More About China

Weather
Wow! I have never been to many places that had that much humidity. Shanghai was a bit humid, but nothing bad compared to the south. Granted, Guangxi province is near the tropics, but still, from what I remember, the East Coast isn’t even that bad…or it may be a wee bit similar. All I remember is that it felt like 90% humidity, even if it was only in the 80%s. Granted, we did have a few days here and there when it reached 90 and above – one day it was (supposedly) reported to have reached 100% humidity….then add the heat! The heat was not bad, but at least in Nanning & Guilin, the humidity was what was worst for me. I can stand heat, like in Beijing, but add humidity, I have trouble. It actually was kind of funny ‘cause we (the group) would be sitting in our air-conditioned hotel – in Nanning – and we would walk outside to go to the “bubble tea” place, and within five minutes, we all – didn’t matter who – would pretty much be covered in sweat. The humidity was so great we just would be drenched. This became annoying more so when we went to go visit the schools and the students would take us around the campus. We ended up dabbing our faces with Kleenex.
On the other hand, we did see rain. Rain in China, at least the south, is NOTHING like rain in Oregon. When it rains, it no only pours, but it dumps buckets. The raindrops are huge, the length of the pouring out of water from the heavens above usually lasts about half an hour or so. When walking in this “lovely” act of nature, one would either get pretty well soaked. Hence, we learned fast that when the rain came, it was best to scurry inside to a local business and wait out the rain. Next to nobody would be out in the streets, even with an umbrella, few dared to venture in the rain. On top of that, the winds sometimes picked up, and then we have driving rain. The wind made it worse. The rain was just incredibly thick and there was just SO much. I guess it is just one of those things one has to experience.

Poverty
I have not seen much poverty in the U.S., but I know it exists. People from other places, I feel, fail to realize it, or realize the extent of it. I have heard reports, numbers, and stats regarding this issue, but numbers alone cannot depict how poverty presents itself in our culture/society.
While in China, I saw the poverty. I saw people begging for money. I saw amongst the poor people exchanging smokes and seeing if the others were able to gather money. I have seen women with a baby or young child in their arms walking up to us (whatever group we were in) and trying to show us their child and just begging for money…or something. That is all they know how to try to provide for their child and themselves. What they do with the few Yuan they get here and there, I don’t know. But it broke my heart to see so much poverty, to see these individuals who would probably never have any chance in the Chinese society, to move out of that poverty. Additionally, if one has a limitation (or what some might call a “disability,”) they tend to be in with the poor group, too. I would think being poor with a [physical/mental/emotional] limitation would be the worst living situation in China.
Our group was fortunate enough to visit Tiananmen Square. In one of the underpasses/walkways under the street to get to the Forbidden City, I saw a man with no hands, begging people as they walked by. He had a towel with something on it, but I tried not to be rude and stare – although staring is completely acceptable in China. But it broke my heart to see him there, to not be able to help him (and I know I can’t help ALL of the people in the world, but work with me,) that nobody else cared to give him a second glance…Poverty in China to me was a solemn reminder of the many blessings I have. I don’t feel I truly saw the extreme effects of poverty’s fowl blow, but while traveling, I did see some rice patty fields, and other farming areas, but I did not see first-hand how poverty affected those small areas one could see driving by.
In all of the places I have been, I have yet to see where there is no poverty that is so prevalent. Maybe not everyone can see it at first glance; maybe one cannot see it in the short time that they visit another place, but it still exists and if one looks hard and long enough (not to say that you all should go looking for the poor out in the streets,) one can see it.

Commodities
Again, I am reminded of the many blessings we have here in America. There seems to be, or at least the feel for the need for, in every household, a: computer, washer, dryer, TV (w/cable or other dish service,) more than one car (or at least one car,) microwave, stove/oven, computer w/working internet, refrigerator, and other devices. Don’t get me wrong: I am not saying these are bad, but not everyone has them. In fact, I did not hear of anyone having a dryer. They hang-dry their clothes. They believe that the sun kills the bacteria and does a better job of drying clothing versus a dryer machine.
I did note, though, that it seemed as if there were a TV in every household. Someone who was a missionary in Mexico told me the same. Families would buy a TV on credit and take a year or two (maybe even more) to pay off the TV. It is interesting not only to see how MUCH we have in the average American home, but also to see the differences around the world in regards to what people desire most to have in their homes, whether it is a personal desire, or a culturally/socially influenced decision.
Still, when I think about it, I am just blown away at the ease of access to such commodities and how much we own. I honestly can’t put it to words. Yet again, though, as was in Argentina, I found myself not wanting that which I did not have. Truly, had I not planned to try and “blog” or email updates of my travels, I felt no need to use the internet, nor did I really even want to. I would have been perfectly fine not checking my email nor going online by any means…. unfortunately, though, there were some things that came up that I did, in fact, have to check my email…and I was lucky I did, too, and was able to see what I needed to see in time. I am ever the more thankful for what I have, or rather, those things to which I have access.

The People
As stereotypical as this may sound, the students I visited and spoke with are such talented, young, enthusiastic individuals with such great potential. They all possess a drive and desire to learn and grow. They all want to know so much, to excel to do their best and to just soak in as much as they can. Some may say that these traits and such are forced on them, are ingrained in their minds, but I truly only believe that is just a small part of it. When speaking to the students one-on-one, one can see and tell that they are truly genuine and sincere when they disclose their plans for life, their dreams to enter uni, their desire to learn English better by going to America. (By the way, from what I noticed, if you claimed to be from the United States, many would give you a puzzled look. But if you said you were from America, they would immediately understand.)
Other people, say walking along the street, would stare, use a cloth to cover their face (because they were afraid of catching the swine flu or something,) say what few words they knew in English over and over and over as they passed by, or just did whatever else they wanted to do, showing their displeasure – it was usually displeasure – that we were there. I grew accustomed to the stares, and in fact, if one stared at me, like someone suggested, I stared back! And sure enough, they would look away or stop staring at me. (Hey: if they can do it and it is culturally acceptable, then why can’t I?) ;-P Anywho, it was annoying at first, but then I got used to it. Overall, though, the people were alright. Not super nice, but not mean/mean-spirited either. (I could say more, but that would cause me to have to tell stories.) :o)

China: Episode II

Friday, 11 June 2009

Today was our first school visit. We visited Nanning High School No. 3. Upon arrival, we found a group of students to greet us and show us the grounds. We also were greeted by the director of the high school. And seriously, their high school is like a university for us...and they thought their high school was small, especially compared to that of the U.S. - It took some self-control not to laugh...but I guess that many things in America are "BIG," so they would think that just about everything, if not everything, is big in America. Now having been in China for about a week, things in America seem small.

As we were touring the campus, there were people there picking fresh mangos from the trees that grew on campus. We each got to eat a freshly picked mango. Now, I am not a mango girl, but I now am. The campus is very beautiful, and Nanning H.S. No. 3 is one of the largest h.s. in Nanning. After a quick tour, which lead us to their library, we headed upstairs where several of the students had arranged to perform for us. The performances included: martial arts, painting & calligraphy demo, singing, basketball tricks, and a vocal "beat-boxing" that the person used for several of the performances. We, our group "we," were called on to do some things..we danced a wee bit, and after a bit of awkwardness on my part (long story,) I eventually was asked to sign a song which two of our group members tried to sing - they forgot the words. Ooops! But they attempted to sing "A Whole New World" form Alladin. To finish off the "talents," our group sang the American National Anthem. We chatted with the students for some time, and then headed off. They all waved us off as we left.

Okay: two notes about this school. 1.) There was a camera crew who followed us around, and that will follow us for the schools we visit in Nanning. 2.) As we were entering the campus, they had hung, between two palm trees (or forms of palm trees) a welcome sign that was both in Chinese with the English meaning below. Very sweet.

During the evening, after dinner, we conversed with the students who come at night to improve their English. We broke into small groups and discussed the differences between Chinese and American cultures regarding certain topics. Each group addressed one topic, and then each group presented in front of the whole group what each had learned about each others' culture. After presentations, we were able to chat with each other, more of a one-on-one feeling. I was able to show a few students some pictures of snow I had on my memory card. They enjoyed that. Showing pictures, taking pictures, and pictures in general are SUCH a big part of the Chinese culture. I don't know why, but I just find it interesting.

Saturday 20 June 2009

Today was planned to be an "easy" day, more relaxing than the other days previous. During our morning time after breakfast, we conversed with the students - with whom we usually converse with at nighttime - and we played some American icebreaker games. That was fun and I think at least some of the students enjoyed that. Following our time with the students, we had a lunch and then had about an hour and a half break, after which we went and swam in a pool! We ALL were so very thankful that we had this opportunity. I ended up getting a "nice" sunburn, but ONLY on my shoulders and chest where my swimsuit didn't cover...nowhere else...strange. :o/

So, for dinner, and this is really sad, we went to Pizza Hut, BUT......the Pizza Hut here is NOTHING like the Pizza Hut in America. There is a full-course meal place. One can order an appetizer, salad, soup, drink, pizza, rice dish, pasta dish...it was cool. I had a pumpkin & seafood soup with a Kiwi-Mango Rendezvous drink. Everyone else had pizza. Why did we do this? Several of us are becoming ill from the food, so we decided to try a more "Western" meal. However, even some of the more "Western" meals are VERY different. I like it here. :o)

After dinner, we all went walking around the malls in the nearby vicinity. One of the malls we visited had seven floors. Each floor had a "theme." For example: one floor would be for men, the next women, the next sports, the next home furnishings, etc. I remember something fun that we did was a group of us went to this one vendor who was selling massage equipment and such, and we each sat in a massage chair and "tested" it out. That was very enjoyable. After some time looking around just about each floor, we found ourselves being led into - of all places - Walmart. No joke. It felt really weird, and quite overwhelming. There were SO many people there. Additionally, their Walmarts are two-stories. The top story was regular products, while the lower level was where all of the food was located. Their "escalator" down to the second story was strange, too. It wasn't stairs, but rather, a ramp, and on either side were little items for sale.

As we were checking out, a man came up to me, greeted me in English and then proceeded to ask where I was from. He nodded his head at my response, and then made some comment about the length of the line, and walked off. When we all were finished with our purchases (by the way, I didn't actually buy anything, but many others did,) we grabbed taxis and headed back to the hotel, where we all pretty much went to bed.

Sunday 21 June 2009

Today was similar to yesterday. I think we are being given a "break" during the weekends so that we don't get too burned out. I feel as if we are being allowed a bit more "downtime" by not as many "required" activities being scheduled. But, who knows. Maybe it is due to the fact that we do not visit high schools in the mornings.

Anywho, we visited with our usual group of students this morning for a short bit.

For lunch this time, we were given some money to go out in pairs and buy whatever we wanted. (Several students went to some of the American eating places. But three other people and myself went to a local shop and purchased something.) After that, we had to be back at the hotel by about three - but we arrived back earlier - to meet up with a few Chinese students who would take us to their parent's home and we were able to visit and, in theory, have dinner with a "host family."

But, for me, I first went to a young girl's (whose English name is Hannah) mother's apartment - a very nice apartment by the way - and as it turned out, a few groups ended up there. We were served a variety of snacks and were shown the home. All of us then took a cab to a coffee shop - owned by another girl's mother, her name being Trinity - which she opened JUST for us. Three left with Hannah and her mum to go to diner. The rest of us left for the restaurant, owned,too by Trinity's mother, where we helped make dumplings. We then were served a very find dinner, served coke and beer ( to each his own, but I had neither 'cause I like neither,) and then for those who drink coffee (not me,) they were served Vietnamese coffee (specially brewed,) and then they poured it into a glass of ice, and had a ice coffee. Form what I was informed, the coffee is SUPER strong, hence why people kept putting sugar and creamer into the coffee. On top of that, we were served fruit...really good fruit: lichi - I think that is how you spell it.

After dinner, we were given gifts, and driven home either in Trinity's mum's car via her mum herself, or her other car/personal driver. It was like royal treatment. Not to mention that we were sent home with a gi-normo bag full of lichi fruit. Upon arriving at the hotel, several of us met up because we were planning our "performance" if we were called to do something again for the students, so Hopie and I practiced "A Whole New World" from Alladdin.

Oh! Okay. Let me back up some. This morning, after the students left for our morning conversation, we were trying to figure out what we wanted to do for our performance, if we were called again to do something for the students, like the last time. We all were asking each other if we had talents, what talents we could do, etc. Hopie, a young man in the group, started singing "A Whole New World" and I was helping him out as he was forgetting the lyrics, and then when "Princess Jasmine's" part came in, I just started singin and going on, and I don't think I sang but four bars before everyone was staring at me and like: 'Oh my God!' 'That was amazing!' 'What do you mean you don't have talent?' 'I think we found our act there.' And so on. Ooops! Maybe I should not have opened my mouth, for I would soon learn that since that incident , I would become an "international star." Little did I know I would be asked multiple times to sing for multiple groups of people. (*Blush.*) Yeah.....that was a mistake on my part, but the whole group seemed to enjoy that they found someone else to do something that they themselves did not want to do. :o)

Well, will try to write the rest of my adventures later, but I know know how much, if any internet access I will have after I leave Nanning. On Thursday, we will leave for Guilin. Our missing group members will arrive back today at 7:00 pm (that is so weird to write) in the Nanning airport - no idea it's actual name, though. They will probably arrive at the hotel around 7:30 pm or 8:00 pm ish. We all can't wait, but at the same time, we are all unsure, uneasy, etc. We don't know what to expect.

China: The Saga Begins

Okay: so I guess I forgot to make note in my first message, but some have been wondering about the time difference. We are 15 hours ahead, or one day ahead, 9 hours behind. For example, if it is 8:00 our time on the 2009 June 21 (how the Chinese write their dates,) then it is 18:00 - 6:00 pm - on June 20 2009 (written as the American date format.) Or...as someone suggested, if in China, subtract 3 hours, then switch the time of day. (I like this one better.)

And, oh! There is SO much that I want to share, but I know that if I were to say all that I want to say, it would turn out to be a book. So, I will spare you all, and leave my stories that I have for in person or other occasions.

Sunday, 14 June 2009

Left Portland on time with all of our luggage and everything, and everyone in tact. :o) Our arrival in San Fransisco was fine, a very short flight of which I pretty much slept the whole way there. Upon arrival,we had about a three hour layover. We were free to explore, have lunch, shop, or do whatever. Some decided to buy burger king, but all I really wanted was a water, since I drained my liter water bottle I had purchased in Portland before leaving. In my search for water, I came across a small group of my whole group. They all wanted to go to subway, so they ordered their sandwiches, while I ordered my water. We then all sat and chatted for some time, and then headed off to our terminal. We all boarded the plane alright and on time. Takeoff was no problem. As for me, I believe it was after the first meal was served, I fell off into a deep slumber. Throughout the 12.5 hour flight, I dozed often.

However I must say that this was the worst flight I slept on...but I slept.

Monday, 15 June 2009

We arrived at the Shanghai airport (I actually saw us when we crossed the dateline - it showed it up on the screen.) However, upon arrival, that is when the "real" fun began. As some of you may or may not have heard, since I know some have while others have not, the Chinese "health patrol/inspectors" came aboard to check our temperature because we flew in from a swine flu "infected" place. There was much trouble as they were checking a few people in the back part of the plane. Leaving out all the details, for it gets complicated, one of our group members was detained because his temp was .4 degrees

over. A passenger was, though, found to have a high enough temp (and later was declared to have the swine flu, but who knows really.) Additionally, rows 56 and up were permitted to leave, but everyone else had to go. Meaning? 2/3 of our group of students, plus four advisers were stuck on the plane and later taken to quarantine. All were - and still are - healthy, but they kept them quarantined for four days. We would later find out that after three days, they would release only four people (luckily

one adviser was with this group.) But the rest, for some reason, had to stay for an additional SEVEN days. NOBODY was happy on either end, and this HUGE dilemma has caused grief for us all. Nobody is happy about it, and we all pretty much hate the Chinese govt. and think it is ABSOLUTELY STUPID the decisions that the authorities have made. NOTHING makes sense.....AARRRGGGG. (Sorry: this trip is not turning out to not be very fun or enjoyable for us. Granted, those of us who made it out/were released are enjoying what we are doing, but we are not enjoying it as much as we could if the others were here.) - Okay, so that is more than JUST Monday, but the problem flows into half of our trip.

SO...those of us who were not detained/quarantined, went ate some amazing food at the airport as we tried to connect with those who were detained, but to no avail. to a hotel. We regrouped and discussed what we were going to do, since the following day we were to be on a plane to Nanning. We all went to bed that evening only to find that the mattresses in the hotels are as hard as the wood floors on which the mattress frame sits. (I honestly think we are sleeping on box springs.)

Tuesday, 16 June 2009

So, we had originally planned to take a tour of Shanghai, but that did not happen. (Long story.) The one student whose temp was a wee bit high had been sent to a hospital for a different kind of quarantine - the others were sent to a hotel and were stuck on a floor. They could leave the room, but not the floor. So he joined us at breakfast at the hotel, and we all eventually made it to the airport in the early afternoon and then flew south to the province of Guangxi (Gwan-shee.) About two and a half hours after we departed, we arrived, found our luggage and were greeted by a few locals who were VERY kind and welcoming. They accompanied us to our hotel where we slept for the evening.

Wednesday, 17 June 2009

Wednesday brought us three more students plus an adviser. This we are thankful for, as well as when we left the plane, we were glad that we had one advisor with us...or else there would be 7 students who were not sure exactly what they were doing. :o/ We met a few students (some of whom are originally from Guilin (Gwee-lynn) and they took us around the nearby blocks. They also helped us go to a Bank of China, were the vast majority of the group exchanged their U.S. cash, while others used the ATMs to withdraw money. Today was also the day we received our polos with "Western Oregon University" written in Chinese on the left and the company name below. The "word image" is that of a rising sun. Pretty clever if you ask me. We were also privileged with a city tour at night...well, early evening to "mid-evening," after which we went to dinner. (We always eat breakfast and lunch, but I doubt I will make note of any more of that, nor of dinner, unless something special happened.) Today was pretty laid back. Neng Yang (our "guide" and "translator"/adviser from the international office) wanted today to be a "relaxing" day for us.

I will note, though, that since arriving in Nanning, one can see the sky, and not a smog dome such as in Shanghai. Also, the humidity is SO very high in addition to semi-high temps. We all are surviving, but always seem to race back to our AC rooms. We leave the AC on ALL the time, though it probably is not the best thing to do...but none of us can really stand the humidity/heat for a very long time.

Thursday, 18 June 2009

Unknown to us, we visited some very important people regarding the education system here in the Guangxi province. We visited some of the educational directors, and we discussed our educational systems and the differences in our university - and many specifics about that - as well as other differences in each country's concept of education. We also listened to some background information regarding Guangxi, more specifically, Nanning and a number of other topics arose as well. As we left, we were given gifts (can't remember the name) but they are worn around the neck and are a symbol of love & friendship; mainly friendship nowadays.

After lunch, some of us went walking around the block/neighboring shops. Some of us wanted bubble tea/something cold to drink, so we stumbled upon a place (luckily someone spoke some English, or else we'd be in more of a world of hurt.) We each ordered something cool & refreshing and walked around some more. After lunch, we usually have until dinner to do whatever.

After dinner, we walked back to a building across from our hotel where we met and conversed with several Chinese students who wish to better their English. We do this, usually, about two hours each night, and discuss and talk about a variety of subjects. I enjoyed this first night immensely. I remember, though, one time, I was with two other American students, and we all were talking with about four or five Chinese girls, and they were asking Emily (one of the three of us) to sing a Disney song. Well, she was not too sure, so she ask me join. I did, and as we started to sing, she started laughing. Why? Because she was so shocked that I knew so many of the lyrics. Then, after we were stuck on the lyrics, another request was made. What song did they ask us to sing? The theme song from the Titanic. Yes: just like in Argentina, they LOVE the movie Titanic here as well. So....Emily and I started to sing, she faded, and I continued, and continued, and continued. It became increasingly more difficult to sing, for she [Emily] and everyone else at that table were laughing, as was I (out of nervousness & embarrassment,) but kept trying to continue to sing. I was then asked if I knew the second verse to the song, and I continued singing.....and more laughter followed. I don't think I got much further than the end of the second verse, if that because people were a) laughing and b) someone made the comment how they couldn't believe I knew the whole song. But it was enjoyable. :o) I am glad I could be entertaining.

Okay: I think that is good for now. Will try to write the rest/more later. It is getting late here, and we have another school to visit tomorrow. We have to "work" hard, but at the same time, it is not hard work at all. A lot is demanded of us, but it is nothing unbearable. Oh: and sorry if there are huge spelling errors in any of my messages. I do try to run it through spell check - and though I cannot rely on that ALL the time, I just don't have enough time to make it "publishing perfect."

Culture Gram

(Some of you may or may not have read this, but I am just copying my two notes/emails that I have sent out while away, so as to keep a running "log" of my journies. So, if some of it seems out of date/weird, that is why.)

Hello one and all. I want to first off apologize that this is so long, but this is actually shorter than my original intentions. I am unable to blog because of restrictions enforced by the Chinese government, or so was suggested to me. Their suggestion seems like a plausible reason enough. In brief, I will tell - in short, for there are FAR too many stories, memories experiences, etc. for me to share. I will try to connect every few days to update all ya'll. Why? Because I usually am tired and worn out during our three-hour down time...yes, yes, yes, that is what I said: three hours. From about noon to three, but usually later...more like five hours, since we don't usually eat dinner until 17:00 or 18:00 (5:00 or 6:00,) but the "usual" Chinese custom/tradition - at least here in Nanning, and probably all of Guangxi - is to take from 12:00 to 15:00 (3:00 pm) as a "nap time," or a period of rest. Oh! And by the way, as soon as I saw the military time, I smiled. It seriously felt like music to my eyes. It actually feels real nice to see it again. :o) Our mornings are full and we have evening plans scheduled, too. I will try to break down each day and summarize what I can, and then move on to a few experiences and other "categories" where I will have my input as to my story, and then add in my comments, thoughts, opinions, etc. Oh: and it is also hard for me to connect because the internet where I have access is not very fast. Even as I type this message up, the computer is slow to pick up exactly what I am typing. But I can't complain: I have internet access. So, for starters, here is a wee bit of what I have thus far seen and done...more of a "cultural" aspect more than the actual trip. Will do my best to write more on that later.

Food/Favorites:

So, I am not sure exactly how to write it in Chinese, but there is a place that sells cold drinks, coffee, tea, food, and other such items. It has unofficially/officially been designated our "hangout spot." It seems as if all the workers know us there, not by name, but by face, and the fact that we usually go after either/or both lunch and dinner. It really isn't a strawberry smoothie, but that is the best translation/equivalent to what we have in the states. It is my favorite drink. I have also tried bubble tea, which is alright; a mango blended fruit drink, which is alright as well; and a green drink similar to that of the mango, but I have NO idea what flavour it was or anything else like that. I just went out on a whim, pointed to something on the menu, and said that one. (Luckily, a few of the workers know some English, so we are able to communicate some.)

As far as other foods go, I have tried SO many forms of chicken, beef, pork, and fish (not so much the fish as the other meats, but I have tried a few times different fish.) I have NO IDEA the Chinese names for what I have been eating, but it all has been amazing! Granted I have not been able to eat everything - such as corn and tomatoes - but I have tried ALMOST every single dish we have been served, and I have LOVED IT. I seriously think I can never eat again at a Chinese restaurant in the states again, unless it is a true-TRUE Chinese traditional cuisine. All of us joke here that we will all get fat from eating so much. We are served an insane amount of food, of which I don't think we have ever been able to finish eating all of it...never. We all leave stuffed and satisfied.

I know that before coming to China, I NEVER ate mushrooms, yet I have eaten mushrooms about three times, and I have LOVED them each time. Again with the red meat: I LOVE it here/overseas, but I cannot eat it in the states, because their meat has a different taste and a different quality than that of which is grown and processed in the states. I will most definitely miss the food...and eating with chopsticks. I also enjoy how, at restaurants, there is a HUGE lazy Susan (or Mary) in the middle of the table, glass mind you, and using one's chopsticks, people just grab what they want. That dish, as well as every other dish on the table, is slowly moved around the table until all have had an opportunity to try that food, or at least all who want to try that food . The family style here is very enjoyable, and I can't wait to actually go and visit a host family's home and see what a "in-home" traditional Chinese dinner/dining set-up looks like. I really don't have too many favorites....Oh! Another AMAZING dish: eggplant. I had not tried it before, but last evening (the18th) we had the most tasty and delicious Chinese eggplant for dinner. Mmmmmmm. But the food is 100 times better than any of that which I have tried in the U.S.I must say though, that the sushi track in Wilsonville was pretty tasty, though. Another favorite I just thought of: seaweed. Yes: I know I am strange, but the food is SO healthy over here, and how they cook it and with what ingredients they cook it. The food has SO much flavour and texture and just is an amazingly broad spectrum of veggie dishes, meat dishes, meat-veggie dishes, and whatever else one can think of combining. I look forward to every meal and actually eat at every meal, though sometimes I eat a lot. :o)

Culture/Culture Shock:

I am more shocked at the reactions, astonishment and other feelings expressed by the other students here. SO many times others will express how crazy they think the drivers are here, or about crossing the street, and other such related realizations. Another expressed surprised is that of people staying up "late" and the "nightlife." Someone was saying how crazy it seemed that people were walking out about in the streets (a lot of people) at "such a late time in the evening." - It was, I think, 22:00 (10:00 pm). - Also, not sure exactly at the top of my head, but there are other cultural differences that others have expressed their surprise and disbelief about something. But, surprisingly, there is nothing that really surprises me about China. There is nothing that really sticks out to me, and even when I think about it and look for something "different," I can't seem to find differences. I actually have to be out in the streets and thinking about what life is like in America before I can start to see any cultural differences.

I was chatting briefly with another student as we were walking back to the hotel one evening, and he expressed his surprise about something. I did my best to explain and compare it with another example from another culture; he agreed with my suggestion and noted that it made sense after hearing about that. I then commented that I find it frustrating why I can't see any culture difference. Why "everyone" is SO shocked and surprised and just amazed at "the many differences." He then said, very simply but not demeaning, that the reason why I didn't see "any difference" or why I am not surprised, shocked, or seem to have no reaction to ANYTHING I have thus far seen here, is because of all my travels. I have thus far been to (now) four of the six livable continents in the world. Including China, I have visited/lived in/traveled to seven different countries. I have been exposed to a great deal of culture from many corners of the world. Sadly, I still carry my own country's cultures & beliefs with me, many of which I do not like, but cannot seem to change. Nothing shocks me because I have seen it before, or something similar to it before. Additionally, I have read some about China, talked with international students at my university about China, and have had some prior knowledge about what to expect...so after hearing this very simply put suggestion - obviously he didn't know this background, nor did I go into detail about it - it became very clear that this was, indeed, the reason behind my "lack" of astonishment, if that is what you would want to call it. Maybe this, too, is why I am not feeling any culture shock. I don't honestly feel overwhelmed by my surroundings. Sure: it is frustrating not being able to speak the language, to communicate, but also, I am with a group of Americans who do speak my native tongue, with whom I try to interact, connect with and stay close to, since we all feel more comfortable with and around each other.

Plans:

Other than an occasional meandering through and around the blocks with a small group of "homies," there is not much that we students (or advisers) do outside of the scheduled activities. During the 12:00 to 15:00 time frame, that truly is the most hot period of the day, and most of us nap or do something relaxing. As much as we may not want to stay in our hotel rooms, it just becomes too hot to do much of anything. But the planned itinerary seems interesting, enough to keep us busy and out of trouble. I know I have enjoyed what we have actually been able to accomplish and "get done" thus far. Even if I had to leave China tomorrow or in a day or two, the experience has been more than worth it. I have even tried to still learn a wee bit more Chinese, but have not been successful...so I carry a small sheet of conversational "help phrases" that I use to try to communicate. For example: today, during lunch, my table - we were split into two tables due to lack of space/crowded space - I was trying to ask for water, a lot for the group. I was able to communicate with the waiter by speech, showing the Chinese work on the paper, and using my hands. Shortly after, I was able to ask again by speech and pointing. Another cool incident was when some of us were trying to order smoothies. After receiving mine, I asked how to say the name of the drink (in English,) and the two people who spoke some English behind the counter said it, said it slowly while I wrote down phonetically for me to be able to remember it, and then I said it. When I said it right - I must have, for they cheered and clapped their hands and said "very good. Your pronunciation is good." I happened to say something either later that day or the following day where someone complimented me and my pronunciation of the Chinese phrase (in English) meaning, " I am sorry, I don't speak Chinese." I actually said that to someone, because I waited to have them help me with the pronunciation of that phrase, and after I said it, they laughed and said "No! But you do speak Chinese! Very good pronunciation." SO... I guess I can speak Chinese alright, or could eventually speak it alright...off to a good start, I suppose. Though I only know a few (about 10 ) words and phrases in Chinese, and though I never will fully understand speech or be able to read Chinese, I think I would be cool to continue to learn a few words and phrases even after my return to the stats and the little likelihood that I will return to China. But it is interesting for me.

Reflections

Many of you might wonder why I start with my reflections. Well, since I had very limited internet access and limited site availability – due to the censorship of the Chinese government – I was only able to visit a limited number of sites. Now that I am back in the states with unlimited access to both the internet and site availability – relatively speaking – I can now share my thoughts, feelings, and experiences with you all.

Freedom
In all due respects, I don’t think anyone here in the states truly knows how lucky we all are to have freedom. Freedom of religion, freedom of the press, freedom speech, freedom to oppose the government and to make change if we truly desire, freedom to say what we want about whatever we want and publish it online, freedom to choose whatever job or career we wish, freedom to choose who we marry, as well as many other freedoms. In China, freedom is there, but it is limited, and “some are more free than others.” The ‘one child rule’ is bent, broken, and manipulated all the time, especially for government officials. The internet is another good example of the [severe] limitations the government imposes on the people. What is broadcasted on the radio, what is printed in the paper…anything and everything public is regulated and monitored via the government. No matter where one goes, there is SO MUCH security. Even for sopping malls, or any other common place, there always seems to be a high level of security. Few dimes do I remember going somewhere that was not a security person, police officer, or some sort of guard. It was weird at first to continually see this, but after some time, it became normal. However, the limited freedoms just blew my mind. As much as the students and other locals said they had the freedom to do such and such, one could tell if they looked hard enough that those ‘such and such’ freedoms did not really exist, or at least exist for all.

Foreigners –– Speaking a Different Language
For one of the few times in my life, I was the foreigner. I was the one who did not speak the languages, who was in the new environment, who had trouble communicating, who struggled to buy something when needed, or just to get around. Several of us were discussing how much easier it would be to take a bus – or the subway – to where we wanted to go had we been able to better understand the language – both spoken and written. Luckily, we happen to come across a few people who spoke some English, enough to get by and communicate what we wanted at that point in time. Had we not encountered those people along the way, our means of communication would have been even more so a challenge.
Speaking of communication, though I knew a few words and phrases in Chinese, mainly enough to convey the messages “I’m sorry, I don’t understand. I don’t speak Chinese,” this didn’t help. I said this to one woman, and she smiled and continued to rattle off and speak Chinese to me. Others just looked at another worker there and continued to speak in Mandarin – the official language of China. I know that they could not speak anything else, but I just find it interesting how people, when they cannot communicate with someone of another language, continue to speak not only in their native tongue, but they speak louder…as if that were to help. I did note, though, that often when communication was not taking place, that gestures and pointing were used often. What was difficult for me, though as for numbers, the Chinese count differently than those of us from America. For instance, the number “3.” I am used to the ASL (American Sign Language) way of the number ‘3’ where the thumb, pointer, and middle finger are extended. For most other Americans, the pointer, middle and ring finger are extended (what is the letter “w” in ASL;) however, for the Chinese, the number “3” looks quite different. The number “3” is indicated by holding the pinky, the ring, and the middle finger extended. On the other hand, if a group of us were eating out at a restaurant, and we wanted a box to take the food home, I know for me, when I indicated a box by using my hands to outline the sides of a box – I actually was using the sign for “ROOM” – the waitress understood.
Strangely, when I knew myself or the others could not communicate, I found myself wanting to speak in Spanish or sign with that person. I know that they could not understand either; and yet, I still found myself wanting to use either or both of these languages to try to communicate, since my English was not serving me for anything. Funny, though: the few times I actually DID sign, I was relatively understood, for I got what I needed and I was able to pay the price, etc. I even once pretended I was deaf with a vendor in Guilin and was still able to buy that item for a lower price than what they were asking…though I probably could have purchased it for cheaper if I really wanted. Anywho, it was just so strange to not be able to communicate well.

Toilets
I was not bothered by any means as to the “traditional Chinese toilet,” which is classified as a ‘hole in the ground’ by many. Surprisingly, we had access to “Western toilets” more often than not. Especially at the tourist sites that we visited, those who needed to use the bathroom were always asked “So how was it?” (referring to both the public restroom, since they are not noted to smell the best, and the toilets, since most preferred the “Western version” as opposed to the “Chinese version.”) I honestly found no problem using either, and don’t know why the others made such a big fuss over whether there was a Western toilet to use or not. Some, I believe, even waited until we returned to our hotels, where we always had Western toilets, to use the restroom b/c they didn’t want to use the “other” kind…or they just waited even longer to use the Western. Kind of a funny topic amongst the group as to who uses which and why. Believe it or not, the use of toilets, for some odd reason, became a “big issue” amongst the group members. Even when I was brushing my teeth in the San Fransisco airport after our 10 ½ hour flight, I heard a few girls exclaim in excitement how nice it was to see and use a “regular toilet again.” Hmmmmm. What an interesting group I did travel with, no?

Food
I will miss the food. They eat a LOT of vegetables over there. For me, I ate a variety even before I went over there, and I tried SO many different kinds of vegetables, and loved almost ALL of them. I remember hearing some comment at one point in time that they are inspired to eat more healthily upon returning to the states, and want to try and change their eating habits. Who knows really, for some of these people who declared this happen to be some of the more culturally insensitive people, or rather, people who rejected certain ideas/beliefs/customs/etc. about the Chinese culture. But, if they so desire to better their eating habits, good on them.
Another aspect about eating is the use of bowls and chopsticks. Rarely will one find forks. In a FEW restaurants, yes we did find forks, but those few times we actually had to use forks (long story,) I know I struggled, because it felt weird. Many students commented how they felt they ate less and/or ate slower when using chopsticks. Everything is eaten in the bowl – not our American-sized bowls, but what we would consider small bowls – and then the fat, bones, and other things that one does not wish to eat are set on the small plate on which the bowl is set. I had a feeling I would want to use chopsticks upon my arrival home, and thus far, aside from soup and sandwiches, I have utilized chopsticks. (Thus far not much, but I am sure soon it will come about where I will need/want to use them again.) Will I miss rice? No. I never was a huge rice eater, and I only ate it over there to accompany my meats. Because I don’t eat much meat in the states, I don’t see myself needing/wanting much rice. Additionally, many times rice is served with vegetables and/or other ingredients in the mix with the rice itself.

For now…
Me thinks that is it for now. Will write more later/when I can/when I feel up to it. Will copy my first two “entries” sent out as emails and notes on facebook later, since I had no access to my blog. I will actually be journaling in my personal journal first about my journeys, and then blogging about them. If anyone wants any specific stories, comment about a day/event, and then, what I can do – time permitting - is write blogs answering that question, but the answer taking format of a story/memory. People don’t have to do this, but I know some will want to hear stories; thus, I feel this is the easiest way to share one story with as many people as I can. Oh! I must say, I will miss bartering/haggling so very much, indeed. That was a fun and enjoyable experience. I do hope to return to China again, and maybe visit some of the same sites I saw…for personal reasons, which I wish not to disclose. Zi jen for now.

Pre-departure: China

A Little About the Program
I-AM Program: The International-Ambassador Mentor Program is designed to send a group of students from Western Oregon University to China to go to three different provinces to share with high school and university students about college life in the United States, specifically, Western. Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, the whole group will be traveling together. But hey: this is the pilot program – the first of its kind, sponsored by the international office. This covers the ambassador part of the commitment.
After spending time in China, the group will return to the states where, in the fall when school starts, each student will serve as a mentor to an international student. The mentors are required to participate, but to be mentored is the choice of the international student.

The Trip: In Brief
I am leaving for China in less than two days. I head up to PDX early Sunday morning (around 3:00 am / 3:30 am.) The group will fly to California, where we will have a three hour-ish layover, and then will fly about 13 hours and land in Shanghi. There is a possibility that the group may be able to take a small tour of Shanghi. Later that day, or the day following we will fly to the southern province of Guangxi where we will fly into Nanning. Nanning is one of the two cities – as of late – that we will visit high schools and universities. The other city is Guilin. We also will have the opportunity to attend evening classes and speak with. After spending about two weeks in Guangxi, we will fly up to the great city of Beijing. There we will spend a few days touring and visiting historically and culturally important sites. We then will return back to the states. But honestly, even though we all have a rough itinerary as to what we will be doing, we don’t really know. ‘Tis all up in the air for now.

For now…
Packing is a nightmare. I am feeling less and less prepared as I gather the needed materials for the flight and experience overseas. I will be taking many photos (and videos) as well as taking as many notes as I can. I know many/all will want to know about my adventures, but I ask that when I return, please do not bombard me with questions. :o) I know that happened when I returned from Argentina. Even though I will be away for only two and a half weeks, I will still be needed time to adjust both from reverse culture shock and jet lag. While I am over there, I will do my best to keep ya’ll in touch via my blog. However, I cannot guarantee anything, for, I do not know how much internet access I will have, nor for how long. If push comes to shove, I can always try to blog after returning and then just date each entry.