Christmas in Guangzhou

So, here it is - my first Christmas without bows, wrapping paper, cards to mail, gifts to buy, goodies to be made. And, that was okay. But, it was also my first Christmas - EVER - without family. That was not okay. But, you know what? Next year will be great and for one year, this was really a marvelous opportunity and blessing.

I enjoyed my Christmas in China!

The kids loved it when a student from the class dressed up as Santa and passed out candy. What's not to love - everyone loves Santa and candy! I had to teach each Santa how to say, HO! HO! HO! Skinny and Chinese - not your usual Santa Claus!
Here I am surrounded by the Tuesday night class of 60 students. I taught them about Christmas caroling and we sang to some office personnel. Aren't they cute!?!?!

Waiting for our Christmas dinner of turkey, stuffing, mashed potaotes and gravy prepared by Chinese cooks.

Behold - the Turkey....it was mighty, might tasty. Just like an American turkey! Loved it.

Behold the dressing - Chinese stuffing made out of something - but definitely NOT bread. I didn't try it, but Chye said it was very spicey! The gravy for the mashed potatoes was tomato sauce.

Gotta have the room decked out in holiday decor. We used a vacant room in our apartment building for the Christmas day dinner. Many foreign teachers were invited, only a handful came. I think when they found out there would be no alcohol, it didn't sound that fun to them any more.

And, after dinner, some card games for laughter and enjoyment.

Our personal Christmas tree given to me by a student from Russia. It is about three inches tall, and the putting away after Christmas is the best part!

It was a great Christmas celebration.

I don't have pictures of our Christmas Eve, but it was a very spiritual evening with two couples from our branch, including a family that had just gone through the temple. We ate pancakes, ham, and srambled eggs. We listened to President Uchtdorf's Christmas message, sang Christmas carols, and rejoiced in just being together for a wonderful evening.

Later on, Dounald Thomas told us he had never had a Christmas Eve event with his family before and he was so grateful for that evening.

I'll be glad to be in America next year.

But, I'll always remember and be grateful for this Christmas in China.

Not Your Usual Sacrament Meeting Picture Display

It's the chapel, the recreation room, Sunday School room, and a hotel room.

This is what greeted us on Sunday morning when we walked through the doors.

I'm not used to seeing a Santa Claus in the church meeting place.

Well, as we say here - This is China!

Thou Shalt Not Judge - Part Two

"Holy cow!" I thought to myself when Rhonda walked in the room. "This is a class of adults, not tryouts for the circus!"

Her socks were wild and looked funny worn with her capris.

"Who would EVER wear those socks with those pants in public?"

Well, as it turns out, I would!

The weather turned cold, they are fuzzy and warm and only come in wild colors/patterns. I told myself that it was for comfort - not fashion. But, they looked mighty odd sticking through the holes in my Keen shoes.

Once again, I find myself saying, "You gotta quit with the judgment making thing!"

New Shoes

China red!

Mrs. Hackworth, I Have a Question to Ask for You?

All these have been asked in the last ten days:

"Why did you come to China to teach?"

"Do you like Lady Gaga?"

"Would you let your child dye his hair?"

"Do you go to church?"

"What day are your church activities?"

"Is everyone in America rich?"

"Will the government support you forever if you lose your job?"

"What do you think of Obama?"

"Is everyone in America as kind as you are?" ("NO! They are much nicer and kinder!")

"Does everyone in America have a chimney for Santa to go down?"

"Do you like our delicious Chinese food?"

"Will you go home to America during the spring festival?" (From Jan 21 - Feb 27)

"Have you traveled in China?"

"If you visit my city, can I be your guide?"

"How can I get better at speaking English?"

"Will you help me with my pronunciation?"

"Can I have your telephone number to call you during the spring festival when we are away from class?"

"Is that a new hat? It makes your face look much thinner!" (This from a boy - I will NOT take the hat off for the next six months!)

"Do you like eating in our delicious canteen?" (This is always the toughest one for me to answer...I have made up my mind to be totally honest, and I do NOT like eating in the canteen. See picture in previous post. Suggestions on how to answer, anyone?)

"Do you miss your family?" More than you can possibly imagine.

And, there you have it. a little over one week's worth of questions. Fun, eh?!?!?!

Where to Eat for Dinner

Chinese Restaurant?

or

American Restaurant?

Easy choice for me....

Most of the time I am not the person doing the choosing....

oh, my aching stomach!

Planning is the Key

MEMO FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF ENGLISH
GUANGDONG UNIVERSITY OF FOREIGN STUDIES

We want to welcome you to our campus and hope you have a productive and enjoyable year in China.

Please note: you will be teaching 3 Freshmen English classes each Monday. There are usually 18 weeks in each term, so please plan accordingly. This will allow you to cover all 16 chapters, with two extra weeks for review. Also, we do not have an exact date yet for the ending of the first semester, but as soon as that is made available, we will let you know. The start date for school has not yet been determined. Stay tuned for further notices on this matter.

Planning is the key to a productive Semester at GDUFS.

MEMO FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF ENGLISH

GUANGDONG UNIVERSITY OF FOREIGN STUDIES

NOTE: to all Freshmen English teachers. Freshmen do not start classes for four weeks, as they are all enrolled in Military training. Please plan accordingly.
Planning is the key to a productive Semester at GDUFS

Memo from the Department of English

Guangdong University of Foreign Students

Note: classes started last Monday. Hope you were able to meet with your Freshmen students at this time.

Planning is the key to a productive Semester at GDUFS

MEMO FROM THE OFFICE OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

We have just been notified that all classes usually held on Thursday and Friday will be canceled in honor of something very important. Please note: these classes are to be made up on Saturday and Sunday. Please enjoy this unscheduled holiday time.

GDUFS - Where we highly value education.

MEMO FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF ENGLISH
GUANGDONG UNIVERSITY OF FOREIGN STUDIES

As new teachers in China, you may not be aware that the upcoming holiday is the second most important holiday in China. In honor of the Mid-Autumn Festival, school will be canceled for ten days. All Thursday and Friday classes are to be made up on Saturday and Sunday. No Monday classes will be rescheduled or made up.

Planning is the key to a productive Semester at GDUFS

MEMO FROM THE OFFICE OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

Good news, we have just learned that all classes will be called off on Friday, due to the opening ceremonies of the Asian Games. NOTE: no tickets are available for students or faculty. Please enjoy your day off.

GDUFS - Where we highly value education.

MEMO FROM THE OFFICE OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
Good news! we have just learned that all Monday classes will be called off Dec 13 for the opening ceremonies of the Para-Asian Games. NOTE: The opening ceremonies will be held Sunday evening, Dec 12. No tickets are available for anyone.

GDUFS - Where we highly value education.

MEMO FROM KATHY MAI - FRESHMAN ENGLISH CO-CORDINATOR

All Monday classes should be planning to hold their finals on January 3rd. This is the the 16th week of the calendar year, and will allow two weeks for all-school testing week to begin. Thus, your classes will conclude on Monday, January 3.

EMAIL TO KATHY: Hi, Kathy, Allen's students just told him that school has been called off on Monday, January 3rd...do you know anything about this? I have scheduled my final that day as you said.

EMAIL FROM KATHY MAI - FRESHMAN ENGLISH CO-COORDINATOR

I have not heard about school being canceled on January 3rd and will check with my colleagues this afternoon.

EMAIL FROM KATHY MAI - FRESHMAN ENGLISH CO-COORDINATOR

I have checked with my colleagues and they know nothing about this.

MEMO FROM THE OFFICE OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

Good News! We have just been informed that the New Year Holiday will extend from January 1 through January 3rd. No Monday classes will be held that day. Please enjoy this extended holiday.
GDUFS - Where we highly value education.

EMAIL TO VINCENT- FRESHMEN ENGLISH CO-CORDINATOR

Vincent, I am confused. Originally we were told there would be 18 weeks in the semester. As I total all the military training, holidays, days off, etc., I am now down to 10 Mondays that class was actually held. Can that be correct?

VINCENT: FRESHMAN ENGLISH CO-CORDINATOR

Each semester has 18 weeks. Please be sure that you have planned accordingly. It has been a pleasure working with you this semester.
Planning is the key to a productive Semester at GDUFS

Thou Shalt Not Judge

"Holy cow!" I said to myself when I saw Rae's new hair cut.

It was just incredibly short, short, short.

"Who would cut their hair THAT short?"

Well, as it turns out, apparently I would. Accidentally, of course

I don't know when I have been so grateful that hair grows.

And, once again, I am reminded - bitterly - that I should never judge!

Multiple Choice Test

You have a very cold bathroom where you shower each morning. Since there is only one outlet, which of these do you plug in that single outlet for your morning ritual (provided you have remembered to turn the water heater on to heat the water one half hour before showering??)

a. small floor heater - (yes, the directions are written in Chinese, but just take a guess as to what it says and hope it's the one that puts out heat.)

b. Hair dryer, so you don't go out in the freezing cold and have your hair frozen to your head.

c. Curling Iron - essential to every woman, except the Chinese.

d. All of the above in little blocks of time. Start with a, move onto b, finish up with C.

Then dash quickly into the even frostier kitchen to grab a very quick breakfast before your tongue freezes to the spoon!

And, there, my friends is a typical morning in the life of Ling Ling.

Hearing Voices

Every morning - the chatter of old people speaking Chinese.

But, where would it be coming from and why so very early?

Our building houses mostly young teachers who are from Spain, Japan, South America, Great Britain, America, Germany, and they don't speak Chinese that well. And, the building juts up against a small mountain - there are no other buildings around. It certainly wasn't the workmen as the voices were also women's voices.

Why do I always hear these voices early each morning?!??!?!? It was a puzzle?!?!?!?

Puzzle finally solved after living here for about two months.

The Chinese that I am hearing, climb the path right behind our building each day to get water from the mountain spring or just to do their early morning exercise. They laugh, chatter, clap, speak loudly - it seems they are totally enjoying these early morning forays up the little hill.

Ah, they can teach me a thing or two about being healthy!

Me vs. "Desperate Housewives"

"I love American television shows," the cute girl said after the karaoke contest we had just judged was over. I knew what she was about to say, and then she added another, "I also love Desperate Housewives."

I looked at her and since I didn't know her and would likely never see her again, said, "Let me tell you something. That show is not what American housewives are like at all!"

"Really?????????????" she looked shocked. "You mean they don't sit around and gossip behind each other's back?"

I wanted to throw up.

"I live in a neighborhood with lots of housewives. They are of all ages. They don't sleep around. They help each other. They tend each other's children. They take food when someone is sick. They care for the pets when someone is out of town. They care for one another. They laugh together, enjoy each other. And, they are not mean to one another."

Then she asked a question I could not answer...."Well, then, what is a show that would tell us about the real America?"

She had me on that one.

The Interview

Reporter: So, you have certainly complained a great deal about the food. What do you normally eat for breakfast?

ME: Oh, breakfast is always great - no problems there unless we are on a trip. But, normally, I have a banana - washed of course! Then I have a a bowl of yoghurt with some cereal in it. Yoghurt is very BIG in China. My students bring yoghurt drinks to class all the time. But, I put my yoghurt in a bowl, then pour some American cereal on top. (We have a store where you can buy American products, but they are extremely expensive!) I have a piece of toast with peanut butter. (Finding a toaster was a HUGE challenge.) Then to finish the meal, I have some Lay's potato chips. Breakfast is good - it's American.

Reporter: What's for lunch?

ME: Sometimes a sandwich - grilled cheese or tuna, maybe soup. But, if we are eating out, it's usually something like - Slithered eels, little birds, chicken feet, steamed lettuce, fish head soup, or dog meat.

Reporter: You are kidding, right?

ME: What, me kid - about something as serious as food?

Reporter: You must reallly miss American food.

ME: Yes, I've written a letter to Santa asking if he will bring me some Taco Time bean burritos. If they don't come, then I'll know for sure there is no such thing as Santa.

Reporter: What about dinner?

ME: Sometimes Allen will make stir fry or make a big pot of delicious soup, but if he doesn't cook, the meal is too disgusting to discuss.

Reporter: Well, thank you for your time. Hope your stomach survives.

ME: That is my wish exactly!

Christmas in China

No tree, no presents, no Santas, no candy canes, no hot chocolate, no neighbors bringing cookies, no Christmas carolers, no decorations.

But, still the feeling of JOY in my heart.

Joy for:
family - friends - health - opportunities - America - birth of a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord.

So, Christmas in China is a good time to really feel what the day is all about after all.

And, that is something worth singing about!

Joy to the World - the Lord is Come!

Me Vs. "Gossip Girl"

Mrs. Hackworth, May I have a question for you to ask."

"Ask away," I said to the girls gathered round.

"Do you know Upper East Side?"

"Are American girls as gossipy as in Gossip Girls?"

"Do all American girls live in such nice dormitory?"

"Is New York City beautiful place to live?"

We moved from questions to statements:

"I want to visit New York - seems so wonderful."

"I just love 'Gossip Girls.' Is so interesting."

Me: Do you all watch Gossip Girls?

"At night, all six of us sit at desks in row here and watch "Gossip Girls.'"

I've never seen Gossip Girls. Thankfully, I have been spared that.

But, I have seen these wonderful girls and their basic, small, very old dorm rooms. I see their innocence and goodness; their natural kindness and modesty; their love of family and loyalty to country; and I wish they had never laid eyes on GOSSIP GIRLS.

I've got some serious work ahead of me to help them see that America is not like it is portrayed on GOSSIP GIRLS!

The Text Message

"Mrs. Hackworse," the text read. "Did you to find my phone in the classrooms after class? I have lose my phone. Share."

The message intrigued me.

How did she get my cell phone number?

I don't even know the number!

Hmmmm, very interesting.

But, the answer, unfortunately is NO.

The Vegetarian

"I NEVER get sick," she had said.

I looked at her as she peddled energetically down the road on her shiny red bike.

Several weeks ago, we had spent an afternoon and evening with Antje and her husband, Georg, both from Germany. She had told us she had been a vegetarian for many years.

Now, as I watched her ride on past, as I was suffering with a bladder infection - again - trying to stave off a cold, and my stomach ache returning, I thought....

"Hmm, I wonder? Should I?"

Surprises Around Each Corner

Long bus ride...lotsa time to talk...

Vincent (Chinese citizen and teacher of English): yes, my grandparents got divorced a long time ago.

Loni: Wow, I didn't know that people in China got divorced lots of years ago.

Vincent: in the reforms of 1949, they wanted to throw out anything old - old traditions, old customs, out with the old. So, anyone who had had an arranged marriage was encouraged to get divorced. My grandparents had an arranged marriage, so they got divorced.

Always learning about the land we call China.

The Hidden Message

They wear American tee shirts with slogans, sayings, logos, but most don't know what they mean or stand for.

Example, I said, "Eric, great message on your sweater."

"I don't know what means," he said.

Time for an explanation.

But, keep spreading this message; it's a good one!

Feeling Famous

"You are invited to English Corner on Wednesday night at 7:00. Please to come and be our guests."

We had heard about English corner. It's an outside-class event, giving the students an oportunity to speak English in a non-threatening environment.

Walking there in the dark on Wednesday night, I wasn't so keen on going, but we had said yes, so I had to go.

As soon as we walked in, hordes of students thronged around us...they hung on our every word...they listened intently. We had to sit at different tables, so some could listen to Allen, some could listen to me.

After the meeting, the games, and the farewells, they wanted our pictures, EVEN TEEN-AGE BOYS wanted to be in a picture with the old lady from America. As we walked out the door, they followed us. A teen-age boy, who had been so kind and helpful, invited me to come to a Thanksgiving celebration his friends were having!

It was unbelievable. I'm still in shock!

And, I'm grateful. I love their innocence, their goodness, their love/respect of older people. Whenever I am with a Chinese student going down the stairs, they say, "Be careful." The teenagers give us their seats on the busses.

This is a new experience for us!

Joy in the Morning

Wedesday...no class.

So, I walked to the little corner market for some bananas and eggs. It was just an incredibly beautiful morning.

The children were reciting aloud as I walked by the school. It thrilled my heart.

The flowers were stunning.

The children were laughing and exercising on the playground.

My heart was overflowing with gratitude and JOY!

Thank you, Heavenly Father, for this incredible opportunity!

Lance at the Circus

Lance, but obviously not in his diving costume!

"So what are you doing here in Guangzhou," I asked that first Sunday to the beautiful young couple as I introduced myself.

"I'm in the circus! I'm a diver," Lance said. "Have you ever heard of the Mayan Restaurant in Salt Lake where they do cliff diving?" he asked.

I answered in the affirmative as I had eaten there twice.

"I used to work there. I had just gotten married, was working as a diver at the restaurant, when I got a call inviting me to come join the circus here in China. It sounded like an adventure and Samantha was willing, so we've been here for a few months and will head home in December."

We had to take the opportunity to see Lance before he headed back to school in America, so we went to the Chinese circus.

Barnum and Bailey Ringling Brothers, step aside. The Chinese have definitely bumped up your circus several notches!

Doesn't Get Any Better Than THIS!

One of the great blessings that Allen and I have is that we have exactly the same schedule.

This is good because we walk to school together and talk about our lessons. Then after classes, we walk home together and talk about what happened in class.

It is also good because we can often see each other in the halls, and get acquainted with each other's students.

So, yesterday, this is what students told me after Allen's class when I happened to go into his classroom. (First of all, he always has a cluster of students around his desk...he is helping them, encouraging them, advising them, etc.)

After the 8:30 class, while I was waiting to talk to him, a very handsome young boy said to me, "We like Allen's class....he is a very good English teacher!"

But, perhaps the best compliment was after his 2:00 class while I was waiting for him so we could walk home, two girls in his class talked to me for a long time. At one point in the conversation, one of the girls was telling me what a good teacher Allen is, and she said,

"We NEVER fall asleep in his class!"

Now, that's a compliment!

The Accent

"Be sure to state your name before you begin your presentation," I reminded them.

"My name is SEX," she said.

Naturally, the entire class burst out in loud laughter. She covered her face in embarrassment and turned a bright red. Then, she tried again.

"My name is SEX." More laughter.

Realizing this could take the entire hour, I said loudly, "Okay, SIX, go ahead and begin."

And, that, my dear friends, is why I'm trying so hard to correct their accents!

(I should also perhaps help them select more appropriate English names!)

Cultural Differences

The first time I saw it happen, I was totally shocked.

The man was walking right in front of us on a busy road leading to the campus. He just unzipped his pants and relieved himself right in the open. Total disbelief.

Since that time, I have seen several little boys do the same thing. One time recently, just right outside the front door of the little market, a little boy just stood off to the side of the step and went in the bushes in front of everyone passing by.

Two days ago, a little boy's mother told him to aim for the storm drain, which he did producing a high arc for all the world to see. There have been others also.

But, I guess the one that shocked me the most was yesterday at the zoo. Ruth and I, were in fact, looking for the toilette ourselves. We saw a little ice cream stand, and thinking there might be a restroom near, we walked towards it. (Yesterday, all the children in Guangzhou got out of school for the opening ceremonies of the Asian Games, so the zoo was packed with hordes of people. That's one reason this surprised me so much.)

Right next to the ice cream stand was a little walkway, with dozens of people walking by. Squatting right on the walk facing the hordes of people, a little girl of ten was "doing her thing," while her mother helped her. NOTHING, and I do mean nothing was private...

I quickly turned away, thinking....WOW, it's just a different mentality here.

Time Out - To Brag

"Bragging about your children is not polite," she said quite often.

So, I didn't brag-even when I wanted to....it seemed impolite.

But, I'm sorry that I didn't brag. They did much to brag about.

Now, however, I'm bragging. It doesn't seem impolite; it seems important, significant, and necessary.

A picture arrived in my inbox today showing one of our children in a very significant and impressive arena, making it so that I could barely contain my JOY and bragging rights...so, I've decided to openly brag about our five remarkable and talented children:

jenni will receive her PhD as a nurse practioner in December from the University of Utah. She has spent five years working on this challenging goal, all while raising four happy, healthy, helpful, well-adjusted teen-agers. Thanks goes to her husband, Brent, for his support in all this. Just a couple more weeks and you'll be Doc Fisher!

justin decided a few years ago to strike out on his own and become a professional wedding/portrait photographer. It has had its challenges, but he is a highly successful and well-known photographer. His skill has taken him to Haiti, New York, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, and points in between. He and his lovely, supportive, helfpul wife, Amy, have two adorable young sons that say the cutest things. Way to go, Justin!

jeremy leaned across the aisle when he was in the 7th grade and said to his friend, "let's be doctors when we grow up." Not fully realizing what that entailed, I'm sure, both those young men became doctors. Jeremy is an anethesiologist with a post-doctorate specialty in pain management, and is a lietenant commander in the navy. He has served a tour of duty in Afghanistan and on the USS John Stennis. He and Leigh have three young handsome, delightful sons, two of whom speak darn good Spanish. Way to go, Doc Hackworth!

kristi graduated as a registered dietitian. While driving home from work one day after hearing a patient say he would consult with his doctor before doing her health recommendations, kristi said, "Well, I'll just be THE doctor and they'll listen to me then!" She took the M-Cat exam six weeks later, while most students spend an entire year to prepare for it. She is in her second year residency in anesthesiology at the University of Virginia. It was her picture leading rounds while lots of doctors listened attentively that prompted this blog. Hang in there, Doc Rose...you're half way through your residency.

jordan the baby at six foot three, loved animals growing up. He decided early on that he would be a marine biologist. But, somewhere along the way, he changed his mind to become a doctor like his older brother. He is an anethesiologist, and is doing a post-graduate fellowship in ICU care at the University of Virginia. He and Janna have four of the liveliest, spirited kids on the block. Way to go, Doc Hackworth!

All of these adults sing, play the guitar and or piano, and tell very funny stories and jokes. They love to hang out together and enjoy each other's company, even though we all live too far away from each other. Allen and I had nothing to do with their achievements; they have been inspired/motivated/hard-working on their own.

This is not to say that we have not had our share of sorrow, heartaches, challenges. We have.

But, through it all, we remain family and strongly committed to each other. I'm thankful to Heavenly Father for these dear dear children, spouses, and our 13 grandchildren.

Also, I'm very late in bragging about our children, but I'm trying to make up for lost time!

Canton Tower

The second largest structure in the world. We rode to the 108th floor. But the real beauty of the tower is at night when the colors/designs change. WOW, so spectacular and breathtaking. I love what this city does with LIGHT!

Tuesday Nights

Catch the bus at 5:20 p.m.

Arrive at the South Campus between 6 and 6:20 depending on the traffic. Walk the dark, deserted streets to teaching building A.

Set up teaching computer station for 6:30 class.

Look out at sea of 56 backs of 56 computer monitors....can see one tall boy in back row. See 55 tops of black hair above 56 monitors.

Stand up and begin class...sing a song, welcome students, walk around wishing I knew their names and faces.

After class, decided to try something new next week. Each week, I will move the back row up to the front, moving the front row back one row. Then I will be able to see those faces that have been a million miles away.

And, I WILL learn their names and faces. I WILL listen to each one individually some way, somehow.

Get on bus at ten, and arrive home at 10:45.

Tuesdays -a challenge.

Grade - A+

That's the grade I would give the Chinese teachers who teach English to the Chinese students. Many of the teachers have never traveled to a land where English is spoken, and they have never heard a native speaker, but they teach these students English.

The students have an amazing vocabulary - it totally impresses me when I hear the words they are familiar with. They can construct sentences, they speak out, in fact, they LOVE to talk.

Now, that is not to say the students don't have issues - they do...

Their pronunciations leave a lot to be desired. But, given the circumstances, I am very impressed indeed.

Now, our challenge, how to help them over the hurdle of ten years' worth of mispronunciation.

And, oh, what a challenge!

I Almost Didn't Go...

Bad week....
Bad stomach virus...
Bad GERD....
Bad headeache, stomache, etc.
Bad teaching...

"I can't go," I said. "But since we've paid for it, you better go without me."

BAD decision.

But I went.

GOOD choice.
(more to come.)

Follow the Red Dot

You've seen it...it comes around every year at Halloween.

You click on a series of pictures that have a red dot in the picture. The first few pictures are of cuddly babies, and you are just oohing and ahhing, then suddenly a grotesque figure pops out at you and shouts, BOO!

It is terrifying, truly.

But, how else could I explain Halloween to the students?

I wish that I had a recording and video of the reaction in each of my classes, particularly the Tuesday night class, where the screen is right close to their faces.

Oh, you should have heard them scream....maybe you did!

Tuesday Frustration

There are 55 of them. Both students and desks.

If I am at the front desk, all I can see is the black backs of 55 monitors, no faces, just 55 monitors staring back at me. If I get up and walk around, which I do often, I can look into their eyes, but there are so many, and we meet only once a week for 80 minutes. And, they all seem so far away and far removed.

How can I listen to each one individually, help them individually?

Even learning their names is posing a huge challenge, because I can never see their faces!

They are eager; I'm willing, but I'm at a loss sometimes; most of the time.

Tuesday night, I was quite ill. My hands were shaking when I put something on the board.

But, as they say, the show must go on.

I tried something new. It was so great - I think the students enjoyed it also (except for group 6 who had to meet in the freezing hallway...sorry, group 6, you'll get the warmest spot next time!)

Unlike my other 5 classrooms, this room has movable chairs - oh, it's a bugger when you can't move chairs around! Anyway, we divided into groups for their presentations. I went around to listen to as many as I could, but still, I didn't hear many of them.

I feel inadequate, as does Allen. Much is riding on this. They will be tested on their oral English skills, but I'm at a loss as how to best help them. I'll just keep praying and trying.

But, it's a challenge.

By the Numbers - after TWO Months in China

1 - anxiety breakdown; fine now
2 – very bad stomach episodes; still trying to recover
3 - colds (how do you get colds when it's 95 degrees with 95% humidity?)
60 – bad hair days
200 – students who are bright, happy, willing to learn
1,347 mosquito bites, mostly in my own bathroom
infinite - opportunities to meet wonderful people of a totally unique culture

Photo Phrenzy

For about one half hour today, I felt like a famous person. It was incredible, really.

Here's what happened; the students put on a foreign festival fair. There were booths from many different countries lining the sidewalk near the entrance to campus. Each booth had food items from the native countries, such as Spain, Mauritius, India, Russia, Brazil, and lots more. (But, one of Allen's students asked where the American booth was...we didn't see one.)

There were hundreds and hundreds of students there, tasting the food, buying the vodka and wine, just having a grand old time.

Now, here's where the famous person bit comes in....many times, as we were winding our way through the booths, which were filled with so many people, total strangers would come up and ask if they could be in a photo with us...or many of our students would ask if they could take our picture?

It was so strange....is it because we are old? gray-haired? fat? Did I have broccoli hanging from my teeth (which I often do here!)

"So this is what it feels like to be famous and walk through a crowd of people," I thought to myself. But, alas, it was over very quickly, and now we are just back to our normal selves in our homey apartment.

They say fame is fleeting, and now I know that to be true.

I'm So Angry....

at the movie and television industry in America! I'd like to throttle them all!

Here's why I'm so angry. Many of our students are sweet and gentle. Many come from the country and small cities. They have a goodness and innocence that is very tender and appealling.

But, they love American movies and television.

So, just what kind of language to you think they hear on those shows? You guessed it - foul language, and taking the Lord's name in vain! So, to some of our students that kind of language rolls of their tongues like it does in America. But, they have little idea of what they are actually saying when they use some of the four-letter words. These are not words they have learned in the Chinese culture...oh, no, these are totally American foul-mouthed words.

And, it is so disappointing to hear a handsome young man or beautiful young Chinese girl say these words.

I love America, but sometimes the values that we have spread abroad stink!

I Didn't Want to Go...

to the evening meeting of Relief Society. It's a very long ride to church, after dark, no Chye to speak Chinese to the taxi driver....

But, when Virginia, a new convert asked about going with her, I felt obligated. (Besides, the tiny little lady from Spain has a Black Belt in Karate...I didn't dare say no!)

So, five of us went from our campus: Virginia; her 17 year old daughter, Merche; Ruth; Meg, the branch president's daughter who lives on campus and goes to school here), and me. We had to take two taxis.

And, of course, once I got there, it was so fun to meet the ladies, get acquainted, talk, gab, laugh, and eat such good food - lots of variety as we have people from all over the world in our little branch.

But, during the closing prayer, when the young mother asked to "bless us so that we can all arrive home safely," it definitely has a totally different meaning to me now compared to when we lived two blocks from the church in Rexburg and that request was made.

We had the fastest taxi driver in the city...I'm sure he could win the Indy 500, hands down. My toes were literally curled up in my sandals...my knuckles were beyond white.

And, in answer to a prayer, we arrived home safe...maybe not sound, but safe!

Coincidence or Tender Mercies

"Let's be sure to leave in plenty of time," I said. "I do NOT want to miss the bus."

Ah, prophetic words, indeed.

Each Tuesday we take a one-hour bus ride to the extreme other end of town to teach one class at a place called the Mega-Campus (so named because it is GINORMOUS!)

As we neared the little market, Allen said, "Oh my goodness, I just remembered that Dr. Sun said we could catch the bus here tonight."

"Are you sure? I didn't hear him say that. How will we know which bus it is?"

"It's very identifiable," he answered.

We saw buses come and go. According to Allen, none of them was the right bus. It got later and later and later. It takes between 45 minutes to an hour to get there...it was now 5:45, and our classes started at 6:30. But, we had no money and no phone. Finally, we realized that somehow we had missed the bus.

Allen dashed the several blocks back home to get the phone and some money.

"Taxi, it will be the only way to get there at this late hour!" he said even though it was now six o'clock, and the taxi shift changes at that time, so most cab drivers are unwilling to pick up a fare at six as they are headed home. (One night we tried for 45 minutes to get a taxi at 6 pm...they just want to get home, so they won't pick up people.)

Allen tried to call Allen Sun, but got Alan Lee (a student helper) instead. The young Alan immediately met us at the front gate where he hailed a cab, explained to the driver in Chinese how to get to the south campus. There was not a chance in heaven or anyplace else that we would make it by 6:30. We tried to call Dr. Sun (English dept head), and Vincent, (the teacher coordinator), who also ride the bus each week to the south campus. No luck.

"Let's call Kathy," I said. Kathy is the other teacher coordinator, who has helped us out before. Allen explained the situation to her on the phone, she spoke to the cab driver in Chinese to make sure he knew where we were headed, as not everyone knows this locale, then said she would contact Dr. Sun, even though we had not been able to.

A few minutes later Kathy called back to tell us the incredible resolution. Allen Sun taught all of Allen's class the 2nd hour of the evening after we were finished, and Vincent taught all of my class the 2nd hour of the evening! So, they would teach the class for the first hour, which was normally our time, and we would take the 2nd time slot, which was normally their time slot.

Now, here are some amazing NOT-coincidences...Allen was trying to call Allen Sun to tell him our predicament, but he got Alan Lee instead. Alan Lee came to the front gate and helped us secure a taxi and spoke to the driver in Chinese to tell him the directions. Kathy was able to contact Dr. Sun and make arrangements to trade our time slots. There are 60 people who ride the bus each week. We know 2 of the people on the bus. And, they just happened to be the 2 people who teach the same students we teach.

It all worked out.

Coincidences....I think not! Thank you, Heavenly Father for those tender mercies.

PS - after our classes, we also just barely made the ten o'clock bus home...too close to call all the way around.

Glad we can sleep in tomorrow.

To Market, to Market...

These were some of the sights we saw as we headed to town to buy Allen an inexpensive guitar....

The most amazing one to me was the Christian bookstore...I have not seen something like it here in China before. I was the only one in the store, and asked the lady if they get many customers..."Not very many," she said, "but a few."

And, the answer to your burning question is....NO, I didn't buy any of the fancy schmancy desserts/cakes. We opted, instead, for a baked sweet potato on the corner of the university...tasted mighty good too.

Time Out to Read

The days we are not in class, we spend many hours at the computer working on our lessons.


Or typing out our class rolls. Yesterday, I typed in the 62 names of kids who signed the roll for my Tuesday evening class. When I deleted one student that I had accidentally typed in twice, the rest of the class was deleted. An hour and a half wasted, wasted, wasted!


F*R*U*S*T*A*T*I*O*N C*I*T*Y!


But, I have just read two books that left me breathless...for two different reasons.


Last week, we were on a long trip; lots of hours in the plane and in a bus, so I read:

The Bookseller of Kabul - which is a look at one family in Afghanistan. The book made me so angry, heartbroken, sad, in despair. It is the story of one man's power over his family: his sisters, his children, his wife, his brothers, his employees. And, it is the story of the plight of women in Afghanistan. It is a must-read for people trying to understand a patriarchal/power society. When I put the book down, I was speechless at the injustice, the slavery, the wearing of the burqa. And, I was so incredibly grateful to be born in America.....what a book!

Then, in between frustration city and working on lessons, I just read a very quick/easy/inspiring book - again a true story. It also left me breathless at the power of what one person can achieve. It was such an incredible story of love, service, and Christian goodness.

Same Kind of Different As Me: A Modern-Day Slave, an International Art Dealer, and the Unlikely Woman Who Brought Them Together.

WOW, what a story/book. I loved it because it is true and so very inspiring.
Okay, so now it's back to work - typing in class rolls, working on lessons, and enjoying life in the big city of Guangzhou!

But, I just want to add that I love the power of words and authors who know how to put the words together to create a compelling, rich story.

Thank you for books!

Hard Work

"You'll work harder than you've ever worked in your life!" she said at the end of the two-week workshop.

I can't say if that is true yet or not, but it definitely IS a lot of hard work. Yesterday, I was mentally and physcially exhausted.

Add frustrated to that list also.

We worked for a long time on the "TH" sound, admittedly a difficult sound to make. I talked about tongue position, the sound, blah, blah, blah. I listened as they said it over and over. We did a fun chant to work on it.

Then, after class, one of my students said, "Hello, Mrs. HackworT."

Deflation. Defeat. Derailed.

The Good, The Bad, and the Ugly....

on the Silk Road Trip.

The Good -
1. the incredible people who made the trip with us. 48 English teachers from all over western China. We laughed, we sang, we talked, but no one ever got upset or angry, even when two ladies were an hour late getting to the bus because they got lost in a huge tourist area.

2. the things we were able to do and the incredible, amazing sights we saw. I still cannot comprehend some of the places we were able to visit....such as the Mogao Grottoes. I had never heard of them, thought we were going to visit some ordinary caves and I was absolutely blown away by what the Buddhist monks had done, Centuries ago, in not only constructing the huge caves, but in the carvings inside the caves. (I thought the buildings in Europe were old, hey, they are just little kids compared to what we saw!)

The Bad -
1. the beds in the 4 and 3 star hotels. Some people actually got bruised in the night. It was like sleeping on a sheet of plywood. Seriously, it was so hard...who could sleep? Not I, that's who!
2. the Chinese breakfasts day after day. My stomach was not really prepared emotionally for steamed lettuce, steamed broccoli, steamed cucumbers, and steamed water at six in the morning.

The Ugly -
my leg...I got bit the first night in the 4 star hotel by something. For the next few days, my leg was puffy, swollen, red; and it hurt terribly to walk. I think it was a snake because there were two identical little round holes, side by side where his fangs probably bit into me...yeah, right.

But, how do you describe a once-in-a-lifetime experience like we just had?!?!?!?!

You just say, WOW, WOW, WOW.

Thursday Classes

"You all have wonderful Chinese names," I said. "Your parents picked just the right name for you, and I'm sure you are proud of that name. I hope you will always use and love your name. But for this class, we are going to have an American name.

"Does anyone not have an American name and need one? I have a list of names you can choose from."

He raised his hand, I handed him the list, which had many boys' names and their meanings.

A few minutes later, he called me over, and said, pointing to the meaning of the name, 'TOBY.' The paper explained the meaning of the name as "the Lord is good." "What that mean?" he asked in all earnestness. I was taken aback. I really was caught off guard for just a nano-second.

Yes, what does that mean to someone who has no beliefs in Christianity, or any form of religion, who does not understand the idea of a Lord God?

When I stammered out an answer, he promptly shook his head, and turned the sheet over to continue looking.

The names continue to amaze me...I wish I could give some advice, like the girl who previously had picked - RABY.

Definitely not my favorite...or how about Vanishing, or Share ("I hungry all the time...when you have food, please to share it with me." She giggled.), or Magician (Magician????really, come on now, who lets you pick these names?), Key, Chief, Captain.

Some, obviously pick quite normal names. They want to be CEOs, business executives, and have significant jobs. Does a name really make the man/woman? Does a name matter?

So, here's the deal, if you hear one day that the CEO of Apple is named Magician, remember, you heard it here first!

Sophomores - 4 plus Zero

What do you get when you put 54 highly-competitive students in a brand new program of oral business English?

You get a classroom of high achievers and one very intimidated, scared-out-of-her wits teacher. This is the Tuesday night class where we go teach at the mega campus which is one and a half hours away.

Here are some of their career goals:
to be the richest man in the world
judge
to be a boss
business woman
Ceo of a company
translator/international journalist
intrepeter or engineer
professor of economics
clinic psychologist
travel all over the world
and, perhaps the wisest of all comes from Rebecca - "just to be happy!"

As you can see, each has his own computer station with headsets. I can look at the teacher station monitor and pick which student or students I want to listen to. (Well, I could if I knew how to use it, but there is just one teeny problem; the instructions are all in Chinese and the lab director only speaks Chinese. Ah, there's that language barrier again...it creeps up all the time!)

So, my stomach aches again....how do I listen individually to 54 students and grade them on their oral ability/improvements?

This gig is a challenge; it's very hard work, very long hours, very little pay, and yet MANY of the BYU teachers who do it once come back again for a 2nd year, or more.

I'm not sure I can come back for a second week.

You Are Invited....

Shopping Carts

Scene: little corner market
Time: early morning, that's when the older ladies go to get the best selection of vegetables
Place: the check-out line
Characters: older lady, Loni, older lady (I was in between two older ladies, if you get my gist here.)
In the shopping cart: older ladies - little plastic bags of varities of vegetables, most unknown to this writer; my shopping cart - 4 bottles of lemon-flavored water, 2 bottles of fruit drink for RAH, and 1 small bag of Lay's original potato chips.

Moral of the story: that's why they (older Chinese ladies) look like they look - very slender, and that is why I look like I look - not slender, but with lots of stored fat from drinking so much water...ha! ha!

The Sigh Heard Round the World

or....
"Twilight" Spans the Globe!

"What do you like to do for fun?" was the question asked on the first day to get acquainted with each of the students.

"I like to watch movies. I especially like the movies about...." she stammered to find the English word. As she tried to think and was speaking to herself in Chinese, a girl in the classroom helped her out....

"The Twilight movies."

There was an audible sigh of recognition from the girls in the class. "Ahhhhh..."

"Ah yes," she continued. "Are so romantic. My dream is to meet Bella in person one day."

I'm still chuckling over that one. Oh, Stephenie Meyer, graduate of BYU, can you even begin to know of the impact you have had on girls world-wide?

(Actually, from your bank account, I would guess that you DO KNOW what impact you have had!)

Dear Abby - Again,

When I woke up this morning, I realized I did not want to go school...

What would I wear?

I have a stomach ache, and a headache, and my throat hurts, and I don't have anything to wear, and it's a bad hair day, and it's raining - I'll get wet.

I DO NOT WANT TO GO TO School. I'm scared really alot!

Signed, Reluctant
PS - I am the teacher

Dear Reluctant,
Your hair always looks bad and if it's raining, what does it matter anyway, no one cares what you wear, and they won't understand anything you say...what have you got to lose?

Now, get out the door and quitchurbellyachin!

Abby
PS before you teach it, you gotta learn it - it's A LOT!

Dear Abby....

Our family just moved to China.

Sometimes I get so homesick that I get a stomache, or maybe that is from eating the unfamiliar food.

What should I do?

Signed, Transplant from America

Dear Transplant,

Stop whining and stop eating.

Abby

What's For Dinner?

Snakes Frogs,
or Beetles????


These were all in bins

outside the restaurant where we ate tonight...

One young couple was busily picking out their fish while RAH took these pictures.

I love this country; something for everyone!

Putting It All In Perspective

I think I'll take a shower:
America - turn on the faucet and presto, instant hot water.
China - try to remember to turn on the hot water heater and 15 to 20 minutes later - hot water
I'm grateful to have hot water.

Time for bed, I'll brush my teeth:
America - turn on the tap and brush teeth
China - go to the kitchen, fill the tea kettle, turn on the tea kettle, wait for the water to boil, pour boiling water over toothbrush, and then brush teeth
I'm grateful to have a stove and electricity.

An apple sounds delicious:
America - turn on the tap, wipe apple off - enjoy
China - put apple in water with 2 drops of vegetable scrub, scrub thoroughly, let soak for 10 minutes, then to be absolutely sure, pour boiling water over apple, peel to make absolutely double sure - enjoy
I'm grateful to have such a rich abundance and variety of food.

It didn't work, better return it:
America - get in the car, drive 2 short miles to Best Buy and no problemo - return item
China - unable to remember how to get to MEGA electronics store about 40 minutes away by taxi. Keep item in closet and chalk it up to experience; money never to be recouped.
I'm grateful to have access to transportation.

In the evening, time to check email :
America - turn on computer - presto - super high speed, check email and respond quickly
China - Sit and wait, sit and wait, sit and wait until this appears across screen: "Unable to connect to network, try again later." (3 a.m. being the optimum time to connect because no students are on at that time )
I'm grateful to have access to the internet.

Meet new friends and marvelous people:
America - anytime and everywhere
China - anytime and everywhere
I'm grateful for this opportunity!

Mid-Autumn Festival or Festival of the Moon Cake

He remembers going to bed hungry many nights; there was not enough food for his two brothers and parents. During the Cultural Revolution, his father, a teacher, was very much looked down on.

She remembers eating leaves and shells of nuts; of being three or four and wanting a piece of candy so badly, but there was no money to buy anything like that. As a young girl, her family often could not afford to buy moon cakes for the mid-autumn festival.


Now, he is the Chairman of the English department, she is a devoted mother/wife. He has worked very hard to learn English and to be successful in his career.

They so kindly invited us over to share their moon cake festival dinner with them in their small, tidy apartment. Small, yes; large with laughter, love, and kindness, yes.

He rides bikes, she hikes the Baiyun mountain every morning, after going to the store to buy vegetables at the Xinghan market. Their lovely daughter, plays the piano expertly, and is also an incredible artist.

I will treasure forever this midafternoon spent in the home of Alan, Lily, and Frances Sun. (I wish I knew their Chinese names...it seems almost sad to be represented by a name picked out of a hat to please us Westerners.)

First, Lily showed us how to shape the moon cake. She had previously made the dough out of rice flour. The different colors came from green tea, chocolate, and lotus blossom seed. This was the first time she had actually made the moon cake, as she always buys them from the store. She did this just to show us the process...how very thoughtful and kind she was.

The dough is formed into a small cup-like shape, a small drop of jelly is put into the center, as well as an almond. That mixture is pressed into a mold, and pushed out onto the plate.


She told us that over the years, the moon cakes have become much more tasty. and they didn't used to taste as good at all. Now, with sugar, flour eggs, flavoring, they are much more pleasing to the taste.
While those were in the refrigerator, she brought out the ingredients for the dumplings. Both Lily and Allen worked quickly and knowingly, as they rolled the dough very thin, added the center filling of pork, cabbage, onion, shrimp. Lily expertly folded the tiny dumplings up and they were ready to drop in the boiling water.

The finished product was dipped in a delectable home-made garlic sauce, and then it was time to eat....

Oh, my goodness, so very very delicious!

Thank you, Allen, Lily, and Frances for a wonderful Mid-Autumn Festival! And for your generosity in inviting us to your apartment. I will long remember this afternoon!

Market Monday

Leave the apartment early, before it gets too hot; that is the goal of market Monday.

And, also, the produce selection is much better earlier in the day.

So, armed with my shopping bag and my camera, here's what I encountered as I headed to and from the little neighborhood market on an early Market Monday:

And, those are the sights I encountered on Monday Market day...oh, so fun and fascinating.

Poor froggie, he died one day too soon; pouring rain on today's Tuesday.