins, someone hauls the heavy jug up 8 flights of stairs. Sometimes it's a g'pa and we feel so badly for him! But, he does it! We hand them a pre-paid card and they take our empty jug. Our dispenser is electric and should be able to give cold and hot (boiling) water. The cold side is broken--which is fine. I'm now used to room-temp water. The hot water is what I like the most! (not by itself, like all of China drinks it..but to make tea, cocoa, etc. I have consumed 1 cup of hot water this winter. I consider that an accomplishment.)
3. In the produce section at the store, there are at least 6 weighing stations. When you pick out your produce, you have to take it to the station closest to that food. You cannot take it to another one--even if one has a huge line and another has no one. I suppose they only have specific buttons programmed. I often get scolded when I take my carrots to the wrong lady. But then they look up at to see it's a foreigner and they become a bit more kind. :)
4. China is still on a mostly cash system. Credit cards are starting to move in. Debit cards can be used at the grocery store. Restaurants and shops are all cash.
5. Now that we're into winter, everyone wears several layers of clothes. (I'll work on getting a pic--especially of the babies.) Last week, we had a few days in the 50s and took Josiah out to play. I knew I'd run into some g'mas that would scold me if I didn't have him in layers. So I conceded. He wore pj pants, jeans, long-sleeve shirt, coat, and hat. I would never put him in so many clothes in the States! We were playing and I felt a tug on my jeans. I thought it was a dog. Oh no, it was GRANDMA! She then began scolding me for not having layers on. I was already sweating with what I had on. I then proceeded to show her that Josiah had more layers on, but his pj pants had ridden up a bit so his ankles showed. I got scolded again. I'll never win.....
6. We only have black taxis here. No one is legit. No one has a meter. They set their own price. It's mostly a rip-off. To get 1 mile into town, they charge 15rmb ($2. Sure, not much in dollars...but we're thinking in Chinese money here) We have a friend driver that gives us a discount--10rmb. Woo! We call him all the time. But, he also has his way of making more money. Example: our teammates flew back to the States last week. He charged 300rmb one-way. On their way home, they took a legit Beijing taxi and the meter only went up to 200rmb. Hmmmmmmmmmmmm..... I choose the bus or bike as often as I can. :)
7. We are lucky enough to have cable. Our landlord pays for it. No one else on the team has it. We have 59 channels. 1 is in English (news), the other 58 are mostly soap operas/dramas.
8. If I want to wash dishes in hot water, I have to fill a bucket from the hot water heater in the bathroom. I'm usually too lazy to do this. Thus far, we haven't gotten sick. (Stop freaking out, Mom.)
9. Being stared at (like, in-your-face staring, not discreet staring) and having pictures taken of me/us is completely normal now.
10. If I have Josiah with me and we decide to take the bus, I'm guaranteed a seat. There is even a sign posted to allow the elderly, disabled, pregnant, and those with little ones to have a seat. I walk on the bus, and immediately someone gives up their seat. Pretty amazing...and soooo not like America. :)
Can't wait for Christmas! The next 3 days are jam-packed with parties, shopping, and baking!
Monday, December 20, 2010
early Christmas x 4
Yesterday, we got to experience a little bit o' Christmas 4 times.
1. A student I just met on Friday came over to discuss Christmas. She is doing a presentation in a class on the holiday and wanted to know more. Of course, I told her the real story. I also shared other traditions. But I definitely made clear that the meaning of Christmas is being lost in the West. I hope that resonated with her; many Chinese treasure their history. All I know is that a seed was planted and she may have just planted many more into her classmates--without even knowing it! :)
I also picked up the mail.
2. A package from mom and pops filled with wrapped presents. It didn't matter that the items were listed on the customs form. We'll all still have fun opening the gifts on Saturday!
3. A package from friend Holly. A book, Starburst, and my long-lost love, CHAI tea packets. I had one immediately. So glad to be reunited!
4. A package from our company. What a nice surprise! It had hot cider packs, mini candy canes (I'll actually enjoy these this year since I'm not being inundated with them!), an ornament with J's pic in it, and a chocolate chip cookie mix. Tragically, a varmint (or so we think from the tiny teeth marks) found its way to the goodness. It ate a huge corner off the bag. Why not just eat what's inside?! Anyway, we are SO thankful for an organization that truly cares about us on "the other side."
More fun coming this week:
*our university is taking us to some sort of event/concert/thing that is put on for all the foreign teachers in Beijinng! It might even be a dressy event..fun!
*Christmas Eve white elephant/Jesus story/yummy food party with the LX fam (aka team)
*Christmas Day: open presents at home, open presents and eat breakfast with the team, then later have a dinner.
*sometime: skype with the whole fam--hopefully both sides!
1. A student I just met on Friday came over to discuss Christmas. She is doing a presentation in a class on the holiday and wanted to know more. Of course, I told her the real story. I also shared other traditions. But I definitely made clear that the meaning of Christmas is being lost in the West. I hope that resonated with her; many Chinese treasure their history. All I know is that a seed was planted and she may have just planted many more into her classmates--without even knowing it! :)
I also picked up the mail.
2. A package from mom and pops filled with wrapped presents. It didn't matter that the items were listed on the customs form. We'll all still have fun opening the gifts on Saturday!
3. A package from friend Holly. A book, Starburst, and my long-lost love, CHAI tea packets. I had one immediately. So glad to be reunited!
4. A package from our company. What a nice surprise! It had hot cider packs, mini candy canes (I'll actually enjoy these this year since I'm not being inundated with them!), an ornament with J's pic in it, and a chocolate chip cookie mix. Tragically, a varmint (or so we think from the tiny teeth marks) found its way to the goodness. It ate a huge corner off the bag. Why not just eat what's inside?! Anyway, we are SO thankful for an organization that truly cares about us on "the other side."
More fun coming this week:
*our university is taking us to some sort of event/concert/thing that is put on for all the foreign teachers in Beijinng! It might even be a dressy event..fun!
*Christmas Eve white elephant/Jesus story/yummy food party with the LX fam (aka team)
*Christmas Day: open presents at home, open presents and eat breakfast with the team, then later have a dinner.
*sometime: skype with the whole fam--hopefully both sides!
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
line? what line??
On Saturday, a teammate and I ventured to Beijing. It's always an adventure to leave, and this time didn't let us down.
We decided to take the campus bus into town since it was quick and cheap. (We live in the "suburbs" of Beijing..about an hour out. There are 2 campuses of our university--here and the main one in Beijing. They have a free shuttle for students and teachers several times a day between the two. Freshmen and sophs have classes here, the rest in Beijing. Some have classes on both campuses. Got it?!) The bus was to leave at 9am. We arrived at 8.30 am, knowing there would be a long line of students waiting to get out of boring Liangxiang and have a fun day in the big town.
We were right. Quick count of 40 people in front of us. The bus holds about 50. Yikes. It was gonna be close.
As we stood in the cold, we noticed students cutting in line with their friends. This happens in the States, yes. But people will usually speak up about it, right? Not the Chinese. They don't even see the injustice. My friend and I started to get a little irritated, knowing we were on the edge of actually getting on.
The bus finally arrived and the bus driver stood at the door taking the 5Y (.75) payment for the weekend bus. (weekdays are free) Then, to our astonishment, annoyance, bewilderment, we saw students running from afar cutting in front of everyone!!!! We couldn't believe it! At least 5 kids did this--just ran right up to the bus driver, paid, and got on. REALLY!? The driver didn't even flinch.
By now, my friend and I were starting to boil..and voice a little. Really, just grunting and saying "what?!"
The bus was getting full. But we were next. Would we make the cut? Nope....no more seats. We were beyond frustrated. 10-15 students cut in front of us. We would've made it if they understood the purpose of a line.
A student of my friend's came up to us and started chatting. (Not about the lines--it made no difference to her.) Thankfully she did, because she helped us calm down. :) So we got on a city bus that took a bit longer and our adventure started. (And it was an adventure. A 12-hour day with at least 6 of those hours traveling or trying to find the right bus, subway, direction.)
They are trying. Lines are a new phenomenon in this country. Michael said 4 years ago when he was here, lines didn't exist. Anywhere. You pushed and shoved your way to the front. But your Father-likeness in you gets to ya...do you really want to elbow a grandma just to get in front?
A student text me later asking if we had made it onto the bus. I said no, semi-blaming the cutters. She wrote back saying teachers have privileges and we should get on first, AND it's free for us. We knew this was true for the weekdays, but were told the weekends was a free-for-all. Now we know.
We decided to take the campus bus into town since it was quick and cheap. (We live in the "suburbs" of Beijing..about an hour out. There are 2 campuses of our university--here and the main one in Beijing. They have a free shuttle for students and teachers several times a day between the two. Freshmen and sophs have classes here, the rest in Beijing. Some have classes on both campuses. Got it?!) The bus was to leave at 9am. We arrived at 8.30 am, knowing there would be a long line of students waiting to get out of boring Liangxiang and have a fun day in the big town.
We were right. Quick count of 40 people in front of us. The bus holds about 50. Yikes. It was gonna be close.
As we stood in the cold, we noticed students cutting in line with their friends. This happens in the States, yes. But people will usually speak up about it, right? Not the Chinese. They don't even see the injustice. My friend and I started to get a little irritated, knowing we were on the edge of actually getting on.
The bus finally arrived and the bus driver stood at the door taking the 5Y (.75) payment for the weekend bus. (weekdays are free) Then, to our astonishment, annoyance, bewilderment, we saw students running from afar cutting in front of everyone!!!! We couldn't believe it! At least 5 kids did this--just ran right up to the bus driver, paid, and got on. REALLY!? The driver didn't even flinch.
By now, my friend and I were starting to boil..and voice a little. Really, just grunting and saying "what?!"
The bus was getting full. But we were next. Would we make the cut? Nope....no more seats. We were beyond frustrated. 10-15 students cut in front of us. We would've made it if they understood the purpose of a line.
A student of my friend's came up to us and started chatting. (Not about the lines--it made no difference to her.) Thankfully she did, because she helped us calm down. :) So we got on a city bus that took a bit longer and our adventure started. (And it was an adventure. A 12-hour day with at least 6 of those hours traveling or trying to find the right bus, subway, direction.)
They are trying. Lines are a new phenomenon in this country. Michael said 4 years ago when he was here, lines didn't exist. Anywhere. You pushed and shoved your way to the front. But your Father-likeness in you gets to ya...do you really want to elbow a grandma just to get in front?
A student text me later asking if we had made it onto the bus. I said no, semi-blaming the cutters. She wrote back saying teachers have privileges and we should get on first, AND it's free for us. We knew this was true for the weekdays, but were told the weekends was a free-for-all. Now we know.
Monday, December 13, 2010
50 cent request
I've been mulling over this request for a few weeks now. I'm going to be bold and ask for it...........
As you are mailing your Christmas/cards and pics, could you spend the extra 50 cents to mail one to us? I always loved getting cards...reading updates and seeing a new picture. We really love getting mail here because we know it took extra effort on the sender's end to get it to us. In years past, I kept the pic cards on our fridge. I'll definitely be doing that so we can be reminded of our friends and fam often.
If you need our address, send me an email and I can get it to you. ashley.felder@elic.org
Please remember to be a little sensitive about what you send. Christmas-y things are fine.
The end.
As you are mailing your Christmas/cards and pics, could you spend the extra 50 cents to mail one to us? I always loved getting cards...reading updates and seeing a new picture. We really love getting mail here because we know it took extra effort on the sender's end to get it to us. In years past, I kept the pic cards on our fridge. I'll definitely be doing that so we can be reminded of our friends and fam often.
If you need our address, send me an email and I can get it to you. ashley.felder@elic.org
Please remember to be a little sensitive about what you send. Christmas-y things are fine.
The end.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
a quick errand
Quick errands don't exist here. Well, if I only need to grab some veggies or fruits at the market in our complex, it can be quick. But as soon as I step outside the gates, it seems an hour is automatically added to my trip. Things just take longer. A fine example...
Yesterday, we were "notified" (aka our teammate told us..not the actual workers, like they're supposed to!) us that we had a package in the campus post office. That's right, we don't get mail at our home..we have to go to the campus office to pick it up. :) Anyhoo, after lunch, I told Michael I'd go grab it. He had to be at class early, so that meant I had to take Josiah with me. We all know kids add time to errands--no matter your location! But I was ok with it...still ready to go and come back..easy peasy.
The campus is a 15 min walk, 5 min bike ride, or I could take the bus. The bus sounds lazy, but remember it's cold outside. To save our skin, I opted for the bus. I put Josiah in the stroller and walked to the bus stop. Thankfully, bus #1 came right away! We hopped on. So far, so good....until the bus turned at the stop light. (the only light between us and campus) Michael had seen bus #1 turn at the light before, but thought it looped back around. I actually took it straight to campus the other night--no turning. So I was confused. But, I trusted that it would loop around.
After 2 more stops, there was only 1 other girl on the bus. At the next stop, the worker told us to get off. Well, I assume that's what she said since I understood nothing. I'm sure my face looked terrified. I told her in Chinese where I needed to go. She said that bus doesn't go there..and to get off. So we did.
I saw another bus stop across the street. The only person there was a little grandma who tried to talk to me...of course, I understood nothing. I had NO idea where we were. There were some buildings of what looked like a college, but NO people. Everywhere else was desert. I started to get a little scared of how I was going to get out of there. I frantically called Michael. He assured me I could call our friend Wang to come and pick us up.....except I couldn't because I had no idea where we were!
So we waited. Across the street was a line of five #1 buses--break time, maybe? Surely one of them would take me where I needed to go. One of them finally pulled up. I said the name of the campus--they said no. Great. I think they motioned to wait for another #1 bus. Really? What's the difference?! Probably something in Chinese characters...oh yeah, can't read those. So we waited longer...staring at the bleak desert in front of us. Not a soul around besides grandma.
Finally another #1 bus finished its break. I asked again about my campus. They laughed and said yes. How much you wanna bet they were staring at me the entire time, watching me freak out? We hopped on--all was well. We made it.
The campus PO has 2 offices. One to hold packages only for a few days. If you get there within those few days, you have fewer hoops to jump through to get it. Of course, mine had been moved to the main office already. (Yeah, I don't get it either...) So after lots of charades and a dear student who knew a little English, I got the package. After they asked for my teacher card and passport--neither of which I had. So they copied down my Kansas driver's license number. To finalize things, she had me sign Michael's name randomly on the back of a slip. Classic. :)
I took a taxi home because I just couldn't hold the box, stroller, and Josiah. I had to fight with them for the price because since I'm a foreigner, they think I'm rich. Somehow, I made it up 8 flights of stairs carrying it all. Probably won't try that again.
Nothing can be done quickly here...no matter how hard you try.
Yesterday, we were "notified" (aka our teammate told us..not the actual workers, like they're supposed to!) us that we had a package in the campus post office. That's right, we don't get mail at our home..we have to go to the campus office to pick it up. :) Anyhoo, after lunch, I told Michael I'd go grab it. He had to be at class early, so that meant I had to take Josiah with me. We all know kids add time to errands--no matter your location! But I was ok with it...still ready to go and come back..easy peasy.
The campus is a 15 min walk, 5 min bike ride, or I could take the bus. The bus sounds lazy, but remember it's cold outside. To save our skin, I opted for the bus. I put Josiah in the stroller and walked to the bus stop. Thankfully, bus #1 came right away! We hopped on. So far, so good....until the bus turned at the stop light. (the only light between us and campus) Michael had seen bus #1 turn at the light before, but thought it looped back around. I actually took it straight to campus the other night--no turning. So I was confused. But, I trusted that it would loop around.
After 2 more stops, there was only 1 other girl on the bus. At the next stop, the worker told us to get off. Well, I assume that's what she said since I understood nothing. I'm sure my face looked terrified. I told her in Chinese where I needed to go. She said that bus doesn't go there..and to get off. So we did.
I saw another bus stop across the street. The only person there was a little grandma who tried to talk to me...of course, I understood nothing. I had NO idea where we were. There were some buildings of what looked like a college, but NO people. Everywhere else was desert. I started to get a little scared of how I was going to get out of there. I frantically called Michael. He assured me I could call our friend Wang to come and pick us up.....except I couldn't because I had no idea where we were!
So we waited. Across the street was a line of five #1 buses--break time, maybe? Surely one of them would take me where I needed to go. One of them finally pulled up. I said the name of the campus--they said no. Great. I think they motioned to wait for another #1 bus. Really? What's the difference?! Probably something in Chinese characters...oh yeah, can't read those. So we waited longer...staring at the bleak desert in front of us. Not a soul around besides grandma.
Finally another #1 bus finished its break. I asked again about my campus. They laughed and said yes. How much you wanna bet they were staring at me the entire time, watching me freak out? We hopped on--all was well. We made it.
The campus PO has 2 offices. One to hold packages only for a few days. If you get there within those few days, you have fewer hoops to jump through to get it. Of course, mine had been moved to the main office already. (Yeah, I don't get it either...) So after lots of charades and a dear student who knew a little English, I got the package. After they asked for my teacher card and passport--neither of which I had. So they copied down my Kansas driver's license number. To finalize things, she had me sign Michael's name randomly on the back of a slip. Classic. :)
I took a taxi home because I just couldn't hold the box, stroller, and Josiah. I had to fight with them for the price because since I'm a foreigner, they think I'm rich. Somehow, I made it up 8 flights of stairs carrying it all. Probably won't try that again.
Nothing can be done quickly here...no matter how hard you try.
Sunday, December 5, 2010
O Christmas Tree!
Today I bought a Christmas tree at the local supermarket. I saw 3 sizes of trees on display last week, but didn't want to mess with asking if I could buy them. This week, I wanted to know--I was tired of a tree-less home!
They actually had price tags on them, so I found a worker to ask if I could buy the middle-sized one. (about 6ft) She said something I couldn't understand and waved me off. I wasn't havin' it--I needed a tree! So I tried to call a student who speaks good English to translate for me. Of course, she didn't pick up.
Just then, a young college couple walked up. I asked if they knew English--they said a little. Good enough! She explained to the worker I wanted to buy the tree. The worker asked if I wanted all the ornaments on it. I asked if they cost anything--of course they did! So I said no. The worker proceeded to strip the tree of all the ornaments. Ha! I was dying. Apparently they had no others. Apparently they weren't actually planning to sell these trees, but put a price tag on them just in case a crazy foreigner wanted to buy one. Thankfully, it came apart in 3 pieces so I could fit it into my Chinese-sized cart (about 2/3 the size of US) and proceed to shop. I bumped into several people...and just about everyone really stared (remember, staring at the strange foreigner is normal to them--but this was extra) at my cart as I walked past confidently. :)
I'm curious to see if the tree is replaced by the time I go next week.
I put it up and put a few ornaments and lights on it. It's definitely skinny and a little Charlie Brown-ish, but I don't care. I'm happy to have it!
They actually had price tags on them, so I found a worker to ask if I could buy the middle-sized one. (about 6ft) She said something I couldn't understand and waved me off. I wasn't havin' it--I needed a tree! So I tried to call a student who speaks good English to translate for me. Of course, she didn't pick up.
Just then, a young college couple walked up. I asked if they knew English--they said a little. Good enough! She explained to the worker I wanted to buy the tree. The worker asked if I wanted all the ornaments on it. I asked if they cost anything--of course they did! So I said no. The worker proceeded to strip the tree of all the ornaments. Ha! I was dying. Apparently they had no others. Apparently they weren't actually planning to sell these trees, but put a price tag on them just in case a crazy foreigner wanted to buy one. Thankfully, it came apart in 3 pieces so I could fit it into my Chinese-sized cart (about 2/3 the size of US) and proceed to shop. I bumped into several people...and just about everyone really stared (remember, staring at the strange foreigner is normal to them--but this was extra) at my cart as I walked past confidently. :)
I'm curious to see if the tree is replaced by the time I go next week.
I put it up and put a few ornaments and lights on it. It's definitely skinny and a little Charlie Brown-ish, but I don't care. I'm happy to have it!
Saturday, December 4, 2010
melty
Last night, waiting for Daddy to get home, Josiah and I had a dance party to Christmas music. If neighbors are able to see through our cream curtains, they were probably having convulsions from laughing so hard. That did not stop us from getting crazy!
During a slow song, I picked Josiah up to slow dance. He looked up at me and gave me a kiss. (You know at this age, voluntary kisses are rare.) Of course, I melted. Love. that. boy.
During a slow song, I picked Josiah up to slow dance. He looked up at me and gave me a kiss. (You know at this age, voluntary kisses are rare.) Of course, I melted. Love. that. boy.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Thanksgiving plus
Thanksgiving was great! I did miss being with friends and family, but our new "family" here did a great job substituting.
We hosted our team plus 2 extras for a dinner on Friday. The spread was incredible. I was quite impressed what people were able to whip up with fewer resources. While stuffing ourselves, we had a (taped) football game on. Hey--we had to do something to make it more real. :) When the food coma started to set in, we decided to pep things up with a card game, kemps. Super fun. It takes Michael and I back to the days of college when we were champion partners. No, we weren't flirting. Oh wait, I'm pretty sure I was. ;) Then ended the night watching Elf. Always a winner.
Saturday, we took our pot luck dishes into Beijing to celebrate with about 50 other people. Um, wow was there a lot of food! It was great to eat again--of course--but also hang out with people we don't see too often and hear how their work is going. Also, Josiah got to play with 2 other kiddos. Always a plus when he gets some kid interaction. :) Oh, and there was TURKEY!! Have I told you how excited I was to eat some??
The next day, I was ready to decorate for Christmas. Some families who lived here before us left us a few decorations. A 1-foot tree, some garland, and a few strands of lights. Our local grocery store put up a small display of decor and I got a few more things. Our place looks pretty wimpy at the moment, so I'm excited to get more. I'm hoping to go to an all-Christmas market (surprised it exists in a country that doesn't celebrate it!) next week. I think decorating will help make our Christmas special and (hopefully) not so hard. I'm definitely accepting any homemade ideas you have. But please remember--I have zero access to a Hobby Lobby or anything even close. :)
Today, a couple from our company came to visit us. Their sole purpose is to visit new families to make sure we're making it. What a blessing they are. They were encouraging and compassionate. I'm so thankful we're with a company who cares so much about us...and goes to such great lengths to take care of us.
We hosted our team plus 2 extras for a dinner on Friday. The spread was incredible. I was quite impressed what people were able to whip up with fewer resources. While stuffing ourselves, we had a (taped) football game on. Hey--we had to do something to make it more real. :) When the food coma started to set in, we decided to pep things up with a card game, kemps. Super fun. It takes Michael and I back to the days of college when we were champion partners. No, we weren't flirting. Oh wait, I'm pretty sure I was. ;) Then ended the night watching Elf. Always a winner.
Saturday, we took our pot luck dishes into Beijing to celebrate with about 50 other people. Um, wow was there a lot of food! It was great to eat again--of course--but also hang out with people we don't see too often and hear how their work is going. Also, Josiah got to play with 2 other kiddos. Always a plus when he gets some kid interaction. :) Oh, and there was TURKEY!! Have I told you how excited I was to eat some??
The next day, I was ready to decorate for Christmas. Some families who lived here before us left us a few decorations. A 1-foot tree, some garland, and a few strands of lights. Our local grocery store put up a small display of decor and I got a few more things. Our place looks pretty wimpy at the moment, so I'm excited to get more. I'm hoping to go to an all-Christmas market (surprised it exists in a country that doesn't celebrate it!) next week. I think decorating will help make our Christmas special and (hopefully) not so hard. I'm definitely accepting any homemade ideas you have. But please remember--I have zero access to a Hobby Lobby or anything even close. :)
Today, a couple from our company came to visit us. Their sole purpose is to visit new families to make sure we're making it. What a blessing they are. They were encouraging and compassionate. I'm so thankful we're with a company who cares so much about us...and goes to such great lengths to take care of us.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
pre-Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is tomorrow--our time. But we won't celebrate until Friday and Saturday. Can you believe that the university won't give the day off to eat food?! ;) They were nice enough to trade for Friday--and only for the foreign teachers! I guess they like us or something.
Friday, we'll celebrate with our team, plus 2 extras. 10 adults, 3 kiddos. We are hosting...should be fun! I plan to make cornbread casserole (from scratch: cream corn and sour cream..oh boy), some sort of apple crisp or pie, and a fruit/yogurt salad. I'm stoked about all the goodies people are sacrificing and working hard to make. We'll do the best we can to make it "normal." I didn't decorate for fall in the states, but since we're hosting, I feel like we needed to do something. So I made some orange and lemon-clove pomanders. Very fun and they already smell great! (Lucky for us, cloves are SUPER cheap here.) We hope to watch some football, play some games, and watch a movie together. In between naps, right?!
Saturday, our team will make the jaunt into Beijing to celebrate with 40-50 other people in our company that live nearby. And, as mentioned before, there will be TURKEY. I'm stoked. Mainly because they don't have turkey here...just massive (like, multiple aisles) amounts of ham. Plus, with that many people, there will be so many delicious choices, I'll barely be able to contain myself. There is talk of a football game to be played, so hopefully Michael will be able to show off some of his skills.
I'm sure I'll take lots of pics. And I'll post them later...even if I have to wait an hour for them to load. :)
And finally, a list of thanks. I'm thankful for:
a Father who loves, perseveres, and promises the best.
a husband who loves me dearly, lets me know it, and is a superb father.
a son who has a laid-back personality and loves to giggle and dance.
family and friends at home who take initiative to stay in contact.
a team who looks out for each other.
students who desire more in life.
the import store that isn't terribly far away.
mostly-reliable internet that keeps us plugged into the world.
our own heat (versus what most Chinese have..controlled by the gov't).
(on most days) stairs and a bike that keep me in better shape.
Happy Thanksgiving!
P.S. Someone please grab a deal or two on Friday in my honor. I sure will miss the middle-of-the-night chaos!
Friday, we'll celebrate with our team, plus 2 extras. 10 adults, 3 kiddos. We are hosting...should be fun! I plan to make cornbread casserole (from scratch: cream corn and sour cream..oh boy), some sort of apple crisp or pie, and a fruit/yogurt salad. I'm stoked about all the goodies people are sacrificing and working hard to make. We'll do the best we can to make it "normal." I didn't decorate for fall in the states, but since we're hosting, I feel like we needed to do something. So I made some orange and lemon-clove pomanders. Very fun and they already smell great! (Lucky for us, cloves are SUPER cheap here.) We hope to watch some football, play some games, and watch a movie together. In between naps, right?!
Saturday, our team will make the jaunt into Beijing to celebrate with 40-50 other people in our company that live nearby. And, as mentioned before, there will be TURKEY. I'm stoked. Mainly because they don't have turkey here...just massive (like, multiple aisles) amounts of ham. Plus, with that many people, there will be so many delicious choices, I'll barely be able to contain myself. There is talk of a football game to be played, so hopefully Michael will be able to show off some of his skills.
I'm sure I'll take lots of pics. And I'll post them later...even if I have to wait an hour for them to load. :)
And finally, a list of thanks. I'm thankful for:
a Father who loves, perseveres, and promises the best.
a husband who loves me dearly, lets me know it, and is a superb father.
a son who has a laid-back personality and loves to giggle and dance.
family and friends at home who take initiative to stay in contact.
a team who looks out for each other.
students who desire more in life.
the import store that isn't terribly far away.
mostly-reliable internet that keeps us plugged into the world.
our own heat (versus what most Chinese have..controlled by the gov't).
(on most days) stairs and a bike that keep me in better shape.
Happy Thanksgiving!
P.S. Someone please grab a deal or two on Friday in my honor. I sure will miss the middle-of-the-night chaos!
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
food
As mentioned before, things have to be cooked/baked here a little differently. Here are some recent accomplishments (Pioneer Woman, watch out!) made from scratch:
cinnamon rolls
pumpkin puree (thanks to a new blender!!)
granola (about once/week to keep up with my boys!)
banana cream pie w/ whip
cornbread (man, jiffy was easy! but, so it homemade..)
caramel *now, this is a note-worthy one, folks. Take a can of sweetened condensed milk (can you believe they have this here????) and boil it (can and all) in a pot of water for 2-3 hours. Open up, and voila! You have milky, creamy caramel...good for dipping mantu (sorta like a donut...sorta) or apples! sooooooooooo good!
Next week is Thanksgiving. I'm stoked. On Friday (yes, Friday. It's clearly not a recognized holiday here, but they're nice enough to give us Friday off.), we'll have a team meal. Turkey is not sold here, so we'll go with other meats. But on Saturday, we'll go into Beijing and have a huge meal with a bunch of other people from our company. And there will be turkey!!! We have to pay to eat some, but shoot, I can't wait. They'll get it from the import store. It's 50Y (about $7) per person...so you can imagine how much those birds will cost!
cinnamon rolls
pumpkin puree (thanks to a new blender!!)
granola (about once/week to keep up with my boys!)
banana cream pie w/ whip
cornbread (man, jiffy was easy! but, so it homemade..)
caramel *now, this is a note-worthy one, folks. Take a can of sweetened condensed milk (can you believe they have this here????) and boil it (can and all) in a pot of water for 2-3 hours. Open up, and voila! You have milky, creamy caramel...good for dipping mantu (sorta like a donut...sorta) or apples! sooooooooooo good!
Next week is Thanksgiving. I'm stoked. On Friday (yes, Friday. It's clearly not a recognized holiday here, but they're nice enough to give us Friday off.), we'll have a team meal. Turkey is not sold here, so we'll go with other meats. But on Saturday, we'll go into Beijing and have a huge meal with a bunch of other people from our company. And there will be turkey!!! We have to pay to eat some, but shoot, I can't wait. They'll get it from the import store. It's 50Y (about $7) per person...so you can imagine how much those birds will cost!
Monday, November 15, 2010
pain to joy
It's been a rough week.
We found out we were pregnant a few weeks ago. We purposely didn't announce it early. Glad we didn't.
I started feeling different early last week. I knew something was up, but tried to stay positive. A few days later, I went to the local, all-Chinese hospital. (There is an int'l hospital in Beijing, but is at least a 1.5 hour trek and is quite expensive.) I took a Chinese friend/believer/translator with me. The ultrasound results concluded there was no heartbeat. The doc said the baby was measuring smaller than the 10 weeks I thought I was. She suggested I come in again in a week to check again.
*Side note: During the ultrasound, there were 4 nurses in the room. Since they knew my friend spoke English, they started asking her how to say things in English. Then when we went to talk to the doc in her office, she started in with the same questions! I was quite frustrated to have to deal with this cultural faux pas at such a vulnerable and emotional time.
I was a wreck that day. I knew it was bad news even though the doc was holding out hope..trying to stay positive for my sake.
I wanted to know for sure what was happening. So Michael and I made the trek into Beijing (without Josiah--thanks to our wonderful team) to the international hospital. They were great; it felt like a hospital at home. (The Chinese hospital wasn't even close! But I won't go there right now.) After another ultrasound, the same results came back. Again, the doc wanted me to come back next week "just in case." But I knew it wasn't meant to be. Throughout the whole day, He had been pouring his peace on us. We knew that He had his reasons for taking the baby. We don't know why, but we know it was the best for us. We've been clinging to that.
Our team was wonderful and let us stay in Beijing for dinner (a treat!!) We ate at an Indian restaurant we've been drooling over for months. It was scrumptious. We're thankful for the alone time we got there. We're even more thankful for the joy that only He can give in a time like this.
Through this process, He has been pricking our hearts about our family. We love Josiah even more now. (Possible?!) We see having kids as a pure blessing. We hope He will continue to bless us with as many kiddos as He wants to give us. It's a scary thought (the Duggars...), but we know He won't give us more than we can handle....our wallets, my body, our sanity.
I'm thankful this painful process has brought me even more trust in my Father.
P.S. I'm not writing to ask for sympathy or a pity party; I know you care if you read this. I just needed to write it out.
We found out we were pregnant a few weeks ago. We purposely didn't announce it early. Glad we didn't.
I started feeling different early last week. I knew something was up, but tried to stay positive. A few days later, I went to the local, all-Chinese hospital. (There is an int'l hospital in Beijing, but is at least a 1.5 hour trek and is quite expensive.) I took a Chinese friend/believer/translator with me. The ultrasound results concluded there was no heartbeat. The doc said the baby was measuring smaller than the 10 weeks I thought I was. She suggested I come in again in a week to check again.
*Side note: During the ultrasound, there were 4 nurses in the room. Since they knew my friend spoke English, they started asking her how to say things in English. Then when we went to talk to the doc in her office, she started in with the same questions! I was quite frustrated to have to deal with this cultural faux pas at such a vulnerable and emotional time.
I was a wreck that day. I knew it was bad news even though the doc was holding out hope..trying to stay positive for my sake.
I wanted to know for sure what was happening. So Michael and I made the trek into Beijing (without Josiah--thanks to our wonderful team) to the international hospital. They were great; it felt like a hospital at home. (The Chinese hospital wasn't even close! But I won't go there right now.) After another ultrasound, the same results came back. Again, the doc wanted me to come back next week "just in case." But I knew it wasn't meant to be. Throughout the whole day, He had been pouring his peace on us. We knew that He had his reasons for taking the baby. We don't know why, but we know it was the best for us. We've been clinging to that.
Our team was wonderful and let us stay in Beijing for dinner (a treat!!) We ate at an Indian restaurant we've been drooling over for months. It was scrumptious. We're thankful for the alone time we got there. We're even more thankful for the joy that only He can give in a time like this.
Through this process, He has been pricking our hearts about our family. We love Josiah even more now. (Possible?!) We see having kids as a pure blessing. We hope He will continue to bless us with as many kiddos as He wants to give us. It's a scary thought (the Duggars...), but we know He won't give us more than we can handle....our wallets, my body, our sanity.
I'm thankful this painful process has brought me even more trust in my Father.
P.S. I'm not writing to ask for sympathy or a pity party; I know you care if you read this. I just needed to write it out.
Friday, November 5, 2010
English corner
I just came back from my first English corner. This can look different, but tonight it was an organized event put on by the students. They invited 3 foreign teachers and any student who wanted to practice his/her English. The room's capacity was maybe 60. We definitely had at least 80..maybe 100 packed in there.
We were asked before it started if we could say a few things about the topic: growing pains and happiness. You may be wondering what that phrase means....so were we! But, we pulled something together, and of course made it deep so they would think about it. :)
Then we gathered into groups (of like 30..) and they could ask us any question. Nothing too unusual. The usuals include: what do you think of China? why did you come here? how is China different from America? (haha)
Then there were lots of games and singing. This is where the cultural amazement struck me. When the emcee asked if anyone would like to stand and sing, there was only 5 seconds of awkward silence before someone volunteered. A-capella. Then another. Then a third. Can you imagine this in America? We'd say, "nuh uh! You ain't makin me do anything!" But they don't see it as something scary. Their culture loves karaoke. So, knowing this, we foreign teachers got up and sang "you are my sunshine". And they loved it. Hilarious.
And of course, throughout the entire time, pictures and videos were being taken of our every move. Not to boast, but we really do have a taste of what celebrities experience. Except no one has hid in a bush to snap a pic...yet. :)
We were asked before it started if we could say a few things about the topic: growing pains and happiness. You may be wondering what that phrase means....so were we! But, we pulled something together, and of course made it deep so they would think about it. :)
Then we gathered into groups (of like 30..) and they could ask us any question. Nothing too unusual. The usuals include: what do you think of China? why did you come here? how is China different from America? (haha)
Then there were lots of games and singing. This is where the cultural amazement struck me. When the emcee asked if anyone would like to stand and sing, there was only 5 seconds of awkward silence before someone volunteered. A-capella. Then another. Then a third. Can you imagine this in America? We'd say, "nuh uh! You ain't makin me do anything!" But they don't see it as something scary. Their culture loves karaoke. So, knowing this, we foreign teachers got up and sang "you are my sunshine". And they loved it. Hilarious.
And of course, throughout the entire time, pictures and videos were being taken of our every move. Not to boast, but we really do have a taste of what celebrities experience. Except no one has hid in a bush to snap a pic...yet. :)
Sunday, October 31, 2010
missing is normal
Today I made pumpkin cookies for the Halloween party for a small group of students and our team. After the process of baking, scraping, and pureeing a small pumpkin, I really wished I had a can of pumpkin. Pop the top, and you're good to go. My process took an hour. But it's...more...fresh?!
I've been missing more things from the States lately. Maybe it's the holiday season starting up. I've never been a huge Halloween person...don't really get dressed up or anything unless there's a killer party (with prizes) to go to. But now that we have a kid, I missed it this time. I always wanted to go to the church fall party. Someday...
Josiah and I visited Michael's classes this week. We introduces ourselves and I gave a mini-lesson on the stages of life, using Josiah as an example. Of course the students loved him more than anything, but it was fun! I had fun getting back in the saddle--still miss teaching sometimes. Now I'm hoping some of the girls will email me so we can get together.
We had our first coffee house event for the students on Friday. Once a month, we transform a classroom, serve them treats, have entertainment, and lead discussions about potentially deep topics. It was so fun! The students had a blast. It took me back to the college days of doing things like that all the time. I like the chaos of getting it all ready and then seeing it run smoothly. :)
It really is hard to keep posting pics up here when I put them all on FB. If you can't view them on FB for some reason (you can do so from the link even if you don't have an accout), let me know and that will motivate me to put more pics up here. It just takes too long. I hope they come up with a better way soon.
**Update: Obviously, there are pics here. Props to Bronwyn for inspiring me to sit and wait 10 mins for them to load. (did you know you could print your blog into a book?! sounds like a sweet plan...) But, I will have to do some major work on patience to put lots of pics on here. Any tips? Do you use Picasa and find that it's faster?? Again, could just be where I am...
I've been missing more things from the States lately. Maybe it's the holiday season starting up. I've never been a huge Halloween person...don't really get dressed up or anything unless there's a killer party (with prizes) to go to. But now that we have a kid, I missed it this time. I always wanted to go to the church fall party. Someday...
Josiah was a monkey for halloween--costume by grammie Mueller. He didn't like his hat so much...
Josiah and I visited Michael's classes this week. We introduces ourselves and I gave a mini-lesson on the stages of life, using Josiah as an example. Of course the students loved him more than anything, but it was fun! I had fun getting back in the saddle--still miss teaching sometimes. Now I'm hoping some of the girls will email me so we can get together.
We had our first coffee house event for the students on Friday. Once a month, we transform a classroom, serve them treats, have entertainment, and lead discussions about potentially deep topics. It was so fun! The students had a blast. It took me back to the college days of doing things like that all the time. I like the chaos of getting it all ready and then seeing it run smoothly. :)
It really is hard to keep posting pics up here when I put them all on FB. If you can't view them on FB for some reason (you can do so from the link even if you don't have an accout), let me know and that will motivate me to put more pics up here. It just takes too long. I hope they come up with a better way soon.
**Update: Obviously, there are pics here. Props to Bronwyn for inspiring me to sit and wait 10 mins for them to load. (did you know you could print your blog into a book?! sounds like a sweet plan...) But, I will have to do some major work on patience to put lots of pics on here. Any tips? Do you use Picasa and find that it's faster?? Again, could just be where I am...
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Date morning!
We are very blessed with teammates that are willing to watch Josiah to give us some time away. So far, we've used the time to explore our new surroundings.
I was extra excited about today because Michael said he had a surprise planned. I love surprises! But I couldn't help badgering him last night to give me a clue. He didn't give in.
Unfortunately, the weather didn't cooperate with his plan. (weather.com has been wrong all week--predicting sunny and 60's, and it's been foggy/smoggy and low 50's. bummer!) He had planned to go to a nearby lake his students have told him about and BBQ! His students said there were actual grills there and a nice, old man who will provide the charcoal. Haha. Can't wait to check that out...it may have to wait a few months, though. It seems winter may have come early. :(
My love is great with "plan B's." The new theme: places we can't go with Josiah. So we took off on our bikes and he led the way. He said there were 5 stops.
1.) I cracked up at the first one: the 2 rmb store. (think $1 store, except 2 rmb is more like .30) Haha. But, we had both wanted to check it out..so why not? We actually picked up quite a bit of loot that we hadn't been able to find at the normal stores--and for MUCH cheaper: rolling pin, tongs, thermos, ribbon...that's all I can remember.
2.) Dian Dian--a supermarket no one on our team had been to. It was nothing special, but at least we got to see for ourselves. I scored some warm slippers and Mr. Muscle grease cleaner.
3.) 9.9 rmb store...but it was replaced by a shoe store. We literally spotted it less than a month ago. Maybe they were liquidation items?! However, on the hunt for it we picked up a big bag of sweet potato chips and a chicken "sandwich." Can't describe it well enough here, but just know that we devoured them in record time.
4.) THE coffee shop--on top of a grocery store. (the only one in town, that we know of) I have been there twice and knew that I couldn't have the coffee--way too strong. I struggled to find something on the terribly-translated Chinglish menu (2 consecutive coffee drinks were named "spaghetti with meatballs." haha..I really want to help them re-do their menu!), but finally landed on "coco milk." I really had no idea what it would be. Michael got an iced peppermint coffee. His was decent, mine was better. It was just steamed coconut milk. Very sweet. It was quiet and relaxing to be there.
5.) Building 53. Another recommendation from Michael's students. We went into the basement to scope out the food court. It's great! About 6 or 7 different options--a nice, quick meal for when we're out. We didn't eat there since we had already eaten, but now know a good place to go with some options. Outside the building, a vendor was selling some popcorn. Michael had told me about Chinese popcorn--that it's sweet, like kettle corn. I LOVE kettle corn. So we got a bag. (a small trash bag, that is...all for .50) It's sitting next to me now, almost empty. :)
Dates are a blast. Even better with a spontaneous hubby!
I was extra excited about today because Michael said he had a surprise planned. I love surprises! But I couldn't help badgering him last night to give me a clue. He didn't give in.
Unfortunately, the weather didn't cooperate with his plan. (weather.com has been wrong all week--predicting sunny and 60's, and it's been foggy/smoggy and low 50's. bummer!) He had planned to go to a nearby lake his students have told him about and BBQ! His students said there were actual grills there and a nice, old man who will provide the charcoal. Haha. Can't wait to check that out...it may have to wait a few months, though. It seems winter may have come early. :(
My love is great with "plan B's." The new theme: places we can't go with Josiah. So we took off on our bikes and he led the way. He said there were 5 stops.
1.) I cracked up at the first one: the 2 rmb store. (think $1 store, except 2 rmb is more like .30) Haha. But, we had both wanted to check it out..so why not? We actually picked up quite a bit of loot that we hadn't been able to find at the normal stores--and for MUCH cheaper: rolling pin, tongs, thermos, ribbon...that's all I can remember.
2.) Dian Dian--a supermarket no one on our team had been to. It was nothing special, but at least we got to see for ourselves. I scored some warm slippers and Mr. Muscle grease cleaner.
3.) 9.9 rmb store...but it was replaced by a shoe store. We literally spotted it less than a month ago. Maybe they were liquidation items?! However, on the hunt for it we picked up a big bag of sweet potato chips and a chicken "sandwich." Can't describe it well enough here, but just know that we devoured them in record time.
4.) THE coffee shop--on top of a grocery store. (the only one in town, that we know of) I have been there twice and knew that I couldn't have the coffee--way too strong. I struggled to find something on the terribly-translated Chinglish menu (2 consecutive coffee drinks were named "spaghetti with meatballs." haha..I really want to help them re-do their menu!), but finally landed on "coco milk." I really had no idea what it would be. Michael got an iced peppermint coffee. His was decent, mine was better. It was just steamed coconut milk. Very sweet. It was quiet and relaxing to be there.
5.) Building 53. Another recommendation from Michael's students. We went into the basement to scope out the food court. It's great! About 6 or 7 different options--a nice, quick meal for when we're out. We didn't eat there since we had already eaten, but now know a good place to go with some options. Outside the building, a vendor was selling some popcorn. Michael had told me about Chinese popcorn--that it's sweet, like kettle corn. I LOVE kettle corn. So we got a bag. (a small trash bag, that is...all for .50) It's sitting next to me now, almost empty. :)
Dates are a blast. Even better with a spontaneous hubby!
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
picutres!!
 |
| Drinkable yogurt = fun times for kids. He LOVES them! |
 |
| This lamb character is EVERYWHERE--definitely the most popular cartoon here. The ride costs about 15cents and lasts about 5 minutes...about 4 minutes too long with its loud, annoying music. :) |
 | ||
| Girl time! Women of the team except Lynne on back,left. She's Mrs. President of our company and came just to have girl time! In the middle of the table is what we thought was chocolate fondue. Unfortunately, it was some sort of strawberry and kiwi jelly. There was fruit to dip into it; I steered clear. There was also 3 flavors of "ice cream". Flavors still unknown..haha |
Last week, Michael finally taught an entire week of classes. No more breaks. No more holidays til the end of the semester--the end of January. Could be a long haul! But, he's enjoying it and his students are surprising him with the high level of English abilities they have. I'm anxious to meet some of them. We have some events coming up where I'll actually get to talk to some of them. WOO! This has been a long time waiting. (Remember, most other teachers in other cities with our company have been teaching and meeting with students for a month now. Our school is just starting super late.)
Meals conquered this week: chicken fried steak, stew (with a cheater packet from the States), chicken alfredo (another cheater packet...I know, gross usually..but so good here!). I'm building a list! :)
Please stop being shy about commenting. I need some confirmation to continue posting. If you don't have an account, you can still write a comment. Google readers, you know what you need to do.
I post all the pics on Facebook. If you're not on there, you can still look at the album by clicking here: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2109919&id=66804516&l=432c50e5d8
Sunday, October 10, 2010
I'm still having major issues uploading pics. I don't have the time or patience to deal with it now, so pics from the last few weeks will just have to wait. I'll keep trying....
For your enjoyment...
A look into our daily lives....
1. October 1 marks the day that everyone starts wearing their long underwear, no matter the temperature outside. (It's still warm..in the 70's!) Grammies even check Josiah sometimes and scold me for not putting more clothes on him.
2. Most milk is sold in bags that can sit on the shelf for a month. Sounds weird, but tastes pretty normal.
3. I get stared at (what's new?!) when I have a cart-ful of groceries. Most people go to the store/market every day.
4. There is a saying about flushing toilets. It goes like this: "If it's yellow, let it mellow; if it's brown, flush it down."
5. When walking/biking, most fellows will yell out in their best English accent, "hallow!"
6. Almost all yogurt is drinkable...a little more runny, and always served with a straw. Most are sold in the small, square cartons like the States. Josiah could drink 5 of them if I let him.
7. Diapers cost more here than in the States. This could lead to early potty training, but will never lead to split-pants.
8. Electricity, water, and gas are all bought at the bank. To know when we will run out, we have to check separate meters with a credit-card like thing throughout our apartment.
9. When eating out, several dishes are ordered to eat family style--all in the middle of the table, usually on a large lazy susan--and brought out (usually) one at a time. Rice is typically served last to be eaten as a "filler."
10. Fireworks go off at all times of day--early to late. It could be for the opening of a store, or more often for a bride/wedding. They set them off at the apartment of the bride before she comes out to keep away the evil spirits. The same is done at the wedding and reception site. The Chinese don't even flinch when the sticks of dynamite go off....while we foreigners are covering our ears and running away.
For your enjoyment...
A look into our daily lives....
1. October 1 marks the day that everyone starts wearing their long underwear, no matter the temperature outside. (It's still warm..in the 70's!) Grammies even check Josiah sometimes and scold me for not putting more clothes on him.
2. Most milk is sold in bags that can sit on the shelf for a month. Sounds weird, but tastes pretty normal.
3. I get stared at (what's new?!) when I have a cart-ful of groceries. Most people go to the store/market every day.
4. There is a saying about flushing toilets. It goes like this: "If it's yellow, let it mellow; if it's brown, flush it down."
5. When walking/biking, most fellows will yell out in their best English accent, "hallow!"
6. Almost all yogurt is drinkable...a little more runny, and always served with a straw. Most are sold in the small, square cartons like the States. Josiah could drink 5 of them if I let him.
7. Diapers cost more here than in the States. This could lead to early potty training, but will never lead to split-pants.
8. Electricity, water, and gas are all bought at the bank. To know when we will run out, we have to check separate meters with a credit-card like thing throughout our apartment.
9. When eating out, several dishes are ordered to eat family style--all in the middle of the table, usually on a large lazy susan--and brought out (usually) one at a time. Rice is typically served last to be eaten as a "filler."
10. Fireworks go off at all times of day--early to late. It could be for the opening of a store, or more often for a bride/wedding. They set them off at the apartment of the bride before she comes out to keep away the evil spirits. The same is done at the wedding and reception site. The Chinese don't even flinch when the sticks of dynamite go off....while we foreigners are covering our ears and running away.
Sunday, October 3, 2010
help!
Anyone else having trouble uploading pics? I've tried to upload ONE pic a few times..waiting 5-10 minutes and it was still "working." It can't be that huge of a file--FB uploads just fine.
Any ideas? I'm getting rather frustrated....................
Any ideas? I'm getting rather frustrated....................
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
where we live
Since I couldn't even upload a few pics, I won't even try to load a lot. So, go here to look at pics of our home. The pics are at the end of the album.
China Goes BIG
This year is our university's 70th anniversary. They have done lots of celebrating in the past few weeks, but last weekend was THE event. We went to the main campus (about an hour away) for the festivities.
The other mom on my team and I came a little late because we were putting the kiddos to bed. When we got to the gate, the guards wouldn't let us in. They kept telling us (in Chinese--good thing she understood!) that we needed tickets. We called our teammates and they didn't need tickets when they came earlier. So one teammate came out and tried to let us in. We tried to play the foreigner card..acting like we didn't know any better. That ended us surrounded with several angry guards, no yelling at us. So we stood like helpless little lambs until our Chinese administrator came to the rescue. She flashed her badge and we were on our way.
I had no idea what to expect. I knew the Chinese love to perform (whether they're good or bad..more on that later). This was a new level. I walked into the stadium and immediately thought I was going to lose my hearing. It was insanely loud. Like, 10 times worse than a concert. Perhaps it was the pitch and tone of their voices that I'm just not used to. So, we sat there for 3 hours watching performances. Some were good, others were...not. But we sat there like good little foreign teachers anyway. Here are some pics...
Or not. Something may be wrong with the pic loader. I waited for 15 mins. to load 4 pics and none of them loaded. I may try again later..
The other mom on my team and I came a little late because we were putting the kiddos to bed. When we got to the gate, the guards wouldn't let us in. They kept telling us (in Chinese--good thing she understood!) that we needed tickets. We called our teammates and they didn't need tickets when they came earlier. So one teammate came out and tried to let us in. We tried to play the foreigner card..acting like we didn't know any better. That ended us surrounded with several angry guards, no yelling at us. So we stood like helpless little lambs until our Chinese administrator came to the rescue. She flashed her badge and we were on our way.
I had no idea what to expect. I knew the Chinese love to perform (whether they're good or bad..more on that later). This was a new level. I walked into the stadium and immediately thought I was going to lose my hearing. It was insanely loud. Like, 10 times worse than a concert. Perhaps it was the pitch and tone of their voices that I'm just not used to. So, we sat there for 3 hours watching performances. Some were good, others were...not. But we sat there like good little foreign teachers anyway. Here are some pics...
Or not. Something may be wrong with the pic loader. I waited for 15 mins. to load 4 pics and none of them loaded. I may try again later..
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
haircuts & innovations
This is going to be a bit random because I have nothing great to post about...yet, wanted to give you something entertaining to look at...
Josiah needed a hair cut. We didn't necessarily trust a society of straight hair to cut his curly q's. Michael has some clippers, but not a guard long enough to satisfy me. I didn't want J to have a shaved head!! So we went with the scissors. (They were at least scissors made for cutting hair from the states.) I didn't realize how long the boy's hair was until we picked it out. It doesn't look terrible now, but I keep seeing longer hairs and want to cut them, but I resist.
Cooking and baking have definitely been my biggest struggles here. I was semi-comfortable in the kitchen; now I'm mostly lost. Everything must be made from scratch. Most of the "convenient" items I took for granted are not available...such as tomato sauce, cream of ____ soup, anything canned, etc. Some other common ingredients are available at the foreign store (an hour+ away), but for a hefty price...sometimes even double or triple what it costs the US. ouch. Cheese is definitely the most missed. I had no idea how much I used cheese!!!
But, I'm getting the hang of it..slowly. I've made a few meals and baked a few goodies. Everything will need tweaking, but it's a process. I finally found ground beef (and it's even lean!!) at the market; thank heavens we won't have to live on ground pork. Still, some innovation will be necessary from time to time. Here's an example. I was making cookies. As my 6 were baking (small oven!), I realized I didn't have a cooling rack! I pulled the baking rack out of the oven and thought of this. It worked. :)
Some more innovation, this time from Michael. When we moved in, this "broken" washer was in our sunroom (or whatever this room is..we don't really use it). Michael and I had thrown around the idea about buying a dryer, but they're kind of expensive, so we were going to wait. When he saw this washer, the wheels started churnin'. He came up with this idea to turn it into a dryer. Obviously, the hoses aren't hooked up to any water. It spins. He removed the glass window and cut a hole in a piece of plastic we found lying around. Then attached an extra hair dryer I had. (actually I have 3, but that's another story..)...and voila! We have ourselves a dryer. I had no idea how much of a problem solver he really was until we came here. He did this stuff in the states, but I guess I didn't pay attention until now..when we are dwindled down to so much less and something like this seems like winning the lottery. :) We do actually still hang-dry our clothes for a while, then just put them in to de-crunchify them since it's sort of a process to set it up.
And, finally, a good pic of Josiah and mommy on our bike. He loves it. So far, no crashes. :)
Hopefully the next post will include some pics of our apartment. :)
Josiah needed a hair cut. We didn't necessarily trust a society of straight hair to cut his curly q's. Michael has some clippers, but not a guard long enough to satisfy me. I didn't want J to have a shaved head!! So we went with the scissors. (They were at least scissors made for cutting hair from the states.) I didn't realize how long the boy's hair was until we picked it out. It doesn't look terrible now, but I keep seeing longer hairs and want to cut them, but I resist.
Cooking and baking have definitely been my biggest struggles here. I was semi-comfortable in the kitchen; now I'm mostly lost. Everything must be made from scratch. Most of the "convenient" items I took for granted are not available...such as tomato sauce, cream of ____ soup, anything canned, etc. Some other common ingredients are available at the foreign store (an hour+ away), but for a hefty price...sometimes even double or triple what it costs the US. ouch. Cheese is definitely the most missed. I had no idea how much I used cheese!!!
But, I'm getting the hang of it..slowly. I've made a few meals and baked a few goodies. Everything will need tweaking, but it's a process. I finally found ground beef (and it's even lean!!) at the market; thank heavens we won't have to live on ground pork. Still, some innovation will be necessary from time to time. Here's an example. I was making cookies. As my 6 were baking (small oven!), I realized I didn't have a cooling rack! I pulled the baking rack out of the oven and thought of this. It worked. :)
Some more innovation, this time from Michael. When we moved in, this "broken" washer was in our sunroom (or whatever this room is..we don't really use it). Michael and I had thrown around the idea about buying a dryer, but they're kind of expensive, so we were going to wait. When he saw this washer, the wheels started churnin'. He came up with this idea to turn it into a dryer. Obviously, the hoses aren't hooked up to any water. It spins. He removed the glass window and cut a hole in a piece of plastic we found lying around. Then attached an extra hair dryer I had. (actually I have 3, but that's another story..)...and voila! We have ourselves a dryer. I had no idea how much of a problem solver he really was until we came here. He did this stuff in the states, but I guess I didn't pay attention until now..when we are dwindled down to so much less and something like this seems like winning the lottery. :) We do actually still hang-dry our clothes for a while, then just put them in to de-crunchify them since it's sort of a process to set it up.
And, finally, a good pic of Josiah and mommy on our bike. He loves it. So far, no crashes. :)
Hopefully the next post will include some pics of our apartment. :)
Friday, September 17, 2010
comments are back!
*If you saw this post yesterday and didn't see comments available, sorry. It's fixed now!
I turned off the comments section before we left, mostly because I didn't want to deal with any comments that were inappropriate for this time in our lives. But, I got tired of writing to the internet abyss without knowing who was reading and keeping up with us.
Please just remember to keep your comments..uhh..discreet. :)
Ready, comment!
I turned off the comments section before we left, mostly because I didn't want to deal with any comments that were inappropriate for this time in our lives. But, I got tired of writing to the internet abyss without knowing who was reading and keeping up with us.
Please just remember to keep your comments..uhh..discreet. :)
Ready, comment!
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
mooncakes everywhere!!
Mooncakes. You can't go anywhere in town without seeing a stand or ad (if I could read them, I'm sure they'd be advertising mooncakes...) for as many mooncakes your heart desires.
The mid-autumn festival is next Wednesday. This is the 2nd most celebrated holiday (behind New Year's) in China. They are celebrating the autumn solstice, which is apparently when the moon is at its fullest.
Traditionally, people give each other mooncakes as gifts to friends and family. You have your cheapies and your very expensive cakes. I'm sure the Chinese know the difference. Then, on the day of the festival, families gather together and stay up to look at the full moon and eat their mooncakes.
We have already received 2 boxes of them from our university. The packaging can be pretty impressive!
Here is a link to see what they look like inside (blogger is taking way long to upload pics..too impatient): mooncakes
They have different fillings: bean paste, date, jujube, lotus, taro, etc. They definitely have a distinct flavor. Good thing Josiah likes them. :)
Michael starts teaching next Monday. I have an inkling we'll be receiving some more from the students....
The mid-autumn festival is next Wednesday. This is the 2nd most celebrated holiday (behind New Year's) in China. They are celebrating the autumn solstice, which is apparently when the moon is at its fullest.
Traditionally, people give each other mooncakes as gifts to friends and family. You have your cheapies and your very expensive cakes. I'm sure the Chinese know the difference. Then, on the day of the festival, families gather together and stay up to look at the full moon and eat their mooncakes.
We have already received 2 boxes of them from our university. The packaging can be pretty impressive!
Here is a link to see what they look like inside (blogger is taking way long to upload pics..too impatient): mooncakes
They have different fillings: bean paste, date, jujube, lotus, taro, etc. They definitely have a distinct flavor. Good thing Josiah likes them. :)
Michael starts teaching next Monday. I have an inkling we'll be receiving some more from the students....
Saturday, September 11, 2010
humbled
Today I got to hear stories from some local brothers and sisters. One of them knew some English so I was able to understand. I was broken and humbled.
These two families had done a lot of work in a place full of warfare in China. They told about the fellowship they worked with there that had gone through several teachers. One teacher arrived to replace another one, and died the next day. It's heavy there. These families left because they were too physically ill to stay. My heart broke for them. I hid my emotions, not sure how they would react. As they were telling the stories, even though I couldn't understand, I could see in their eyes that they were full of hope. Sure, they had a hard time where they were. But they are excited to get plugged into another fellowship here.
It's these things that excite me and remind me why we're here.
Thank you, Father, for these dedicated followers. Bless them...they deserve it.
These two families had done a lot of work in a place full of warfare in China. They told about the fellowship they worked with there that had gone through several teachers. One teacher arrived to replace another one, and died the next day. It's heavy there. These families left because they were too physically ill to stay. My heart broke for them. I hid my emotions, not sure how they would react. As they were telling the stories, even though I couldn't understand, I could see in their eyes that they were full of hope. Sure, they had a hard time where they were. But they are excited to get plugged into another fellowship here.
It's these things that excite me and remind me why we're here.
Thank you, Father, for these dedicated followers. Bless them...they deserve it.
Monday, September 6, 2010
finally in our home!!
This past week, we've had lots of team meetings as well as lots of time to explore our new town. It's a town of about 300,00--which is a drastic change from the 18 million of Beijing we were just in. It's definitely more slow-paced, which I like. It's also a lot more dusty. I feel like I'm in a constant dust bowl. Nothing stays clean here..not even for a day.
Yesterday we all bought bikes. Josiah even has his own seat! He loves riding in it. Let's hope mommy doesn't crash like I've done a few times before....
 |
| Not the best pic..but you get the idea. This guy helped put it all together! |
Bonus video!
I was dreading this day....the day he found his nose. Ew.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
paradoxes & adjustments
We're quickly learning that China is a culture of paradoxes. Some phrases our culture teacher taught us to live by while here:
"Nothing is as it seems."
"Plans cannot keep up with change."
"If your confused, that means you're paying attention."
These phrases scare me a little. I'm type A. I like plans. And I don't like them to change. I don't like to be confused. I like control. Guess I get to do some growing!! :)
Here is an example:
These are our dishes at a restaurant wrapped in plastic. Your first thought would be: wow, this must mean they are completely sanitized! Nothing is as it seems. No one--not even locals--drink the water here. If it's "sanitized" in tap water, is it really clean?
We're learning flexibility in a variety of ways. Some are harder to adjust to than others.
Josiah is afraid of the shower head. Most people only have showers here (and most of those don't even have an enclosed one..more explanation in a later post). So we improvised, and he's happy.
Doing laundry by hand is hard work that we're not used to. Michael is better than I am at scrubbing. Almost no one has a dryer here. Everyone has porches to hang their clothes to dry. No shame in their game; you'll see underwear hanging out everywhere! Unfortunately, we put too many on this rack, and by day 3 some started to smell a bit moldy. The purchase of a dryer is being strongly considered. :)
"Nothing is as it seems."
"Plans cannot keep up with change."
"If your confused, that means you're paying attention."
These phrases scare me a little. I'm type A. I like plans. And I don't like them to change. I don't like to be confused. I like control. Guess I get to do some growing!! :)
Here is an example:
We're learning flexibility in a variety of ways. Some are harder to adjust to than others.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
food, smog, new home
The first week here, everyone was together every day learning more and more about culture.
This week, the teachers are taking TEFL classes and the moms (4 of us) are learning more practical skills, i.e. cooking, going to the market, pharmacy, etc. Here are some pics of some dishes we watched be prepared by a Chinese woman (minus the drumsticks..):
Left: potatoes, peppers, and carrots cooked in a wok
Center: Tofu (they eat a LOT of that here..in different forms), pork, and peppers cooked in a skillet
Right: Boiled tomatoes and eggs
There was more, but I didn't get pics. It was all pretty good!
Yesterday, we got to see our apartment we'll be living in until December. Right now, we're living off campus. In December, the teacher housing should be complete so we can move onto campus. The apartment we'll live in until then is great! It's very spacious (way more than expected) and has all basic furniture. I'll try to post pics once we get there and get settled a bit, which isn't for another week and a half.
Last night, we were able to go to a friend's house for a home-cooked meal. And it was all fresh foods! Salad (haven't seen that since we got here!), fruit, chicken salad sandwiches, pasta salad, etc. I couldn't believe how much I missed fresh foods. Most Chinese food is cooked in a lot of oil. I'll be glad to finally get to our apartment so I can make some of our meals! It's tough eating out twice a day! Plus--another perk about China--almost every restaurant delivers. You with kiddos know what a hassle it is to go out to eat...yet you don't want to cook every night. Delivery is a great compromise here. :) Even McDonald's delivers..haha!
Here are a few more pics from our hotel window...on two very different days:
This week, the teachers are taking TEFL classes and the moms (4 of us) are learning more practical skills, i.e. cooking, going to the market, pharmacy, etc. Here are some pics of some dishes we watched be prepared by a Chinese woman (minus the drumsticks..):
Center: Tofu (they eat a LOT of that here..in different forms), pork, and peppers cooked in a skillet
Right: Boiled tomatoes and eggs
There was more, but I didn't get pics. It was all pretty good!
Yesterday, we got to see our apartment we'll be living in until December. Right now, we're living off campus. In December, the teacher housing should be complete so we can move onto campus. The apartment we'll live in until then is great! It's very spacious (way more than expected) and has all basic furniture. I'll try to post pics once we get there and get settled a bit, which isn't for another week and a half.
Last night, we were able to go to a friend's house for a home-cooked meal. And it was all fresh foods! Salad (haven't seen that since we got here!), fruit, chicken salad sandwiches, pasta salad, etc. I couldn't believe how much I missed fresh foods. Most Chinese food is cooked in a lot of oil. I'll be glad to finally get to our apartment so I can make some of our meals! It's tough eating out twice a day! Plus--another perk about China--almost every restaurant delivers. You with kiddos know what a hassle it is to go out to eat...yet you don't want to cook every night. Delivery is a great compromise here. :) Even McDonald's delivers..haha!
Here are a few more pics from our hotel window...on two very different days:
 | |
| smoggy day |
 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| clear day! |
Saturday, August 14, 2010
pic update
As promised...a few pics:
 |
| our lives all packed up! |
 | ||
| ready to fly! |
 |
| josiah and gracie have become buds. |
 | ||||||
| both kiddos tend to attract a lot of attention. :) |
 | |
| wu mart: where we shop on a daily basis. that's how they do it here! no room to stock up and store! |
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Busses & Feet
2 quick stories:
Went with 5 other girls to a market today. Took the bus for the first time. (Have been taking taxis...easier with josiah.) All was well until the return home. We didn't know where to get back on! We walked around for 30 minutes, asking people...no one knew. We finally spotted it driving down the street and started chasing it! Haha..thankfully it wasn't going too far until it's next stop. I'm sure NO Chinese were watching us 6 foreigners chase a bus. :) Then at the stop before ours, it broke down and we had to walk the rest of the way home. Typical.
Just got a foot massage. For $7. This will go on my "why I love China" list. Ahh yeah.
Went with 5 other girls to a market today. Took the bus for the first time. (Have been taking taxis...easier with josiah.) All was well until the return home. We didn't know where to get back on! We walked around for 30 minutes, asking people...no one knew. We finally spotted it driving down the street and started chasing it! Haha..thankfully it wasn't going too far until it's next stop. I'm sure NO Chinese were watching us 6 foreigners chase a bus. :) Then at the stop before ours, it broke down and we had to walk the rest of the way home. Typical.
Just got a foot massage. For $7. This will go on my "why I love China" list. Ahh yeah.
Monday, August 9, 2010
long update
Well, we're here. It's been a long few weeks. I never know the day nor date anymore. Here's what we've been up to:
Before we left, we stayed with a lovely family that let us take over their basement. They are so sweet to us. And we were happy to still have some space of our "own."
Then we headed to Colorado for 1 week of intense training. We were basically in class 8-5, cramming lots o' stuff in our brains. It was exhausting. We stayed at the CSU dorms. That was weird to be back in the college atmosphere--especially with a husband and child! Josiah was a little thrown off, but did ok. By the 4th day, he was back on schedule..sleeping in his mini tent.
Then we hopped on a plane, headed eventually for China. We had a layover in Chicago that seemed to last forever. Little did I know the plane ride we were about to endure would seem to last eons. It was 14 hours long..some of the longest hours I've lived. We put J in his pj's since we left at 10pm our time. He was tired, but I had a feeling he wasn't going to sleep well. He's never been the greatest at sleeping in random locations. But, he had his own seat, so we were hopeful. He did sleep quite a bit..but only 45mins-1 hour at at time. He'd then wake up and cry for 10 mins..uncontrollably. Poor kid...and poor people around us who were trying to snooze! He threw up once and by the end of the ride had a fever. Great. But, we made it. His attitude and demeanor totally changed as soon as we got off the plane.
We got to Beijing around 1am local time and finally got to bed around 3am. We had to get up at 8am to start the day with class/meetings, etc. Wow. That was 4 days ago. We're all doing much better sleep-wise now. We tend to go to bed around 9 and get up at 5 or 6. The sun rises at 4.30am because they don't do daylight savings. Awesome. :)
We've had many adventures so far, but I'll save some of those stories for later. Of course, ordering food is always hilarious because we're usually pointing and attempting some sort of international sign language. Haha. I will share one story, though..just to give you a nice glimpse of a foreigner's life in China:
We've been on the hunt for a stroller for a few days now. We opted not to bring one from home since it would be just another thing to carry, and we thought we'd be able to find a nice one here. Wrong-o. We went to a mall (biggest one I've ever laid eyes on) and saw some ranging from $150-$1,000. Yep, that's right. So we went to a baby store. They were cheaper, but they also looked cheaper. We saw one that was a possibility for $70, but weren't convinced. We went to another store today, but still nothing great. So we went back to the baby store to get the stroller we sort of liked. While we were picking up a few other things, the lady who was helping us came and said that actually the price was $90. Uh, what? We asked why, but couldn't understand her. Remember, our Chinese is very limited. :) We did call a Chinese friend, and all we could get was that this was a "new model"....aka....they knew we were foreigners and would probably pay the higher price. And we did..because we're tired of carrying around the little man. Let's just hope it stays together for a while!
Sorry it's so long. I'll try to update more often so you don't have to read novels. And I'll attempt putting pics up, too. So far, not many have been taken. I'll work on that, too!
Before we left, we stayed with a lovely family that let us take over their basement. They are so sweet to us. And we were happy to still have some space of our "own."
Then we headed to Colorado for 1 week of intense training. We were basically in class 8-5, cramming lots o' stuff in our brains. It was exhausting. We stayed at the CSU dorms. That was weird to be back in the college atmosphere--especially with a husband and child! Josiah was a little thrown off, but did ok. By the 4th day, he was back on schedule..sleeping in his mini tent.
Then we hopped on a plane, headed eventually for China. We had a layover in Chicago that seemed to last forever. Little did I know the plane ride we were about to endure would seem to last eons. It was 14 hours long..some of the longest hours I've lived. We put J in his pj's since we left at 10pm our time. He was tired, but I had a feeling he wasn't going to sleep well. He's never been the greatest at sleeping in random locations. But, he had his own seat, so we were hopeful. He did sleep quite a bit..but only 45mins-1 hour at at time. He'd then wake up and cry for 10 mins..uncontrollably. Poor kid...and poor people around us who were trying to snooze! He threw up once and by the end of the ride had a fever. Great. But, we made it. His attitude and demeanor totally changed as soon as we got off the plane.
We got to Beijing around 1am local time and finally got to bed around 3am. We had to get up at 8am to start the day with class/meetings, etc. Wow. That was 4 days ago. We're all doing much better sleep-wise now. We tend to go to bed around 9 and get up at 5 or 6. The sun rises at 4.30am because they don't do daylight savings. Awesome. :)
We've had many adventures so far, but I'll save some of those stories for later. Of course, ordering food is always hilarious because we're usually pointing and attempting some sort of international sign language. Haha. I will share one story, though..just to give you a nice glimpse of a foreigner's life in China:
We've been on the hunt for a stroller for a few days now. We opted not to bring one from home since it would be just another thing to carry, and we thought we'd be able to find a nice one here. Wrong-o. We went to a mall (biggest one I've ever laid eyes on) and saw some ranging from $150-$1,000. Yep, that's right. So we went to a baby store. They were cheaper, but they also looked cheaper. We saw one that was a possibility for $70, but weren't convinced. We went to another store today, but still nothing great. So we went back to the baby store to get the stroller we sort of liked. While we were picking up a few other things, the lady who was helping us came and said that actually the price was $90. Uh, what? We asked why, but couldn't understand her. Remember, our Chinese is very limited. :) We did call a Chinese friend, and all we could get was that this was a "new model"....aka....they knew we were foreigners and would probably pay the higher price. And we did..because we're tired of carrying around the little man. Let's just hope it stays together for a while!
Sorry it's so long. I'll try to update more often so you don't have to read novels. And I'll attempt putting pics up, too. So far, not many have been taken. I'll work on that, too!
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
winding down
It's been a whirlwind. Last week: packing and organizing. Who knew how much stuff we had..and we have only been collecting for 3 years...in an apartment!!
Giant sale on Saturday was a hit! Lots of people tried to buy early--even using bribery, haha-- but we stayed firm. By 8.45, there was a line at the door. Thanks to Michael's quick thinking, we gave everyone a pen and told them to write their initials on the items they wanted so they wouldn't have to worry about carrying bookshelves and tv's around while they shopped. It worked beautifully. (Minus the confusion between the 3 people with the same initials.) In 3ish hours, we sold 80% of our stuff! These people weren't playin around! Perhaps it helped that we had everything priced at least 75% off--old or new. (That was Michael's idea. It was tough for me to do!) It was a little crazy, but a giant success.
Since then, we've been giving the rest of the little, random stuff away for free to anyone who has come by. I now sit in a 98% empty apartment--yet still on our couches. Funny story. Our couches have been talked about by many people for months. Soo many people wanted them. Not a single person followed through. They've now been on craigslist for a day and we only had 1 looker. For real? Do people not like to sit anymore? What's the deal? Just funny how they were so wanted..and now they're not. And we've dropped the price $100. Oh well. We'll rid of them somehow!
Timeline: (not that you care..but this helps me organize in my head :)
Tuesday: deliver a few items to people; random errands
Wednesday: move out of the apt and into our friend's home
Thursday: clean up apt and go to church going away party
Friday: final cleaning and turn in keys!
Saturday: hang out with both sides of fam; buy last-minute items
Sunday: last church; more fam time
Monday: fly to Co!!!
Oh yes, if you have a ridiculous amount of free time and care to look at 200+ fam pics that were taken a few weeks ago, by all means....take a gander: pics
Giant sale on Saturday was a hit! Lots of people tried to buy early--even using bribery, haha-- but we stayed firm. By 8.45, there was a line at the door. Thanks to Michael's quick thinking, we gave everyone a pen and told them to write their initials on the items they wanted so they wouldn't have to worry about carrying bookshelves and tv's around while they shopped. It worked beautifully. (Minus the confusion between the 3 people with the same initials.) In 3ish hours, we sold 80% of our stuff! These people weren't playin around! Perhaps it helped that we had everything priced at least 75% off--old or new. (That was Michael's idea. It was tough for me to do!) It was a little crazy, but a giant success.
Since then, we've been giving the rest of the little, random stuff away for free to anyone who has come by. I now sit in a 98% empty apartment--yet still on our couches. Funny story. Our couches have been talked about by many people for months. Soo many people wanted them. Not a single person followed through. They've now been on craigslist for a day and we only had 1 looker. For real? Do people not like to sit anymore? What's the deal? Just funny how they were so wanted..and now they're not. And we've dropped the price $100. Oh well. We'll rid of them somehow!
Timeline: (not that you care..but this helps me organize in my head :)
Tuesday: deliver a few items to people; random errands
Wednesday: move out of the apt and into our friend's home
Thursday: clean up apt and go to church going away party
Friday: final cleaning and turn in keys!
Saturday: hang out with both sides of fam; buy last-minute items
Sunday: last church; more fam time
Monday: fly to Co!!!
Oh yes, if you have a ridiculous amount of free time and care to look at 200+ fam pics that were taken a few weeks ago, by all means....take a gander: pics
Friday, June 25, 2010
come and go
Where is June going? This month has been a slow/fast kind. The first weekend of June seems like eons ago, yet the weeks have flown by.
In the past few weeks, we have:
- Held a fundraiser dinner that resembled planning a wedding reception. Lots o' work, but He came through--as always.
- Officially paid off all debt. It's been "paid" for a while. But now it's official. PTL!
- Been to 4 docs. Nothing like cramming them in before we're cut off from insurance. :)
- Went to a schmancy dinner with the Chicago Chinese consulate and his posse. Lesson learned: we need business cards. I think we collected about 10 from the night. That's what they like to do...exchange cards.
- Went to Hotlanta for 4 days. Just Josiah and myself. He did fine on the plane rides--thankful for the kiddos around us that entertained him. While there, he was cranky due to missed naps, stranger danger, 2 teeth coming in, and getting sick. Other than that, he was great. ;) It was so fun seeing dear friends.
- Worked my last shifts in the church cafe. I was sad to leave it. I truly love making coffee drinks. Maybe I can open up shop in China.
And in the next few weeks:
- Visit Branson one last time/attend a friend's wedding.
- Michaael's last day of work.
- Go to Michael's family reunion in Louisiana. It could be hot.
- A few going away parties.
- Pack, pack, pack; sell, sell, sell!!!
- Fly away, fly away, fly away.
Not gonna post any pics; they're all on facebook. I'm pretty sure everyone who looks at this also has FB.
4.5 weeks. WOWZERS.
In the past few weeks, we have:
- Held a fundraiser dinner that resembled planning a wedding reception. Lots o' work, but He came through--as always.
- Officially paid off all debt. It's been "paid" for a while. But now it's official. PTL!
- Been to 4 docs. Nothing like cramming them in before we're cut off from insurance. :)
- Went to a schmancy dinner with the Chicago Chinese consulate and his posse. Lesson learned: we need business cards. I think we collected about 10 from the night. That's what they like to do...exchange cards.
- Went to Hotlanta for 4 days. Just Josiah and myself. He did fine on the plane rides--thankful for the kiddos around us that entertained him. While there, he was cranky due to missed naps, stranger danger, 2 teeth coming in, and getting sick. Other than that, he was great. ;) It was so fun seeing dear friends.
- Worked my last shifts in the church cafe. I was sad to leave it. I truly love making coffee drinks. Maybe I can open up shop in China.
And in the next few weeks:
- Visit Branson one last time/attend a friend's wedding.
- Michaael's last day of work.
- Go to Michael's family reunion in Louisiana. It could be hot.
- A few going away parties.
- Pack, pack, pack; sell, sell, sell!!!
- Fly away, fly away, fly away.
Not gonna post any pics; they're all on facebook. I'm pretty sure everyone who looks at this also has FB.
4.5 weeks. WOWZERS.
Monday, June 7, 2010
catchin' up
Um, where did May go?
Josiah's b-day party was a blast. About 50 friends/fam showed up to a toasty, humid, windy bbq. It was fun to see everyone and celebrate Josiah's 1st year! Can't believe how fast it went. Yes, cliche, but true. Here are some of my fave pics of the day...
He ate about 3 licks of icing, then smashed the rest.
Great cake made by LauraLee!
Mr. Monkey mommy & daddy picked out. He still hugs it like this every time he sees it. So sweet.
He's an early reader.
Then we moved onto planning a fundraiser dinner. It was fun, but was definitely a lot like planning our wedding reception. Lots 'o work. But, it paid off. We were blessed beyond our imagination--again. We raised almost triple what we were asking for. All glory to Him for working out the details. And through the process, we made some amazing connections. Our speaker was a former KU basketball player and I'm pretty sure we're going to be life-long friends with him and his family. It was that deep of a connection.
Next up, 3 trips. Hotlanta with the girls (and Josh and Josiah..haha). Branson one last time. Lousiana for Michael's family reunion.
Then we're off! Starting to count weeks now.................
Thursday, May 27, 2010
si, estoy aqui.
I'm still here. But just too busy to post anything of significance. Fun b-day party for Josiah last weekend, big fundraising dinner next weekend. Lots to do.
On a fun note, we found out our placement. :) You should contact me personally if you want to know...not sure I'll post it for the world to see.
On a fun note, we found out our placement. :) You should contact me personally if you want to know...not sure I'll post it for the world to see.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
green light, go!
We just got the green light to buy our one-way tiks to Colorado! (for training, then straight to China) Whoa, talk about reality check! Only 10.5 weeks left. AND we should find out what city we're going to any day now! Ahhh! Bout time!
Fortunately, Josiah will get a practice run on an airplane when we go to Hotlanta for an ahem reunion! He can't wait to see Aunts Erin, Holly, and Miranda and cuz Renae!! But he probably can wait on the loads of kisses he's going to endure. ;)
I think I might start going through stuff in the basement and start selling. Sure don't want to wait until July to do it all! Can't wait to have the apartment-wide sale. It will feel great to get rid of all of this!
Fortunately, Josiah will get a practice run on an airplane when we go to Hotlanta for an ahem reunion! He can't wait to see Aunts Erin, Holly, and Miranda and cuz Renae!! But he probably can wait on the loads of kisses he's going to endure. ;)
I think I might start going through stuff in the basement and start selling. Sure don't want to wait until July to do it all! Can't wait to have the apartment-wide sale. It will feel great to get rid of all of this!
Friday, May 7, 2010
bi-polar blogger
Yes, it keeps changing. I'm pretty sure I like how it looks now, but don't be surprised if it keeps changing. :) I don't really like to make drastic things about myself (clothes, hair color, etc.) so why not live vicariously through my blog? haha.
Saturday, May 1, 2010
party planner
Less than 3 months til we depart. WHOA.
Less than 1 month that Josiah won't be my little baby anymore. Guess it's time to have another one! ;)
Speaking of Josiah, I'm planning a party for him. At first, Michael was highly against throwing our 1-year-old a birthday party. But then he remembered we're leaving the country and this may be one of the few birthdays he gets to celebrate with friends and fam for a while. (just so you know, I would've fought my way through it had he not agreed...with love, of course!) We're going to grill out at a park. Should be a blast. I'm also going to make him his own cake. I haven't given him many sugary foods up to this point, so why would I throw his body into overdrive by letting him eat as much sugar as he wants just because he's reaching a milestone? Not gonna have it. It'll be sweet..but made with fruit or something. I'll have to find a way to make some sort of icing, though. Maybe out of cool whip or something. Still want to see him smash it all over his face, of course!
We're also planning a benefit dinner (for ourselves..haha..ok, lots of other people are helping plan as well) for early June. Pretty excited about that one. Former KU b-ball player will speak, good food, and a silent auction. Still LOTS of planning to do, though!
Less than 1 month that Josiah won't be my little baby anymore. Guess it's time to have another one! ;)
Speaking of Josiah, I'm planning a party for him. At first, Michael was highly against throwing our 1-year-old a birthday party. But then he remembered we're leaving the country and this may be one of the few birthdays he gets to celebrate with friends and fam for a while. (just so you know, I would've fought my way through it had he not agreed...with love, of course!) We're going to grill out at a park. Should be a blast. I'm also going to make him his own cake. I haven't given him many sugary foods up to this point, so why would I throw his body into overdrive by letting him eat as much sugar as he wants just because he's reaching a milestone? Not gonna have it. It'll be sweet..but made with fruit or something. I'll have to find a way to make some sort of icing, though. Maybe out of cool whip or something. Still want to see him smash it all over his face, of course!
We're also planning a benefit dinner (for ourselves..haha..ok, lots of other people are helping plan as well) for early June. Pretty excited about that one. Former KU b-ball player will speak, good food, and a silent auction. Still LOTS of planning to do, though!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)