Expect the Unexpected

When we moved to China, I really had no idea what things would be like. Half the time, I still don't know what to expect!! :) One thing I did not expect, was that I would miss teaching. Not only do I miss the kids, but I miss having co-workers, my own classroom, and MOSTLY...a purpose in this world. So, about a month ago, I put out some feelers to see what I might want to do about this predicament. I learned that tutoring would be something easy to pick-up and I would have flexibility in setting my schedule. But, I knew that this would not satisfy my needs...I needed to get back to the classroom. So, I went out and got a job!! :) I will be teaching at Eton House, which is an International School that is about a 5 minute walk from our apartment. I am starting in July (for a summer camp), but the real school year doesn't start until the end of August. I will be teaching 1st grade which is new to me, but I am SO looking forward to all the challenges it will bring. I will have a co-teacher who speaks both Mandarin & English, but everything in the classroom will be conducted in English. I am thrilled with the prospect of meeting new people and with submersing myself in my passion. As I sit and reflect on this new opportunity, I can't help but think that a year ago I had NO CLUE that I would be where I am today. Not only in China, but also having the opportunity to teach 1st grade at an International School. I am one lucky girl! :)

This is a picture of the school.

File Hydlant?

In my husband's words..."Hmmmm.. I hope there isn't a file! I don't know how to use a File Hydlant."

Public Display of Affection

In America, affection between couples is normal and expected. You see couples everywhere holding hands, or putting their arms around each other, or even kissing (although hopefully not with TOO much enthusiasm!!). I never really gave this much thought, because it is so normal. In fact, I have known couples that can't agree on how much PDA is acceptable, based on personal preference of course. But, all-in-all people like it, and it is a way of showing that your are happy, in-love, or maybe...just in-lust! :)
Anyway, one of the first things I noticed about China was how affectionate the people of the same sex are with each other. Guys walk down the street with their arms slung around their guy friends, and girls walk down the street holding hands with their girl friends. This caught me a little off guard, because in America people would do a double take at this. Guys in America, especially, are so worried about doing ANYTHING that would downgrade their masculinity. In fact, isn't there a special "back pat" you guys do when you hug...to let other guys know that you don't swing that way? So, even though there is this same-sex affection here in China, you don't see much between couples.
Our friend, Bella, recently had her parents, from a province up North, here to visit for about a month and a half. Andre and I grew very fond of them, and would often have dinner with them (her parents make the most delicious dumplings, meat pies, and Chinese tacos by the way!!). On their last night in town, Bella told me, "My parents think you and Andre are SO CUTE!!" As we discussed this more she began to tell me that her parents think we are SO in love because Andre and I display so much affection. She says that we always touch, hug, kiss, or look at each other in "that loving way." Then she went on to say that she didn't think her parents had EVER kissed in public. Wow!! To me, that is so crazy. And so different from America.

Weirdest Food?

People are always asking me, "What is the weirdest thing you have ever eaten in China?" I have to say, I haven't eaten tons of crazy things. But, I am MUCH more adventurous than I was in the US...and I will pretty much try anything. Including...SQUID LEGS!! And not just any squid legs, either. These were squid legs that were barbecued in a "dark, dodgy alley (as described by the friend who took us to eat there)." The place was really good...although, I must admit that I had to have a little liquid courage to try it. In the end, I am so glad I did it. Now, I have an answer to the most popular question...although, I am sure it will be ever-changing!! ;)