Friday, August 22, 2008
Monday, July 7, 2008
From Krystal - July 5
Today we had an exam to go over all the things that we had learned over the time that we have been in China. I think that everyone had a good experience learning the many Chinese characters over the 2 month period. I had an awesome time taking the test because it was so easy and to know that I knew all the words and the characters. We also celebrated the Independence day and that was great. The many Chinese friends that we have meet celebrated with us and they had so much fun. We played American games and we even popped fireworks. One of the guy's from China had picked up the fireworks and ran with them and that was so interesting. We had a wonderful time and I think that they liked celebrating the day with us. This was a very good day and to know that we will be leaving soon kinda makes me sad. We have just started hanging out with them just a couple of weeks before we have to leave and I wish that we were hanging out sooner. But since we are hanging out now we have to enjoy the time that we have together. I will miss them dearly and will always remember them.
Wei Jing Ying
Wei Jing Ying
From Shekerra - June 25
Today, Wednesday, June 25, 2008 was interesting in its own way.
First, after waking up extra early and working out then relaxing before class, we found out that we did not have class for the rest of the week. Our teacher is sick and so we do not have language classes but we still have culture class in the evening. Terrance and I went into the city to do a little shopping. It was very hot in the city today! So hot that everyone was eating popsicles all day. I did not buy much..only a few items for my closest friends.
I ate my favorite...McDonalds:-) What really caught my eye and touched my heart was when I saw this very young girl on the ground crawling with her hand out to ask for money. She was handicapped in that she had no lower body at all. I gave to her. I could tell that this really made her day because she smiled at me. I could not help but to glance back many times at her to see how she survived in this hot heat. She was just making it right along. So I've really seen how much Chinese people sacrifice and it continues to amaze me. I am truly blessed for having this opportunity to view such a great and developing country with many, many hospitable people. God bless and may we all continue to remember the phrase "ONE WORLD. ONE DREAM." Good night.
First, after waking up extra early and working out then relaxing before class, we found out that we did not have class for the rest of the week. Our teacher is sick and so we do not have language classes but we still have culture class in the evening. Terrance and I went into the city to do a little shopping. It was very hot in the city today! So hot that everyone was eating popsicles all day. I did not buy much..only a few items for my closest friends.
I ate my favorite...McDonalds:-) What really caught my eye and touched my heart was when I saw this very young girl on the ground crawling with her hand out to ask for money. She was handicapped in that she had no lower body at all. I gave to her. I could tell that this really made her day because she smiled at me. I could not help but to glance back many times at her to see how she survived in this hot heat. She was just making it right along. So I've really seen how much Chinese people sacrifice and it continues to amaze me. I am truly blessed for having this opportunity to view such a great and developing country with many, many hospitable people. God bless and may we all continue to remember the phrase "ONE WORLD. ONE DREAM." Good night.
From Krystal - June 30
Oh my goodness this weekend was amazing.
Friday, the girls went to the party that they have every month for foreigners. We meet a lot of people there. This hotel named the Century Hotel hosts this party once a month for the foreigners here in Zibo and there are many people that are well known in this area. I met a Mississippian, how cool is that, that is from West Point and has been here for a long time.
There were people from all over the world and that was exciting to see them. We entertained them by signing The Temptations "My Girl", it was so funny because the keys were in the wrong place so it kind of confused me on the song. I was like, "I know this song, I have seen this movie so many times why are the keys messed up." But I had to gather myself and remember that I am in a foreign country so they will play the song the way the know it, but it was fun.
I also went to my host family's house and that was awesome. We went to the city Ji Nan, better known for its springs, to the park. The springs were so beautiful. I wish that everyone could have been there with me. I have never seen a place so scenic and so full of positive energy like I did this weekend. It made me think of peace, love, joy, happiness and all the other positive words you could think of. To see how the water in the springs were coming from underneath the ground was a sight. There were many koi fish in the springs that I felt like I was in heaven for those four hours. I must say that I know that Beijing is well known for its culture but I promise you that you have never seen a place like this. I walked into a cave that looked like I was underground, but I was above ground and the spring in this cave was gushing out so much CLEAR water you would not believe. Also while I was at the park there were random people taking pictures of me, which was so weird, asking my host mother if they could take a picture with me, I felt so good.
My host family also dropped a bomb on me and told me that this was the last weekend that I will see them and that was really bad. This weekend was a good one and I wish that this feeling could have lasted a lifetime. I know that I will always remember this trip and especially this weekend. This was the best weekend so far for me and I am in a HAPPY PLACE right now!!
Friday, the girls went to the party that they have every month for foreigners. We meet a lot of people there. This hotel named the Century Hotel hosts this party once a month for the foreigners here in Zibo and there are many people that are well known in this area. I met a Mississippian, how cool is that, that is from West Point and has been here for a long time.
There were people from all over the world and that was exciting to see them. We entertained them by signing The Temptations "My Girl", it was so funny because the keys were in the wrong place so it kind of confused me on the song. I was like, "I know this song, I have seen this movie so many times why are the keys messed up." But I had to gather myself and remember that I am in a foreign country so they will play the song the way the know it, but it was fun.
I also went to my host family's house and that was awesome. We went to the city Ji Nan, better known for its springs, to the park. The springs were so beautiful. I wish that everyone could have been there with me. I have never seen a place so scenic and so full of positive energy like I did this weekend. It made me think of peace, love, joy, happiness and all the other positive words you could think of. To see how the water in the springs were coming from underneath the ground was a sight. There were many koi fish in the springs that I felt like I was in heaven for those four hours. I must say that I know that Beijing is well known for its culture but I promise you that you have never seen a place like this. I walked into a cave that looked like I was underground, but I was above ground and the spring in this cave was gushing out so much CLEAR water you would not believe. Also while I was at the park there were random people taking pictures of me, which was so weird, asking my host mother if they could take a picture with me, I felt so good.
My host family also dropped a bomb on me and told me that this was the last weekend that I will see them and that was really bad. This weekend was a good one and I wish that this feeling could have lasted a lifetime. I know that I will always remember this trip and especially this weekend. This was the best weekend so far for me and I am in a HAPPY PLACE right now!!
From Krystal - June 29
Today was a day better than the rest that I have been having.
We had a good reflection today that broke down a lot of barriers and bridges that had been built up from previous occasions.
We all got to know each other on a more personal level that had not be accomplished in the other reflections that we had previously. I think the 360 was an ideal thing to do, so communications levels could be back into action. We didn't have class today because our teacher was sick which gave us a lot of time to do things we wanted to do. I have been hanging out with my friend Xing Xing and she has been teaching me new Chinese words and I have been teaching here English words. So it works out for the both of us. She is a really nice girl and she considers me her English teacher and her foreign friend. I feel so special to have a friend like her while I am here. I go with my host family tomorrow and we are going to the city named Ji Nan, the capital of Shandong and well known for the springs throughout the city. I am very excited to be going this weekend and I hope to have a wonderful time like always. Keep those prayers rolling, we will be touring the South of China in the upcoming weeks. We will keep you posted on everything. Enjoy the blogs. God Bless.
Wei Jing Ying
We had a good reflection today that broke down a lot of barriers and bridges that had been built up from previous occasions.
We all got to know each other on a more personal level that had not be accomplished in the other reflections that we had previously. I think the 360 was an ideal thing to do, so communications levels could be back into action. We didn't have class today because our teacher was sick which gave us a lot of time to do things we wanted to do. I have been hanging out with my friend Xing Xing and she has been teaching me new Chinese words and I have been teaching here English words. So it works out for the both of us. She is a really nice girl and she considers me her English teacher and her foreign friend. I feel so special to have a friend like her while I am here. I go with my host family tomorrow and we are going to the city named Ji Nan, the capital of Shandong and well known for the springs throughout the city. I am very excited to be going this weekend and I hope to have a wonderful time like always. Keep those prayers rolling, we will be touring the South of China in the upcoming weeks. We will keep you posted on everything. Enjoy the blogs. God Bless.
Wei Jing Ying
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
From Krystal - June 21
This week was a challenge.
The birthday party this week was for Marcus and it turned out very great. The challenge was the planning of the party with Marcus always being around the corner or lurking trying to see what was going on. We had a great time at the party and I was excited that everyone was involved and that everyone enjoyed themselves.
Today was the last day of the culture experience with the painting and stroking of the brush. The teacher also gave us an individual pictures that we enjoyed the most drawing ourselves. We have had a good week and the weeks will continue to improve as we continue our journey. Thank God that Chen Laoshi (Mrs. Piletz) has been here for the tough times and when she is not here we have been handling things on our own. We are very appreciative of the supporters and the individuals that have been looking and reading our blog, and for all the responses and the comments we've received. We will continue to update you on our journeys and adventures. We are soon going to tour South China and that is very exciting for us. I didn't go with my host family last weekend but I intend to go this weekend. Being involved with this immersion makes me use the Chinese that I have learned, Learning new words is also even more exciting learning them from my "Mei-Mei". Other than that is has been good and continue that prayers that are going out for this group. We will be home soon to tell you all of the things we have been involved in and experienced. So get ready for an ear full of amazing stories.
The birthday party this week was for Marcus and it turned out very great. The challenge was the planning of the party with Marcus always being around the corner or lurking trying to see what was going on. We had a great time at the party and I was excited that everyone was involved and that everyone enjoyed themselves.
Today was the last day of the culture experience with the painting and stroking of the brush. The teacher also gave us an individual pictures that we enjoyed the most drawing ourselves. We have had a good week and the weeks will continue to improve as we continue our journey. Thank God that Chen Laoshi (Mrs. Piletz) has been here for the tough times and when she is not here we have been handling things on our own. We are very appreciative of the supporters and the individuals that have been looking and reading our blog, and for all the responses and the comments we've received. We will continue to update you on our journeys and adventures. We are soon going to tour South China and that is very exciting for us. I didn't go with my host family last weekend but I intend to go this weekend. Being involved with this immersion makes me use the Chinese that I have learned, Learning new words is also even more exciting learning them from my "Mei-Mei". Other than that is has been good and continue that prayers that are going out for this group. We will be home soon to tell you all of the things we have been involved in and experienced. So get ready for an ear full of amazing stories.
From Antonay - June 22
This weekend I did not go with my host family, but instead I decided to stay the weekend with my French friend Ness since she will be leaving soon.
We did a little bit of shopping, eating and searched for snacks in the grocery store for an hour Lol...
We didn't do much, but it was still fun because we got to pig out on junk food that was similar to home, watch movies and have girl talk Lol....It was nice having her to talk to this weekend since I haven't really had a chance to talk thoroughly to my close friends from home....That's basically how my weekend went, but I enjoyed it and I will miss her when she leaves in two weeks, but I can now say that not only do I have Chinese friends, but I have a great French friend also.
We did a little bit of shopping, eating and searched for snacks in the grocery store for an hour Lol...
We didn't do much, but it was still fun because we got to pig out on junk food that was similar to home, watch movies and have girl talk Lol....It was nice having her to talk to this weekend since I haven't really had a chance to talk thoroughly to my close friends from home....That's basically how my weekend went, but I enjoyed it and I will miss her when she leaves in two weeks, but I can now say that not only do I have Chinese friends, but I have a great French friend also.
From Antonay - June 21
Everyone have known that Marcus's birthday is Friday June 20 since we got here.....So naturally he has been thinking that we have been planning something to do for him on Friday. It's funny because we actually just started figuring out exactly what it is that we want to do since he is so Weird .........Lol...
When I came back from with my host family last week, I was telling everyone about the Karaoke place that I went to and since then, Marcus has been talking about how he want to go there before we leave. So we decided that that's where we want to have his party. We did our research and found out his favorite foods and flavors and we along with our Chinese friends started planning.
However, because Marcus is so clever, we decided to plan his party on Thursday, the day before his birthday, so that he would be clueless. Chen Laoshi (Ms. Piletz), Marcus and Terrence planned a day out to shop for art, while us girls went "shopping." Well we pretended to shop :)
When we arrived at the Karaoke place, Abbey, our Chines friend, had it decorated so beautifully. So we set out some chicken, his favorite pies, candies and a lemon flavored Birthday Cake and waited for them to arrive....And when they did it was so funny because Marcus didn't have a clue. He was so shocked to the point that it looked as if he wanted to cry.
It was a success. It was Chen Laoshi, Terrance, Shekerra, Ness, Abbey, Felix, Wen Zi, Krystal, Me and Marcus of course and we all sang for hours.....It was one of the better days that I've had here because we enjoyed ourselves together and had plenty of fun. -- Antonay
When I came back from with my host family last week, I was telling everyone about the Karaoke place that I went to and since then, Marcus has been talking about how he want to go there before we leave. So we decided that that's where we want to have his party. We did our research and found out his favorite foods and flavors and we along with our Chinese friends started planning.
However, because Marcus is so clever, we decided to plan his party on Thursday, the day before his birthday, so that he would be clueless. Chen Laoshi (Ms. Piletz), Marcus and Terrence planned a day out to shop for art, while us girls went "shopping." Well we pretended to shop :)
When we arrived at the Karaoke place, Abbey, our Chines friend, had it decorated so beautifully. So we set out some chicken, his favorite pies, candies and a lemon flavored Birthday Cake and waited for them to arrive....And when they did it was so funny because Marcus didn't have a clue. He was so shocked to the point that it looked as if he wanted to cry.
It was a success. It was Chen Laoshi, Terrance, Shekerra, Ness, Abbey, Felix, Wen Zi, Krystal, Me and Marcus of course and we all sang for hours.....It was one of the better days that I've had here because we enjoyed ourselves together and had plenty of fun. -- Antonay
From Terrance - June 18
| Today has been great! Shakerra and I woke early to join the Chinese students in their morning excercise.
|
From Shekerra - June 18
Today, I was tired so it was a rough day as far as that goes. Class was ok... I'm glad that Chen laoshi (Ms. Piletz) is back with us for two weeks.
Antonay, Terrance, and I went into the city to get a cake for Marcus' birthday which is on Friday. He likes lemon cake and I do too, so that's what we got. Other than that nothing that interesting happened.
Antonay, Terrance, and I went into the city to get a cake for Marcus' birthday which is on Friday. He likes lemon cake and I do too, so that's what we got. Other than that nothing that interesting happened.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
From Krystal - June 13
Today was a good day.
The art classes that we completed this week was great. Marcus, Terrance and I were very interested in learning the method strokes of painting here.
I am beginning to learn more Chinese words and sentences for conversations with my Chinese friends. Having Chinese friends makes being here more fun, without them this trip would be boring. I have been enjoying my time here, although I am ready to go home. Not being able to talk with my family is much harder than I thought.
The Chinese has embraced us as one of their own and that makes me realize that being here race is not an issue. Yes, they may look at us a little strange from time to time but I think that makes us stand out in a crowd. They often look at my hair and wonder. They tell me all the time that my hair is very interesting and that is amazing how they find little things about a person and appreciate. I now know how it feels to be a foreigner. Being here has made me open my eyes to the possibilities that are available not only in America, but in France, Russia, China and all over the world. I want others to experience this for themselves and take part of this culture of humbleness and stress-free attitude with them for the rest of their lives. The Chinese has a way of showing you that you are one of them and that they enjoy having you in their country.
Even though I am ready to go home, the friends that I have met here will make it extremely hard to go. I have grown as a person of morals, ethics and respect for others and I thank God that I have had this opportunity of a lifetime to experience this for myself.
To my supporters and those that have kept this group and myself in their prayers thank you for your prayers and your support is what makes us who we are and stronger by the day.
Wei Jing Ying
The art classes that we completed this week was great. Marcus, Terrance and I were very interested in learning the method strokes of painting here.
I am beginning to learn more Chinese words and sentences for conversations with my Chinese friends. Having Chinese friends makes being here more fun, without them this trip would be boring. I have been enjoying my time here, although I am ready to go home. Not being able to talk with my family is much harder than I thought.
The Chinese has embraced us as one of their own and that makes me realize that being here race is not an issue. Yes, they may look at us a little strange from time to time but I think that makes us stand out in a crowd. They often look at my hair and wonder. They tell me all the time that my hair is very interesting and that is amazing how they find little things about a person and appreciate. I now know how it feels to be a foreigner. Being here has made me open my eyes to the possibilities that are available not only in America, but in France, Russia, China and all over the world. I want others to experience this for themselves and take part of this culture of humbleness and stress-free attitude with them for the rest of their lives. The Chinese has a way of showing you that you are one of them and that they enjoy having you in their country.
Even though I am ready to go home, the friends that I have met here will make it extremely hard to go. I have grown as a person of morals, ethics and respect for others and I thank God that I have had this opportunity of a lifetime to experience this for myself.
To my supporters and those that have kept this group and myself in their prayers thank you for your prayers and your support is what makes us who we are and stronger by the day.
Wei Jing Ying
Monday, June 16, 2008
From Shekerra - June 15
My weekend was lovely!
I left on Friday so I could spend a little more time with my Chinese family. My host mother, sister, and I went grocery shopping at the RT Mart. We bought a lot of things..mainly snack and American junk food for my friends and me :-). I got peanut butter, bread, Doritos, Cheetos, Chinese candy, M&M, Lays, Oreos, Chinese fruit juices, double mint gum, and big bottles of water.
I was really grateful for all the things they do for me. Then we ate at KFC..which is pronounced "ken de ji". We went home and just relaxed. I always get a chance to talk to my host family when I go to my family's home. I really enjoyed spending time with them. I stayed up until about 1a.m. talking. On Saturday, I slept really late and I enjoyed it too. My host mom had to work all day so my little sister Nancy and I stayed at home. During lunchtime,we picked my mother up at Zibo Vocational College and then went to a restaurant down the street that all of the JSU students like to hang out during the week. They liked it! I ordered the usual...sweet and sour chicken and homemade french fries. They ordered some type of soup with cabbage and seafood, rice, tofu soup,and sweet potatoes. The sweet & sour potatoes look like fries but they are not. I enjoyed watching them eat at a restaurant that I picked out. We dropped Mama off at school and headed home. I was on my computer emailing and talking for awhile. Then I did my homework. Today is Father's Day and I woke up early. My family was rushing me so they could go to my mother's father's house. I got back to school early and shortly after I got back Terrance came back too.
We were happy to see each other and then Terrance, Auny, and I went shopping with our Chinese friends Abby and Felix. We shopped all day and brought back a lot of nice gifts for friends and family. I thoroughly had a nice time this weekend!
Happy Father's Day Daddy and to all of the rest of the fathers
I left on Friday so I could spend a little more time with my Chinese family. My host mother, sister, and I went grocery shopping at the RT Mart. We bought a lot of things..mainly snack and American junk food for my friends and me :-). I got peanut butter, bread, Doritos, Cheetos, Chinese candy, M&M, Lays, Oreos, Chinese fruit juices, double mint gum, and big bottles of water.
I was really grateful for all the things they do for me. Then we ate at KFC..which is pronounced "ken de ji". We went home and just relaxed. I always get a chance to talk to my host family when I go to my family's home. I really enjoyed spending time with them. I stayed up until about 1a.m. talking. On Saturday, I slept really late and I enjoyed it too. My host mom had to work all day so my little sister Nancy and I stayed at home. During lunchtime,we picked my mother up at Zibo Vocational College and then went to a restaurant down the street that all of the JSU students like to hang out during the week. They liked it! I ordered the usual...sweet and sour chicken and homemade french fries. They ordered some type of soup with cabbage and seafood, rice, tofu soup,and sweet potatoes. The sweet & sour potatoes look like fries but they are not. I enjoyed watching them eat at a restaurant that I picked out. We dropped Mama off at school and headed home. I was on my computer emailing and talking for awhile. Then I did my homework. Today is Father's Day and I woke up early. My family was rushing me so they could go to my mother's father's house. I got back to school early and shortly after I got back Terrance came back too.
We were happy to see each other and then Terrance, Auny, and I went shopping with our Chinese friends Abby and Felix. We shopped all day and brought back a lot of nice gifts for friends and family. I thoroughly had a nice time this weekend!
Happy Father's Day Daddy and to all of the rest of the fathers
Thursday, June 12, 2008
From Shekerra - June 10
Ni Hao! Today was nice. I've been waking up at around 5:15am to go work out.
This morning I didn't get up. The bed was so lovely, so I caught up on some much needed rest, since I had been getting up very early the rest of the week.
On my way to class, I stopped to get breakfast. In class today, we talked about Pinying and writing paragraphs. After class, Terrance and I did get our workout in during the midday. It was very humid! Later I ate my favorite fruit while I'm here...Watermelon. I chilled in the room a while and then it was time for class again. This week is painting and it was kind of interesting. Next was English teaching. The class was fun.The students were very interesting and energetic! Lastly, Antonay, Terrance, and I went to eat at a restaurant that we normally go to. I enjoyed the day and hanging with my buddies.
This morning I didn't get up. The bed was so lovely, so I caught up on some much needed rest, since I had been getting up very early the rest of the week.
On my way to class, I stopped to get breakfast. In class today, we talked about Pinying and writing paragraphs. After class, Terrance and I did get our workout in during the midday. It was very humid! Later I ate my favorite fruit while I'm here...Watermelon. I chilled in the room a while and then it was time for class again. This week is painting and it was kind of interesting. Next was English teaching. The class was fun.The students were very interesting and energetic! Lastly, Antonay, Terrance, and I went to eat at a restaurant that we normally go to. I enjoyed the day and hanging with my buddies.
From Antonay - June 10
Well, since everything has been pretty much going the same....I'll just tell you guys about my weekend.
Last weekend I didn't stay with my host family, but instead I stayed with the neighbor, Tami. She's 24 years old and was so much fun to be around. She, her mother and her friends made me feel excessively welcome.
We did karaoke, ate at a nice outdoor dinner, where they got me to try the fish that still had the eye balls and we just hung out. Just simply hanging out was refreshing because I felt so comfortable around them and they actually understood everything that I said and they were so encouraging when I spoke Chinese. I am really looking forward to this weekend and hanging with Tami and her family again.
Last weekend I didn't stay with my host family, but instead I stayed with the neighbor, Tami. She's 24 years old and was so much fun to be around. She, her mother and her friends made me feel excessively welcome.
We did karaoke, ate at a nice outdoor dinner, where they got me to try the fish that still had the eye balls and we just hung out. Just simply hanging out was refreshing because I felt so comfortable around them and they actually understood everything that I said and they were so encouraging when I spoke Chinese. I am really looking forward to this weekend and hanging with Tami and her family again.
From Marcus - June 9
This weekend was very educational. I learned the proper way to use chop sticks as well as how to play Chinese checkers.
My host father picked me up as usual along with my little brother. Together we went to Torch Park and I taught Solomon how to play Frisbee.
Later we went back to my host uncle’s house where we watched China play India in soccer. The next day we went shopping, and I bought a tea set and a jade cross. Later that day I went back to school.
---- By Marcus
My host father picked me up as usual along with my little brother. Together we went to Torch Park and I taught Solomon how to play Frisbee.
Later we went back to my host uncle’s house where we watched China play India in soccer. The next day we went shopping, and I bought a tea set and a jade cross. Later that day I went back to school.
---- By Marcus
From Terrance - June 8
Ni Hao, friends and family! I miss you all. But do not worry! Chinese people and culture is treating me well.
I did not have class or teach English today because we are celebrating Dragon Boat Festival, a 2000-year-old Chinese holiday. One of the Chinese oldest holidays began when a very patriotic poet drown in a river. In order to save his body from being eaten by fish, the people went out on dragon boat to through zongzi, rice rapped in corn leaves, into the water. This festival celebrates love and community.
Today I am with my host family to celebrate the festival. Thus far, we have been hiking, picking apricots, and eating traditional Chinese cuisine. Hey, have you ever seen huge buzzing bugs? I remember seeing them in Arkansas a lot. Well, the bugs get eaten here...lol.
They are actually not that bad. : ). Hope where ever you are that one day, some day you celebrate your community!
I love my people, thanks for making this trip possible!
I did not have class or teach English today because we are celebrating Dragon Boat Festival, a 2000-year-old Chinese holiday. One of the Chinese oldest holidays began when a very patriotic poet drown in a river. In order to save his body from being eaten by fish, the people went out on dragon boat to through zongzi, rice rapped in corn leaves, into the water. This festival celebrates love and community.
Today I am with my host family to celebrate the festival. Thus far, we have been hiking, picking apricots, and eating traditional Chinese cuisine. Hey, have you ever seen huge buzzing bugs? I remember seeing them in Arkansas a lot. Well, the bugs get eaten here...lol.
They are actually not that bad. : ). Hope where ever you are that one day, some day you celebrate your community!
I love my people, thanks for making this trip possible!
Monday, June 9, 2008
From Krystal - June 6
This week was a very interesting week.
First off we came back from with our host family and we thought that one of our members was kidnapped and we got a little scared.
I got sick this week from the weather changing and all these mosquito bites, so I was a little under the weather.
We have been learning Chinese songs this week and they have been so lovely. I like singing about love and happiness, it makes us feel the same. We have been doing a lot of shopping and enjoying speaking and bargaining with the locals. Immersing ourselves in the culture has really made us appreciate what we have at home.
Being with my host family is not all what I thought it was going to be. I can't say that I enjoy it but I don't hate it. It has been a real experience.
We had our reflection today and we actually got some people to admit that they have been slacking and that was really responsible of them to do. I must say that learning Chinese in the actual country has been a Real rewarding experience and I am glad that I have the opportunity to do this. We have a holiday this week and we have a three day weekend so that we be something to talk about. It is called Dragon Boat Day and it is a boat race and rice eating holiday.
I am still coming back to my dorm on its regular day, I never knew that I would miss this dorm but being away from here makes me want to be here even more. It is nothing like coming to your own. We have lots of stories to tell our family and friends and I know that they will enjoy the trails that we have been through here. I miss my family and I can't wait to see them. Besides me missing my family I think that is the only thing that has me a little sad besides no shrimp fried rice. --- by Krystal
First off we came back from with our host family and we thought that one of our members was kidnapped and we got a little scared.
I got sick this week from the weather changing and all these mosquito bites, so I was a little under the weather.
We have been learning Chinese songs this week and they have been so lovely. I like singing about love and happiness, it makes us feel the same. We have been doing a lot of shopping and enjoying speaking and bargaining with the locals. Immersing ourselves in the culture has really made us appreciate what we have at home.
Being with my host family is not all what I thought it was going to be. I can't say that I enjoy it but I don't hate it. It has been a real experience.
We had our reflection today and we actually got some people to admit that they have been slacking and that was really responsible of them to do. I must say that learning Chinese in the actual country has been a Real rewarding experience and I am glad that I have the opportunity to do this. We have a holiday this week and we have a three day weekend so that we be something to talk about. It is called Dragon Boat Day and it is a boat race and rice eating holiday.
I am still coming back to my dorm on its regular day, I never knew that I would miss this dorm but being away from here makes me want to be here even more. It is nothing like coming to your own. We have lots of stories to tell our family and friends and I know that they will enjoy the trails that we have been through here. I miss my family and I can't wait to see them. Besides me missing my family I think that is the only thing that has me a little sad besides no shrimp fried rice. --- by Krystal
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
From Shekerra - June 4
Today, I woke up bright and early at 6am. We heard last night that there would be an earthquake between 3am and 5am. So once we heard that I set my alarm to wake us up before time, but it didn't go off and everyone was asleep. Thank God nothing happened though!
I laid awake in my bed e-mailing family. We had class from 8 until 11am.
Today class was more interesting than usual to me. I really enjoyed my teacher. She reviewed very well and is helpful with learning new words. Also, she speaks English well.
After class, I headed back to the room and relaxed until it was time for class again. Chinese singing is our culture experience for the week. I like it! It's interesting and we have a great teacher. We have learned "Mo Li Huar," and "Ta Xue Xun Mei." There is a mixture of low tones and high tones. I like doing the high tones in the song. Afterwards, we went to teach.
This week's English class lesson is about American driving and cars. Class was frustrating for me today because my group members were not understanding and I kept explaining and explaining. All in all though today was a nice, productive day! ---By Shekerra
I laid awake in my bed e-mailing family. We had class from 8 until 11am.
Today class was more interesting than usual to me. I really enjoyed my teacher. She reviewed very well and is helpful with learning new words. Also, she speaks English well.
After class, I headed back to the room and relaxed until it was time for class again. Chinese singing is our culture experience for the week. I like it! It's interesting and we have a great teacher. We have learned "Mo Li Huar," and "Ta Xue Xun Mei." There is a mixture of low tones and high tones. I like doing the high tones in the song. Afterwards, we went to teach.
This week's English class lesson is about American driving and cars. Class was frustrating for me today because my group members were not understanding and I kept explaining and explaining. All in all though today was a nice, productive day! ---By Shekerra
From Terrance - June 2
Itʼs Monday in China! Itʼs exciting hearing about every oneʼs weekend with their host families. My family sent everyone sweets as gifts. During Chinese class we practiced on more dialogue to use with friends and family. Wen Zi, a classmate, and I had lunch. I ordered, Fu He Qiezi which is fish and fried eggplant. We often practice English and Chinese over the meal. This evening was interesting. The theme of this weekʼs culture class is Chinese Songs. OMG...I sounded soooooo bad...: ) But the teacher's voice was amazing. I recovered in service learning where my group did awesome in English. ----By Terrance
Monday, June 2, 2008
From Terrance - June 2
This weekend was our first visit to our host family's home. Early Saturday morning I woke to shower and prepare to go with my Chinese family. My host father and cousin picked me up around 9am. My little brother was at school and my host mother was at work. We immediately started to see the city, stopping at a local market, People's Park, and the Torch Park. We enjoyed fried chicken for lunch while we waited for the rest of the family to come home. When my brother came home I help him with his English homework. He is very smart.
Later, my little brother and I stayed over his cousin’s house. We helped the cousin who's in the 8th grade with Algebra and English.
The next morning the two taught me Kong Fu, it was very relaxing. We had soy drink, ham, and peaches for breakfast. It was Children's Day, so two other cousins came over. They taught me how to play Chinese chess. The youngest cousin beat us all. A third grader beat a 6th grader (my brother), an 8th grader( a cousin), a 10th grader(a cousin), and me, a junior in college. We laughed and played with the pet turtles. My host father took us to the park, there were a lot of families. We ended the day making dinner, duck head, dumplings, and fried fish.
---- By Terrance
Later, my little brother and I stayed over his cousin’s house. We helped the cousin who's in the 8th grade with Algebra and English.
The next morning the two taught me Kong Fu, it was very relaxing. We had soy drink, ham, and peaches for breakfast. It was Children's Day, so two other cousins came over. They taught me how to play Chinese chess. The youngest cousin beat us all. A third grader beat a 6th grader (my brother), an 8th grader( a cousin), a 10th grader(a cousin), and me, a junior in college. We laughed and played with the pet turtles. My host father took us to the park, there were a lot of families. We ended the day making dinner, duck head, dumplings, and fried fish.
---- By Terrance
From Krystal - June 1
Today we had a good day today, we had our reflection and everyone had a good week this week. This was our first week of classes and we were quite productive. Learning new words and sentence structures were very helpful. Tomorrow we are going to meet our host families for the first time and I think that everyone is a little nervous.
We also had our ESL classes today and it seems that everyday the students are more and more interested in what we are saying. Some of them are nervous to speak English and we have to tell them to be confident in what they are saying, the same with us speaking Chinese. The sentences that our teachers have been giving us in class for dialogue has been helpful, that is usually how I break the ice so to speak with the Chinese students that I am teaching. The group is still having its problems but I think that since Chen Loashi is gone we have to step up and solve problems on our own and that has made us closer as a group. I must say that I have really enjoyed this week and looking forward to what the other weeks have to offer. We are meeting new friends here and they are all nice. The Chinese are very polite people except when they drive. They drive really crazy. Walking everywhere I must say is slimming me down. I can't wait to get home and tell all the stories that I have experienced here.
Wei Jing Ying AKA Krystal
We also had our ESL classes today and it seems that everyday the students are more and more interested in what we are saying. Some of them are nervous to speak English and we have to tell them to be confident in what they are saying, the same with us speaking Chinese. The sentences that our teachers have been giving us in class for dialogue has been helpful, that is usually how I break the ice so to speak with the Chinese students that I am teaching. The group is still having its problems but I think that since Chen Loashi is gone we have to step up and solve problems on our own and that has made us closer as a group. I must say that I have really enjoyed this week and looking forward to what the other weeks have to offer. We are meeting new friends here and they are all nice. The Chinese are very polite people except when they drive. They drive really crazy. Walking everywhere I must say is slimming me down. I can't wait to get home and tell all the stories that I have experienced here.
Wei Jing Ying AKA Krystal
From Antonay - June 1
Being here in China has been a GREAT experience so far. Not only have I gotten a chance to meet Chinese students, but I have also befriended some French students too.
Being here is really humbling because it's almost as if they live in poverty, but they think of it as so much more than that.
They don't look at their broken down houses as being poor or nearly homeless, they look at them as the suburbs. I couldn't imagine living in homes in the conditions that I've seen & I respect them so much more.
Zibo students are so welcoming, helpful and friendly. Plus, they are helping me to better myself as I learn the Chinese language. Not to mention the fact that the shopping is GREEEEEEEEEEAAAT!!!!
Outside of the very different food that Ive been eating, being here in China so far has been exactly what I thought it would be, Wonderful. I even have a spot on the front of Zibo newspaper....how exclusive is that:) I've adjusted well as far as sleeping goes & have gotten used to walking almost Everywhere. I just look at it as exercise. Chinese traffic is extremely Crazy, but funny. The buses are always almost running over the bike riders and the bike riders are always almost running over us......It's funny. Despite the fact that some of us are taking longer to adjust than others, being here is great & I'm glad and blessed to have this experience.
Until next time........Shang Di Bao You Ni
Being here is really humbling because it's almost as if they live in poverty, but they think of it as so much more than that.
They don't look at their broken down houses as being poor or nearly homeless, they look at them as the suburbs. I couldn't imagine living in homes in the conditions that I've seen & I respect them so much more.
Zibo students are so welcoming, helpful and friendly. Plus, they are helping me to better myself as I learn the Chinese language. Not to mention the fact that the shopping is GREEEEEEEEEEAAAT!!!!
Outside of the very different food that Ive been eating, being here in China so far has been exactly what I thought it would be, Wonderful. I even have a spot on the front of Zibo newspaper....how exclusive is that:) I've adjusted well as far as sleeping goes & have gotten used to walking almost Everywhere. I just look at it as exercise. Chinese traffic is extremely Crazy, but funny. The buses are always almost running over the bike riders and the bike riders are always almost running over us......It's funny. Despite the fact that some of us are taking longer to adjust than others, being here is great & I'm glad and blessed to have this experience.
Until next time........Shang Di Bao You Ni
From Instructor Mei-Chi
My students and I are currently in Zibo, Shandong, China. We are not in the earthquake hit area, because Chinese government doesn't want non essential people going into the area. Too many volunteers from other provinces or countries potentially cost the local government (Sichuan province) more money to feed these outsiders.
People need to apply for permission to get in the earthquake hit area. What we have been doing is donating money to Chinese Red Cross and other national organizations approved b
y Chinese government.
Meanwhile JSU students will start their summer classes and service learning at Zibo Vocational College (ZVC) next Monday (5/26,5/27) teaching Chinese students English and American culture/ history. Next Tuesday ZVC will officially launch a "2008 JSU teacher/students language/cultural immersion and service learning program" on campus. The media from City of Zibo will be present next Tuesday as well. I have been meeting with ZVC's administration this week to plan out this summer's program for JSU students.
Next weekend I'll fly to Taipei to meet with our second group (3 JSU, 4 MSU) of students studying in Taiwan. I plan to stay there till mid June.Mei-Chi
People need to apply for permission to get in the earthquake hit area. What we have been doing is donating money to Chinese Red Cross and other national organizations approved b
y Chinese government.Meanwhile JSU students will start their summer classes and service learning at Zibo Vocational College (ZVC) next Monday (5/26,5/27) teaching Chinese students English and American culture/ history. Next Tuesday ZVC will officially launch a "2008 JSU teacher/students language/cultural immersion and service learning program" on campus. The media from City of Zibo will be present next Tuesday as well. I have been meeting with ZVC's administration this week to plan out this summer's program for JSU students.
Next weekend I'll fly to Taipei to meet with our second group (3 JSU, 4 MSU) of students studying in Taiwan. I plan to stay there till mid June.Mei-Chi
From Terrance - May 28
The pics are Zibo Institute, and culture class.
China has been great thus far, students at Zibo welcome us and are always eager to dialogue w/ us in English and Chinese. A day in china consists of:
- morning running(6am w/ several thousand zibo students)
- shower then breakfast by 7:45
- chinese lang class from 8am-11am.
- lunch til 2:30 then culture(dance, cooking, kong fu..etc) til 4:30.
- then service learning(teaching english/american culture) til 5:30.
- dinner then study, hang with french and chinese students.
My chinese is improving more than ever thanks to friends and my host family(who's a bank manager of 17 local banks) the father.
My most memberable moment was opening the bath room door....lol...the chinese use swaters.
I haven't talked 2 my family but I love and miss them more each day.
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
From Marcus
So far my stay in China has been wonderful. There are so many new things to see and do it's mind boggling. So far we are teaching English and going to class. Our teachers are very patient and helpful. Zibo Vocational College has offered us an excuse from class and also a leave from the school in order to help those in need, but so far we don't have the funds to support our trip. So far we are not very near the devastated area. My Chinese, as well as the others, is coming along nicely. I've learned so many new words to use. My family is very worried about me being so far out of touch but they are with me and my decision to make this trip. I use e-mail to talk to them, just to keep it simple.
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