I never imagined how powerful the things we read, listen to and see thru entertainment venues are when it comes to shaping our perceptions of others and, ultimately, reality about different cultures.
Living in a foreign country can give a person an entirely different view of the world’s cultures and issues. I had a very unique experience during election week, one that most people will not likely experience and therefore I’d like to share it with you. In my school I am the only American; therefore I was impacted by the election in different ways than the Canadians and Taiwanese that I encounter here. Everyone was interested in the results, but it was “closer to home” for me. Because we are 13 hours ahead of Michigan time, I had no idea which candidates back home were ahead or had already won on November 4th, however I still celebrated like it was a holiday. Strangely, the election process seemed to take on more importance to me living here in Taiwan. My spirits were high and I wore an American flag sticker on my shirt. In between my classes, I even sang the Star-Spangled Banner for students. Because word got around about my singing, I had to sing many times for different students; I think I sang at least 15 times through the course of the day! Some students asked why I had the sticker on my shirt, and I told them it was voting day in America. They did not understand this without proper illustrations on the chalk board. The names “Obama” and “McCain” were, surprisingly, well known even to my sixth grade Taiwanese students. Results were not online for us until Wednesday, November 5th, which turned into another day of patriotic displays on my part. A good friend of mine mailed me “I voted” stickers and they arrived on the 5th, so I was able to enjoy that patriotic privilege even being so far from home. I actually voted several weeks earlier by absentee ballot.
When the results were finally in, the two Canadian teachers found it humorous to make insults in regards to America in general and their form of democracy. Anything they could come up with to push my buttons, they found rather entertaining. Regardless of who I voted for, or who won, I still took it as a patriotic day and showed my love of country. Many teachers at lunch made me aware of the results, even though I had been checking CNN almost every ten minutes. Unlike the Canadians in our midst, my Taiwanese peers were very respectful and supportive of my culture and exhibitions of patriotism.
Getting back to the development of one’s perception of a particular culture, I would like to discuss how modern “pop culture” seems to create illusions, or “skew reality” as it pertains to how others see Americans. In Taiwan, and I suspect in many other countries, the biggest influence of American culture comes from none other than television. The English channels (HBO, Cinemax, and TV sitcoms) all seem to be centered on guns, violence, sex, and profanity. Most here have come to the conclusion that this is daily American life. Many of my Taiwanese friends think that everyone walks around with a gun, is promiscuous, overweight, and swears in every sentence. What other conclusion could they draw given the source? Hardly anyone has any direct experience with our culture. American television and movies are definitely entertaining and action-packed, but is this the impression we want to give to other countries? It is slightly unnerving to think that my country, my family and friends, are seen as a bunch of overweight bums shooting at anyone that makes them angry. Obviously, that is not reality for the majority of Americans. I am thankful that I have the opportunity to influence so many people and show them, first-hand, that all Americans aren’t how they believe them to be.
In that same light, I have noticed that many of my students pick up popular words and phrases from watching American television. More than likely they don’t know the meaning of what they are saying. Instead, they are hoping to get a reaction from their native-speaking teacher. I have had many students use the “f-word” in my class, as well as other profane words when it is obvious they have no clue of the connotation. Even adults think that the English word for buttocks begins with an “a.” Lately, I’ve been hearing students refer to one another as “baby.” My favorite case is when a third grade student came up to me and said “teacher, you are hot.” I knew that he had meant it in a different way, but I replied, “no, I’m cold today…brrr.” That wasn’t the reaction he had expected, but I haven’t had that word used around me since.
Think about the stereotypes we have all insidiously developed in regards to different groups of people. Maybe you have formed a stereotype from what you have read or experienced yourself thru various forms of media or entertainment. I do not mean to imply that one’s perception of a culture or a group of people is always negative when they are formed from secondary sources, rather, just that it is skewed by the origin of the source. Coming to an Asian country, I imagined that my Taiwanese friends would excel in mathematics, that most would be a few inches shorter than I was accustom to and that many would be masters in the art of Kung-Fu or some form of martial arts. I was surprised when a Taiwanese friend asked me for math help. I am still a little taken back when I see a person taller than 6 feet and I don’t know anymore than five people that are even interested in the martial arts. Well, I have to tell you that I, like many, was caught in the trap of stereotyping about the Asian culture. I’m so grateful that this experience has opened my eyes to the subconscious beliefs we all seem to harbor in regards different cultures. As a result of the teacher exchange program I have been able to recognize that perceptions are just that, perceptions, and often times not realities. I have a sense that this lesson will serve me well in my life after this experience. As appreciative as I am for my experience here in Taiwan, I have to admit I wish that it didn’t take such a huge life commitment to make this realization.
I challenge you to compile a list of all the traits you imagine when you think of a certain group of people. Do a little research. I truly believe that at least half of the stereotypes you originally compiled will be flawed. May this be a lesson to us all.
Monday, December 29, 2008
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Christmas Day
Christmas Day for me was both the best and the worst day that I've had in a while. It was my first away from home, which was very sad, but also empowering making me feel like an independent woman. The morning was the best. I woke up and while still in bed, I turned on my computer and set it up on a pillow. First I called my Dad and JC (because they "scheduled" the earlier time slot). We talked for about an hour and opened all our presents together. JC had me read her card out loud and I got a little choked up, so I wasn't even going to open Dad's until I was alone. He tends to me a man of words and his cards always touch my heart. I wanted it to be a happy time and not turn into a crying mess. So, next came the presents. Dad and JC and my brother seemed to like the little things I found for them. It was really hard to find souvenirs that aren't junky. It was great to talk to them and feel the love and laughter that is always present in that household. JC and I have a lot of traditions we do together at the holidays (shopping, baking, decorating...) and it was really sad to not be able to do those. She did a great job on her own, but I can't wait till I can be a help again! (Or start my own traditions! YAY). So after I talked to them, it was time to call the other side of the family! My mom and Gordy were over at Erin and Jason's waiting for my calll. It toook a while to connect because our computers were just not agreeing, but when we finally did, it was great to see everyone! The haircuts, the lost weight, the smiles, the jokes! I felt like I was there with them. They also enjoyed their gifts and I enjoyed the care package from Mom and Gordy. The funniest part was when mom opened the sea weed snacks and actually tried them! The reaction from both her and Bailey were hilarious! They were spitting and gagging at the nasty fishy taste. I would never try them. During the conversation, the boys got bored so I ended up getting to just chat with my mom and sister. It was nice to feel together at the holidays. I was so happy to talk to everyone on Christmas morning. Once I got off the phone with everyone, I wanted to take a nap. The night before I had the other two cheer coaches, Vince and Gilbert, over and we stayed up pretty late. But, before I could even lay down, Mr. Huang knocked on my door. He told me that his co-worker was coming over in ten minutes to take me shopping. I had already told him that it was too late to cook Christmas dinner because I have to get the cooking supplies the day before and start preparing in the morning. He agreed that we would have hot pot in their home, but the co-worker would take me to the mall. I'm not sure why he thought I wanted to go shopping, but it wasn't worth trying to discuss. So, I got dressed and before I knew it, the creepy co-worker that always stares at me was there to take me. He was being such a gentleman and I tend to think that in his eyes this was a date. First, he took me to this field of beautiful flowers and took my picture a few times. He drove very slowly on the scooter, I think for my safety. He barely speaks a word of English, so once we got to the mall the silence was very awkward. I didn't really feel like shopping because I was tired and had a headache. I bought a few things then said I was done. He asked if I was hungry and I pointed to McDonalds. Sitting across from each other over lunch was so awkward. I would try to break the silence, but he didn't understand what I was trying to say. He even called a friend to join us...and the three of us sat their in silence. So awkward. I could only look around the room so many times to avoid the eye contact. Somehow, he managed to ask if I wanted to see a movie. I definetely wasn't going to turn this into a date...so I said I would rather go home. Thankfully, this wasn't an issue, so he took me home. He carried my bags and even my PURSE! It was so strange. Taiwanese men do this, but I typically tell them it's ok and I can carry my own purse. He didn't understand. So, once I got home I took a nap.
I woke up to the sound of the maid and Mrs. Huang preparing hot pot. I think they hold the world record for the loudest choppers ever! So, I got up and presentable and offered my help. They did not need any help because there was not enough room in the kitchen. Soon, family started to trickle in. Mr. Huang's entire family and their spouses and kids showed up. I thought, "oh this is wonderful, it's like a big family celebration at Christmas" The day was finally feeling like Christmas. Except...no one really talked to me. A few people said hi, and Mr. Huang's sister, Kathy talked to me for about ten minutes. Out of three hours. As each minute ticked by, I felt more and more lonely. It was Christmas and I was the little white girl in the corner watching everyone laugh and tell Chinese jokes. I didn't want to leave and seem rude, so I tried to make the best of it. When everyone was done eating, I asked everyone to come in the room for the gift exchange. Mr. Huang said he had to smoke first, and Derek wouldn't come in. HELLO PEOPLE - PRESENTS! I laughed and told Mr. Huang he could wait and let's do presents first. We exchanged. I had to tell everyone to open them...they were just going to take it and walk away. Mr. and Mrs. Huang never opened their gifts. Derek opened his, then I opened mine, and the maid opened hers. It was when Lynn opened hers that the day turned sour. I got her very nice earrings that were more money than the limit we set. She took one look at them and her face fell to a pout. She sat there in shock for a minute and then stood up and started a hissy fit RIGHT IN FRONT OF ME. Obviously, she hated them...I don't know why. They were sterling silver and nice. I bought them from her Grandma's jewelry store (hopefully she can exchange or return them this way). This hissy fit went on for about ten minutes while her grandma, the maid, and her mom tried to block her from my view. I knew exactly what was happening the whole time. Never an acknowledgment of the gifts. Never a thank you. I was crushed. I could've cried right there. Instead I pretended I didn't see anything.
When the party started to dwindle down, I went into my room. I was feeling so homesick and hurt from what Lynn had done. Everything came together and I couldn't keep MYSELF together, so I began to cry. Just then, Damien calls. I tried to hide the fact that I was crying, but he could tell. He wouldn't hang up with me either, because he knew I would just cry all night and spin into a bad situation...so he kept talking to me and trying to make me feel better. That was a nice gesture, but I really just wanted to be alone. Once we hung up, I hung out by myself for a while before calling my dad. He was expecting the call, I'm sure...and had a little chuckle when he saw it was me. I told him I was feeling lonely and homesick and just wanted to talk. After five minutes, I felt better and calmed down. I'm sure he's sick of it, but when I'm upset, I call him and the call always makes me feel better. I don't know if it's what he says or just that his shoulder is there for my tears. Thanks Dad! My mom is there too, don't get me wrong...but sometimes we women let our emotions take over what really needs to get done and we'll just cry together. Sometimes that is what I need...and I'll go to my mom just so she can hug me and tell me it's ok to cry and be sad and she will just want to hug me until it's all better. That's why God gave us two parents, each have their strengths to help us in hard times.
Anyway, Friday was a new day and back to work - and I felt much better. I knew that soon the day would be over and I would not dwell on it anymore...but I think I needed to cry and feel homesick for a few hours...I haven't cried or felt homesick at all since I've been here....so it's nice that the feelings surfaced when we all knew they were somewhere deep inside.
One thing I learned this Christmas...I love the holidays and I love being around my family. Though I love traveling, I hope that I can always be with my family on Christmas no matter where in the world I'm living at the time.!
I woke up to the sound of the maid and Mrs. Huang preparing hot pot. I think they hold the world record for the loudest choppers ever! So, I got up and presentable and offered my help. They did not need any help because there was not enough room in the kitchen. Soon, family started to trickle in. Mr. Huang's entire family and their spouses and kids showed up. I thought, "oh this is wonderful, it's like a big family celebration at Christmas" The day was finally feeling like Christmas. Except...no one really talked to me. A few people said hi, and Mr. Huang's sister, Kathy talked to me for about ten minutes. Out of three hours. As each minute ticked by, I felt more and more lonely. It was Christmas and I was the little white girl in the corner watching everyone laugh and tell Chinese jokes. I didn't want to leave and seem rude, so I tried to make the best of it. When everyone was done eating, I asked everyone to come in the room for the gift exchange. Mr. Huang said he had to smoke first, and Derek wouldn't come in. HELLO PEOPLE - PRESENTS! I laughed and told Mr. Huang he could wait and let's do presents first. We exchanged. I had to tell everyone to open them...they were just going to take it and walk away. Mr. and Mrs. Huang never opened their gifts. Derek opened his, then I opened mine, and the maid opened hers. It was when Lynn opened hers that the day turned sour. I got her very nice earrings that were more money than the limit we set. She took one look at them and her face fell to a pout. She sat there in shock for a minute and then stood up and started a hissy fit RIGHT IN FRONT OF ME. Obviously, she hated them...I don't know why. They were sterling silver and nice. I bought them from her Grandma's jewelry store (hopefully she can exchange or return them this way). This hissy fit went on for about ten minutes while her grandma, the maid, and her mom tried to block her from my view. I knew exactly what was happening the whole time. Never an acknowledgment of the gifts. Never a thank you. I was crushed. I could've cried right there. Instead I pretended I didn't see anything.
When the party started to dwindle down, I went into my room. I was feeling so homesick and hurt from what Lynn had done. Everything came together and I couldn't keep MYSELF together, so I began to cry. Just then, Damien calls. I tried to hide the fact that I was crying, but he could tell. He wouldn't hang up with me either, because he knew I would just cry all night and spin into a bad situation...so he kept talking to me and trying to make me feel better. That was a nice gesture, but I really just wanted to be alone. Once we hung up, I hung out by myself for a while before calling my dad. He was expecting the call, I'm sure...and had a little chuckle when he saw it was me. I told him I was feeling lonely and homesick and just wanted to talk. After five minutes, I felt better and calmed down. I'm sure he's sick of it, but when I'm upset, I call him and the call always makes me feel better. I don't know if it's what he says or just that his shoulder is there for my tears. Thanks Dad! My mom is there too, don't get me wrong...but sometimes we women let our emotions take over what really needs to get done and we'll just cry together. Sometimes that is what I need...and I'll go to my mom just so she can hug me and tell me it's ok to cry and be sad and she will just want to hug me until it's all better. That's why God gave us two parents, each have their strengths to help us in hard times.
Anyway, Friday was a new day and back to work - and I felt much better. I knew that soon the day would be over and I would not dwell on it anymore...but I think I needed to cry and feel homesick for a few hours...I haven't cried or felt homesick at all since I've been here....so it's nice that the feelings surfaced when we all knew they were somewhere deep inside.
One thing I learned this Christmas...I love the holidays and I love being around my family. Though I love traveling, I hope that I can always be with my family on Christmas no matter where in the world I'm living at the time.!
Where am I again?
Friday I encountered an incident that is not common to Taiwan, but would probably happen in an American school. After lunch, I was walking back to my classroom, when I saw a few boys playing "lookout" in a corner where there is no camera surveillance (also happens to be right below my classroom). So I yelled from the end of the hall "what is going on." When I was ignored, I ran down the hall to try and catch what was happening before everyone ran away. When I got there, I looked around the corner and saw some kids with air soft pellet guns, but I couldn't get to them (or see their number on their uniform) because one of the big "lookout" kids held my arm so I couldn't go anywhere. I couldn't break free because he was much bigger than me, but once I did, all the kids had run away. I figured I couldn't do anything about it because I didn't get their numbers and I don't know their names. So I just didn't say anything about it. Well, at the 3:00 break, I heard what sounded like a pellet gun being shot. When I looked out my window, I saw nothing. I heard it again, then I heard a "tink" on the table next to me. I look out the window, and see nothing. I ran over to the hallway and looked down to the secret corner, where I saw kids loading pellets into the gun. THEY WHERE SHOOTING INTO MY CLASSROOM WINDOW! So, I run out of my classroom and tell Gerry to catch the kids and get their numbers, while I run upstairs to get a Taiwanese teacher. By time we came back downstairs, Gerry had chased two kids across campus and gotten the attention of some school personell. They said they were taking care of it.
I was going to just forget about the whole ordeal until Bette encouraged me to do something about it. Of course, Bette is a little more bold than me and can be quite the hell-raiser, so I didn't take her advice to the "t". She told me to go to the office and tell them that I was upset and something needed to be done. After her talk, I was pumped up and ready to boldy tell the school officials how angry I was. Well, the 2 minute walk there calmed me down and once I arrived, I was like a noodle again. I gently told them what had happened. THEY LAUGHED! I told them again a little firmer this time, and they still laughed. Finally, ONLY to get my point across, I told them that if a pellet had hit me I would be back on the plane to America. I said that NO student should be touching me, let alone restraining me, and that I shouldn't have to deal with kids treating me like this. They agreed, and another teacher stepped in to tell me they would be punished. One of the school directors asked me what I wanted to give as their punishment. I told them that punishing them was not my responsibility and I don't know what punishments are in this country, so please don't lay that on me. They called the students to the office and screamed and hit them (I felt horrible now, because of me these students were getting blows to the back of the head....I was on the verge of tears). I sat there in an extremely uncomfortable situation for as long as I could stand, then I asked if I could leave. I was told that they would deal with the kids and tell their parents, and on Monday the kids would make it up to me. I was so overwhelmed with different emotions at this point, I just wanted to go home.
On Monday morning, the student that restrained me came to the English office with his teacher to apologize and give me a big box of fresh fruit. In translation, he told me that he hoped I could forgive him and move on with the year. I am sure that both the school and his parents really layed into him, so I am okay with the situation. I thanked him and now it's over.
At lunch the FETs and the native teachers discussed this recent lack of respect for the foreign teachers. It's mostly coming from the 6th graders and we can't exactly pinpoint why. Of course, being a teacher in a foreign land with a language barrier, it's difficult to discipline and maintain classroom order sometimes. That is why the homeroom Taiwanese teacher is supposed to accompany the students in class and help with discipline and translation when needed. They don't always show up, and if they do they are grading papers and usually do not help at all. I have learned to accept this and do the best I can. I have cashed out my ideas for discipline, and now we are brainstorming what else might work. It is very frustrating to have students that don't respect me. I can understand in my own land how this might be a fun game for students to play...but when I sacrificed a year of my life with my friends and family to live in a completely different culture, you would think perhaps I would get a little more appreciation and respect.
The taiwanese teachers are going to speak to the classes and hopefully next semester we will start off on the right foot. I know one thing is for sure: I'm going to start off with pictures of procedures in my classroom. When I talk, you don't. When I say quiet, you are quiet. Bring your book to every class. Not that difficult is it?
I was going to just forget about the whole ordeal until Bette encouraged me to do something about it. Of course, Bette is a little more bold than me and can be quite the hell-raiser, so I didn't take her advice to the "t". She told me to go to the office and tell them that I was upset and something needed to be done. After her talk, I was pumped up and ready to boldy tell the school officials how angry I was. Well, the 2 minute walk there calmed me down and once I arrived, I was like a noodle again. I gently told them what had happened. THEY LAUGHED! I told them again a little firmer this time, and they still laughed. Finally, ONLY to get my point across, I told them that if a pellet had hit me I would be back on the plane to America. I said that NO student should be touching me, let alone restraining me, and that I shouldn't have to deal with kids treating me like this. They agreed, and another teacher stepped in to tell me they would be punished. One of the school directors asked me what I wanted to give as their punishment. I told them that punishing them was not my responsibility and I don't know what punishments are in this country, so please don't lay that on me. They called the students to the office and screamed and hit them (I felt horrible now, because of me these students were getting blows to the back of the head....I was on the verge of tears). I sat there in an extremely uncomfortable situation for as long as I could stand, then I asked if I could leave. I was told that they would deal with the kids and tell their parents, and on Monday the kids would make it up to me. I was so overwhelmed with different emotions at this point, I just wanted to go home.
On Monday morning, the student that restrained me came to the English office with his teacher to apologize and give me a big box of fresh fruit. In translation, he told me that he hoped I could forgive him and move on with the year. I am sure that both the school and his parents really layed into him, so I am okay with the situation. I thanked him and now it's over.
At lunch the FETs and the native teachers discussed this recent lack of respect for the foreign teachers. It's mostly coming from the 6th graders and we can't exactly pinpoint why. Of course, being a teacher in a foreign land with a language barrier, it's difficult to discipline and maintain classroom order sometimes. That is why the homeroom Taiwanese teacher is supposed to accompany the students in class and help with discipline and translation when needed. They don't always show up, and if they do they are grading papers and usually do not help at all. I have learned to accept this and do the best I can. I have cashed out my ideas for discipline, and now we are brainstorming what else might work. It is very frustrating to have students that don't respect me. I can understand in my own land how this might be a fun game for students to play...but when I sacrificed a year of my life with my friends and family to live in a completely different culture, you would think perhaps I would get a little more appreciation and respect.
The taiwanese teachers are going to speak to the classes and hopefully next semester we will start off on the right foot. I know one thing is for sure: I'm going to start off with pictures of procedures in my classroom. When I talk, you don't. When I say quiet, you are quiet. Bring your book to every class. Not that difficult is it?
Monday, December 22, 2008
Taiwan Medicinal Myths
These are a few things that Taiwanese hold to be true for life and death. I have cracked the code, and done these things in front of a Taiwanese person and they FREAK out everytime. It's quite an enjoyable experience - lol!
When you are sick:
NO ICE WATER
No watermelon
No oranges
Lots of warm water (yuck)
No food with any flavor (spicy, onion, garlic....)
Do drink ginger root seeped in hot water (the most disgusting concoction I've ever tasted)
Do NOT mix:
Honey and hot water (poisonous?)
Hot food with a cold beverage (or vice versa)
taking medicine with anything but water (take it with Coke and they FREAK)
I will add to this list as I discover more medicinal myths!
When you are sick:
NO ICE WATER
No watermelon
No oranges
Lots of warm water (yuck)
No food with any flavor (spicy, onion, garlic....)
Do drink ginger root seeped in hot water (the most disgusting concoction I've ever tasted)
Do NOT mix:
Honey and hot water (poisonous?)
Hot food with a cold beverage (or vice versa)
taking medicine with anything but water (take it with Coke and they FREAK)
I will add to this list as I discover more medicinal myths!
Sunday, December 21, 2008
School's birthday celebration
Every school in Taiwan has a celebration each year. For elementary schools, it's a huge event and most of the parents attend. Our celebration was this past Saturday - and it's safe to say that it was beyond a huge event. As foreign English teachers, we were asked to host the event so that the parents could have the chance to see and hear us. We were also asked to do a ten minute performance, which we chose to do a silly game show. This ten minute show took almost a month of preparation and weeks of rehearsals. The week before the celebration, all the school staff were running around frantically preparing for Saturday. It wasn't until I arrived on school property that I realized just how overblown this celebration had become. There were beautiful flower arraignments decorating the school yard, 20 brand new bikes that would be given away, along with several other wrapped gifts that would be given away. On the stage in the center of the school sat "very important people" dressed in suits and treated like royalty.
The day began and we read our lines for hosting the event. First, there were student clubs that performed for the "important people on stage." There was a karate team, the Djembe African drum players and dancer, a bei-gwan temple drumming team, etc.... Next, were speeches by the principal, the pta, and others that I had never seen. Finally, each grade performed a dance in the middle of the field. After that was our game show and some track and field competitions. After the scheduled events, it was a time for parents to spend time with their children, classmates, and teachers until lunchtime. This was a very boring time for me. Note that I was very sick, but covering up my being uncomfortable to give parents a good impression. I walked around to each classes' tent and visited with the children and teachers. most classrooms showered me with snacks and drinks! They were so happy to share. After I met with every class I waited around for about an hour for lunch to be served. The other ENglish teachers were also bored, and we spent the hour in the teachers office. Lunch was not very good, considering they had to feed 1000 parents along with their families and grandparents. I wasn't in much of a mood for eating, I was feeling very sick at this point and just prayed 3 o clock would come sooner. Luckily, Natalie offered to take me to the doctor so we could sneak away from school for a while. There really was no need for us, but we were required to be at school. She said after 1:30 we could go, because she promised to watch a student in the 100 meter dash. 2 o clock came around and I couldn't find her, so Chiang Bird (the Djembe drum teacher...crazy guy!) offerend to take me. I wanted to wait for Natalie, but by 230 I didn't want to wait any longer, so Chiang Bird took me to the doctor. So, I didn't get to leave that much earlier than the rest. The beginning of the day was a lot of fun, when there were organized events and shows, but once there was no organization, or "free time" it became rather boring and strung out.
I have to say that it is nice that the parents are so involved and interested in their childs' education.
The day began and we read our lines for hosting the event. First, there were student clubs that performed for the "important people on stage." There was a karate team, the Djembe African drum players and dancer, a bei-gwan temple drumming team, etc.... Next, were speeches by the principal, the pta, and others that I had never seen. Finally, each grade performed a dance in the middle of the field. After that was our game show and some track and field competitions. After the scheduled events, it was a time for parents to spend time with their children, classmates, and teachers until lunchtime. This was a very boring time for me. Note that I was very sick, but covering up my being uncomfortable to give parents a good impression. I walked around to each classes' tent and visited with the children and teachers. most classrooms showered me with snacks and drinks! They were so happy to share. After I met with every class I waited around for about an hour for lunch to be served. The other ENglish teachers were also bored, and we spent the hour in the teachers office. Lunch was not very good, considering they had to feed 1000 parents along with their families and grandparents. I wasn't in much of a mood for eating, I was feeling very sick at this point and just prayed 3 o clock would come sooner. Luckily, Natalie offered to take me to the doctor so we could sneak away from school for a while. There really was no need for us, but we were required to be at school. She said after 1:30 we could go, because she promised to watch a student in the 100 meter dash. 2 o clock came around and I couldn't find her, so Chiang Bird (the Djembe drum teacher...crazy guy!) offerend to take me. I wanted to wait for Natalie, but by 230 I didn't want to wait any longer, so Chiang Bird took me to the doctor. So, I didn't get to leave that much earlier than the rest. The beginning of the day was a lot of fun, when there were organized events and shows, but once there was no organization, or "free time" it became rather boring and strung out.
I have to say that it is nice that the parents are so involved and interested in their childs' education.
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Hsin Kang Celeb
Sunday afternoon. 1:20 pm. I'm hungry. Let's go get some food. Mmm. ma Ja Mien sounds good...
Riding bike...hear some drumming...go down temple road....see big crowd. Let's check it out.
I slithered my way through the crowd to see my school's Jembe african drum team and dancers. They were in front of the temple doing a performane, with news crews all around. How cool! I watched them do their last couple dances, then they were finished. My students ran up to me to say hello and were so happy when I gave them high fives. While I was talking to some students, a lady came up to ask me some questions. I figured she was a parent and just interested...but then she said can we say that all one more time? Before I know it a camera crew is in my face and she is asking questions again. Let's step back and consider it's a Sunday afternoon and I'm a lazy bum. So, luckily I had makeup on and my hair was pulled back. Was I dressed for a camera? Nope. I had on sweatpants a hoodie, and um....no bra. ha ha ha. No one seemed to care...they were just so excited to see me there. After the camera take, I asked someone where the best Ma Ja Mien was and they pointed me toward 7-11. I got there and all the shacks near 7-11 were closed....so the next person to say hi to me (a peanut vendor) told me that it's BEHIND 7-11. So I bought some peanuts from him and hoped back on the black dragon (that's what I named my bike. Hey Long is how you say it in Chinese). I got to the shack and one of my cheerleaders was eating with her family. Being a typical shy Taiwanese, she pretended she didn't see me until I stared at her long enough to catch her attention, then she was "so surprised and happy" to see me. Her parents bowed and smiled to me while I ordered my Ma ja mien. He bagged it up and I was on my way. Oops, almost forgot to get a drink. I went to the closest tea stand to get some black tea and I had a brain fart when they told me the price. I couldn't think of any numbers. Everyone in line laughed when they had to type it on a calculator to tell me 15. Uh duh! yi suh ooh! Stupid me! lol. So, I have my peanuts, my ma ja mien, and my hong cha....perfect lunch. It's a beautiful day in Shin Kang, everyone is saying hi to me and waving, I saw an awesome performance, and will be on tv later tonight!
I will post the performance on youtube and if I catch myself on tv tonight I will post that too!
Riding bike...hear some drumming...go down temple road....see big crowd. Let's check it out.
I slithered my way through the crowd to see my school's Jembe african drum team and dancers. They were in front of the temple doing a performane, with news crews all around. How cool! I watched them do their last couple dances, then they were finished. My students ran up to me to say hello and were so happy when I gave them high fives. While I was talking to some students, a lady came up to ask me some questions. I figured she was a parent and just interested...but then she said can we say that all one more time? Before I know it a camera crew is in my face and she is asking questions again. Let's step back and consider it's a Sunday afternoon and I'm a lazy bum. So, luckily I had makeup on and my hair was pulled back. Was I dressed for a camera? Nope. I had on sweatpants a hoodie, and um....no bra. ha ha ha. No one seemed to care...they were just so excited to see me there. After the camera take, I asked someone where the best Ma Ja Mien was and they pointed me toward 7-11. I got there and all the shacks near 7-11 were closed....so the next person to say hi to me (a peanut vendor) told me that it's BEHIND 7-11. So I bought some peanuts from him and hoped back on the black dragon (that's what I named my bike. Hey Long is how you say it in Chinese). I got to the shack and one of my cheerleaders was eating with her family. Being a typical shy Taiwanese, she pretended she didn't see me until I stared at her long enough to catch her attention, then she was "so surprised and happy" to see me. Her parents bowed and smiled to me while I ordered my Ma ja mien. He bagged it up and I was on my way. Oops, almost forgot to get a drink. I went to the closest tea stand to get some black tea and I had a brain fart when they told me the price. I couldn't think of any numbers. Everyone in line laughed when they had to type it on a calculator to tell me 15. Uh duh! yi suh ooh! Stupid me! lol. So, I have my peanuts, my ma ja mien, and my hong cha....perfect lunch. It's a beautiful day in Shin Kang, everyone is saying hi to me and waving, I saw an awesome performance, and will be on tv later tonight!
I will post the performance on youtube and if I catch myself on tv tonight I will post that too!
***I just found out that the performance will be part of a tv show about my town. It will air on January 23rd at 10:00 pm. So, if someone records it for me, I will put it up on here***
Shopping Adventure
Today (Saturday), I had no plans, so I decided I would take the challenge of taking a scooter by myself to Chiayi city and go shopping. I woke up about 8 and watched parts of a movie before getting up and around. I asked Mrs. Huang if I could take the family scooter, and she gave me the keys, no questions asked. I couldn't figure out how to start the thing and was embarassed to ask...but I need the thing started..lol. Surprsingly to me, I remembered the back way to get to the mall without making any wrong turns. When I got into the mall, I was greeted by a real life China doll. She was so beautiful and bowed to me so far I thought she might fall over. In the first 30 seconds, about 5 other employees bowed to me just as big as the China doll. They said "ty gwon ling" which means welcome here. I hoped on the escalator (fyi I'm just about over my deathly fear of escalators) and started going up floor by floor. I had no idea which floor to look on. It was really awkward how at every floor employees were just waiting for business. They would bow and say welcome, then if I looked at something the would stand by me and watch my every move. I don't think they were suspicious of me; I think it's their way of being helpful. If I decided to buy something, they would take it for me and package it and carry it to the door for me. Taiwan hospitality. I felt very awkward and didn't really feel like shopping around because of the eagerness of the workers. I couldn't find a floor with clothes in which I was interested, so I found a service counter and asked for an English map. The lady said "one floor," so I got on the elevator and went to the first floor. As soon as I got off the elevator someone that spoke English was waiting for me (I bet they called her to tell her I was on my way) and she had the map in hand ready to give me. It didn't have store names, just categories...so I chose a floor and started walking around. I wanted to find the store NET (Taiwan version of GAP) so I asked a lady at a desk. She called someone on the phone that spoke English, and she gave me directions. The mall is set up more like a department store. There aren't hallways and stores...there is a floor full of small areas of certain brands. You have to pay for the brand right there where you buy it. You can't walk around with different clothes and pay all at once. I found NET, and it was a small version of the store. I was having a hard time finding the clothes I was interested in, so I decided to go to culture road where I knew many stores and knew I could find plenty of clothes I would like. So I hopped back on the scooter and started off to...well...this is where the story gets comical. From the mall, I didn't know how to get to Culture road. I've been on the back of a scooter before when we made the trip, but not as often as other journies. So I just started turning down roads, doing u-turns like the locals, and really not knowing where the heck I was going. I figured I would just find my way. Well...eventually I ended up at the train/bus station and I know this area very well. I know that Culture road is one of the roads by the station, so I chose the busiest. I think I chose the wrong one. It was lunch time, so I got a happy meal at McDonalds while tons of jr and sr high school students stared at me. What's so odd about an American getting McDonalds? ugh. I ate my food, and started off on the scooter again. I was really distracted trying to find the stores, and probably was in danger of crashing...but somehow I survived. Scooters and cars behind me must've known I was a new driver and to stear clear of me. I heard a lot of honks...which made me nervous...but it was my first time so I didn't get upset. People honk at everything. I never found the big part of culture road, so I decided I was cold enough to go home. I thought a sweatshirt and my jacket would be plenty, but with the wind, I needed gloves, scarf, hat, the works! I was real chilly! Going home was not an enjoyable experience. I started driving who knows where and found myself in the middle of nowhere that seemed to be the ghetto of Chiayi. I found a gas station, filled up, and called Vince. He already knew I would get lost, so he had texted me a message in Chinese to show someone to get me back on track. I showed it to the gas station attendant and she pointed which way to go and motioned to turn left, and she said "7" so I figured the road titled 7 was where I needed to turn left. Two roads later, the road t'ed and it was not road 7. So I chose one and kept driving. I drove and drove, made some turns...trying to find something familiar. There was a nice looking lady waiting to cross the street, so I pulled over and showed her the text. She didn't speak a word of English, but she was shocked and pointed to herself and said Shingang (my town). So I took that as, follow me I'm going to Shingang. She got in her car and waved to follow her. She in her car, and me on my scooter, we made a little caravan through the city and took a way back to Shingang that I dont' remember ever taking. About a half hour later, I recognized some landmarks, so at the next light I waved to her and said thank you so much over and over in Chinese. Then I floored it and headed for home. My shoulders were so tense, and I just needed to chill for a while. It was so stressful not knowing how to get back home. I panicked before finding the sweet lady in the Civic.
So I was finally home, happy and safe. I gave the keys to Mrs. Huang, and took a nap. About two hours later, Mr. Huang called me and told me that I should stop and "put gasoline for the scooter" I told him that I filled up the tank...but the conversation was really confusing...so I walked into the office just to make sure. He was shocked to see me....he obviously thought I was still in the city. He was trying to explain to me that you need to put gas in the scooter so it will keep running. Wow. He either thinks I'm rediculously stupid or have never driven before. I told him I filled it up and he was shocked. lol. I come from another planet. I have never heard of this gasoline you speak of. I thought these contraptions ran on magic and gypsy tears.
So I didn't get what I needed to get (christmas presents for Taiwan friends and a few warm sweaters) but I definetly had an adventurous day.
So I was finally home, happy and safe. I gave the keys to Mrs. Huang, and took a nap. About two hours later, Mr. Huang called me and told me that I should stop and "put gasoline for the scooter" I told him that I filled up the tank...but the conversation was really confusing...so I walked into the office just to make sure. He was shocked to see me....he obviously thought I was still in the city. He was trying to explain to me that you need to put gas in the scooter so it will keep running. Wow. He either thinks I'm rediculously stupid or have never driven before. I told him I filled it up and he was shocked. lol. I come from another planet. I have never heard of this gasoline you speak of. I thought these contraptions ran on magic and gypsy tears.
So I didn't get what I needed to get (christmas presents for Taiwan friends and a few warm sweaters) but I definetly had an adventurous day.
Monday, December 1, 2008
Thanksgiving, Taiwan style
Thanksgiving in a foreign country was not the lonely, depressing day that one could imagine. It was just like any other day in Taiwan...but the weekend was extra fun thanks to a reunion of expat friends.
Thursday was Thanksgiving; and Thursday are my busiest days...so that worked out in my favor. I had classes as usual, but it was a school-wide exam day, so I sat and watched Scrubs on my laptop for most of the day. After school, since cheer practice was cancelled, Vince and I went to Chiayi City to find me some warm clothes. I didn't get much. I did get a really cute coat for really cheap, though! I was excited about that. I didn't realize that it was Thanksgiving until we were sitting in a little shack eating dinner. We had "ma jea mien" and "Show long bow" which probably was the best meal I've eaten in Taiwan thus far. The first one is a bowl of noodles with a sauce on top that is porky and there's a big piece of lettuce in it. It's amazingly delicious. The other one is similar to a dumpling. It has a ball of pork on the inside, and a little soupy deliciousness when you bite into it. The outside is like a thick noodle substance, not quite a bread. The entire thing is round and about the size of a 50 cent piece. It's really good with shredded ginger on top and dipped in soy sauce. I would eat this every day if I could find a place in my town that makes it. I was sitting and enjoying my meal when it dawned on me. I looked up and said in quite a loud voice (even for me!) "OMG it's Thanksgiving!" Vince gave me his cute little smile and was like, Oh yea I know! Lol! Knowing him he probably planned for us to do something fun just because it was Thanksgiving. He's a good friend! After we ate, it was time to rush me to dance class. I was so full and satisfied, I didn't want to exercise...but I definetely need to any chance I can get. So, I went to dance. Typically Miranda, Eve, and I hang out after class, but we were all tired...so I went home and went to bed.
The next morning was Thanksgiving night back home, so I decided to make some calls before classes. Again, it was a testing day, so I didn't have class until 11:20. I called Dad and had a nice conversation, then decided to call my grandma, Mema. She practically lives at my uncle's house, so I called over there...and (if you know anything about my family, this should not be a surprise) of course, I interrupted game time! Just the fact they were playing one of our traditional games made me long for Pennsylvania a little bit more than before. I could hear a jumble of laughs in the background that were a mixture of so many people that I couldn't identify just one laugher. I love that. My Aunt, Ann, answered the phone and was surprised to hear from me! It was nice to chat with her for a second. Then, Mema was put on the phone and told me how the game was going (lol). The biggest surprise was Mema told me my brother had just gotten there that day, so I got to talk to him too! I shouldn't be surprised that he would drive there with no prior plans...that's just how he is :-) So, even though it was a brief conversation with Pennsylvania...it was so great to hear everyone and think about game time with the family.
The real celebration came on the weekend.
On my way to Taitung to stay with Julie and Sarni, I stopped in Kaohsiung to have a dinner date with Damien. Things between us were a little distant the last few weeks, so I figured this would either make it or break it....
He met me in the train station at Kaohsiung park looking so handsome! He had gotten a haircut, wore a nice sweater, and even put on cologne for me! I could tell he made an effort to make this a nice date night! He's too cute! He ate at Smokey Joes...the first time I had ever been there. Tex-Mex is one of my favorite kinds of foods, and the fact that I got FAJITAS pretty much made me the happest girl ever. They even serves a lime in my Corona! YAY! We had a great conversation over dinner, then walked around the city for a while. We got to the train station about a half hour before I had to leave, so we got some drinks and sat down for a while. During those 30 minutes we had the closest conversation that we've ever had. I learned so much more about Damien, and can understand his personality more because of that. We talked about the relationship and how we feel about it, about family, about individual future plans, etc... It was so nice to be able to just sit, relax, and talk face to face! I was extra sad when I had to say goodbye in the train station. With him being so busy in the Navy, I never know when I will see him next...so goodbye is always difficult.
The train ride was much worse than the goodbye. First of all, I didn't get a seat. I bought my ticket too late, so I had to stand. After about an hour, I was WAY sick of standing, so I went to the back of the train. Next to the bathroom, there were some young boys sitting, so I figured it was okay to sit here. Well, the only space for me was by three large black trash bags. I figured I knew the answer, but I asked anyway..."Is this garbage?" And the boys nodded their head. Wow, how humbling....huddled up shivering on the back of a bumpy train sitting between large bags of garbage. I felt like a refuge or something. Soon I fell asleep. My dumb buttocks woke me up and I became angry for how I was traveling when I paid the same amount as the people all cozy in a seat. I decided to take a little walk. Before long, I found an empty seat, and asked if I could sit there. For the last hour of the 4 hour trip, I was able to relax in a comfortable bumpy train seat. I tried to rest so that I would not be dead when I arrived at 11:40, but I was sleepy when I met Julie at the station. We had planned on going out, but once I got to their place, we all had something to drink and our conversations took over until about 2:00 when we decided to go to bed. It was a nice evening.
The next morning we took our time getting up and around. We decided to go to the hot springs for the day. What a great idea. After eating a yummy breakfast at a whole foods restaurant, we hopped on scooters and took off for about 40 minutes until we arrived at the hot spring place. When I imagine hot springs I think of a waterfall and shallow, rocky water with warm bubbles coming out of the earth...many people scattered around relaxing in the steam. Well, this was nothing how I imagined it. It was mad-made pools and well kept. The only thing was, the heat of the pools was from nature and the water came straight from the mountain...there were no heaters. The first pool we went to was a large pool divided into three sections of depth and heat. The first one was shallow and the hottest, then warm and knee deep, then the biggest was waist deep and the temp of a pool in July (still a little chilly). We hung out in these pools for maybe an hour, then ventured over to another section. This was the coolest part. There were all these different sections of one large pool with massaging jets. One for feet, one place where you could recline and get a body massage, a shower head that massaged the head and neck, etc.... this was fun going from place to place and becoming surprised when we hit the on button and got blasted with water. The final section of pools were the herbal soaks. Three pools sat next to one another: one yellow (Chinese healing medicine), the middle was purple (ginseng for energy), and the last was pinkish (lily for relaxing). We tried each one, but the purple was the favorite of both me and Julie. Before heading back home, we all tried the steam room (couldn't inhale it was so steamy) and the sauna (not too bad...I liked this!). Then, it was back on the scooters to find some lunch.
When we got back into town, we went to this cute little cafe called Oia. I felt like I was in an american cafe - it was so cute, had couches, and a tv, and some western food choices. I got a waffle with strawberries...it was...AMAZING! Tony and Julie got cream puffs and went nuts over then, Sarni got a coffee, and James got a waffle with honey. We all agreed it was time for a nap.
Around 5:30, Julie woke me up and told me I had an hour to get ready before we had to meet some other local expats for dinner. We had reservations for an aboriginal restaurant at 7:30. We met up with some other girls and one guy, and they seemed pretty cool. It's nice that the whole expat community had contact with one another and did things together. I know in my county there are supposibly 200 expats, but I've only met 6. I guess they have a group and do things together, but I've never looked into it much...
Anyway...our caravan (or cara-scooter) of 8 headed toward the mountain, and about 30 minutes later came to an outdoor eating venue of an aboriginal tribe. It was all made of bamboo, and had a stage in the middle where we would see dancers first, then kids playing on the rope hanging from the middle. Because we made reservations, our food started coming out as soon as we sat down. Because it was our Thanksgiving (for the 4 Americans at the table) we brought two cans of cranberry sauce (mailed from Indiana...thank you Sarni's mom) and some corn on the cob, compliments of Julie's hot pot. Just having those two small touches made thanksgiving and home so near. It was the perfect touch. For dinner, I had quite a bit of chicken, some mushroom soup, lots of cranberry sauce, a piece of corn, a few vegetables (I did'nt care for our selection) and home-made rice wine (not too much!). The conversation with people from all over the world (of our small group there were 2 Germans, a South African, 2 Canadians, and 4 Americans. It was great to share our tradition with other foreigners, and teach them why the holiday is important to us.
After dinner, we went back to Julie's house and were waiting for it to be late enough to go out. They wanted to take us to a night club that had really cool entertainment. We were all sitting on Julie's bed chatting, then Julie's phone rang and she went into the living room to talk on the phone. I decided to call my step mom. I talked to her for about 15 minutes, and in that time, James had drifted in and out of sleep. When we were all off the phone, the girls from the restaurant showed up and everyone was in the living room. James and I were still in Julie's room just chatting, and soon our chatting became sleeping (lol). Grandpa Yonts. When I heard the front door close when everyone was going out, I decided to move to my own bed. Wow, what a party pooper. We crashed at 11 while everyone else was just starting their night. Oh well, I felt great the next day and they were probably dragging!
Sunday morning we had breakfast then hit the highway for some oceanside scenery. Tony and Julie took us to this great little beach with tons of scenic photo ops. We took some pics, some silly pics, then headed to the marina. Took some more pics, then headed back. We had lunch at a place called Chicago and it featured some foods from around the world, including Chicago style pizza (or so they say). My food came first and in Taiwan customs, you eat when you are served. So, while everyone sat there salivating at the mouths, I finished my meal. Once their meals came, I was the one bored and sitting there. I don't like this custom, but it's just how things are run in this place! Julie luckily glanced at her watch and noticed it was 1:40. My train was at 2:10. There was no way I was going to make it...and I pretty much knew that. We rushed back to the house to get my stuff...then to the train station where I had 7 minutes to spare. I tried to get a ticket and was denied. There was no standing on this train. Don't know why. So I got a train for 4:00 and went back home. Hello again everyone! lol! So for the next hour and a half, Jules and I decided to go around and try to find some Christmas decorations for me. We weren't very succesful. Earlier in the day we went to a stationary store and I got some decorations, but I wanted more. I will continue to look in my town today. We made it to the train station in time, and I got a seat to call my own! Well, for the first hour and a half. At one stop, I was tapped on the shoulder by a mother and daugther and pretty much kicked out of my seat. I guess my ticket was only reserved until this particular seat, then it was standing for the rest of the way. You wouldn't believe how upset I was. I didn't want to repeat the trip there! So I stood there staring at the mom and daughter trying to ESP into their heads "this is our stop...let's get off so Kate can have her seat back!" Well...my ESP fairy was out of whack that day...because once we hit Kaohsiung, not only did the mother and daughter not leave, but about 93827594y65 more people got on the train. We were packing in the standing room only aisle for a good 45 minutes. People even attempted walking around. Everytime I had to squeeze next to a seat to let someone by I wanted to scream at them. "are you crazy! There's no room to move here people, just stay where you are!" But that wouldn't do any good. I would just look even more crazy than I already look to these people! So I sucked it up and stood...and stood...and stood. After all the people got off after Kaohsiung, a few seats opened up and I had about an hour to relax before my stop. It was later than I was expected to get back, but I figured as soon as I got on the bus, I would be home in no time. But, the next bus to my town was in 45 minutes.....so that added another hour on to my already 4.5 hour trip home. I walked to mcDonalds, was given the wrong order, and ate it while I walked back to the bus station. Luckily, and surprisingly, the bus was on time, and I got home around 9:30 pm. I had planned on cleaning my room, doing laundry, etc.... but I was beat, so I took a shower and went to bed. I always hate waking up Monday morning exausted...but today was one of those Mondays. When my alarm clock went off, I actually thought it strange that I sent it since it was the weekend...oops...no it's not...time to get ready for school.....
Thursday was Thanksgiving; and Thursday are my busiest days...so that worked out in my favor. I had classes as usual, but it was a school-wide exam day, so I sat and watched Scrubs on my laptop for most of the day. After school, since cheer practice was cancelled, Vince and I went to Chiayi City to find me some warm clothes. I didn't get much. I did get a really cute coat for really cheap, though! I was excited about that. I didn't realize that it was Thanksgiving until we were sitting in a little shack eating dinner. We had "ma jea mien" and "Show long bow" which probably was the best meal I've eaten in Taiwan thus far. The first one is a bowl of noodles with a sauce on top that is porky and there's a big piece of lettuce in it. It's amazingly delicious. The other one is similar to a dumpling. It has a ball of pork on the inside, and a little soupy deliciousness when you bite into it. The outside is like a thick noodle substance, not quite a bread. The entire thing is round and about the size of a 50 cent piece. It's really good with shredded ginger on top and dipped in soy sauce. I would eat this every day if I could find a place in my town that makes it. I was sitting and enjoying my meal when it dawned on me. I looked up and said in quite a loud voice (even for me!) "OMG it's Thanksgiving!" Vince gave me his cute little smile and was like, Oh yea I know! Lol! Knowing him he probably planned for us to do something fun just because it was Thanksgiving. He's a good friend! After we ate, it was time to rush me to dance class. I was so full and satisfied, I didn't want to exercise...but I definetely need to any chance I can get. So, I went to dance. Typically Miranda, Eve, and I hang out after class, but we were all tired...so I went home and went to bed.
The next morning was Thanksgiving night back home, so I decided to make some calls before classes. Again, it was a testing day, so I didn't have class until 11:20. I called Dad and had a nice conversation, then decided to call my grandma, Mema. She practically lives at my uncle's house, so I called over there...and (if you know anything about my family, this should not be a surprise) of course, I interrupted game time! Just the fact they were playing one of our traditional games made me long for Pennsylvania a little bit more than before. I could hear a jumble of laughs in the background that were a mixture of so many people that I couldn't identify just one laugher. I love that. My Aunt, Ann, answered the phone and was surprised to hear from me! It was nice to chat with her for a second. Then, Mema was put on the phone and told me how the game was going (lol). The biggest surprise was Mema told me my brother had just gotten there that day, so I got to talk to him too! I shouldn't be surprised that he would drive there with no prior plans...that's just how he is :-) So, even though it was a brief conversation with Pennsylvania...it was so great to hear everyone and think about game time with the family.
The real celebration came on the weekend.
On my way to Taitung to stay with Julie and Sarni, I stopped in Kaohsiung to have a dinner date with Damien. Things between us were a little distant the last few weeks, so I figured this would either make it or break it....
He met me in the train station at Kaohsiung park looking so handsome! He had gotten a haircut, wore a nice sweater, and even put on cologne for me! I could tell he made an effort to make this a nice date night! He's too cute! He ate at Smokey Joes...the first time I had ever been there. Tex-Mex is one of my favorite kinds of foods, and the fact that I got FAJITAS pretty much made me the happest girl ever. They even serves a lime in my Corona! YAY! We had a great conversation over dinner, then walked around the city for a while. We got to the train station about a half hour before I had to leave, so we got some drinks and sat down for a while. During those 30 minutes we had the closest conversation that we've ever had. I learned so much more about Damien, and can understand his personality more because of that. We talked about the relationship and how we feel about it, about family, about individual future plans, etc... It was so nice to be able to just sit, relax, and talk face to face! I was extra sad when I had to say goodbye in the train station. With him being so busy in the Navy, I never know when I will see him next...so goodbye is always difficult.
The train ride was much worse than the goodbye. First of all, I didn't get a seat. I bought my ticket too late, so I had to stand. After about an hour, I was WAY sick of standing, so I went to the back of the train. Next to the bathroom, there were some young boys sitting, so I figured it was okay to sit here. Well, the only space for me was by three large black trash bags. I figured I knew the answer, but I asked anyway..."Is this garbage?" And the boys nodded their head. Wow, how humbling....huddled up shivering on the back of a bumpy train sitting between large bags of garbage. I felt like a refuge or something. Soon I fell asleep. My dumb buttocks woke me up and I became angry for how I was traveling when I paid the same amount as the people all cozy in a seat. I decided to take a little walk. Before long, I found an empty seat, and asked if I could sit there. For the last hour of the 4 hour trip, I was able to relax in a comfortable bumpy train seat. I tried to rest so that I would not be dead when I arrived at 11:40, but I was sleepy when I met Julie at the station. We had planned on going out, but once I got to their place, we all had something to drink and our conversations took over until about 2:00 when we decided to go to bed. It was a nice evening.
The next morning we took our time getting up and around. We decided to go to the hot springs for the day. What a great idea. After eating a yummy breakfast at a whole foods restaurant, we hopped on scooters and took off for about 40 minutes until we arrived at the hot spring place. When I imagine hot springs I think of a waterfall and shallow, rocky water with warm bubbles coming out of the earth...many people scattered around relaxing in the steam. Well, this was nothing how I imagined it. It was mad-made pools and well kept. The only thing was, the heat of the pools was from nature and the water came straight from the mountain...there were no heaters. The first pool we went to was a large pool divided into three sections of depth and heat. The first one was shallow and the hottest, then warm and knee deep, then the biggest was waist deep and the temp of a pool in July (still a little chilly). We hung out in these pools for maybe an hour, then ventured over to another section. This was the coolest part. There were all these different sections of one large pool with massaging jets. One for feet, one place where you could recline and get a body massage, a shower head that massaged the head and neck, etc.... this was fun going from place to place and becoming surprised when we hit the on button and got blasted with water. The final section of pools were the herbal soaks. Three pools sat next to one another: one yellow (Chinese healing medicine), the middle was purple (ginseng for energy), and the last was pinkish (lily for relaxing). We tried each one, but the purple was the favorite of both me and Julie. Before heading back home, we all tried the steam room (couldn't inhale it was so steamy) and the sauna (not too bad...I liked this!). Then, it was back on the scooters to find some lunch.
When we got back into town, we went to this cute little cafe called Oia. I felt like I was in an american cafe - it was so cute, had couches, and a tv, and some western food choices. I got a waffle with strawberries...it was...AMAZING! Tony and Julie got cream puffs and went nuts over then, Sarni got a coffee, and James got a waffle with honey. We all agreed it was time for a nap.
Around 5:30, Julie woke me up and told me I had an hour to get ready before we had to meet some other local expats for dinner. We had reservations for an aboriginal restaurant at 7:30. We met up with some other girls and one guy, and they seemed pretty cool. It's nice that the whole expat community had contact with one another and did things together. I know in my county there are supposibly 200 expats, but I've only met 6. I guess they have a group and do things together, but I've never looked into it much...
Anyway...our caravan (or cara-scooter) of 8 headed toward the mountain, and about 30 minutes later came to an outdoor eating venue of an aboriginal tribe. It was all made of bamboo, and had a stage in the middle where we would see dancers first, then kids playing on the rope hanging from the middle. Because we made reservations, our food started coming out as soon as we sat down. Because it was our Thanksgiving (for the 4 Americans at the table) we brought two cans of cranberry sauce (mailed from Indiana...thank you Sarni's mom) and some corn on the cob, compliments of Julie's hot pot. Just having those two small touches made thanksgiving and home so near. It was the perfect touch. For dinner, I had quite a bit of chicken, some mushroom soup, lots of cranberry sauce, a piece of corn, a few vegetables (I did'nt care for our selection) and home-made rice wine (not too much!). The conversation with people from all over the world (of our small group there were 2 Germans, a South African, 2 Canadians, and 4 Americans. It was great to share our tradition with other foreigners, and teach them why the holiday is important to us.
After dinner, we went back to Julie's house and were waiting for it to be late enough to go out. They wanted to take us to a night club that had really cool entertainment. We were all sitting on Julie's bed chatting, then Julie's phone rang and she went into the living room to talk on the phone. I decided to call my step mom. I talked to her for about 15 minutes, and in that time, James had drifted in and out of sleep. When we were all off the phone, the girls from the restaurant showed up and everyone was in the living room. James and I were still in Julie's room just chatting, and soon our chatting became sleeping (lol). Grandpa Yonts. When I heard the front door close when everyone was going out, I decided to move to my own bed. Wow, what a party pooper. We crashed at 11 while everyone else was just starting their night. Oh well, I felt great the next day and they were probably dragging!
Sunday morning we had breakfast then hit the highway for some oceanside scenery. Tony and Julie took us to this great little beach with tons of scenic photo ops. We took some pics, some silly pics, then headed to the marina. Took some more pics, then headed back. We had lunch at a place called Chicago and it featured some foods from around the world, including Chicago style pizza (or so they say). My food came first and in Taiwan customs, you eat when you are served. So, while everyone sat there salivating at the mouths, I finished my meal. Once their meals came, I was the one bored and sitting there. I don't like this custom, but it's just how things are run in this place! Julie luckily glanced at her watch and noticed it was 1:40. My train was at 2:10. There was no way I was going to make it...and I pretty much knew that. We rushed back to the house to get my stuff...then to the train station where I had 7 minutes to spare. I tried to get a ticket and was denied. There was no standing on this train. Don't know why. So I got a train for 4:00 and went back home. Hello again everyone! lol! So for the next hour and a half, Jules and I decided to go around and try to find some Christmas decorations for me. We weren't very succesful. Earlier in the day we went to a stationary store and I got some decorations, but I wanted more. I will continue to look in my town today. We made it to the train station in time, and I got a seat to call my own! Well, for the first hour and a half. At one stop, I was tapped on the shoulder by a mother and daugther and pretty much kicked out of my seat. I guess my ticket was only reserved until this particular seat, then it was standing for the rest of the way. You wouldn't believe how upset I was. I didn't want to repeat the trip there! So I stood there staring at the mom and daughter trying to ESP into their heads "this is our stop...let's get off so Kate can have her seat back!" Well...my ESP fairy was out of whack that day...because once we hit Kaohsiung, not only did the mother and daughter not leave, but about 93827594y65 more people got on the train. We were packing in the standing room only aisle for a good 45 minutes. People even attempted walking around. Everytime I had to squeeze next to a seat to let someone by I wanted to scream at them. "are you crazy! There's no room to move here people, just stay where you are!" But that wouldn't do any good. I would just look even more crazy than I already look to these people! So I sucked it up and stood...and stood...and stood. After all the people got off after Kaohsiung, a few seats opened up and I had about an hour to relax before my stop. It was later than I was expected to get back, but I figured as soon as I got on the bus, I would be home in no time. But, the next bus to my town was in 45 minutes.....so that added another hour on to my already 4.5 hour trip home. I walked to mcDonalds, was given the wrong order, and ate it while I walked back to the bus station. Luckily, and surprisingly, the bus was on time, and I got home around 9:30 pm. I had planned on cleaning my room, doing laundry, etc.... but I was beat, so I took a shower and went to bed. I always hate waking up Monday morning exausted...but today was one of those Mondays. When my alarm clock went off, I actually thought it strange that I sent it since it was the weekend...oops...no it's not...time to get ready for school.....
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