KATIE'S ADVENTURES IN CHINA

2011-01-28T18:27:00.002-06:00

I am hard at work at my next post. I need to go to my grandma's house to get the rest of my pictures from Japan.
Last blog coming soon!

Closure

2011-01-27T12:07:00.041-06:00

Here is my attempt to blog about 3 amazing months of my life.

I COSed on August 13. 2 days later, Amy V. (RPCV from Mali that also transferred to China) and I took a 44 train ride to Lhasa. If you look at a map, you might wonder, why didn't you go straight from Chengdu to Lhasa? And the answer is "because there isn't a direct train". We had to go up to Lanzhou and then down and over to Lhasa ("capital" of Tibet). Amy and I were in separate compartments (6 beds to 1 compartment. Thank God we had beds and didn't sit for 44 hours! Some people couldn't afford a bed or perhaps just wanted to sit. I'm glad we didn't.), but we were able to hang out all day before retiring to our separate areas.

We spent 8 glorious days going around Tibet. The highlight for me was seeing Mt. Everest. It was such a clear day. Our tour guide told us how lucky we were. Some people stay at base camp for days, hoping for a clear day.

Driving around Tibet

Amy V. and me rocking our new hats Mt. Everest (I was hesitant to put this picture up b/c it doesn't do Everest the justice it deserves)

Gorgeous Tibet
Potala Palace (Lhasa)

I went back via train (trying to save money where I can). Amy V. flew back. I befriended a lady and her granddaughter from Nepal. I stayed in Chengdu for a few nights. I went to my favorite restaurant, spent time with friends, and said my goodbyes. For real. From Chengdu, I flew to Manila. I stayed in Manila for a few days (dealing w/my visa). I went up to 100 Islands, hired a private boat, and got sunburned even though it was raining.

Here was my route during my month in The Philippines:

Manila--Alaminos--Manila--Legazpi--Donsol--Pilar--Mesbate--Cawayan--Malpsua--Cebu--Alona Beach--Tagbilaran--Cebu--Boracay--Coron--Manila

I took buses and boats up until Cebu. I flew from Cebu to Boracay and then Boracay to Coron and then back over to Manila. The Philippines is such a wonderful place! I feel so lucky to have the time to scuba dive and explore this fabulous country and meet other travelers.

Island Hopping (with a couple from Israel and a woman from France)

The Philippines
Coron
Mayon Volcano

After traveling around the Philippines, I met my parents in Beijing. We were going to meet outside in the baggage claim. In my area, there was a flight coming into Beijing. I waited and waited and waited. And then I panicked. I ended up going out once, and then realizing that they were probably back in where the baggage claim was. I talked my way back in, and no parents. I waited some more and then finally went out and there they were! It was so great seeing them! My mom was pretty jetlagged, but all I wanted was fabulous Chinese food. Beijing is way more expensive than Chengdu. Every where we ate, I felt gypped. We spent 1 week in Beijing and saw so many things! My personal favorite was the Great Wall. One word: WOW! I also found a fabulous Sichuan restaurant and liked it so much, we went back for our last meal in China to the same restaurant!

Architecture

My Dad and me
My Mom and me
Tienanmen Square
Pollution in Beijing
At the Great Wall
Mutianyu section of The Great Wall
Heart

From Beijing, we flew into Seoul. The coolest part of the Korean portion of the trip is seeing my parents and their excitement and awe about how MUCH South Korea has changed. (My parents met in the Peace Corps and it was their first time back.) I kept on imagining if in 35 years, I return to Mali and everybody has cars, electricity, Internet on their cell phones, paved roads...it would be incredible, which is exactly how my parents felt. We returned to their sites and we even saw my dad's boarding house. The South Korean government was so hospitable. Our meals were so elaborate and utterly delicious. We also partied at the ambassador's house (She is also a RPCV from S. Korea, just one group before my parents).

South Korea

Fancy toilet in S. Korea (heated seats? Don't mind if I do!)

SunsetBeautiful Korea

My dad's house in 1975...by far the oldest building still standing in his town

Woman prepping cabbage to make kimchi

My dad's town
Street meat

Parents at new health facility where my dad once volunteered

Traditional Table
RPCVs from S. Korea in the 70s

Dog outfits

Shoes off before entering the restaurant

Glorious Korean food
From Seoul, I continued on to Japan while my parents flew back to S. Carolina (They were SO CLOSE to missing their plane! I was sweating it for them, but they made it!)

I bought a rail pass in Japan. My schedule (but it really wasn't a schedule because I never knew where I was staying until the night before) for my week in Japan looked like:

Narita Airport--Kamakura--Kyoto--Nara--Hiroshima--Fukuoka

The Great Budda of Kamakura (Kamakura Daibutsu)

No cell phones on the bus or subway in Japan...America could learn a thing or two...

Recycling bins everywhere!! Oh Japan, I LOVE you!

Kinkakuji Temple located in Koyto, Japan

Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine

Kyoto, JapanKyoto

Tegai Gate

Nara, Japan Todai-ji
Deer Crossing (In Nara, there are deer EVERYWHERE!)
Nara Hiroshima is by far one of the saddest places I have ever been. The tears kept on flowing.

This is the spot where the atomic bomb hit.

View of Miyajima

Spartanburg is now marked in a little restaurant near the Mazda plant in Hiroshima.
Floating Torii Gate

After my week of site seeing on mainland Japan, I flew to Okinawa to visit my college friend, Amy J. I stayed in Okinawa for 2 weeks. We went house hunting (Amy J. just moved there a week before I arrived!), snorkeling, and just caught each other up on the last few years of our lives. She bought a car the day before I arrived, and might I say how impressed I am at her excellent driving abilities on the left hand side of the road?

Beautiful Okinawa

Amy J. and me
Restaurant (we actually didn't end up eating there, but what a cool building!)

Amy and me before a show
After my 2 weeks in Okinawa, I flew into Tokyo for 3 intense siteseeing days. I now can understand why people go to Tokyo for weeks. Tokyo was SO MUCH FUN! Tokyo is by far the cleanest city I have EVER been to. Clean, polite people, delicious food, easy transportation...what's not to love?

Here is the metro of Tokyo.

Isn't this a great sign? (Tokyo)

No smoking while walking
Park in Tokyo
Street in Tokyo

If I'm remembering correctly, this is at the end of the zoo in Tokyo

Hachiko Square in Shibuya, Tokyo
over 1 million people cross this square EVERY DAY!

Tsukiji Fish Market
Statute of Liberty replica in Odaiba
Dog in basket...YESSS!
Just another beautiful day in Tokyo

I accidently stumbled upon a funeral...I thought it was a wedding until all the mourners left and I realized it was definitely NOT a wedding. I wish I would have know b/c I kept on smiling...
I also managed to greet a Prince with a bunch of kids.

Waving Japanese flags with students to greet the Prince
Famous Prince (I forgot his name)
Harajuku

Fabulous crepe! Everybody knows about Japanese sushi, but I am here to tell you that Japanese crepes are INCREDIBLE!
I remained confused...as did alot of other foreigners...Left or Right? I thank Japan for helping me out
View from Tokyo Tower

Yay! Van Gough exhibition!
My final sunset in Tokyo

During my COS trip, I was able to travel with a friend, travel solo, with family, and visit a friend. During my month in the Philippines, I had not a plan. Before landing in the Philippines, I had trouble sleeping. I (like most people) enjoy schedules and knowing my destinations. What was I getting myself into? By throwing my itenitary out the window, I met so many wonderful people, went to the baptism of 100 babies and joined a family at their home for the celebration dinner, ate dinner with a nice Flippina, went scuba diving with people from ALL OVER (Brazil, Israel, Spain, France, Philippines, Japan, Holland...to name a few), and realized how liberating it is to go where the wind blows. (In Japan I had to make plans for the hostel where I would be staying a day in advance simply because of costs). Am I the same person I was 3 years ago? I don't think so. I hope the biggest lesson I take from being abroad is simply how the generosity of strangers and their random acts of kindness can change a life. It changed mine.

Thank you for reading and allowing me to share a part of my life.

What a month!

2010-10-01T04:54:00.002-06:00

I remain in awe that September is over and October has begun. I have spent the last month roaming around the Philippines. I went scuba diving 26 times and got my advanced certification. I saw the prettiest sunrises around, complete with blue skies, and truly enjoyed my time traveling alone and meeting other solo travelers.

It's a good thing I am seeing my parents on Sunday or it would make leaving this beautiful country quite difficult.

On to Beijing in 2 days! Bring on the Sichuan cuisine!

Few pictures from the Philippines

2010-09-20T02:46:00.007-06:00

Philippines!

2010-09-09T00:37:00.003-06:00

I can't believe it's been a month since I last posted! It's official! I'm an RPCV! :)

I went to Tibet 2 days after COSing. I went with Amy V. Amy and I were PCVs in Mali together before both going to China. In both countries, we were a day apart (40 ish hours in Mali and 28 in China.) We were compatible traveling buddies. The highlight of the trip was Mount Everest. My camera didn't do it justice. It really is one of the most magnificent places I have ever been.

After Tibet, I went back to Chengdu to fly to the Philippines! I am currently LOVING the Philippines! I'm planning on taking a refresher dive course tomorrow and then I'm going to dive with manta rays!

Summer Project in Dazhou

2010-08-03T00:09:00.018-06:00

On July 17 I, along with 8 other PCVs, took a train to Dazhou for summer project. For two weeks, I taught elementary and middle school teachers and allowed them to practice English with a native English speaker. I truly felt like a PCV.

My assistant, Mark, and me

Some notable stories:
On Sunday, I went to Walmart to buy hair gel. It was going to be a quick trip because it was raining. I walked there and befriended an old man. We walked together and then got on an old bus together. He made sure I got off at the right spot (I'm unfamiliar with the city.) I was in Walmart for about 10 minutes. I then got on another bus. Well, little did I know that the bus had to take a detour because the water in the river was rising. I missed my stop and rode the bus to the end of the line. I then got in a cab. He tried taking me the school, but the bridge was shut down because of flooding. I had NO IDEA the water would rise so fast! I ended up walking around for 2ish hours. (I discovered 1 1/2 hours later I was walking in the WRONG direction...) One of the many things I don't like about myself is I cry when there are no more emotions. I was frustrated and ended up crying. I kept on reminding myself how funny it was going to be the next day, but it still didn't cheer me up. So after I realized I was walking in the WRONG direction, I turned around. I FINALLY recognized where I was! But, the street was closed. I had no idea what to do, so I talked to the cop. He told me that he would take me to the other bridge to get to the school. I didn't know how to tell him that I just came from that bridge. Anyway, lots of people were staring, so I got in the car and we went to the other bridge. Walking around near the other bridge was an English speaking cop. So he got in the car with us. I didn't have a cell phone, map, dictionary....so I had to go to an Internet cafe to pull up numbers. Then I went to a pay phone to call PC and ask what I should do. The nice cops drove me to a fancy hotel, but I felt guilty so I went to a basic hotel. I have never felt such gratitude for 2 complete strangers in China. I don't even know their names, but their hospitality will remain with me forever.

When I told my dad the story, he asked if I took any pictures. No, I didn't take any pictures. I didn't bring my camera. I was just going to Walmart for 15 minutes. But, you can check out http://news.xinhuanet.com/english2010/photo/2010-07/19/c_13404174.htm if you want to see the 2010 flood in Dazhou.

I have never in my ENTIRE life received so many compliments on my voice in a 2 week period! The teachers LOVED my voice. I was told it was "sweet," "danity," "like a celebrity," etc.

I went to a waterpark (3 slides, 1 wave pool). Like every place in China, it was SO crowded. I was getting claustrobic in the wave pool. When the wave pool was turned on, you couldn't ride the rides because there wasn't enough water pressure. Good times for all who went.

One night I was awoken by something crawling on my face. I immediately turn on the light. It was a cockroach. I was 1/2 asleep, but I had the idea that I didn't kill it. I don't know what all happened, but I did take my shoe and smeared the cockroach b/c I didn't kill it first time. I only temporily knocked it down. In the morning, there was cockroach pieces beside my bed. Awesome.
Proof that I wasn't hallucinating

I went to a "haunted house." I can honestly say I have never seen anything quite like it before.

We went to a buffet lunch on our last day there. We got there an hour early. I had to keep reminding myself what a treat going to a buffet is. It was probably the first buffet for several people who went with us.
11 am drinks...It's 5 somewhere

Lunch...Moose is at the head b/c it was his bday

Karaoke for Mooses' bday

Allison and I rockin' out to Spice Girls

Miscellaneous Picts
Group Shot

As you can see from the board, I reminded them to turn off their cell phones. Right after I explained it, an official answered his ringing cell phone (he was on the front row) and preceded to have a conversation. Sigh. I tried.

Pictures with 2 of my students at an outdoor gathering
Pictures with teachers
Areal view of Dazhou

Emma and me on our Saturday hike
YEAH!!!
I have lots to do this week because I'm COSing on Friday! This chapter of my life is coming to a close. I have lots of goodbyes to say, dishes to eat, and things to pack.

Snapshots of My Life in China

2010-07-15T07:25:00.019-06:00

It's Thursday. I managed to get ALL my grades done in 2 days. I finished my statistical analysis today. Do I dare say I'm done? Yes. I even made that my status. And then the phone rings. It's the foreign affairs department. The president wants to meet me tomorrow afternoon. The bus ONLY leaves in the morning which means I'll have to wait for him for several hours. Sigh. And the lady at the waiban (foreign affairs office) said, "Is that alright?" No. It's NOT alright, but I don't have a choice, do I? No, you don't. Well, this all occurred when I was searching for my debit card AND my internet wasn't working. I ended up calling her back and saying, no. I can't make it unless a bus leaves in the afternoon. I need Friday to get ready to go to Dazhou for 2 weeks. I don't have time to wait on Mr. Big Fish (who only wants to see me now that I'm leaving.) I was panicky and on the verge of hysteria. So, it worked out in my favor. She informed me that he was coming to the campus walking distance from my house. I never found my bank card :( I went to the bank and got another one :) (Aside: I went to the grocery store and went to pull out my debit card. Wait a minute. It's not there. I couldn't pay for my items. I HATE doing that!) And, while I was searching for my bank card, I ended up finding money I lost in February :) I thought maybe I recycled it or something, but it turns out, it got stuck behind a drawer (which is why I could never find it!) So, my day was productive, frustrating, and eventually good. I calmed down, went to the bank, drank my victory Dr. Pepper, and watched Dexter. Yay!!

Many people inaccurately visualize China as a rural, dirty country. I'm in the city. There are 13 million people. There are KFCs, McDonalds, Hooters, lots of cars, buses, stop lights (many people see them as a suggestion), etc.

Here are some pictures of my city. (I swear, I was rolling my eyes like it was my job when PC said last year, "Now when you go to your village..." Really PC? Village?! (Another volunteer says they said site, but I'm convinced village was used.) PCVs in China aren't sent to villages. They are sent to cities.

Pork...it's what's for dinner

The new LV store

Tiffany's is just down the road from my apartment

And of course, Gucci
Pictures from my school (1 hour bus ride away from Chengdu)

The sign in front of the school

The cafeteria (I eat on the 3rd floor)

The pools

The Library

Walk way between buildings

Goodbyes, Exams, Travels

2010-07-09T01:42:00.017-06:00

On the 28th, I began saying goodbye to students. Some of them were sad, some were happy (but they didn't show it), and all of them wished me "Happy every day." Happy every day used to annoy me, but I really like it now. Not Happy Birthday or Happy Anniversary, but Happy EVERY DAY.
My writing students wrote me letters. I wanted to know if they learned anything, what they would like to see in the future, and what should I tell the next teacher. Here are a few clips of my favorites:
"I had four foreigner as teacher during two year. But I think you are the best one. Because you told me how to write a E-mail and let me knew the difference from CVs and resume. I really get something from you."
"I hope you smile more, you are beautiful when you smile. When we have mistakes, you should take more pains. In a word, you are a nice person."
"Maybe someone will feel you are so mean, but I know what you do is to protect us from making mistakes in our future work."
"But I think your class is so boring. I have been tired sometimes. You can give me something that can be interesting....I think you can let us bring our cellphone."
"I have learned something about writing more or less."
"You have tried to smile more and tried to be more attractive. Thank you."
"I hope next teacher would be serious but smile, too. The voice should be loud just as you that it's can be heard clearly."

During the last class, we reviewed and then took pictures. I took pictures with each class. It was a nice way to end the semester. I sometimes wear the same thing 4 days in a row. (Don't judge!) I tried to change outfits every day because I knew I would be taking pictures, but it didn't happen.

Monday Class 8:40

Monday Class 10:25

A few of my regulars that come to Office Hours

Monday Class 2

Wednesday Class 8:40
Wednesday Class 10:25

Thursday Class 8:40
Friday Class 8:40

Friday Class 10:25

And a few pictures from saying goodbye at the middle school

On Tuesday, I gave my first set of exams. I graded 110 exams in 2 days. Not bad. I have another 200 to give on Tuesday. I leave for summer project on the 17th which means I have 3 days to grade and submit student grades.

For my secondary project, I contacted Darien Book Aid. (http://dba.darien.org/). Living overseas has really hit home how wasteful Americans are (food, books, electronics, etc.) Instead of throwing books away (as I read in horror on http://www.goupstate.com/), DONATE THEM! DBA mailed about 20 books of all different levels. I was amazed that a few students wanted to check them out over the summer holiday. While I don't know if I can personally visit DBA in Connecticut, I will definitely remember them and hope to donate books when I can.

I've started planning my travels post PC. Tibet is official (I paid. I'm going :) I need to purchase my other tickets. Will keep you informed of my next adventure.

I'm visiting my homestay family on Monday. They got a new volunteer. I was a wee bit jealous, but I've gotten over that. I talked to her the other day for a few minutes and welcomed her to the fam! I'm actually really looking forward to meeting her!

My friend, Matilde, has a photography club at her college. Her students go out and take pictures and write about it. Check out her website (and leave encouraging messages for her students!) at http://gongdaepc.livejournal.com/.

Go Netherlands :)

Feelin' the LOVE!

2010-06-25T04:15:00.032-06:00

Today I received 15 letters! I am so blessed to have amazing friends and family! Because this weekend is going to be low key, I've decided to post the cards.

Xmas card from the fam

Card from my mom (picture of her alma mater)

Postcard from my mom and my aunts

Letter from RPCV Emily

Letter from Hannah (She even printed a picture of Krams and me and of us. How sweet!)

Letter from Debby and Ben (from my hometown church...even in China, they write me! :)

Vday card from my mommy

Birthday card from the fam

Card from Melody

Letter from Mali PCV, Lindsey

Card with the "anti-Kramer story"

Letter from my mom, just b/c she rocks remembering me

Easter card from fam

Letter from Amy J.

Letter from Jim DeMint (SC Senator), thanking me for my service
On a different note, I have 2 other things to share.
1. Last Sunday, Andrew's dad was in town. He graciously took us out to eat at a buffet. The price for one person was 17% of our MONTHLY allowance! I'm not used to resturants like these, and I went a little crazy. (I think we made his dad uncomfortable because we were going from place to place! Me: "OMG! LOOK! A chocolate fountain!" Andrew: "7 choices of pasta!" and on and on and on. I wondered aloud to Andrew how much it cost. His dad approached us and was like, what? And Andrew was like, Katie wants to know how much it costs. I was so embarrassed! He wasn't supposed to say it OUT LOUD! JEEZ! I bet his dad thinks I'm super classy (NOT). It was a lovely dinner until I overdid it. Hello, gluttony. After that meal, I didn't eat for 24 hours (no joke). So, 3 meals for the price of 1!
At the beginning of the meal...Oh fresh shrimp!
2. I received a letter from my middle school student. It cracked me up! Here it is...
(In case you can't read the sentence: "I am very sorry for your left hand")

So, while I sit in my electricity filled, running water out of the tap, home taking pictures of my cards while on the internet, there are PCVs in Mali that are making a difference. Check out http://www.mary-in-mali.blogspot.com/ for an incredible Malian adventure! I'm so proud to know this incredible woman!

Beautiful China

2010-06-16T05:54:00.022-06:00

Today (June 16th) is Dragon Boat Festival Day. Unbeknownst to me, China says that South Korea stole this holiday. Maybe it's because I'm an American, and we tend to make things our own, but I just don't see what the big deal is. Regardless, we got 3 days off :) But, not really because we had to make up the days last weekend.

Anyway, thanks to this, um controversial of who's holiday is the Dragon Boat Festival first, China made this holiday "official" a few years back.

Andrew got this great idea that we should do something this holiday. He suggested Jiuzaigou. So, that is what we did for our holiday. (We WERE going to row a boat on Saturday, but we had to back out because, that's right. We had school.)

Jiuzaigou is the prettiest place I have ever seen in China.

The view from the bus

The water in the town....and we didn't even know it gets even BETTER!

Eating yak meat

Inside the park

Blue skies!!! They DO exist in China!

Trees!

Look at that water!

Andrew and I were going to walk all the way back to the beginning of the park. Little did we know exactly how far the bus took us. But, we did walk for several hours before flagging down a bus. During our hike, we saw a yak! It was just hanging out by the side of the road. I kept on visualizing it coming after us, and was trying to think of escape tactics. Luckily, it never came.

We decided to get on a path that was closed. I liked to think that we were taking the road less traveled. For a while, I thought it was so stupid that it was closed. And then we hit a part of the path that must have been hit by the earthquake in 2008. There were boulder type rocks that smashed our path. We had to balance, but managed to get through it.

It was such a fabulous minivacation!

Now, it's back to the real world. We have a week and 1/2 left of teaching and then we have exams.

I've been so busy these past few weekends! I'm really looking forward to doing nothing this weekend.

Wedding Season

2010-06-08T18:24:00.015-06:00

What a busy few weeks it’s been! Let me start where I left off.
May 29th
I went to the country with some Chinese friends that love to practice English. I remain in awe at their motivation to learn a language that they don’t use a lot (except one guy and he’s an English teacher). We ate at a “country cookin’” restaurant. The food was pretty good. We then drank tea and walked around. I loved walking around this small town (20,000 people…and let me tell you that is TINY in China). There was one roundabout and no stop lights. We stopped at one school. Right beside the school was a rice paddy field.
Peaceful, little town

The rice paddies by a school

That afternoon, we ate a watermelon. It was a great day with great people.

May 30th
Summer is nearing us. This also means the mosquitoes are too. In my “dining room”, there is a gaping space between the screen and the window. I may have to take a picture to make my point clear. The space is large enough for mosquitoes, flies, and dare I say it? Rats. It was open for a bit, and the mosquitoes just made themselves at home. They especially like my ankles (#@$ ankle biters). The mosquito that spent the night on my ankles was so full. She decided to rest beside my bed.
Mistake

Anyway after she died I got ready for my first Chinese wedding! I changed clothes so many times! I had no idea what to wear. I had to take a bus to meet my friend, Mandy, who I was going with. I was so glad Mandy invited me! She was so patient and answered all of my questions (she also included some secretive commentary during the wedding…) When we first got to the hotel, I took some pictures of the cars. A few cars were decorated. We entered the hotel, I was like, Oh there she is! Wrong. There were 2 weddings going on AT THE SAME TIME. I kept on thinking, wow this would not fly in America. Mandy steered me to her friend. She was absolutely beautiful! She wore a white gown. Her maid of honor (in Chinese weddings, there is only a maid/matron of honor and a best man…that consists of the wedding party). She greeted us, and her maid of honor gave us glitter coin key chains that had candy in them. (The best man was giving out cigarettes to the men. I think the ladies lucked out with the candy.)

We then took pictures with the bride and groom.
Mandy, the happy couple, me
At the table where another friend collected red envelopes (people bring red envelopes with money as presents instead of wrapped kitchen ware). The bride and groom had a book (note: NOT a wedding album) of pictures. It was one of my favorite things about the wedding

We then went upstairs and had hot water, peanuts, sunflower seeds, and, that’s right…candy. We waited until somebody told us it was time to go outside for the ceremony.
Our table

The bride decided to do a ½ western and ½ traditional wedding. So, we went outside. Mandy managed to snag us some seats (thank God…my feet aren’t used to wearing heels anymore!) It surprised me to see children sitting in the front row.

The balloons also threw me off a little bit. The music was pumping; people were talking. There weren’t enough seats for everybody, so I felt really lucky to get a seat.

Mandy looking for chairs

Another thing that surprised me is seeing people smoking during the ceremony. I think it’s safe to say MOST Chinese aren’t religious. I’ve never been to a non religious wedding before. For me, the main difference was the lack of a priest/preacher and instead, there was like a game show host person.

The couple with the game show host (sorry…I don’t know what I’m supposed to call him)

They also exchanged rings. They also drank from each other cups. And, they cut the cake.
The Cake

But, the game show host also had games for the audience. One game consisted of the bride throwing the bouquet. Another game was the bride and groom threw paper airplanes and whoever got an airplane got a prize from the new couple. We also untied the balloons from the back of our chairs and all released them in the sky (I didn’t pick up on any symbolism, but lots of things go over my head).

I think another notable difference is the use of a bubble maker and fire.

When the ceremony was over, we were instructed to bring in our chairs. (Again, I picture people in America throwing a fit.)

We then had a banquet. I think there were about 15 dishes on the table. A few things on the table were: duck, chicken, frog, pork, beef, fish, shrimp, and crab, along with an assortment of vegetables. There was an unbelievable amount of food. I thoroughly enjoyed myself at my first Chinese wedding.

Another difference is at the banquet; the couple has to go to each table and cheers their guests before they are able to eat. The groom “must” drink liquor, whereas the bride can choose either juice or liquor. The bride changed to a traditional red dress. And, there was no dancing. After eating, some people played mah jong; others left. What a great wedding!
The couple toasting at our table

June 5th
Sometime last week, my Chinese host sister (who is now at LSWho), invited me to her cousins wedding. I readily accepted. So, on June 5th I went to my homestay family. I have a bad track record of making it on time there (it’s an hour ½ on a good day…but a lot of times, I have gone on bad days which means 2 hours…did I mention it’s about 23 K away?) They told me 10:30 am. I knew it was imperative that we make it on time. I arrive at 10 am. But, clever them, they told me an hour early, just in case I ran into traffic.
Chinese Family (minus Wen)

The hotel for that wedding was so close (3 minute walk). We walk in and the bride is getting her hair curled. Her dress was pretty, but not gorgeous. (The other two were much prettier.) We march upstairs for the candy, peanuts, and sunflower seeds.

(I really wanted to get a picture with the bride and my Chinese mom and dad, but they wouldn’t have it. I didn’t see lots of people take pictures.) We then went the restaurant to get good sits for the ceremony (at this wedding, we sat at a table with our food…but no chopsticks and could watch the ceremony in close proximity to the food).

We got great seats. The ceremony began and so did the firework type things. The American in me kept on thinking what a fire hazard, fireworks INSIDE! But my Chinese self (aka Kang Nan) thought how beautiful! The bride and her dad walked in. The groom came in from the front and then sang a song all the way down the runway.
The happy couple

He knelt again, and then took the brides’ hand. The ceremony was nice. Near the end, chopsticks were given out. So, when the bride and groom bowed to their parents 3 times to show respect, most people were checked out of the wedding and checked into the food.

In our wedding trinkets, we got lottery tickets. I told my Chinese dad I would give him half if I won. This made him a happy man.

The couple making toasts

After lunch, we went upstairs to play mah jong.

I played a few rounds, but I was really tired. I had a long week and stayed up late trying to find my memory card for my camera. So, I told them I need to rest. No questions asked. I lay down on the couch in the mah jong room. Within 5 minutes, a lady who works at the hotel placed a towel on me. 2 ½ hours later, I was refreshed. I went to Mai’s house. We had dinner and watched a terrible movie (Don’t watch Dear John. Save your time and money.)

On Sunday, I spent my day writing exams. I am glad to report that all my exams are done.

We get next Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday off. But in true Chinese fashion, we have to “make up” those days. Um, what’s the point of a holiday if you have to make up the days? Something I don’t think I’ll ever understand. So, you’ll find me teaching this Saturday. I also have to give my cultural lecture Saturday night. Awesome.
I am jealous of the volunteers that are already done with school. I found out yesterday that our last teaching day is July 2 and the next week is exams. Oh boy.

My rant for the week:
I talked to the medical office in May and told them I was about out of my medicine. They said they have to order it, and it will arrive in June. It’s June. No medicine. I guess I don’t understand why they don’t have a basic medicine in stock. It seems like every transfer I talked to never had this problem (as I didn’t in Mali either).

“The source of anxiety lies in the future. If you can keep the future out of mind, you can forget your worries.” Milan Kundera

2010-05-13T16:25:00.004-06:00

Qin, me, Jeesun; 3 Judges with official badges

Last weekend, I was a judge at an English competition. There were 6 judges. We would take turns asking questions. Each competitor would get one question. My first question…MEH. I realized that she couldn’t understand me and then I made it into mumbo jumbo. I just couldn’t articulate my question. Another time, the speech was so short, I went completely blank. Jeesun saved me and asked a question. Afterwards, she told me she wished she could have taken a picture of my face. I believe it was of pure panic. Near the end, we were all checked out. Most popular topics include “I love China, my motherland” for high school students and “Protect the Environment” for the elementary school students. The elementary students were adorable! They did hand motions (which, btw, I LOVE!).

Hard at work

On Monday, I was going to go out to eat with my counterpart. Unfortunately, she wasn’t feeling well. I decided just to eat pineapple and a croissant for dinner. I went off campus for the pineapple. (They cut pieces of pineapple and put it on a stick. It’s truly fabulous.) I got 2 pieces of pineapple (it’s fruit!!), and was holding a stick of pineapple in each hand. I saw several students, and one student said “Ms. Katie, [disapproving look] you eat too much!” I said thank you. I couldn’t say what I wanted to say. Mali was a good warm up for self acceptance.

Reason #325 I’m glad I decided to extend in China: I showed ET to my freshman students. It was a HIT! How could you not like ET? (Minus the one guy in my class today…but he didn’t even go to the lecture…he just HEARD that ET was ugly so he doesn’t like ET).

I’m going to visit Emma this weekend! I’ve been real slack in China visiting other PCVs.

I’ve been feeling quite sad and overwhelmed (how long has it been since I’ve seen sunshine?!), but it’s getting better. I have a new post PC plan. Yes, they change every week, but I really like this one so maybe this plan will last longer (especially if I start to buy airplane tickets!).

New Post PC Plan:
August: visit Tibet, go down south to visit Becca
September: fly to Malaysia, spend a week in Malaysia and then off to the Philippines
October: visit Beijing and South Korea w/the ‘rents
October 17: visit Amy J. in Japan
MidNovember: South Carolina, begin job hunting

Reflections

2010-05-05T06:51:00.033-06:00

Last week, I attended my second COS (close of service) conference. In Mali it was a big deal. We stayed at a hotel with air conditioning, hot water, and cheese! In China, most volunteers get those luxuries whenever we want. It wasn’t nearly as exciting. I also don’t feel as connected to this group of volunteers. I think one reason is we never see each other. All (or nearly all) volunteers have internet in our homes so maybe we get more support from family and friends back in the states, and we don’t need each other as much here. Or maybe we had more regional spirit in Mali. Whatever the reasons, I met a lot of people at the COS conference for the first time (who knew that there are 3 volunteers 15 minutes away?). I thought the volunteers that organized it did a fabulous job. We had “yearbooks” for people to sign. At first I thought, lame, but after seeing so many people sign I joined in. When I got my book back at the end, I saw that 2 people signed (and one of my bosses, but that really doesn’t count).

Mai and me (West Africa Transfers, what what!)

Becca and me (at the same training site)

I’ve been doing a lot of thinking about my past few years in PC and post PC. I am so grateful that I was given the opportunity to serve in 2 countries. Transfers before told me you can’t compare the 2 countries, but I don’t think it’s possible NOT to. Your first country was your life for the past 2 years. You developed friendships, new ideas, and understanding of a different culture. I think it’s important to realize that even though you are still a PCV, you will probably have2 ENTIRELY different experiences.
Amy and me (Transfers from Mali, eh allah!)

On Friday night, I went to see my friend Julia. (Her Chinese name is Juan, so I tried to use a lot of the same letters to create her English name). As I was shutting my door, I thought, where are you keys? AND, they were inside. I didn’t want to miss my flight, so I just left and decided that I would just have to deal with it when returning. 3 buses that I needed passed me because they were filled to the max. I really didn’t want to miss my flight, so I ended up taking a cab. I’m really cheap, so I began my vacation in Chengdu, beginning with the cab ride. In typical fashion, my flight was delayed.
I got a kick out of this sign in the Chengdu Airport bathroom

I got in at 1:00 am, and was delighted to see Julia waiting on me. I kept on thinking about worst case scenarios, i.e. what if Julia forgets? What if… We went to her apartment and slept until 10:30. We had a fabulous lunch! I had beef, mushrooms, bell peppers with noodles. YUM. That afternoon, we walked around a park. Because it was a national holiday, there were so many people.
Line to the bathroom

Julia and me at the park

Kid

Another sign I thought was funny

After walking around in the park, we went to the beach. Let me tell you, sunshine rocks my world! Qingdao was FULL of sunshine! I have to carry the memory of sunshine with me. The beach was so crowded.

People were digging for little crabs for pets? Dinner? I’d imagine pets.

We had rice noodles for dinner.
The next day, we were going to go to Laoshan Mountain, but we got started too late. Instead we went to the 2008 Olympic Site for Sailing.

There was a precious little girl with her daddy!

Well, I decided to ask if I could get my picture taken with her (I’ve been asked this more than once…might as well return the favor). She put up her little hand in a W sign, saw me, and ran away. It reminded me of Mali, except she didn’t scream bloody murder. So, her mom got in the picture with us.

Julia and I sat for hours, just talking and eating snacks.
Julia eating seaweed

Relaxing in the sunshine

Julia and me posing with the mascot for the Shanghai’s Expo, Haibao

Imagine my excitement when I saw the Haagen Dazs sign!!

And, my disappointment when I went to buy ice cream…

We then went to another park. The grass was so green! Kite flying was quite popular. These 2 girls came up to me to say hello. It was really cute.

A boy with his kite

We then went to a market. It reminded me a bit of the market in Accra. Julia was trying to pay her internet to no avail. She went to 4 different places. She kept on getting the run around. I was somewhat relieved that it just isn’t a foreigner thing. We had another fabulous dinner including eggplant, squid, and tofu.
Yes, there is Walmart and Pizza Hut in Qingdao

Lala

Puppies!

Chicks!

The next day, we went to Laoshan Mountain. We left early, which was good because it took us about 2 hours to get there (via public transportation). I remembered my lesson from visiting Yosemite. I didn’t bring enough water in ’07 and learned my lesson. So, I brought a big bottle of water. It was so beautiful! The higher you went the quieter and more peaceful it was. We hung out with a family (the daughter thought I was cool…what can I say ;) We hiked to a cave. We were 95% there, but didn’t know it at the time, and the family had to go back. We only saw a few other people. I saw a few people with their shoes off. I saw their shoes and wanted to say, really? You thought THAT was a good idea? But, I can’t say that in Chinese. It’s probably better that way.

What some Chinese women wear for hiking

Julia cooked a delicious meal before I left. She prepared shrimp, tofu, eggplant, pumpkin, shells, and pork with vegetables. It was wonderful!

My mini-vacation was great! It was awesome hanging out with Julia in China! Yea for sunshine, friendships, and days off work!
View of Chengdu from the airplane…it’s under all the pollution

Busy as a Bee

2010-04-25T07:10:00.005-06:00

Last week was really busy…or at least busy for me.

On Wednesday, Emma came over! I haven’t seen her in months! It was so much fun to catch up! We went to Peter’s Tex Mex Grill with Jason (RPCV from Cambodia). I got a chicken burger. Sometimes all you need is a little Western food.

On Thursday, Andrew (aka Moose) and I went to a recording studio. My voice has been noted as “so clear and loudly that a black crow can hear it,” and now students at Sichuan College of Education will hear me even when I’m gone! I didn’t do such a good job when they took the sound out of the word…so after 5 minutes of trying to make a certain sound, the dean made Andrew do it. While my chair wasn’t that comfortable, I thought, man this would be a fun job. I wish I could make several different voices with my voice so I could be the voice of a cartoon. Sigh. Oh, well. The dean took us out for a lovely dinner!

On Friday night, I went to the English corner at Sichuan University. I’m not going to lie. I was pretty popular. Kids wanted to talk to me, as well as adults, students, etc. I talked and asked questions for a solid 2 hours. I then went to a coworkers’ apartment. It was fun hanging out with someone different from work.
On Saturday, I went to the San Xi Dui Museum in Guang Han. I was a VIP for the day. I’m not used to being a VIP…One thing that is very Chinese that has been very difficult for me is during these banquet style dinners, the host orders way too much food to impress? Or show the guest that they respect them? Anyway, 11 dishes were ordered for 5 people. We left enough food that could have been 4 meals for me. Sigh. We then drank tea at a 5 star hotel. We saw a “big fish” there (along with his bodyguard.) A few hours later, we ate dinner because I had to catch the 7 pm bus back to Chengdu. After arguing for about 5 minutes, I finally agreed that someone could take me home via private car. I had a great day, but am still wondering if this was a guanxi (connections) thing or maybe they were just being really nice? The other American was just as puzzled as I was. Regardless, I had a fabulous time.

I’m going to visit my Chinese friend from Mali on Friday! I’m so excited! But before then, I have to put in more time at the recording studio, go to COS (close of service) conference, and teach.

Roller skating, close calls, and miscommunication

2010-04-18T07:11:00.000-06:00

These past few weeks have been rather uneventful. It’s been gray (surprise) and rainy. But, I do have a few stories to share.

On 04/10, a group of us went roller skating. Back in the day (Woodland Heights days), I used to enjoy the monthly roller skating nights. That was probably the last time I went roller skating (we’re talking like 15 years). Roller skating is NOT like riding a bike. Getting back on a bike in Mali was MUCH EASIER than roller skating. But, it could have to do with the swarms of people (Friday night is popular for roller skating), people skating in any direction they please, or people skating backwards…or the fact that I forgot how to do it! I’ve been called “spastic” while roller skating (thanks Moose). I admit I do tend to make jerky arm movements. Well, I was pretty proud of myself because I was able to go around the ring a few times. It doesn’t matter that people were passing me skating backwards…smoking. Well, some jerk “jumps” (according to Moose) on me, and I hit the ground in .22 seconds. And, it wasn’t like I just fell down on my rear end. I fell down on my BACK. Anyway, the guy did say “sorry”. I was too shocked to say anything. Moose did help me up, and it was funny except my shoulder blades were killing me. Maybe next time I’ll go on a Monday night….

Yesterday Moose and I met an RPCV and a college kid who studying abroad. While we were crossing the street (there was a green person so I had the right away), I saw a bike and a moto approaching. I tend to think everybody should stop for me, but I learned yesterday that not everybody thinks like I do. The bike did stop…but the motorcycle didn’t…the motorcycle did make contact with the bike and me, but it really could have been bad. Everybody was fine, and I imagine I was dinner table conversation last night.

Today I went to my homestay parents’ house. I called yesterday morning to make sure it was okay. “Welcome welcome!” Yesterday night, I thought I was calling Jason (RPCV) but I accidently called my host dad. I said, “Excuse me. I think call friend. Tomorrow. Good or not good?” What I MEANT to say, “Sorry dad. I didn’t mean to call you. I was trying to call my friend. See you tomorrow!” My host father interpreted “friend” as I am bringing a friend there tomorrow for lunch. And I can totally see that now. So, I show up at 12, and they excitedly ask, “Where’s your friend?” Huh? I walk into the kitchen and she has dish after dish after dish prepared. Ehhhh…what to do? I call my friend Mai and briefly explained that I messed up and need her to come over and eat. She told me she already ate, but I was like, just come over and pretend to eat. She agrees. So, she and her friend come over. There were 7 dishes. I was relieved that they came and ate.

This week, the freshmen have to go to military training so I have 3 fewer classes the next 2 weeks! The kids get to bring a small little sack with them. I think they get 1 shower for the 2 weeks they are there (not sure). They aren’t allowed to use cell phones. Most of them are absolutely dreading it.

May 1-3 is Labor’s Days. My students told me happily, we get 3 days off. I looked at a calendar and the 1st and 2nd are on the weekend. Those aren’t days off. Those are free days. Moose and I want to go to the beach, but the school still doesn’t know what days we get off. It’s like in 2 weeks and nobody knows. And the only people it bothers is the foreigners. Oh China.

Let the Cookouts begin!

2010-04-06T05:37:00.003-06:00

We had our first (of hopefully many) cookouts last Saturday. It was gray, but it didn’t rain.

Typical Chengdu

Our grill

Mai and me

Food

Easter was on Sunday. I drank tea with some acquaintances. It was a very pleasant day.

So happy that I saved this for Easter!

Right now, I am trying to read Ivanhoe. It is SO BORING. I’m trying to read more classics…let’s hope I can make it through this one.

Today I attempted making fajitas. In Mali, several volunteers were excellent cooks, in addition to being excellent persons. My dough for the tortillas was SO STICKY. Oh well. I think I would have fewer problems if I had measuring cups.

The dough even stuck to my cup (used as a rolling pin)

Sigh…

April

2010-04-02T06:30:00.003-06:00

It’s April. I still have my long johns on. Does anyone else think this is ludicrous?! God should send some of that heat from Mali over here!
On the way to my homestay fam…this is a very common form of advertisement in Chengdu…or perhaps humiliation?

Last weekend, I visited my homestay family.

Dan Dan

That Saturday (27th) was absolutely gorgeous! I thought we were going to a flower festival. We didn’t and instead played badminton. That Sunday, I was very clear that I needed to get on the road around 3. On Sundays, I need time to chilax and plan my week. If I get home too late, I still have to chilax and plan but end up going to bed late and am then grouchy Monday. I wanted to leave early, but I didn’t realize that a group of us were going. So, we waited, and eventually got picked up.

Instead of going to the flower festival, we went to the countryside. It would have been better if a) most of the flowers weren’t dead or b) it wasn’t gray and cold.

While we were walking around, a family friend is currently living in Singapore, so her English was strong. Her mom pointed out that not all the “flowers” were real!! I was shocked. I looked closer, and sure enough, FAKE flowers were tied to the trees!! So, now I don’t know if everything I saw was fake that day or just some of it.
Real or fake? FAKE

They ended up playing mah jong or poker while I read.

We ended up leaving at 4. My parents INSISTED that I stayed for dinner, but I didn’t. The tried and tried to convince me, but I need “me” time (geez, I sound so selfish) and preparation time. And, to my great surprise, I got on the bus with the maniac driver, so I ended up getting home in less than an hour (it also helped there wasn’t a lot of traffic) when it normally takes me 1 ½ hours.
School is school. This semester is going much better than 1st semester. The break helped and I don’t teach writing anymore! I have business writing, but I feel like I have a purpose and structure.
This weekend, there is the Tomb Sweeping Festival. I’m hoping to get a glimpse of this. What does that mean for me? 4 day weekend! What what!
In the month of March, I wrote down everything I spent. My grand total? 74 USD. Maybe I should become a financial consultant?
I’m starting to think about life post PC. Gulp.

How the Chinese carry water

Mama he wo (Mama and me)

Random Stories

2010-03-24T13:08:00.007-06:00

A few weeks ago, I mailed some letters to friends and family. I have lots of red pens (hey, I’m a teacher!) so I wrote their letters in red and addressed them in red. That was a NO GO at the post office. The lady at the post office made me REDO the addresses because it was in red pen. I thought red was lucky, but I now know that red ink is unlucky.

Last week, I was walking to the bus, eating an apple. Student: “Ms. Katie, are you trying to lose weight?” I sheepishly replied, that indeed, I was try to tone up. She then said, “Ms. Katie, I think you look beautiful fkdajkfjdakl.” Excuse me? “You know, rejkla;jkfda;.” I’m sorry? “You know, P-L-U-M-P.” OHHH. “Plump.” “Yeah, I think you look beautiful plump.” My response? “You’re too kind!”

On Friday night, I went over to Jeesun’s. We ate duck pot and watched Sherlock Holmes. I now want to reread those books!
Last Saturday night, I went to the Bookworm in Chengdu to see Steve Connell. He is a poet/actor. I had no idea I was so into poetry! I enjoyed myself thoroughly. And, I’m acquiring a taste for red wine. So, if you have the chance to check out Steve, do it. He won’t disappoint. My favorite was his first poem about music. FABULOUS!!!

On Sunday, the school took Andrew and me out to an ancient town. We walked around, ate, played cards, drank flower tea, and ate some more. It was such a pleasant day! The only downside what coming home at 8 pm to finish lesson planning! I planned on working on Saturday, but the power was out.

Ancient town

Yellow flowers that are used to make oil

Two days ago, I had to give another Monday night lecture to all of the freshmen majoring in English. The students have gotten more comfortable with each other, and won’t be quiet. GRRR. Anyway, I did another music lecture. I am pleased to announce that 200 Chinese students now know who Bob Marley is!! Mission Accomplished!!

I was on the bus at night and noticed so many bright lights on the turnpike. A colleague exclaimed, “How beautiful!” I was thinking to myself, how wasteful. And I just keep on changing…

Posing...the victory sign comes oh so naturally now!

Cute little girl

Drinking flower tea

Ut ohhhh

School and then some

2010-03-16T04:51:00.007-06:00

My proxy (which has allowed me to go over the Great Firewall of China) has a problem. :( I’ve outsourced my problem to my uncle, so I hope in no time, I’ll be able to update on my computer again.
School began on March 1st. I have a long day on Monday, but I get Tuesdays off:). All in all, my schedule looks okay. I’m trying to prepare better and earlier for my classes this semester.
I think it will be better for my sanity and my students.
Last Wednesday, some PCVs in the Greater Chengdu area were invited to go to the Panda Base for a WWF special program. Andrew and I went, along with a member of the PC staff. We saw some panda cubs which were just too cute! I swear, I took over 100 pictures of the same stinkin’ bear! We also had a fabulous banquet style dinner.
My favorite had to be the mushroom fried pork. We then went to the WWF program. Earth Hour is
on March 27th, so we were taping for it. It really is a cool program. In 2007, Sydney came together and as a city, decided that for an hour, everybody would turn off their lights.
Earth Hour has continually grown since it was started. I challenge everybody to participate in Earth Hour 2010. Check out http://www.earthhour.org/ for more information.
After the speeches, we were each given a lantern to light. It was really cool. And because I’m a laowai, I was interviewed. I don’t do so well on the spot…Reporter: ”What are your wishes?” Me: “Best wishes for everybody!!” I have a feeling, I may make the nightly news in Chengdu on March 27th.

throughout my life, I’ve seen a family member (no names) speak before thinking. I would always shake my head, like omg, you can’t SAY that! Well, I am that person now….I’m going to have
to make a conscience effort to think before speaking.
I went to my homestay family to have lunch today. We had rabbit pot. Rabbit, yum yum!

The Closing of a Chapter

2010-02-28T07:08:00.008-06:00

I am thankful that we had a beautiful black lab for almost 14 years.
I am thankful that she was the greatest friend any one could ask for.
I am thankful that she gave us many laughs, a fur coat to cry into, and memories to last a lifetime.

My Birthday & Lantern Festival

2010-02-28T02:38:00.022-06:00

Picture taken from my window...I spy 3 pairs of lucky red undies...hope my neighbors don't mind ;)
I celebrated my birthday in China last weekend. It was quite a memorable day. The 1st half of my day makes for a good story, so when I'm back in the States, if you want to take me out for an adult beverage, Dr. Pepper, or hot chocolate, I'll be glad to share. The 2nd half of my day was fun. I went out to eat with Mai, Andrew, Emma, and Jeesun. I got a chicken sandwich and potato salad. Both were okay, not terrific. We went back to my house to eat chocolate pudding pie and banana pudding. The banana pudding was fabulous. The chocolate pie tasted like...soap. No joke. I thought it was the pudding, but it turns out it was the pie crust. I bought a few pie crusts at an expat store (they were on sale!), but I managed to take 2 of them back for a refund. I thought she wasn't going to give me a refund (they were cracked but I bought them like that), but the other woman at the store was very wise in giving this lǎowài (foreigner) her money back for soap tasting pie crusts. That evening, we went to the bar for dancing. Unfortunately, the bar was dead and I was FULL (drank a Dr. Pepper after dinner). So, we hung out and talked.
***************************************************************
I'm really irritated about some things, but a wise rabbit once said "If you can't say something nice...don't say nothing at all."
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02/27: The Lantern Festival was a lot of fun. The first park we went to was the same park my host family took me to visit. Unfortunately, we just missed the tiger show :( We were going to wait until 7 pm, but we needed to head on over to the other park. The highlight this time was splurging and getting DQ.
I know...how pathetic...but I still got really excited seeing real life tigers.

The other park had so many lights and displays! There were also some rides. We rode on bumper cars. In China, we weren't required to wear seatbelts and drinking while driving the bumpers cars was no problem. There was also a baby in the front seat, which also wasn't a problem. I didn't realize until after the bumper cars that there was also go carts!!! I LOVE go carts! However, after splurging the whole month of February (hey, it's my birth month!), I decided I probably shouldn't.
One of the many gates
Red Lanterns
Me, Tiffany, and Jee
So, I couldn't figure out why everyone was wearing...devil horns?! Tiffany has been in China for 3 years, and her explanation was, it's like in America when we wear glow sticks...it's the equivalent of glow sticks.Right after our 3 minutes of bumper carsOne of the many vendorsThat's right folks...we saw the moon!! Oh, the things I took for granted before coming!Tower (I forgot the name of it)
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Classes begin tomorrow. I have so many more pictures, but I need to start getting ready for school.

Happy Spring Festival!

2010-02-20T07:01:00.003-06:00

Backing up for just a minute:
One of my favorite parts about traveling is meeting different people. I am still in awe of people that speak multiple languages FLUENTLY. One guy in particular sticks out in my mind. He has been living in Beijing for the past 10 months...and I would classify his language level as advanced. It was absolutely incredible listening to him flip from language to language...effortlessly!! I still merge French and Chinese. He speaks 5 languages fluently...and once again, I felt like the stupid American.

Happy Spring Festival!
Playing mah jong

On the 13th, I went to my homestay family. I spent the day playing mah jong. I ended up w/7 rmb! Around 5:30, we went out for dinner.
Decorations at a swanky hotel (also where we ate dinner)

Wen's grandma and me

I love banquet style dinners! There was SO much food! Later that evening, I played more mah jong. I'm pretty sure I lost money, but I couldn't understand what was going on. At midnight, I saw the more incredible firework display. I can honestly say that the firework show put the 4th of July to shame. On the 14th, we went to a small park to play games. I was able to put a mask on and I tried touching the center. I did all right. If you hit the center, you will have a very lucky 2010.
I also threw rings onto prizes, but I wasn't very good at that.
I waited in line a long time to roll a die, but they ran out of prizes. I did take some pretty incredible pictures.
This child is absolutely precious! I asked for permission to take pictures (I've become more sensitive taking pictures of random people.) As soon as I bent down, he grinned :) One of my favorite things about The Year of the Tiger is all the tiger hats kids wear!! Adorable!
We ended up going again on the 15th so I could win some soap. You roll this huge die, and if it lands on 6, you will win powdered soap! If it lands on 4, you will win a bar of soap. With 5 rolls, I only landed on 4 once, but boy was I happy! I LOVE soap!!!My prize

During the next few days, I ate so much, played ping pong, badminton, and read. On the 16th, we went to a park in Chengdu. What I imagined and where we went were very different. There were so many people, walking around and shopping. The coolest part (I'm still kicking myself because I didn't bring my camera) was the tigers. There were 4 tigers. Tigers are beautiful. It was somewhat of a circus act (which reminded me of The Life of Pi and Water for Elephants). The finale of the show was when the white tiger sat on a ball with 2 paws in the air. Coolest thing ever. My mom bought me noodles, even though I told her multiple times I wasn't hungry. I think I would make a pretty lousy only child. I ended up telling my dad if they tried to get me to eat one more time, I would go home. I'm a big girl. If I'm hungry, I'll tell you. I know it's part of Chinese tradition, but it got old. We also saw people walking across the tight rope. My favorite part was when the guy jumped rope! I've basically decided I'm a real good person to take to A. comedy shows and B. circuses because I always laugh and gasp in the right places.

I think Dan Dan was tired from all of the festivities

On Friday night (02/19), the dean kindly took myself, Andrew, and another volunteer Emily, out to eat. We went to a bamboo restuarant. I had no idea there were so many different types of bamboo. It was delicious, and I think it's safe to say we all had a lovely time.

Back to the 'Du

2010-02-11T04:49:00.040-06:00

Happy New Year! The Year of the Tiger

As I write this, I'm sipping a hot cup of hot chocolate. Was I really sweating yesterday morning?!

Vacation was fabulous. Hainan was nice. It wasn't Malaysia beautiful or Philippines beautiful, but it was definitely the right price. It was also nice not dealing with currency exchange.

January 31st:
Andrew and I got to the airport with plenty of time to spare. All the flights at our gate were delayed except for ours! The luck didn't last long. Our flight was then delayed for 2 hours. We got to Hainan with no problems. When we got out of the airport, the cabbies were charging a ridiculous sum. So, we walked out onto the main street and got it for 30 rmb cheaper. We stayed at the Sanya Lost Backpackers Club Beach Hostel. On the reviews, it said that it was hard to find. I got the address in Chinese characters, but we still couldn't find it. So, a lady charged us 5 rmb to take us there. It's unfortunate that the lady couldn't just be helpful and charged us. They messed up at the hostel, so Andrew had to stay in the girls' room.
View from Sanya Lost Backpackers Club Beach Hostel

February 1st:
I woke up and looked outside. The hostel faces the "ocean" but looks more like a swamp. So, we had to take a bus to go to the beach.
On the road again

It took us quite some time to get there. We ended up at the Shell Museum. We could have cared less about it because we had one thing on our mind: BEACH. We ended up at Yalong Bay. It's beautiful. It's so funny because we were the only people laying in the sun. Most people stayed under those straw type areas.
Dinner was FABULOUS. We had eggplant, egg and tomatoes, and shrimp. The shrimp was cooked with lots of veggies.
We started playing cards. I'm not going to lie. I totally dominated.
A few pictures of the beach before we left the first hostel

February 2nd:
Beach

February 3rd: Beach. That evening, we were informed that the hostel didn't have the proper certificates to host foreigners, so we had to switch hostels. Oh China.

February 4th: The hostel arranged for a bus to take all the foreigners to take us to the new hostel, Sanya Lost Seascape Youth Hostel. I liked this hostel better. It was cleaner and was a better value. That afternoon, we went to the beach.

February 5th: Andrew and I decided to go to Sanya Nanshan Dongtian Park. The water was gorgeous. Chinese people love posing in pictures, so right after the beautiful water, my favorite part was seeing the poses. And the outfits! It's quite common for people in the same group (i.e. friends, family) wear the same Hawaiian print outfit. Chinese people completely embrace it.

Andrew and meI think this meant no swimming?

As you can see, my pose isn't nearly as clever as this girls.

When Andrew and I were walking on the beach, a cute Chinese couple approached us and wanted to get their picture taken with Andrew. Andrew couldn't stop grinning for the rest of the day.
February 6th: Beach

February 7th: Beach

February 8th: Hot Springs
A German, Japanese, Russian, Belarusian, and I went to the Hot Springs. It was so much fun!! The first thing we did was stick our feet into a pool. That's cool you might say. But what's even cooler is that there were fish in the pool that would eat the dead skin off your feet. It was such a unique sensation. I'm pretty ticklish, so I laughed for a while before I got used to it. Then the others laughed with me.
We then went to a pool where you could get completely in and let the fish eat the dead skin.

Afterwards, we had "lunch". It consisted of cake and fruit. Later in the afternoon, Nadine (the girl from Germany) and I bought noodles.
After lunch, we went into the clay pool. You lather yourself up with mud and then you dry on the rocks.

After we rinsed off from the mud, we went to the salt hut. It was full of salt to exfoliate your skin. Some people took their afternoon naps in there.I had a blast at the hot springs and will be taking my fam there when they come to visit!
February 9th:
One of my roommates, Julia, and I went to Yanoda. Yanoda is a rain forest. It was fun, but I was expecting more wildlife. We walked around for several hours and then took a golf cart back to the gate.
Eating noodles on a bus; Oh China!

Bananas
Yellow BambooBridge

People tend to use their shoulders to carry things
Edward (acquaintance of Julia), Julia, and me
View from the golf cartThat evening, I ate at the hostel. I haven't been sick in so long...unfortunately, the club sandwich took me down. UGH.

February 10th: I stayed in the bed most of the day recovering from the previous evening. I had white rice on the beach. It pained me to just eat white rice on the LAST night, but I didn't want to take any chances.

February 11th: Back to Chengdu. I had to take my sunglasses out of my purse. :(
View from airplane...gray, cloudy Chengdu

I had a birthday box waiting on me! YEAHA.

Beach Bound!

2010-01-30T23:19:00.003-06:00

We are leaving for the beach today! I'm packed and ready to go. I am going to the sports store to see if I can get a mask and snorkel. YEAHA.

IST (In Service Training) was okay. It wasn't as bad as I anticipated. I had fun rooming with Jeesun. We are both SO EXCITED for vacation! I went out Thursday and Friday night. Good times with good people.

I hope to take some pictures during this vacation.

Sunshine, beach, seafood...HERE I COME!

1 Week Down, 1 to Go

2010-01-23T04:12:00.002-06:00

This past week was spent at a fancy hotel, just down the street from my apartment. I forgot how fabulous central heating is! (My school informed me that my bill DOUBLED in December...whoops.) By staying at the hotel, I am enjoying the heat and saving my school money. IST is 2 weeks. It was fun catching up with everybody. I haven't sat in meetings from 8:30-5:15 in a LONG time. The TEFL guy was superb. I learned more in 3 days with him then I did for all of PST.
Funny/embarrassing story: On Monday, our keynote speaker was Anthony Kuhn. He is a fabulous speaker. I thoroughly enjoyed his speech and truly appreciate him coming from Bejing to speak to us and answer our questions. When he was finished, he was talking to some PC staff. I waited until he was alone (I didn't want to interrupt). I shook his hand and thanked him for coming. He then said to me, "Thank YOU for coming." I was not thinking and what did I immediately say?! "I didn't have a choice." He then sort of shrugged his shoulders. Whoops.

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=4458700

I have one more week of training, then a few days to relax, and then I'm outta here! I'm going to Hainan (Chinese island south of mainland China). I'm bringing 6 books, swimsuit and sunglasses, and I will be parked at the beach for 10 days.

“Tears are words the heart can't express”

2010-01-11T09:23:00.002-06:00

Last week was my first week of vacation. I drank a fabulous Dr. Pepper with my spaghetti dinner when my grades where submitted (little did I know that there were "corrections" that needed to be made).

I also joined a gym with Andrew and went ALL last week. I let myself go in college, and I'm trying to get myself back. I have to remember that progress is slow. I didn't gain all my college weight in a day...it won't come off in a day either. (It also appears from my picture that I need to work on portion sizes?!)

And, I'm able to read again! :) YES!

Last Friday night, I went out to eat to celebrate 2 volunteers' birthdays. Dinner was terrific. We went to a reggae bar afterwards. My favorite part was the random dogs that were hanging out.

When I returned home, I spoke to my dad. If you know me, you know that I'm basically obsessed with my (our/family) dog. To make a long story short, I thought that my dog was going to die over the weekend. I haven't cried like that in a long time. I cried myself to sleep. I am happy to report that she is doing just fine. However, it really hit home that she may not be alive when I return from China. This also saddens me. I remain thankful that she made it home. I remain thankful that she has been such an amazing friend and family member for the past 13 years. I always thought I would fall apart when she passes. And I might. But, I might just be stronger than I think.

Twenty Ten

2010-01-02T06:53:00.002-06:00

Happy New Year's! 2010!!!

It's Saturday! I'm done with exams! I'm almost done grading exams! :) What a fabulous weekend!

I missed the party of the year (NYE), but I'm really okay with that. I really needed to chilax after a week of giving/grading exams.

I visited my home stay mom and dad for lunch yesterday. It's about 20 km away, and it took me 2 hours. Traffic was terrible! We had chicken pot for lunch. Instead of hot pot or duck pot, we had chicken pot. On my way to their house, I'm not joking.....I SAW A CAMEL!!! I got so excited! I haven't seen a camel since Mali!!! I don't know the word for camel in Chinese, and my charades was hilarious and then my "baba" said it! I was like "DUI!!!!" (Correct!) My mom really likes chicken feet. I was like, I thought chickens have 2 feet. My mom ate both the feet and then her friend ate one. I was like, "?" My dad was like, "no. chickens have 4 feet." I was like "really? no...." It turns out, they bought 2 chickens. My friends and I are so cheap, we only buy 1 at a time. Anyway, I kept everyone laughing at lunch (and not even on purpose.) After lunch, we walked around, and sure enough, we all saw the camel. A kid was on it, and his mom was taking his picture. Other highlights from my trip include: a dog wearing a penguin sweater and a dog wearing a pink hooded sweater with bunny ears on the hood. Where's my camera when I need it?!

Christmas, Exams, and then some

2009-12-28T03:18:00.002-06:00

I can't remember the last time I blogged. I think it's been a while.

I had to write lots of exams and now I'm grading those exams. I made 3 versions in one class and 2 in the other. The kids still haven't caught on because today I received a version A and a version B with the exact same answers. Tisk tisk. I'm done grading the exams given last Friday (yes folks, Christmas), so now I need to get cracking on the exams given today. Instead of napping, I finished a book. I know I wasn't going to read until exams are over and grades are done, but I needed a break and read the first chapter a few days ago....Anyway, it's called The Boy who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer. I normally don't talk about books on here and just list them, but this one is notable. It's so inspiring! It takes me back to Africa. I highly recommend it.
Okay, so Emma and I went ugly sweater shopping on Saturday for the party that evening. Apparently, Chengdu is out of XXXXXL sweaters under 30 rmb, so I didn't buy a sweater. Nobody did either. I also ran into a pizza problem. I found a great website for pizzas in Chengdu. I called the number but to no avail. Mutts Nuts Pizza is out of business or changed their phone number without updating it online. So, we ordered from High Fly pizza. They can't deliver between 6-9, so we got the pizzas at 5:15. I forgot that they are "Chinese" sized pizzas...basically the size of an American personal pan pizza. Oh well. I think everybody had a good time. I didn't take any pictures because I was feeling a bit large after shopping today, so I just ate some more. We had pizza, peanut butter balls (thanks Mom :), salsa, chips, velvetta (the one I brought over here in July), ginger bread house, raw veggies and dip, sugar cookies...I went to sleep at 3:30...the party rolled on until 6. I guess I'm a pumpkin.
Andrew and I are still planning our vacation. I was hoping for 22 days, but he was thinking more like 10. In America, people take vacation basically whenever they want. It seems like in China, everybody takes vacation at the same time so the prices are tripled. But, I am getting a membership to The Bookworm in January! So excited!! (It's like a library, but you have to have a membership...lame, but if there is demand....)
A volunteers' birthday is on January 1st, so there will be another party this week. And, 2 volunteers' birthdays are next week. Par-ty!
I've decided that once I get my grades in, I will be celebrating by drinking my Dr. Pepper. Dr. P is quite expensive, so this is the same one I moved in with. I'm saving it for a special day. I thought I would splurge and drink it all the time, but just knowing that I can buy it in Chengdu is comforting.
Oh, ABS!!! I need an email from you!! The suspense is about to kill me!!!

Because updating is more fun than work...

2009-12-21T20:15:00.016-06:00

So, I think it's been a week since I've seen the sun. :( I'm overwhelmed because we have finals approaching. It's really unfortunate that my school doesn't have a scantron machine. That would make my life SO MUCH easier! Anyway, I've got the winter blues. It's bound to happen over the holidays. It's weird though because only when I'm feeling sick or around the holiday season do I long for Carolina. Another thing that really bothers me is I haven't read a book in over a month! How depressing! On a brighter note, when I got home last night at 10:30, I had a box from my aunt Donna and an envelope from my Mommy waiting on me :) I opened the envelope, but not the box. I'm waiting until Christmas! It's so hard...the box is constantly looking at me.
12/11: Karaoke Time! We went out and celebrated a former PCVs birthday! Things over here always remind me of my family...basically I think Chip should come to China just for the Karaoke.

12/12: Dufu's Thatched Cottage
http://history.cultural-china.com/en/59History150.html
Even the fish eat rice!
Replica of Du Fu's cottage
12/19: Jinsha Site Museum
http://www.jinshasitemuseum.com/nye/bwggk.htm
(I can't get this link to link, so you have to cut, copy, and paste it in your bar)
I really like art work. When I look at artifacts, I feel like I'm looking at the same thing...over and over. I think some people feel this way about art. I did see a 4 D movie. It was so much fun (minus the headache afterwards) My favorite part was when the fish splashed and we got a little wet!

Tonight I am going out to eat with Emily for her birthday!

T-9 UNTIL BREAK :)

I put my mom's note on my door so I see it every time I leave :)

Merry Christmas!

Procrasination is making my life stressful

2009-12-08T07:42:00.002-06:00

To Do List:
1. grade papers for writing class (MUST RETURN THEM THIS MONDAY)
2. document grades for writing class
3. write Business Oral exam (2-3 versions)
4. write Writing exam (2-3 versions)
5. write Oral exam (2-3 versions)
6. clean house for Christmas party :)
7. pull out Christmas tree from closet
8. write Christmas letters
9. mail Christmas letters (which will be quite an accomplishment because I have YET to go to the post office...I'm a bad friend/daughter...forgive me)
10. plan vacation (Philippines or Malaysia?)
11. study Chinese because I have to take a test in January
12. exercise

I went to Dufu's Cottage last week. When I get 1 & 2 done, I'll post pictures.

T-23 until BREAK

Thanksgiving 09

2009-11-29T01:47:00.016-06:00

Typical day

Last Thursday and Friday, we had a "sports meeting." It's like field day in America, but super serious. I only went on Thursday to watch the opening ceremony and to take pictures of my students.

On the busA sign on campus (I hate that I'm illiterate!)

The opening ceremony
How Chinese people tailgate
Some of my English students
On Friday, I caught up on sleep. On Friday night, I was on the computer, when all of a sudden, my apartment started shaking. I wasn't scared at all. I was actually wondering if I was hallucinating. I wasn't. Apparently, I was awake for this earthquake. I'm no earthquakeologist, so I'm not sure if it's a "real" earthquake, but it's documented as a 5.2. Anyway, glad everybody is okay. Maybe next time I'll actually get up from my computer and get my shoes on?
On the way to Tday
Cooking (I'm hunched over because I'm peeling eggs for the deviled eggs)

Yesterday, we celebrated Thanksgiving! I was running around before going to the party, trying to buy things for the deviled eggs and miscellaneous ingredients for Thanksgiving. We had SO MUCH FUN! Oh how I love Thanksgiving! :)

Emily, Micah, and Allison Only 3 people dressed up, but they made my night! I ended up making gravy from scratch. I don't mean to brag or anything, but my Gramma would have been proud! Gravy was a HUGE success! We all had so much fun! The China 15s stayed and chatted for several hours. I really like our group.
Micah's original shoes (he had to cut the backs of the shoes because his feet could not fit)
Jeesun and me
I think I'm going to have to banned myself from the computer until I get those papers graded and put in the grade book. I hate doing that to myself, but I'm dilly dallying too much. I think I would move much faster, knowing that I'm not allowed to get on the computer. So, if you don't see me on the computer, you know that I haven't finished grading.A neighbor's dinner

Birthday Party Fun!

2009-11-24T06:26:00.010-06:00

My weeks are starting to blur together....that can't be a good thing?
Birthday Party!

The Birthday Girl with her birthday present (it's a rabbit head)

I do know that we celebrated Jeesun's birthday last Saturday. We went to a western restaurant called Peter's Mexican Grill. I got a cheeseburger. It was fabulous. One thing I don't like about western food is I get sick if I eat it. I'm okay when I cook, but I get sick when going to restaurants. I blocked knowing that I was going to get sick and thoroughly enjoyed my burger and fries. That evening, we had a sleepover at my house. We watched a movie about pirates. Then a lot of people went out. However, school wears me out, so I couldn't go out out. I need the day of rest. (Ugh I sound like an adult!!) I had one friend that rolled in at 5 am! If I stay out until 5, I'm completely useless the next day. She was up at 11 and ready to go.
School is stressing me out. I've have a migraine the past 3 days. Sigh. And I thought being a student was stressful...
This Thursday and Friday, we have field day at our school. I was wondering why we didn't have field day in the spring like Americans, but then I decided that Chinese people don't like getting sun. So, November (3 degrees C) is a perfect time to run around and play outside. I don't think I'm participating, but I'll be there with jeans on! And, I'll bring my camera to take some pictures of my students.
We are celebrating Thanksgiving this Saturday! :) I consulted my gramma about how to make the gravy, but I currently can't find my notes...I'm southern. I'm supposed to know how to make gravy! I feel like such a fake.
Oh, my tutor informed me that there was ANOTHER earthquake yesterday. I managed to sleep through that one too. I'm a bit concerned. 2 earthquakes within 2 months of each other, and I have yet to wake up. Oh boy.
http://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/recenteqsww/Quakes/us2009pias.php
I can't get the link to link. So, if you want to read about it, you'll have to cut, copy, and paste.

Papers Galore!

2009-11-15T00:40:00.004-06:00

Last Sunday, Emily and I went to a fabulous western store called Sabrina's Country Store. It's incredible! It's a little America right in the heart of Chengdu. We ordered our Thanksgiving turkey! Who would have thought it would be easier to get turkeys in Mali than in China? The turkey we are getting is a frozen turkey imported from America. (In Mali, we went to a Turkey farm and picked out our turkeys. Then we outsourced someone to kill, cut, and clean them.) We are getting an 8 kg turkey. I thought it was too big, but Emily says she eats a lot of turkey. And, I did not take into consideration that that is the weight of the turkey before cooking it. We only have large toaster ovens...it ought to be an interesting Thanksgiving. (AND, we are dressing up! I can't wait! I'm a pilgrim by default. I need to get my bonnet and outfit ready.)
This past week was midterm week. I'm a grading fool! College in America and China are SO DIFFERENT.
I was also informed last week that there were some misunderstandings about what I said a few weeks ago in one of my classes. I'm still not used to all of the indirect communication.
Other than lots of papers, last week was pretty uneventful. Emma and I went shopping yesterday. I bought some Ugcs (knock off of Uggs). They are so comfortable! I think I should have gone down a size. I guess I should wear thick socks and maybe get some shoe liners. I also bought an orange and blue scarf! It makes me smile!
Upcoming Events:
November 17th: Turkish Food w/Emily and Andrew
November 21st: Birthday Party!
November 28th: Thanksgiving Celebration
December 21th: Birthday Party!
December 25th: Christmas Day
December 26th: Ugly Sweater Christmas Party
January 1st: Happy New Year! (No School!)
January 8th: Birthday Party!
January 18th-29th: In Service Training
January 22nd: Last Day of the 1st semester
January 30th-February 28th: HOLIDAYS
February: My Birth Month! Planning on being somewhere where long johns are unnecessary

Evaluation and Birthday Fun

2009-11-07T20:07:00.004-06:00

On Friday I had my evaluation from Peace Corps. One of my bosses watched 45 minutes of 1 of my classes. Our school then took us out to lunch. Later the PC boss came to my house and told me what she thought about my class. I will take some of her advice. I felt frustrated at times because she informed me that the students were already taught debate and resume writing. Unless somebody tells me, I don't know this.

The Birthday Girl!
Site mates
Yesterday, we went to an all you can eat (and drink) Japanese restaurant to celebrate Mai's birthday. We had such a great time! The restaurant is so cool because you take off your shoes. If you have to go to the bathroom, they provide slippers. Definitely a fun Saturday night.
This week's forecast: LOTS of papers! It's the midterm week. Oh goodness.
One of my classes

Halloween and such

2009-11-04T07:35:00.005-06:00

Halloween was a lot of fun. Our 1 hour trip turned into 3 hours, but that happens a lot when Andrew and I go places. It's because we get only 1/2 of the story of directions. For instance, we didn't know we had to tell the ticket lady where we were going to get off. We kept on waiting for our stop, but it turns out, our stop was a special stop and you had to ask for it. It was so funny! We rolled up into the bus station and, and he says something that made me laugh really loud. I'm so relieved he's laid back, and I've lived in Africa because getting lost is nothing to me. We ended up making it to the party, but had to leave soon afterward because we were "being loud". And, it was a group of mixed foreigners, not all Americans. We then when out to eat and ate duck pot. It's so good! And, then I had a sleepover at my apartment! I love sleepovers! We stayed up until 2 am talking!
My Chinese parents visited me on Sunday. They brought me milk, oranges, and milk tea. I really do meet some of the nicest people when I live in other countries! We had noodles for lunch. My mom is so sneaky and paid the bill while we were eating! I fought them, but I lost. They met my tutor, Joe, and she was so momish. She told him to tell me that I lost some weight (yippee!) and I need to get more rest and take care of myself. Thanks CM (Chinese Mom)!
Yesterday Joe and I went on a field trip to Ikea. I didn't realize how much I time I could waste there! I'm pretty pumped because I have an Ikea card now! :) I bought a blanket, lotion, and a throw. I'm pretty stoked about the blanket. It has the warmth level "6" (the highest). I'll let you know if they lied to me in about a month.
I also have some fairly interesting stories to tell today too. Where to begin? I hate being sick. What is even worse (that I didn't even realize was an option) is being sick at school without doors on the bathroom. Sigh.
I participated in the faculty field day. Basketball is NOT my strong suit! I made 3 baskets in a minute! This is bad, but I felt better because I did better than 1 person. However, I rocked at discus throwing! I either got 2nd place in the faculty division or 2nd place in the woman's faculty division, but regardless, I redeemed myself.
When I was in the car, I saw (seriously) a 2 year old kid driving a power car on the street! NOT KIDDING! I forgot I had my camera with me, but it really made me laugh (the parent was beside the kid...so were cars driving past the kid...we were one of them). Then at dinner, I asked what the meat on the table was. My friend said what it was, but I really didn't understand because of his accent. He pulled out the electronic dictionary and while I was putting it into my mouth he was like Pig and then showed me the dictionary...Bowels.
My friends' birthday is today. We are going out to eat this weekend to celebrate! I'll take some pictures this weekend and post. I did take a few pictures at Halloween, but in all of them, I have a candy cigarette in the picture...it looks like something illegal...I used my best judgment and decided not to post.

Disbelief

2009-10-26T22:17:00.003-06:00

I can't believe November is next month! Crazy!!!

Last week was uneventful :) at home. I was told yesterday that our water will get cut from 11 pm to 5 pm. It hasn't happened yet, but I am prepared! I got home last night at 10:30 and started wash. My washing machine is so slow filling with water, so I helped it out a bit. I was also informed that on Wednesday, we will lose our power 9 am-5 pm. That really won't affect me. Oh the joys of living downtown where they are doing construction on the metro.

Last week, a student really disrespected me so I kicked him out of class. I was trying not to make a scene, but it ended up becoming a scene because he refused to give me his cell phone (I saw him using it so I take it and then give it back at the end of my class.) The class was extremely well behaved after that!

Yesterday I gave my culture lecture to a group of 220 freshmen. My topic was American food. My favorite part of the presentation was explaining what a fortune cooke is! There was a picture so it made it much easier. The kids applauded when I answered a cell phone. They thought it was hilarious when I answered in Chinese, "Hello? in class! I am the teacher. I'm not happy. Goodbye."

I bought the first 5 seasons of The Office. My DVD player won't read them, but it seems so anti-Peace Corps to buy a DVD player.

Halloween is on Saturday. I still don't know my costume. Right now, I'm thinking a construction worker.

The sun is shining! Oh happy day!!

Busyness

2009-10-19T04:57:00.004-06:00

One time in Mali, I went 5 months without paying my water bill. It was a rough few weeks without water, but it was a collective effort to get everybody to pay (one bill, 5 households). I am 14 days late paying my internet, and poof...gone. I didn't do that deliberately. I just assumed (incorrectly) that I would receive a bill. I was wrong. But for the environment, it's probably a good thing. Lots of trees are being saved.
I went to the school where I began volunteering. They had a beautiful bouquet of flowers for me! It was so sweet of them! The students were so curious! Everybody had to get a glance of this lǎo wài (foreigner). It was a little bit like Mali. It's nice being adored. My college kids are so over having a foreigner as a teacher.

I have been a paper grading fool! I made a dent. It's just not big enough! My weekend was spent grading papers. I also went out with friends Saturday night. We had a good time. We are still deciding what to do for Halloween.

This week was so busy, but less eventful than the previous week. I still open my kitchen door quite cautiously....

Shenanigans

2009-10-09T21:22:00.012-06:00

I received a call on Sunday night to go sightseeing with a coworker. He was a host family for another volunteer. I readily accepted. Yea! I'm integrating! He failed to mention that along with sightseeing, he told another school (unknown to me) that I would teach at their school. I didn't even get the heads up! I can't accept money, so I am taking this on as a secondary project. I spoke to my tutor and asked him how he would handle it. He would have handled it like "non-sensitive" American Katie, not Chinese Katie. Oh, well. I told my teammate, and he told me I'm "too approachable." I never thought that would be a bad thing...the next job interview I get, when asked my weaknesses, I guess I can say I'm too approachable.
A volunteer who was training at my school gave me a few contact numbers. I finally got around to calling on of the numbers on the list. We went shopping together. I bought a purse for 3 dollars. It's funny going shopping with someone so thin (I like to think I looked like her in high school.) She is funny without trying. She asked if I were shopping for clothes and I said I don't China has clothes for me. She looked me up and down and said my mom's fatter than you. Then we went into a little store and the salesperson said something and she translated "This store caters to fat people." Thanks! So good to know.
On Wednesday, I went to hot pot with the Dean and her husband. Her husband went to America several years ago and had lots of memorable experiences. Her husband is a huge Ryan Reynolds fan and talked a lot about his movies. He was really funny. You could tell the Dean already heard these stories a few times before... That evening, I went to my kitchen to turn on my gas (to take a hot shower) and a rat scurries out. You can ask any of my fellow friends in Mali, but I tend to become hysterical when I see rats. The same thing happened in China. I called Andrew (teammate), and he came to investigate. Then the rat disappeared! He assured me that the rat wasn't in my house anymore.
The next morning, I am walking out of the bathroom, and that little POS is trying to come in! The rat took my breath away. We both kinda froze, and he left. I called Andrew again, but he was asleep. I called my tutor, but he was asleep too. So, I hid in my room with the door shut. An hour or so later I texted Andrew that I really needed his moral support. He returns and I tell him that I'm going to be brave today and not scream. Unbeknownst to me, there are drawers at the bottom of my bookshelf. Andrew opens the draw, and it is full of peed soaked paper, rat poop, and peanut shells. Sigh. I told him I think we (i.e. you) should open all the drawers. The next drawer he opens, a rat is in it! I broke my promise and screamed. Whoops. With some teammate work (I shook the couch and Andrew put 2 rat traps beside each other), we caught it! SUCCESS! I was a big girl and made a "rat sandwich" out of 2 of the sticky pads. I took it out to the garbage (with gloves on of course.) I then ran out the door because I was going to have lunch with my homestay family. I told them I was running late. It turns out, the whole family was waiting on me! Oh Chinese! I'm inconveniencing them so much, but not a word was said. I thought we were having a quiet lunch at home when in reality, grandma, grandpa, aunt, uncle, mom, dad, and sister were all waiting on me. We ate duck. It was fabulous.
I went back to work yesterday. I also have to go today (it's Saturday). It was a much needed break.
I hope next week is less eventful.

A Story of Inspiration

2009-10-07T03:13:00.003-06:00

I saw this on the BBC, and it honestly gave me the chills. THIS is how develop will happen.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/8257153.stm

School Days and Holidays

2009-10-03T01:47:00.011-06:00

(The road in front of my apartment. The metro is going to change transportation in China.)

This past week (3 days) of teaching was tough. Some weeks are like that.

Last Sunday we had to teach to make up for Wednesdays class. I taught Sunday and Monday. (I don't teach on Tuesdays). On Wednesday, I was delighted I was able to sleep in. My home phone rang, and I didn't bother to answer it because, hey I'm on vacation! I heard my cell phone buzzing (it's on vibrate always), but again, why should I answer it? Well 5 minutes later, my teammate Andrew pounds on my door. I answer it in my pjs, and he's like get some clothes on, we missed class. We have to be on the bus in 10 minutes. Sigh. So I scramble, but we make it. Apparently (but unapparent to the 2 foreign teachers), our holiday starts on THURSDAY not WEDNESDAY. My bad. I missed the first class, but in the second class, the first 2 phrases they learned were "I messed up" and "I blew it." I called the Dean in the afternoon and apologized for inconveniencing her and the other teachers. She understood it was miscommunication, and informed me that we will indeed, make up the class.
Andrew, Mandy, and me at Hot Pot
Walking around Mandy's "small" town (pop. 6 million)
October 1st is China's Independence Day. Andrew and I went out with a colleague. The whole day I thought we were driving around in a Porsche, but it ended up not being one (shows you how much I know about cars!). Our colleague invited us over to her parents house for lunch. This is another cultural misunderstanding. I always think we are actually going to eat at individuals house when really we go out to eat. We ate hot pot, and I do believe it was my favorite hot pot ever. I recogonized a lot of what was put in the pot, and the seasonings were terrific. That afternoon, we went to a tourist place (I told my mom China Town and she just laughed but it really was like China Town!)
Doesn't this look like a legit China Town?
Walking across the bridge
Afterwards, we went to a Monastery.

I totally committed a faux pax because I took a picture of Budda. Apparently, you should not take pictures of Budda. I always obey the signs, but because I didn't see one, I thought it was okay. One of our colleagues' friends says it's like going to a cathedral and not being able to take pictures of Jesus. Andrew then says "You can take pictures of Jesus." I then explained that a lot of times you can't take pictures to protect the artwork, not because it's unlucky. I of course apologized. There was this design on the wall, and you are supposed to walk towards it with your eyes shut. If you touch the design, you will have luck. I missed. Sigh.

Next week, we are on holidays because the solar and lunar calendar ended up making the Independence Day and the Midautumn Festival fall right next to each other. Don't get me started on the rules, but I am forbidden to travel. I will spend this upcoming week cleaning and visiting some sites around Chengdu. My host sister is also coming home, so I will make another trip out to visit the homestay family.

More of the Same

2009-09-17T06:42:00.005-06:00

Chengdu

This week was uneventful. Last Saturday night, a group of volunteers ate hot pot. One of the perks about going out with volunteers who have been here for a year (or two) is that they know what to order. After dinner, we went dancing. It was a first for me for going out in China. And what an experience it was! They played techno music. I had a great time. This was the first weekend of many weekends dancing to techno music.
I asked all of my students to write me a letter, telling me about themselves, what they want to accomplish, etc. My favorite quote from a student was "I like your smile and voice. It's so beautiful and dainty." That just made me smile! I made a good first impression on some students, and not so much on others. Another favorite quote, "I will try to like you." Gee, thanks kid!
Last Thursday was "Teacher's Day." 3 of my classes gave me cards! I also received a cactus. I also got some cough drops. It was really sweet of them.
I am a strict teacher, but I think my students are finally getting the message. I don't play games. During one class last week, I took 6 cell phones in 1 class! Today I only took 2 cell phones. They are learning. (No cell phones, mp3/4/28 etc., or electronic dictionaries.)
I observed the dean today. It amazed me at how respectful the students can be. I think next semester, I may incorporate the Chinese tradition of standing to greet the instructor. It really seemed to set the mood to respect the person at the front.
My teammate (Moose) and I were planning on getting out of the city this weekend and going to the mountains, but the weather forecast is rain and more rain.

Yes, there is a Hooters here.

Swear In Picture!

2009-09-08T03:52:00.003-06:00

I just received the volunteer group picture!

Here it is, China 15 along with Ambassador Huntsman

Back to School

2009-09-05T02:41:00.013-06:00

The 2 Kathleen's before Site Announcement

Most of my stuff! How did I get everything over here?!

Family Appreciation Dinner

Mathide and me
Peace Corps Staff

Denise (roommate in SF) and me

I started teaching this past week. It is so different being in the front of the classroom and not in a desk!
As most of you know, I have a 50 minute commute to work each day. I tried talking to the other teachers, but it's either a)too early for conversation b)they are intimidated speaking English to me c)they can't speak English. I was hoping to make friends on the bus, but it looks like that is not going to happen.
I have 1 freshman class and am going to enjoy teaching that class. My classes have (on average) 50 students. My freshman class is a class of 20. I came 20 minutes early to the first class and all my freshman were already there!
I am working with some amazing people and feel so blessed to know them!

I began tutoring this week. My tutors' name is Joe, and he is extremely nice.

I currently do not have water. I was informed last night that our water would be cut from 11-5. Silly me, I thought that meant 11pm-5am. WRONG. 5 pm. So, basically, I am waiting for the water to get turned back on so I can shower! I could go get water from a nearby faucet place, but it really is a challenge carrying up the buckets of water 4 flights of stairs.

I finally got water! But this is what it looked like...

College football starts today! I will be cheering for my Auburn Tigers on the other side of the world! WAR EAGLE!

Chengdu

2009-08-25T03:21:00.013-06:00

TIC! (This is China!)
Oreos and Dr. Pepper?! I don't think I'm in Mali anymore...

This is hotpot. It's very famous in the Sichuan region.

Yes, that is blood (my mom ordered it to put in the hotpot)

The panda and me

Wen (my host sister) and me at the Panda place

My friend Becca (she was in Ethiopia) and me

Mom, me, Dad after our white water adventure (no paddles!)

I apologize for not updating sooner. Facebook and blogspot have been blocked, so I’ve had a few obstacles to jump through.

I, unfortunately, cannot be as open with my opinions. I refuse to sugarcoat anything, but some things may be omitted.

Let me back up….

America was WONDERFUL! I had so much fun! I put on 14 lbs in 3 weeks. I didn’t weigh myself week 4 because I really didn’t want to know. I saw a few friends, talked to all of my friends in the states on the phone, visited my brother and my sister-in-law, and ate way too much! My Dad had some surgery, so it wasn’t all play. I was chauffeur and personal assistant for a few weeks.

I sat beside a young professional looking guy at the airport in Dallas. After he pulled out his Peace Corps notebook, I asked him where he was going. Turns out, we were on the same flight to SF together. I prearranged a bus to take me to the hotel. It was a wonderful hotel! I wish we stayed there for a few nights.

The flight wasn’t bad at all. I requested a window seat. I sat beside a Native American who was on her way to study in China for a few weeks. I didn’t realize that there were 2 flights from Beijing to Chengdu, and I ended up missing the flight because I was in the bathroom, changing to “business casual”. I was a bit concerned about getting my bag, but TIC, and I had no problems.

The hotel was nice enough. My roommate is great. Her name is Denise and this is her second time doing PC. She was a volunteer in the 70s in Thailand. She brought her group picture. It’s absolutely priceless. The first week or so was a lot of protocol. Apparently (unapparent to me), appropriate shoes in Mali are not appropriate in China.

My home stay family is incredible! I had language classes in Chengdu University, but lived off campus. My Chinese mom and dad gave me their master bedroom because it had the western style toilet. I keep on putting myself in their situation and am continually in awe of their hospitality. My sister is going to LSU this November, and I am hoping that she will go to South Carolina and spend Christmas with the Cannons.

I will be teaching at the Sichuan College of Education in Chengdu. I really thought I would be leaving the city so I was quite surprised at my placement. When I went there for site visit, I was highly impressed with the staff there. The staff was professional, friendly, and helpful.

I also stayed in my apartment during site visit. While my apartment has accommodations such as a washing machine, refrigerator, hot water in the kitchen, tv, dvd, etc., there are aspects of my Malian apartment that I miss. I miss my wonderful porch, rooftop, and my Malian neighbors.

I begin teaching in September. Business Oral English and Writing are the 2 subjects. I will also be giving a lecture every other Monday on culture. If anybody has suggestions for appropriate culture based themes, leave a comment on the blog! I have this semester outlined for the cultural Mondays, but any suggestions for next semester would be appreciated.

Today we moved out of our homestay family and are staying in a swanky hotel! I'm pretty sure it's a 4 star. The beds are absolutely incredible! I am going to buy new sheets for my apartment!

More pictures tomorrow (En shallah! It's so funny because random French and Bambara words come out when I attempt to speak Mandarin.)

In San Fran

2009-06-29T15:35:00.001-06:00

So, I made it to San Fran safely! I am stunned that some peoples' parents are here....really?!

Anyway, my blog, gmail, and facebook might all be blocked in China, but we are looking aways around it.

More later!

On the road again...

2009-06-28T21:16:00.005-06:00

My month home was probably one of the fastest months of my life! I leave for San Fran tomorrow morning and then on to China on Tuesday!

Some highlights of my trip home include: visiting my brother and my fabulous sister-in-law and going to a symphony on a lawn, visiting my aunt in Texas, taking Kramer to the park (twice), margaritas with friends, hot chocolate with former neighbors, sending two packages to Mali for Sikasso Kaw, presenting a slideshow about Mali to my church and a community college, shopping with mom, dining and shopping (and ICE CREAM!) with gramma, shrimp and grits with my uncle...needless to say, I had a hectic and quite enjoyable trip home.

I will continue to update weekly, and hope that I will be able to continue to write about my life overseas.

Right off the airplane (my dad isn't photogenic...he looks this way in all of them, but i like to think he was smiling on the inside)

Kramer and me

Last post from Lala

2009-05-25T15:02:00.004-06:00

I leave for the airport in 30 minutes, and I have no idea where to begin. This day is finally here and now that it is, I don't know how/what to feel.

So, I just got a call and the plane is broken. TIA. So, I won't be leaving in 30 minutes, but hopefully I will leave tonight.

This past week has been a whirlwind of emotions for me. I hope I never forget the lessons I've learned or the people I've met.

the quote for Malians
"Some people come into our lives and quickly go. Some people move our souls to dance. They awaken us to a new understanding with the passing whisper of their wisdom. Some people make the sky more beautiful to gaze upon. They stay in our lives for awhile, leave footprints on our hearts, and we are never, ever the same."~ Flavia Weedn ~

the quote for my amazing PCV friends
"Truly great friends are hard to find, difficult to leave, and impossible to forget."~ G. Randolf ~

the quote for me
Don't cry because it's over. Smile because it happened.” ~Dr. Suess~

Lindsey's Village

2009-05-20T13:32:00.007-06:00

I had a great time at Nana's (Lindsey) village. There was a fete (with dancing of course!). We also did a lot of greeting, card playing, and reminiscing.

Eating degay on the bus before it left

The lizard that scared the bejebezs out of me (a kid came in the house to get it)

Dancing at the fete

Lala and Ya at school (her dad is a director)

Video- 5:53 am

Beef...it's what's for dinner

Hanging out by the side of the road...I have seen happier days
The broken down bachee...I waited 2 hours and then got my bike down and biked to a nearby village and grabbed a bus home

Paris

2009-05-16T08:10:00.020-06:00

Yea! I finally went out the right door and was able to find the right bus! Beautiful garden I stumbled uponI don't think a ped egg could help my feet, but I'm trying it.

St. Eustache Museum D'Orsay

Museum Rodin

Notre Dame

View from the bell tower of Notre Dame

Pizza + me = all smiles

The Louvre

Paris was amazing! Maybe after China, I'll end up living in Paris. Who knows?

May 3
After my moms' experience with Air Marroc, I didn't check any bags. The flight was uneventful. In Casablanca, I laid down on the floor, near some statues, but out of the walk way. I was next to a statue, so I can only imagine how many pictures I'm in! (When I woke up, lots of people were posing next to the statues). I slept for a few hours. When I awoke, I went down to Air Marrocs' customer "service". According to the customer service lady, my mom's bag is in Atlanta. She sent them a message. Sigh. I wish I believed her. I safely made it to Paris and was going to explore, but fell asleep instead.

May 4

I woke up and had a divine chocolate crossant with hot chocolate. My morning consisted of searching for a place that would convert CFA to euros. I could not find a single place that would take my CFA.

I'm out of time. More to come!

Busy, busy, busy!

2009-04-29T15:22:00.002-06:00

I am so busy right now! It's a nice change.

A funny thing happened today. I was walking out of a store today and I stepped on a CHICKEN! I screamed and there were so many people around. They laughed, I laughed. And then I thought I injured the chicken because he didn't move. I bought some stuff at the market and then walked back. I walked passed the store and chuckled when I saw the chicken, upside down, tied to a moto. I have a feeling I will be dinner table conversation this evening.

The formation so far is going great! (Sigh of relief!)

I got "the call" today...I've been medically cleared to serve in China for a 3rd year! Whoo hoo!

I'm exhausted. More to come!

Lala Maiga goes to CHINA!!

2009-04-24T09:20:00.002-06:00

Unofficially, I am going to CHINA in June! I have to get medically cleared and then I will be on my way to extending in China! I am so excited:) The two anxieties I have about extending my PC service to China is 1. language 2. being cold. Before Mali, I was anxious about scorpions, snakes, being robbed...so many things. Not so much anymore.

Yalaing

2009-04-19T08:12:00.009-06:00

I've been "yalaing" (to wander) recently. Last week, I went to Calita's village. I've been around (the only village I haven't visited from my stage in Sikasso region is Lindsay). I went to Jessie's village first and greeted. Her chief is so friendly and basically blind. Jessie gave him a picture of when her family visited, and she had to turn the picture right side up. He was trying to memorize who was in the picture and the order. It was really sad. I was culturally appropriate and gave him kola nuts which pleased him. He insisted on showing us the road (another Malian traditional). I was very concerned that he was going to trip over his big toe nail. No seriously. Thankfully, he didn't (or at least not in front of us).
We greeted at Calita's village, and I again gave kola nuts to her chief. He wasn't nearly as friendly as the other chief. We then hung out at Calita's hut, and I saw so many women passing. Calita then explained to me that they were making rice sacrifices to the spirits. I wanted to see what that was about, so we followed the women. So many kids were running around, trying to get handfuls of rice (think healthier version of Halloween). The women carried bowls of rice on their head and then would give some to the kids. The place of rice giving was like a small tree stump that was covered in rice. The women would then give the rice to the spirits. Kids were surrounding the stump, hoping to get one last bite of rice before it hit the stump. After the rice lands on the ground, kids can't touch it because it now belongs to the spirits. That evening, we went to Calita's host family for dinner. After dinner, they brought a bed outside for us to rest. I took advantage of this and took a nap before the major dance party. Who kicked it off? None other than the Tubabs! It was a bit intimidating because all eyes were on us. There was a kid that was standing beside me and grew so tired, he layed down on rocks to sleep. He unfortunately picked a bad place because it was extremely dark (no lights), and some lady hit him to wake up and move.
The next day, we thought people would come over at 9 am and some did. But not everybody. So, we waited. I took a nap. We ate lunch, and then all at once at about noon, Calita's concession ( yard?) was flooded with people! It was crazy! All the adults walked in a line to the fete. Kids would walk beside us, and not surprisingly, wanted to be near the Tubabs. The old lady in front of me kindly yelled at them and threaten them with a stick. When we got to the location, we were instructed to greet the elders of the village. I consider myself a feminist, and I would NEVER do this in other circumstances, but I had to be culturally pleasing and I kneeled down to like 10 men and raised their hands as a sign of respect. So glad we shake hands in America! We were then instructed to sit down. They set up a table for us...oh the comforts you get for being a guest. Then the dancing began. They moved our chairs and table (we were the only ones with a table) closer to the dance ground. Later Jessie, Calita, and I danced. All eyes on us. Everybody clapped and laughed and cheered. It was fun. We left shortly before dusk, and I took a bucket bath. How refreshing! I love bathing outside! That evening, we went back over to her host family, and Calita made tea.

On Saturday, I went home in an 18 wheeler. I was chatting away. We got to a stop point, and then Daoh (sp?) the driver said something along the lines of night visit 30 minutes. I said, 30 minutes? Then he said 15 minutes...umm I don't like the sound of that....I ended up getting his number but I didn't give him mine. When I was dismounting from the truck, he was like, wait I don't have your number! I told him it was okay because I have his.

The new volunteer is coming today:) The volunteers from Madagascar were evacuated, so PC Mali got 5 new volunteers. It's always exciting welcoming new people!

There was a little girl (about 5 years old) who had this baby on her back. I let her be a kid for a bit and held the baby while she played with the other kids.

During fetes, Malians from the same concessions (umm i'll use the word cul-de-sac real loosely) wear the same fabric.

All smiles!

Everybody leaving Calita's concession

The line to the party

kids hanging around our Tubab table

Calita and her homologue at the table

Let the dancing begin!

I'll try to upload videos later. Videos are really slow!!!

Fetish Fun!

2009-04-12T15:48:00.007-06:00

Look! No hands!

Anna greeting the old men
Dancing fetishes

I went to Anna's village for a few days this past week because of the fetish appearance. I believe the fetish comes out about the same time every year. The fetish comes out again in June, but it won't in Anna's village this year because of lacks of funds. (It costs money to buy booze.) Anna's village is a Animist village, so there is drinking when the fetishes come out. At one point, the fetish chased me. I did not scream because that just would have encouraged it. I had a great time watching the kids dance. So much dirt was kicked up! It was such a picturesque site.

That evening I did not sleep a lot. Anna has a clock with a thermometer on it...it didn't get below 90!! Hot season is here!!! (Yep, it's 20:50 and 95!!)

When I left Anna's village, a Malian going to different village began biking with me. When the roads split, he insisted that I take a mango (even though they were securely attached to his bike). It's moments like these that I am really going to miss about Mali.

Easter was fun. I had brunch with Laura, Ben, and Adele. We had eggs, biscuits, gravy (thanks Mom!), and...drum roll please...BACON!!!! Ben's mom sent him precooked bacon. I didn't even know that was a possiblility!

Project=Success

2009-04-05T13:48:00.018-06:00

Well, I think it is safe to say that the faucet project was a success. We had our final meeting today. I was informed that people from other villages are using the faucet. Yea!

My week was uneventful. My friend, Laura, got back from Ameriki safely. Unfortunately, her bag got lost. But the next day, she got it back. However, her Easter candy was stolen. But, at least she got her bag back (which is more than my mom can say).

I had a lovely dinner on Thursday with my Chinese friends. They are excellent cooks and ping pong players! Julia (I gave them American names) is super hard core when it comes to ping pong. She put on her tennis shoes to play!

I discovered Skype last week. It is going to change my last 5 months of service. I <3 Skype!

Who needs a pedicure? This PCV does!

Chaka beat me in 151 today...we'll play again tomorrow

2 men at our final meeting (nothing like the 50 women who came to the 1st meeting)

2 other committee members
3 day old puppies!
So little!

Makan's daughter bringing water home from the new faucet
Garaboos

Children bringing clean water home

Transporting water via bike

It was interesting to me that during my trips to the faucet, I have rarely seen women getting water. I've seen kids on bikes, men on motos, children with water on their head, and boys with donkey carts. But, you would only see women and children gathering water at the wells. It makes me happy that carrying water on motos and bikes is manly.

Pictures

2009-04-01T10:41:00.019-06:00

Hard at work

Tea break

Makan and me Work is "A bana" (finished in Bambara)Makan demonstrating the faucet

Water!!!

Transporting water

A few random pictures

The little boy was TERRIFIED of me! You have come a long way, mon terriche!

Rainbow!

More pictures with details to come!

Where do I even begin?

2009-03-27T12:53:00.003-06:00

My sleeping arrangements in hot season

We still don’t have internet. I was managing just fine until we had a taste of the apple (internet in the old bureau for like 10 days), and we (Sikasso Kaw) are about to go crazy! I bet the IT guy at PC has my number blocked…

On 03/19/09 Ransom, Adele, Yacuba (cabbie), and Ransom’s counterpart went to go see Oumo Sangare. I was so underdressed. Malian women wore prom like outfits; I looked like I gardened all day. It was fun even though I only understood a word (okay 4 words). I had to leave at 12:30 am because I was exhausted.

Digging for installing the pipes for the faucet

The most important news is that the faucet was installed on March 24th. I’ve been reflecting a lot, and it’s so absurd how you can work on a project for a year and it’s done it a day. I am extremely happy that everything worked out, even with the few bumps. We will have our final faucet meeting on Sunday to discuss the future, strengths/weaknesses of the project, etc.

03/26/09 was a holiday. It was when Mali DECIDED that they were going to become independent (Mali’s Independence Day is September 22).

I am disappointed that the Worldwise School Program didn’t work out. I wrote to a school in South Carolina in December and have yet to hear from them. It would have been nice for the teacher to explain or just inform me that the relationship was terminating.

I started studying for the GMAT. It’s unfortunate that during the test, you can’t use paper. They give you “slabs” (dry erase boards) to do your scratch work and the actual exam is given on a computer. I guess I’m old fashion, but I would prefer the pencil/paper test.

I thought more was happening in my life, but I thought wrong.

The cyber cafe is SO SLOW today. It has taken me an hour for 2 pictures. More next time.

New Bureau, No internet

2009-03-15T09:27:00.003-06:00

This week was fine. We had a lovely new bureau with no internet. I am the regional technical assistant so everybody has been texting me, "when are we going to get internet?" The thing is, I have no idea. So, I am being persistent (annoying the PC IT guy) but all I want is to stay in the loop.

The guy at the water place that needs to sign/stamp the paper is on vacation. We will go again this week.

It is starting to get hot, but I can still sleep at night so it's not full-fledge hot season.

Jumping through hoops

2009-03-05T07:22:00.003-06:00

Makan and I went to the water company, the mayor's office, and the environment conservation office to get the right "documents" to begin the faucet project. I feel like they want to see us jumping through hoops. The question is how many hoops do we have to go through? It seems like a lot of stereotypical protocol. It seems like people want to feel important, give you a piece of paper with shoddy craftsmanship (nearly always has errors) that they made their secretary type, and then they stamp it with an official stamp. Then they sign next to the stamp. I once asked a Malian to sign on the line. He adamantly refused. He was going to sign beside the stamp, darn it! I have to go back to the mayor's office and the water company this afternoon. Good thing I'm good at waiting!

So, it's official: Sikasso is getting a new bureau! It's magnificent. But, there is so many things we need to get rid of before moving. Yesterday, I threw away a piece of paper from 2001!! (Unfortunately, there is no recycling center here. But, I always use the back of papers.)

Here's something you don't see everyday: I saw a dead donkey on the side of the road. Last night, he was real sick (laying down, diarrheaing...not a good sign). Today he was dead.

Schedule:
~Trying to get the official stamps so the work for the faucet can begin (enshallah)
~Going to Woroni with PC because I am at a dead end.
~Planning and organizing (with Laura) a regional meeting for the 1st year volunteers for the end of April
~Meeting a sorority sister in Paris in May!
~Close of Service conference midMay!
~Job searching/applying/trying to get resume ready; beginning to think about life post PC
~Attempting to finish Guns, Germs, and Steel (I started this book in October!)

Senegal, Birthday, and Internet Fun!

2009-02-25T12:17:00.028-06:00

Senegal

Linds and me waiting on our cab driver in Sikasso...
Cute neighbor that always greets me

Senegal was absolutely amazing! While Team Mali didn't do so great at softball (0-4), we had a marvelous time!

Our journey began a little rocky b/c we were lied to (surprise). We were going to leave at 6 am with Malians aboard.

Anna and me...smiling early in the morning....before being lied to

They pick us up ON TIME! What a shocker! But then they drove us to the bus station, and we have to switch buses. Then they told us we are leaving at 14. 14 turned out to be 15, but whatever. We got to Kayes, spent a few hours there and then departed for Dakar!! It was probably one of the longest bad roads I have been on. I'm talking like 9 hours of unpaved road on a big bus. 24 hours from Kayes to Dakar. Anyway, we finally made it! I went to get my bag off the bus, and my bag (sorry Jamie!) was the last bag....drenched in gasoline. And they tried to wipe it off with their hand! Really?! Anyway, I demanded soap, even though I knew I would have to clean it later.

We were the first volunteers at the American Club. I had to rewash my bag. But, I took hands down, a shower that would make it in top 3 of "Best Showers of my Life". Marvelous! I also got a ham and cheese sandwich (yes, the cheese was melted:)

My first of many ham sandwiches

My homestay then ran into another problem. Our homestay "mom and dad" were out of town and didn't tell the guard or maid we were coming! So, we finally got in, but we didn't have mattresses. Sigh.

02/14: I made it on time to our first game! We played some high school kids and they handed it to us. I did go swimming even though it was so cold!

That afternoon, we had another game.

That evening, the Marines hosted a party. It was so much fun! And, we auctioned off a fellow PCV to raise money for Gender and Development. Casey was one of two that actually got bought. Every body else got their country to buy them! Way to go Casey!
02/15: We played another two games. I overslept for the first game. Whoops. Really, who puts the social softball teams at 9 am? That afternoon, I went downtown with Amanda and Mariska to eat at N'ice Cream. It was FANTASTIC!!! Chocolate and caramel deliciousness in a cone!

That evening, there was a huge party near the ocean. It was crazy!

Adele and me before hitting the party

HUGE lab at our homestay...miss you Kdog!

02/16: I went with some PCVs to Goree Island. It was a nice boat trip. It was also good getting out of the American club bubble. We had lunch by the sea, and walked around. Unfortunately, the slave castle was closed for no apparently reason (TIA), but I still had a great time.
me, Anna, Maridee, and Laura on the boat to Goree Island

Goree Island

Ben, Laura, Maridee, Pete, me, and Anna
Cannon's classic
02/17: Several PCVs decided to rent a beach house. So, we rented a bus (totally got ripped off...I HATE getting ripped off!) and we down to the beach house.

Amanda and me...South Carolina girls!

It was just fine for us, but I chuckled to myself if I came from America, how furious I would be if they told me, and this is your beach house. We had a great time! I played Spades, laid on the beach, and ate lots of sea food. That evening, we had a pretty incredible dance party.

Sunset from the roof

02/18: Another day at the beach! Went on a lovely walk, read, napped. That evening, we took group pictures on the beach. And, I did a backhand spring on the beach! Normally, this would not be impressive, but I haven't done one in oh 5 years! Anotoli would have been saddened by how ugly it was, but I was so impressed that my body was able to hold me up!
Jumping! I wish jumping pictures were cool when I was in high school...I could really jump back then

Linds, Ashley, and me watching the sunset

The Breakfast Club! (not everybody who came)

Meg, Becky, Anna, Dave, Emily, Lindsay, me, Mariska

One of my favorite picts

We had another feast, thanks to Rabbit! That evening was chill. Everybody was trying to get their stuff ready to leave.

02/19: We began waiting on transportation to Dakar at 6 am. I don't know what time we got it, but we made it to the bus station at 10:30 am. We walk in and are told that a bus leaves for Kayes every morning at 7. I would have liked to seen the devastation on our faces. I can't remember her name, but a lady that works for transportation in Dakar is an angel on earth. She made a few phone calls, and told us we got a bus. We were elated!!! I was so skeptical. West Africans tell you what you want to hear. But this time, she was telling the truth!

It was still terrible road, but at least we were moving!!!

02/20: We got into Kayes, and hung out there for the day. Emily, Kayes Kaw, told us that there is a cage with a hyena and an alligator. I really didn't believe her (I fell for it before....statues my friend). Anyway, she told me that they were alive, so Linds and I went to market and then saw the "zoo?". Sure enough, there was a hyena and an alligator.
This is how we roll in PC
The alligator

The hyena

We had another amazing meal, compliments of Rabbit. She is so talented!!!

02/21: We left the house at 3:45 am to walk to the bus station to get a bus. We were on the express bus, but our express bus got a flat tire. Our 8 hour trip became 10. Oh well.

That evening, we went out to eat to celebrate my birthday! My friends picked up the tab! It meant so much to me because we are all poor (it's all relative) PCVs. I got a roast beef sandwich, fries, and a brownie with ice cream on top! I unfortunately was too tired to dance, so I went back to the hotel room and slept blissfully.

Adele in her "new" outfit and me before dinner

^: Markam, Adele, Kirsten, Anna, Lindsey, me, Maridee

02/22: We left at 8 am to go to Sikasso. It was an uneventful bus ride. That evening, Audra, Maridee, and I had a joint birthday party. It was so much fun! We made spaghetti, salad, garlic bread, and 2 types of brownies! And, my friend Ransom paid for me!

IT'S OFFICIAL: We have internet at our bureau! When we came back from Kayes, there was internet there, and I heard we got it here, and it's true! No more fights with the internet tigis! No more "open" hours! Life is marvelous!

On Monday, I got some birthday boxes!! Encore on Wednesday!

This Saturday, I have a meeting with the village about the faucet. Next Tuesday, Makan and I are going to the water company to set up a time when they will do their part. I am having a really hard time giving them the money. I am going to ask if I can join them shopping.

WAIST 2009

2009-02-15T10:59:00.002-06:00

I am currently sitting in an internet cafe in Dakar, Senegal.

The bus ride was....long. I spent 32 hours on a bus from Bamako to Dakar. We had lots of issues in Bamako, but just typical West Africa. They tell you something whether it's true or not. Americans would say that they are lying, but they don't see it that way. Anyway, we had a late start, but we got her safely and that's all that matters.

Senegal is amazing. I ate at N'ice Cream today. The best icecream I've had in West Africa. It's so crazy how much further along in development Senegal is compared to Mali. One simple example would be covered sewers. All over Senegal, the sewers are covered. Who would have thought the brillance of covering the sewers?

I also just saw a woman outside WALKING A DOG. Unbelievable. I smiled and thought about what the Malians would have said if they saw her.

WAIST is fun. I definitely should have practiced softball. I didn't realize that my hand-eye coordination has been deteriorating.

The Spartanburg Herald Journal recently did a story on a project here. The reason I contacted the newspaper was to help fundraise, but the money has already been raised. So, if you want to help PCVs all around the world, check out www.peacecorps.gov, Donate, Donate to Volunteer Projects.

Long Time

2009-02-07T08:53:00.000-06:00

I need to back up a bit.

The day before I left for Bamako, Echin told me that the village chief died in Woroni. So, instead of getting henna on my feet (like I originally planned), I went to Woroni to pay my respects. I practiced 2 blessings on the way down. Everybody from OMATHO that came was a man, so I had to hang out with the women by myself. After the ceremony, the covered body was placed on a wooden ladder with sides. A group of men singing lead the way to the cemetery, and then a group of men carried the ladder followed the singing men. They walked about 2 miles carrying the body. They had to alternate carrying the ladder. After the men began walking, the women took a short cut to where the men would eventually walk. I was part of this crowd. I’m sure I looked confused because my coworkers were on the other side of the concession. One coworker then explained that everybody was going to the cemetery, and if I wanted, I could follow the women. This was probably the most interesting funeral I have ever attended.

The next day, I went to Bamako. I went to a Mexican restaurant with some other PCVs. The food was sub par, but the company was excellent.

It was absolutely crazy going back to Tubaniso. I hadn’t been back for over a year. Oh how the eyes of experience changes things! I enjoyed meeting new volunteers. My presentation was okay. It was at the end of the day, and everybody was tired, so I cut my part short. After the presentation, there was mud wrestling. I didn’t participate, but I enjoyed watching it. That evening, Lindsay D. arranged a pig feast at the bar. It was marvelous! We shared with the Malians there because if they are at the bar, they either aren’t good Muslims (alcohol) or not Muslims at all. They enjoyed the pig almost as much as we did!

I came back to Sikasso for a day, and then off to Anna’s village I went. Her house is so cute and so neat! We stayed surprisingly busy for village life. There was a funeral, a wedding, and work. We also ran daily. Thanks to my brother and his wife, I have a newfound inspiration to run (music!). Unfortunately, my tennis shoes (I hate saying “sneakers”) need some repairs. The insides of all my tennis shoes cut my heels or cause blisters. I can’t find my duct tape, so I had to tape the insides with medical tape. Anna told me she was “out of shape” but our “out of shape” levels are way different. But, the most important thing is that every day, I ran. It doesn’t matter that Anna could run circles around me.

I’ve become tougher in Mali in so many ways. It takes something pretty heart breaking to make me cry. But, in Anna’s village, one lady’s situation made me want to cry. I was able to control it, but it was ripping me up inside. One of Anna’s friends in village has 6 children. She is pregnant with her 7th. Her 5th and 6th children are malnourished. But to see the youngest at 1 ½ years old, her twig like legs that can’t support her, the patches of baldness on her head, completely unable to walk, can only say one word sentences, broke my heart. And, when the new baby is born, this child will have even less attention. And, I don’t know what’s going to happen because she is currently carried on her mom’s back, but when the newborn baby comes, that’s where the new baby will go.

I don’t know if I was oblivious of deforestation my first year here, but I am starting to notice obscene amounts of firewood. This is definitely an important issue that needs to be addressed soon.

I’ve seen lots of motorcycle accidents in front of my house. 2 in 2 days. Everybody is alive, but the sound of metal clashing makes me say “oh snap” and then I go outside.

It’s a good thing I started running again because of the multiple comments of how fat I’ve gotten (just what you want to hear the week before you go to the beach). For the most part, I have been able to just laugh it off, but I was emotional last week. After I was done running, a 50ish year old man told me how big my stomach is (apple shape…$%#! genetics) and how big my butt is. Tell me what you really think sir. Later, on the same day, a lady told me how fat I was too. I appreciate your honesty (no, couldn’t say that in Bambara). Instead, I went home and cried. I know it’s cultural, and a lot of times, I laugh it off, say thank you, etc. but I couldn’t shake it this week. I try to reverse roles and picture a Malian comes to America and someone tells them how thin they are, and I STILL can’t find that insulting. I don’t think I ever will. Maybe that’s the American in me. The next day, I told Jaba (Echin’s wife) how much my feelings were hurt. She was like it’s Mali. It’s not a bad thing. And, your dad’s fat too. I was able to laugh then.

I am ridiculously excited about going to Senegal next week! And my birthday is coming up, and I have an extremely embarrassing large box coming from Mah.

Cold season is “a banna” (it’s finished). Check out www.accuweather.com if you have time. It’s crazy how fast cold season becomes prehot season.

Life and such

2009-01-17T09:23:00.018-06:00

In the caves of Missikoro

The chief of Adeles village and me

me and Fatima's baby boy

my coworkers and me at work

opening xmas presents

with Echins kids in front of their mini petting farm

mom and will reading

will at dogon country

the fam

will and dad on a boat in mopti

mom, will; and me in a boat

it's bath time

sheep in transport

will and dad in mopti

Last Sunday, I was walking to lunch with Ben and there was chaos. There was a group of people crowded in the intersection. We were walking closer, and then everybody started running AWAY from where we were walking. We turned around, and then the gas hit us. It burned my throat, eyes, and I really thought my nose was bleeding. According to some Malians we asked on the street, a police man caused an accident. A mob then gathered and ripped down the police station and then beat up the police that caused the accident. The Malians said that the individual in the accident was killed, but the next day at work, my homologue said that was false.

This was a big week for me. We had 3 tourists come!!! And, they are from Canada so I could effectively communicate with them! They were super nice, and I do hope I was able to provide them with accurate information.

I am currently dog sitting these next few weeks. I can only imagine the conversations I have sparked. “So, I saw this tubab walking, holding a string connected to a dog! Can you believe that? How weird!” I am confident that is the first time many Malians have seen a dog on a leash. Instead of watching out for neighborhood dogs, I have to watch out for street dogs, donkeys, sheep, and goats. It’s the street dogs I am mainly concerned about because they look at little Keno like an appetizer. Keno’s a character. She eats rocks. No seriously. I think there must be a vitamin deficiency because that’s just not normal. She also likes to take rests in the shade during our walks. A lady yesterday looked at me when Keno refused to go any further (laying in the shade) and said, “Your dog is tired.” I just laughed.

I was planning on going to the Segou music festival, but I can’t because the money is due 2 days before I am going to Bamako. I am a little disappointed, but I have no doubt I will find another way to use the money.

Going to Bamako for a presentation this week!

2009-01-10T09:28:00.013-06:00

Back to Lala Land

So, I’m back to my regular schedule. It’s weird because traveling around exhausted me, but I miss it.
It’s official: I have the best family and friends. I am the luckiest girl in the world.
I am doing a presentation in Bamako in a few weeks, so I am organizing my presentation.

Here are some pictures. I’ll try to put new ones up every week. Will explain the pictures in a few weeks.

Another Point of View

2009-01-05T08:19:00.002-06:00

Hello. This is Katie's American mom, Cecilia, posting a capsule version of our African adventure.

We (me, my husband, our 18 y.o. son, Will) visited Katie for 2 weeks over the Christmas holiday. My favorite part was watching, in amazement, as Katie so effortlessly interacted with the Mali people. I dubbed it the "LaLa Mega" show. We would climb aboard a "bashay"--basically the back of a beat up pick-up truck with 3 benches, minimum of 15 plus people crowded in. And the show would start. Katie would introduce herself, flowing from French to Bambara and back. Then the questions would start. Who we were, where did she work, how her husband and children are (currently nonexistent but just easier to flow with "fine,") I always knew when we got to the punch line because everyone would look at me and start laughing. They have a wonderful tradition of "joking cousins" among family names ( a much kinder version of the Hatfields and McCoys!) Katie gave me the Malian name of "Mah Coulibally" while the rest of the family had the last name of "Maiga." And, as I was introduced, it was explained that since I was a "Coulibally" and not a "Maiga", that I was a donkey and ate beans. It was incredible that this line always brought the house down, everyone would laugh good naturedly. It was just fun.
The most beautiful part of our trip was our hike through the Dogon country. Our guide, Hasseim, is extremely talented (speaks English plus many other languages) and is passionate about explaining African history and customs to visitors. It was wonderful.
Minor aggravation--my luggage never did appear (thank goodness Katie could outfit me but I sure missed my own shoes) and I'm not too convinced that it will ever appear or that Air Maroc will settle a claim.
Health issues--I stuck to bottled water to try to hold those to a minimum. Bill had a "touch" of malaria (my diagnosis based on his symptoms and the Peace Corps Health Handbook) which I could easily, and cheaply, purchase medicine for in the local pharmacy. He responded within the first 36 hours which was a big relief, although I did opt to cut out our return trip through Morocco.
Other thoughts--the Malian people are friendly, beautiful and hard working. Watching those women with babies on their front and back, pulling water from wells and placing these large buckets on their heads to carry long distances was incredible. My hope is that volunteers, like Katie, can do their part, however small or large, to help ease their lives.

Thank you family and friends!!!!

2008-12-31T07:25:00.003-06:00

I am once again overwhelmed by the generosity of my family and friends. The faucet project has been funded. Thank you to all who contributed, your thoughts and prayers, and your enthusiasm for being the backbone of this project.

Happy New Year's!

~Lala

The Cannon's Trip to Mali

2008-12-31T03:36:00.004-06:00

My family made it back safely to the States yesterday. While at times I was extremely overwhelmed, I think that everybody had a lovely time with no regrets (okay, maybe a few) about coming.

It's going to be really difficult for me to sum up everything we did in a few weeks, so here is a brief summary.

After Bamako, we went to Segou. We went to a place where they dye the bogolan (mud cloth). After the demonstration, we each made our own bogolan squares. We had a lovely Italian dinner and saw the sun set over the Niger River.

From Segou, we went to Severe. I saw some other PCVs with their families. We spend the night in Severe, and then the next day explored Mopti. We took a boat ride to a nearby village and ate by the river.

After our day in Mopti, we spend another night in Severe. The next day, we headed out in the morning for Dogon Country. After lunch, we hung out for a few hours and then continued to Dogon. We had a small evening hike, and then stayed at a very nice campament. It was a little area made for tourists. It even had toilets!! Our tour guide pawned us off on his brother. He has a lot to learn from his brother! Dinner was nice. Will and I slept outside. The next morning, we went shopping. We had lunch with Rachel and her family, and then began hiking. Our guide was fantastic! Everybody made it out of Dogon country alive!

After our hike, we spent the night in Mopti. The next day, we left for Sikasso. We got in at 11:30 pm. Will stayed with me and my parents stayed in the hotel.

On Christmas Eve, my family picked up the tab for meatloaf. And, my mom made her infamous banana pudding:) We went to church on Christmas. My family wasn't so impressed with the 2 1/2 hour service in Bambara. It was the first time I saw my mom fall asleep in church! We had lunch at Echin's house. Green beans, chicken, bananas. It was delicious! Then it was nap time. After naps, we opened presents. Thanks to everybody who contributed! Later that evening, we hung out with other volunteers.

The next few days blur together. We were able to see the touristic "sites" of Sikasso in a private car. Also, my dad got real sick. My mom diagnosed him with malaria. We got medicine for him, and the next day he was able to get on a bus for Bamako.

In Bamako, my mom and I were in a cab that got rear ended. Then some time later, the cab broke down. Oh, Mali.

My last supper was shared at a delicious Chinese restaurant. I over-ordered, but you would too if your parents were picking up the bill!

I asked my family to write their experiences of Mali. I hope to post that within the week so you can get a different perspective.

HAPPY NEW YEAR'S! 2009

Yea! My family is here:)

2008-12-16T03:53:00.001-06:00

Well, it's 10:48 am, and my family is asleep in the hotel room.

Their flight was an hour later, but whatev. It was a really long hour waiting outside (you aren't allowed inside unless you have a badge). I eventually talked my way in. It was so great seeing them! My mom's bag unfortunately didn't make it...maybe tomorrow.

Favorite Buba quote:

"Everytime I lick my lips, I taste dirt."

Welcome to Mali!