Seen the same day as my visit to Jinci Hotel - cold writing hand, but no camera.
Not being an architect or carpenter it took a while to figure out why there are metal posts and frames holding things up. If the structures were built as far back as 1100AD of course the wooden posts will have rotted! The cast iron statues before the Offering Hall are not as old as the temples - but they are ingenious in how they were made to stand. Tree limbs hold the pieces together. Not sure about the one from 1913 - it must have replaced one; there are four, I believe to protect the four directions.
Drum and bell - opposite each other at an unattainable entrance. I can just imagine how quickly these would disintegrate or tarnish and lose engravings otherwise. They are still in the elements though - covered in coal dust. I wonder if they are cleaned for the New Year offerings held here.
Tiny dog sentries - just like many pet dogs found in China. These are even smaller. Rather vicious looking. Maybe made out of marble or granite; really do not appear to be granite, but then I do not know my stones. Beautifully carved. People need to stop and see.
Twisted, gnarled, striated trees. How old are they? Some appear to be a type of pine; the others perhaps shade trees. Definitely not the plane trees brought by the French. Oh for my camera! First these marvelous trees. Now, stunning, fearsome dragons wrapped around posts, daring anyone brave enough to enter. Just read that these are the only ones in existence now - 1100 years old! There are iron rings on the rafters above - must have been for lanterns. They cannot dare use real lanterns now - everything is as dry as a tinderbox - FWOOM! How can these ancient, important beauties be saved? I am awed at the sartistic ability of the early dynasties.
I had read that the carvings in the main temple are all female, but there are two in the foreground which must be male because of their hairstyles. These poor women have been neglected, are faded, forgotten, frozen, shrouded in shoulder drooping black coal dust until they too become dust. Outside...talk about a tree falling on your house! A common enough occurrence in Sooke that I could not help but notice. Fortunately these trees have fairly heavy duty supports, making them just barely skim above the ancient roofs. They look like dragons attempting to shift shape - entangled limbs, necks and bodies trapped between dragon and tree state for eternity. During a strong wind it would be amazing to encounter. Perhaps. These trees must be of some importance - two guided groups have stopped to be extolled about something to do with the trees and the main temples under their gigantic branches. (Two trees; two temples). A third tree, not a pine, has lost most of its limbs sand trunk. Perhaps the dragon trees are cypress. I was right - the trees I just mentioned are called Longevity Cypress.
My first cave! Chaoyang Cave - Face the Sun; boy, am I out of shape. Where the sun first shines every rising. These are pretty fancy caves. It would help if I were not afraid of heights. There are more caves higher up; however they appear to at another gate - so most likely more money. I do not have time to see everything even in this section of the park in one shortened daylight afternoon.
**I wrote a slightly different piece on Trip Advisor about Jinci Park. It has captured what I neglected to say here. I nearly forgot to say that the peacefulness and stillness, from the cold, nearly brought me to tears. Partially due to the cleaner air, partially the quiet, but also the spirit of the place. Not a religious spirit, more along of what had been including theatres, so a joyousness.
Thursday, 29 December 2011
Packing, Again. Shanghai to Taiyuan
November 30, 2011
I definitely hate the process of preparing to travel. This time I had to wait an extra day. Taiyuan was snowed in. Where on Earth am I going? So, two taxis - no small cost. I did manage to exchange most of my CAD for RMB; then I had to go elsewhere for an ATM that would take my bank card. 1000RMB = approximately $170.00, there must be fees. At least I now have enough money to get by on for a while. I will bew interested to know how far 2000RMB, plus the little I have left over, I think 600RMB, will last.
At least with the delay I had my manicure and foot massage; also did my hair - all very nice.
No idea what to expect in my apartment - most likely just the basics - two bedrooms; bed, wardrobe, kitchen with gas top, microwave, shower, western toilet, washing machine.
Up early this AM - at least I am still all packed. Quick splash of water, ate a banana and tried to finish the book I borrowed from my friend. Great Adventure, by Florence Mayberry. If she could travel all over North America and South America Teaching, then surely I can do the same with teaching. The capital T is significant - she was teaching a Cause; I will be teaching as a teacher - time will tell if I will ever become a Teacher.
Disgusting coffee on the flight - they put sugar in it! At least we are on our way. First snow cancels the flight and then I was worried the fog (smog?) would cause another delay. As my mind wanders - about all I can do on board a plane - well, no recollection of where it wandered to and I did not write it down.
Chinese air flight lunch. It smells alright; haven't actually seen it yet. Noodles and fruit I think; possibly dried meat. Typical Chinese airline meal. Will try to eat.
First impression of Taiyuan - nobody to meet me! Used my IC card - unable to get through to Shanghai. Then my IC card vanished. NOT HAPPY! The card was 50RBM.
December 1, 2011
They neglected to inform me when classes begin. Arrived at 9:00AM.
I need to work out a daily routine that I think will best serve the children, as well as how to incorporate the ridiculous curriculum GKS has chosen to use. It is just a money making scheme that preys on wealthy parents wanting to provide the best fore their child.
So far I have a day of introduction - make that the whole class. Then there is a 'mini-book' I consider far too advanced for such young, non-English speakers. Haven't quite figured out how to incorporate it - bubble words seem the best idea so far. Then I will read half of The Giving Tree. They certainly are not ready for anything difficult - which it might be. For the life of me I cannot recall what the 3rd circle (lesson) is supposed to be. Hoping I can introduce colours or counting; for a 'math' concept, with actions. Perhaps 5 Little Monkeys - or maybe 5 Christmas Cookies.
**I did 5 Little Monkeys seeing as I have the monkeys and a crocodile I usually carry around in my purse - except one monkey was eaten before so I only have four now.
I definitely hate the process of preparing to travel. This time I had to wait an extra day. Taiyuan was snowed in. Where on Earth am I going? So, two taxis - no small cost. I did manage to exchange most of my CAD for RMB; then I had to go elsewhere for an ATM that would take my bank card. 1000RMB = approximately $170.00, there must be fees. At least I now have enough money to get by on for a while. I will bew interested to know how far 2000RMB, plus the little I have left over, I think 600RMB, will last.
At least with the delay I had my manicure and foot massage; also did my hair - all very nice.
No idea what to expect in my apartment - most likely just the basics - two bedrooms; bed, wardrobe, kitchen with gas top, microwave, shower, western toilet, washing machine.
Up early this AM - at least I am still all packed. Quick splash of water, ate a banana and tried to finish the book I borrowed from my friend. Great Adventure, by Florence Mayberry. If she could travel all over North America and South America Teaching, then surely I can do the same with teaching. The capital T is significant - she was teaching a Cause; I will be teaching as a teacher - time will tell if I will ever become a Teacher.
Disgusting coffee on the flight - they put sugar in it! At least we are on our way. First snow cancels the flight and then I was worried the fog (smog?) would cause another delay. As my mind wanders - about all I can do on board a plane - well, no recollection of where it wandered to and I did not write it down.
Chinese air flight lunch. It smells alright; haven't actually seen it yet. Noodles and fruit I think; possibly dried meat. Typical Chinese airline meal. Will try to eat.
First impression of Taiyuan - nobody to meet me! Used my IC card - unable to get through to Shanghai. Then my IC card vanished. NOT HAPPY! The card was 50RBM.
December 1, 2011
They neglected to inform me when classes begin. Arrived at 9:00AM.
I need to work out a daily routine that I think will best serve the children, as well as how to incorporate the ridiculous curriculum GKS has chosen to use. It is just a money making scheme that preys on wealthy parents wanting to provide the best fore their child.
So far I have a day of introduction - make that the whole class. Then there is a 'mini-book' I consider far too advanced for such young, non-English speakers. Haven't quite figured out how to incorporate it - bubble words seem the best idea so far. Then I will read half of The Giving Tree. They certainly are not ready for anything difficult - which it might be. For the life of me I cannot recall what the 3rd circle (lesson) is supposed to be. Hoping I can introduce colours or counting; for a 'math' concept, with actions. Perhaps 5 Little Monkeys - or maybe 5 Christmas Cookies.
**I did 5 Little Monkeys seeing as I have the monkeys and a crocodile I usually carry around in my purse - except one monkey was eaten before so I only have four now.
Ode to Western Tastes
This was early December, after discovering Walmart and KFC in the same place. Well, across the small courtyard from each other. I thought McD had an affiliation with Walmart. Who cares?
No Starbucks! Too major an investment - even with 4 million people perhaps?
Oh my, french fries! And coffee - KFC rocks!! I had not realized I would miss fries. Rarely eat them at home.
kld
No Starbucks! Too major an investment - even with 4 million people perhaps?
Oh my, french fries! And coffee - KFC rocks!! I had not realized I would miss fries. Rarely eat them at home.
kld
Tuesday, 27 December 2011
Dec 17/11
Dec 17/11 KFC vs McD
First I need to say I do not usually go to either KFC or McDonald's at home. I think I overdid things over the last 24 hours and now my body is complaining.that a chicken burger from each place is too much!
It had not been my intention to have either, but circumstances, and lack of other choices, made the decision. I think the McD, that was today, was worse, it gave me heartburn. Walking home was not pleasant. So now I am at home, chatting online and drinking green tea. Tea is always a good remedy for an upset stomach.
Back to chinese meals.
kld
First I need to say I do not usually go to either KFC or McDonald's at home. I think I overdid things over the last 24 hours and now my body is complaining.that a chicken burger from each place is too much!
It had not been my intention to have either, but circumstances, and lack of other choices, made the decision. I think the McD, that was today, was worse, it gave me heartburn. Walking home was not pleasant. So now I am at home, chatting online and drinking green tea. Tea is always a good remedy for an upset stomach.
Back to chinese meals.
kld
Email bits and pieces Dec 12/11 - Dec 15/11
My School Day
Well, it was bound to happen sooner than later. I finally had a clash with a teacher; unfortunately she is in my classroom. Why we need so many teachers in one class is beyond me. Without me there are 5 staff in one class! The TA and Life Skills (nicer than lackey) do more than the supposed trained teachers. Except me - I work very hard, in English - in a Chinese class.
Today things came to a head when one of the T's did not appreciate that Vlad's class joined our class for lunch. They and another class had already participated in my class because their rooms were too cold. I had understood they would be joining us for lunch. Then the Chinese teacher took his class back to their room - no idea why. I told Vlad his class might as well stay seeing as he had already brought a table and chairs.
Well, I guess this did not go over well with the teacher who has the poorly placed name of Sunny. I believe she actually called the person sort of in charge while the principal is away to complain that Vlad was in our classroom with his class. Oh my - how dreadful. Of course Yoki, (where do they get these names?) came upstairs to confront Vlad - asking, in a not too friendly manner who made the decision that he could join us. Also why he did not tell the other Ts. So I stepped in for two purposes, Sunny was raising her voice, which meant others were too, and I felt it was my decision based on what I had understood.
I literally had to step in, quietly, but with conviction, asking them to take their argument out of the classroom as it was not a healthy environment for the children. I think that surprised everyone.
So, we got to freeze in the hallway while we discussed what had occurred. To me it made absolutely no sense - Sunny does not do any real teaching. I came very close to saying that, and it is my class not hers. However, she seems to be under the impression everything has to be passed by her. I found out later that Shelley, the teacher who had to leave, had problems with this teacher also. I will continue to stand my ground, asserting my position if absolutely necessary. I am of the opinion this one teacher should not be in an English speaking class - she is constantly speaking Chinese to the children, even while I am teaching.
Then we had to rehearse for the Christmas show, which was planned for 3:00; surprise, surprise my class was nearly 20 minutes late getting to the auditorium. It made things quite rushed to get anything done with 30 children who had never heard our Christmas song - plus teachers. The principal will only have to worry about the performance if anyone dares try to sabotage the efforts of the children. By the end of the day, and it was past my time to leave, I had a headache.
I still need to make playdough - think I will use it to soothe my nerves.
kld
Dec 13/11 Sick in Taiyuan
Well, the cold classroom has finally gotten the best of me. I am definitely sick. So far mostly a drippy nose, but I can feel a fever trying to settle in. It is not any fun being sick, half way around the country and no one to look after me. Not even my kitty.
Temperature in my classroom today was a bit warmer, I think we managed to get up to 15 C. by the afternoon; it started at 7 C. The hallways remain near freezing. As do the offices and the library. My class is the warmest. No wonder I am sick - along with the fact most of the children have had colds.
I am feeling sorry for myself; I need a warm blanket, some of Rachel's magic drink - all I have water. Perhaps I will venture out tomorrow to find lemon juice, honey and cayenne pepper. Well, perhaps not the pepper - no idea how to find that amongst all the Chinese herbs.
So, if anyone other than my immediate family does not hear back from me right away I am not ignoring you - I am having a pity fest.
Snuffle, snuffle.
kld
Dec 15/11 Ninnys (or is that ninnies?)
Bit of a blow up today - it has been boiling to bursting point all week, and today it bubbled right over. I called the Shanghai office today, then send a very long email detailing events and what finally made me so upset.
I am not accustomed to being insulted, not regarding my ability to teach, and especially not in front of other teachers. It was not even my teaching that was at issue, it is the lack of communication with the other teachers. All I am doing is trying to communicate with them! Some of them went running to their mummy, the principal, who seems to have a bee in her bonnet regarding salary as it is, and wanted to meet.
I finally became so fed up I said I would call Shanghai and talk to them. I took half a day the next day as a personal day I felt bad about leaving Vlad to deal with the whole Christmas Show on his own. All this because one newly graduated ninny's nose is out of joint. I think she has been given too much authority and it is going to her head.
The principal might say she can do the teaching, but English is not her first language - Chinese is.
Damn, damn, damn!
kld
Dec 16/11 How Much Was That Popcorn? (Including an impromptu poem)
First, thank you Rachel and Elizabeth - you remembered what we missed the most in China. The coffee press is wonderful - I could barely wait to get home to have real coffee tat was brewed properly. Books, conditioner and the silly hand tattoos will definitely be appreciated.
I guess this means the parcel arrived! Yeah! MMMMM, fresh popped popcorn and fresh brewed coffee!
Popcorn in the pan, sizzle, sizzle, Popping like mad, sizzle, sizzle.
Oops, pan's a bit low
pour it into a bowl
popcorn in the pan sizzle, sizzle.
A little on the floor
and even more out the door..
popcorn in the pan sizzle, sizzle.
Yikes, how daft
It's heading for the elevator shaft.
popcorn in the pan sizzle, sizzle.
Over the sink
and down the brink
twenty one stories down
Watch out - don't drown!
popcorn in the pan sizzle, sizzle.
Over the cars, bicycles and dogs
quickly seized up any cogs.
popcorn in the pan sizzle, sizzle.
slipping sliding along thin ice
try to stop it - no dice.
dancing up the steps
just what is its depth?
popcorn in the pan sizzle, sizzle.
Into a school
that's pretty cool
up to a classroom
Quick everybody - grab a broom!
popcorn in the pan sizzle, sizzle.
Well, it was bound to happen sooner than later. I finally had a clash with a teacher; unfortunately she is in my classroom. Why we need so many teachers in one class is beyond me. Without me there are 5 staff in one class! The TA and Life Skills (nicer than lackey) do more than the supposed trained teachers. Except me - I work very hard, in English - in a Chinese class.
Today things came to a head when one of the T's did not appreciate that Vlad's class joined our class for lunch. They and another class had already participated in my class because their rooms were too cold. I had understood they would be joining us for lunch. Then the Chinese teacher took his class back to their room - no idea why. I told Vlad his class might as well stay seeing as he had already brought a table and chairs.
Well, I guess this did not go over well with the teacher who has the poorly placed name of Sunny. I believe she actually called the person sort of in charge while the principal is away to complain that Vlad was in our classroom with his class. Oh my - how dreadful. Of course Yoki, (where do they get these names?) came upstairs to confront Vlad - asking, in a not too friendly manner who made the decision that he could join us. Also why he did not tell the other Ts. So I stepped in for two purposes, Sunny was raising her voice, which meant others were too, and I felt it was my decision based on what I had understood.
I literally had to step in, quietly, but with conviction, asking them to take their argument out of the classroom as it was not a healthy environment for the children. I think that surprised everyone.
So, we got to freeze in the hallway while we discussed what had occurred. To me it made absolutely no sense - Sunny does not do any real teaching. I came very close to saying that, and it is my class not hers. However, she seems to be under the impression everything has to be passed by her. I found out later that Shelley, the teacher who had to leave, had problems with this teacher also. I will continue to stand my ground, asserting my position if absolutely necessary. I am of the opinion this one teacher should not be in an English speaking class - she is constantly speaking Chinese to the children, even while I am teaching.
Then we had to rehearse for the Christmas show, which was planned for 3:00; surprise, surprise my class was nearly 20 minutes late getting to the auditorium. It made things quite rushed to get anything done with 30 children who had never heard our Christmas song - plus teachers. The principal will only have to worry about the performance if anyone dares try to sabotage the efforts of the children. By the end of the day, and it was past my time to leave, I had a headache.
I still need to make playdough - think I will use it to soothe my nerves.
kld
Dec 13/11 Sick in Taiyuan
Well, the cold classroom has finally gotten the best of me. I am definitely sick. So far mostly a drippy nose, but I can feel a fever trying to settle in. It is not any fun being sick, half way around the country and no one to look after me. Not even my kitty.
Temperature in my classroom today was a bit warmer, I think we managed to get up to 15 C. by the afternoon; it started at 7 C. The hallways remain near freezing. As do the offices and the library. My class is the warmest. No wonder I am sick - along with the fact most of the children have had colds.
I am feeling sorry for myself; I need a warm blanket, some of Rachel's magic drink - all I have water. Perhaps I will venture out tomorrow to find lemon juice, honey and cayenne pepper. Well, perhaps not the pepper - no idea how to find that amongst all the Chinese herbs.
So, if anyone other than my immediate family does not hear back from me right away I am not ignoring you - I am having a pity fest.
Snuffle, snuffle.
kld
Dec 15/11 Ninnys (or is that ninnies?)
Bit of a blow up today - it has been boiling to bursting point all week, and today it bubbled right over. I called the Shanghai office today, then send a very long email detailing events and what finally made me so upset.
I am not accustomed to being insulted, not regarding my ability to teach, and especially not in front of other teachers. It was not even my teaching that was at issue, it is the lack of communication with the other teachers. All I am doing is trying to communicate with them! Some of them went running to their mummy, the principal, who seems to have a bee in her bonnet regarding salary as it is, and wanted to meet.
I finally became so fed up I said I would call Shanghai and talk to them. I took half a day the next day as a personal day I felt bad about leaving Vlad to deal with the whole Christmas Show on his own. All this because one newly graduated ninny's nose is out of joint. I think she has been given too much authority and it is going to her head.
The principal might say she can do the teaching, but English is not her first language - Chinese is.
Damn, damn, damn!
kld
Dec 16/11 How Much Was That Popcorn? (Including an impromptu poem)
First, thank you Rachel and Elizabeth - you remembered what we missed the most in China. The coffee press is wonderful - I could barely wait to get home to have real coffee tat was brewed properly. Books, conditioner and the silly hand tattoos will definitely be appreciated.
I guess this means the parcel arrived! Yeah! MMMMM, fresh popped popcorn and fresh brewed coffee!
Popcorn in the pan, sizzle, sizzle, Popping like mad, sizzle, sizzle.
Oops, pan's a bit low
pour it into a bowl
popcorn in the pan sizzle, sizzle.
A little on the floor
and even more out the door..
popcorn in the pan sizzle, sizzle.
Yikes, how daft
It's heading for the elevator shaft.
popcorn in the pan sizzle, sizzle.
Over the sink
and down the brink
twenty one stories down
Watch out - don't drown!
popcorn in the pan sizzle, sizzle.
Over the cars, bicycles and dogs
quickly seized up any cogs.
popcorn in the pan sizzle, sizzle.
slipping sliding along thin ice
try to stop it - no dice.
dancing up the steps
just what is its depth?
popcorn in the pan sizzle, sizzle.
Into a school
that's pretty cool
up to a classroom
Quick everybody - grab a broom!
popcorn in the pan sizzle, sizzle.
Email bits and pieces Nov 2011 - Dec 10/11
Nov 30/11
Not a Good First Impression
Not a Good First Impression
Aw. The something funny did not seem to be there and I could have done with a laugh. Stuck at Taiyuan airport, no one to meet me, then my IC card (for phone calls) was either eaten by the phone or stolen while I was not looking. I think the latter.
There is snow here - found out that is why I was not met - person stuck in traffic because of the snow. Or so they say. The fact there was not any snow on the actual roads did make me wonder if they thought I was blind. First impressions - do not ask!
kldDec 2/11
To My Sister
You did say perhaps you should visit me while I am in China - I find that if I explain it is to let my family know I get things done faster. So if I say my sister is going to come perhaps I will receive an answer the same day I ask!
If you came to Beijing you could see the Forbidden City, the Great Wall and some other places. All in the freezing cold most likely.
Go to Shanghai, warm up a little - do some touring around - the Big Bus Tour is great. Along with going to places I know without looking at maps. A trip to nearby Hangzhou would be a must -
If you want to go to Xi'an to see the Warriors... No idea if there are fast trains to there yet. Basically a nine day tour without being stuck in an actual tour. We could pick and choose. The only other area to consider will be hotels, because we would need to stay somewhere. Not so sure you could handle some of the ones I have stayed in. So, think cost - how much do you want to spend, besides on your flight. I will have only been paid once by then, for Dec, which will be paid on Jan 5th.
I can't promise you will like everything, but I can promise you will say you were glad you had the opportunity.
kld
Dec 3/11Shopping and Decorating
Well. I not only survived the cold, I survived Walmart. It's called a super centre - not sure if that is because there are more stores in the same building, or if Walmart has several floors and I just started in the basement. Definitely felt like a cross between a bargain basement store and a step down from Carrefour (big European chain in Shanghai). Not really like the Walmarts in Canada other than the blue vests. Service was very fast though.
Managed to not buy a coffee maker - figured out the cost would have been around 60CAD - so will have to figure something else out. Perhaps a tea press, they can usually stand in for a French press, except I expect I will be chewing coffee grounds. Meanwhile, I will look longingly at my 1/2 lb of ground coffee from Stick in the Mud, smell it every once in a while, dream of a good cup of coffee and then drink the instant premixed stuff we used to get until we discovered Star Bucks in Beijing, then eventually all over the place in Shanghai. I do believe there is a McDonald's after all, I saw someone carrying a bag. Perhaps I will have to find out where just to get some coffee every once in a while. It's also where foreigners often congregate, well those from western countries do. There is a KFC on the same level as Walmart so all is not lost - they have coffee too I expect.
Back to why I was at Wal Mart in the first place. I figured I should venture out a bit further than the SMS (or is it SSM?) store up the block in the opposite direction. Biggest difference, more people at Walmart can speak some English whereas the only attempt by someone at SMS was a hearty, rather high pitched "Hello!", repeated a few times before I saw where it came from. A young man behind the glass where cong you bing and such are made was smiling at me from behind his mask - he seemed quite pleased with his attempt, especially when I turned around and flashed him a smile - yes, flashed, very rare from me to actually even be able to flash smiles - they often seem contrived. Except when with little children. Before I forget, one little girl - Mina, came up to me yesterday, late afternoon - normally I would have been gone, and gave me a kiss on my cheek. I think I have been accepted.
Back to shopping. I first strolled around the store just to see what is available - still cannot find any popcorn, I've been looking. Lots of sales pitches from the many staff on the floor - very typical in China. Also one or two unhappy looking staff trying to hide in corners. I saw this yesterday also, I think for two of them at least they might have been unwell. The one at Walmart was amongst the soaps, so not so bad; but the other was around packaged cookies or something like that, not so good.. Very difficult to call in sick here - someone else will likely replace you.
Lots of packaged grocery choices, I didn't see everything, produce a bit better than SMS. I might just venture down the street to one of the small vendors to buy fruit each day or so. Nice to really support local if possible after all. Gives a sense of belonging - and they will certainly remember me, I seem to be the only foreigner on the block. I did see one man with three children on Thursday who appeared to be middle eastern - as did the children, but less so. No words were passed between us - nor could I determine what one of the children said or in which language. There is another kindergarten right in the same complex as where I work, different company, so I might introduce myself. No harm keeping windows and doors of opportunity open.
Right, decorating. I took a before picture of my rather drab, huge apartment and plan to get to work gussying it up a bit. Will take an after photo for the big reveal. Most of my expenses at WalMart went into that - along with much need cleaning supplies such as laundry soap.
My other challenge for today will be trying to not electrocute myself when putting on the wash, or be drowned, and figuring out which button is for what - perhaps I should have paid more attention to characters that say on and off! In the next couple of hours I hope to have clean clothes and a liveable space - all accomplished with the wave of a magic wand.
kld
Dec 4/11 Noisome thoughts
Listening to car horns on a Sunday afternoon I can't help but wonder if it is due to the dense smog or a traffic jam. Everyone honks even if it isn't necessary!
Several weddings these past 4 days - firecrackers, drums, more firecrackers - all night some of the time!
And then are the really expensive weddings, or perhaps a baby boy was born, when the really heavy artillery comes out. Not that I can see where it is coming from. Even without the smog the tall buildings make it impossible to see very far. However, to be fair there is a great view of the river - or there was. Even had ice floes in it. Too bad I haven't been able to see it for two days now.
Construction - all day, everyday, never seems to end. I am sure somewhere either above me or below someone is hammering away at the same space without getting anywhere. Surely they must have made a hole by now!
Elevators - now I know why living on the 5th or 6th floor is a good idea. Walking up 21 floors could wear out even the fittest person. Decided against it, went to buy some dinner - returned, and it was working.
Shopping - most people go shopping for food nearly every day; all very well if you know where to go, what is what and how much should be paid. Noodles are a big thing here, getting rather tired of them - especially in soup form. People here slurp their noodles, their soup, everything - I had forgotten that. Quite a talent when using chopsticks!
Of course there many smokers in Taiyuan, just adding to the pollution. In Shanghai young people are not smoking - especially those in university or white collar jobs from the sounds of it.
Coffee has definitely taken hold in China, less so in some regions - like Taiyuan. I wonder what the per capita is? There is someone my friend knows who has a company that deals in coffee, don't know if it is grown here, but the business is in China so all the roasting etc is here. They even deliver it right to your door - the beans that is. Wonder if they could get me a coffee maker. $60.00 was just too expensive.
On that note, need to decide if I should have another cup of the instant stuff or have tea instead. At least I like tea.
kld
Dec 4/11 Taiyuan Comments
While searching for something, anything, that had nice things to say about Taiyuan I stumbled across a gem regarding pollution and beds.
I have been here for 4 days and 8 hours - give or take five minutes. I was in China seven years ago. I loved China then. I loved my unexpected glorious ten days in Shanghai - I am in dire need of ten more right now. What can I say about Taiyuan without insulting the people who are stuck living here. Nothing. Except I want to.
It is worse than a cesspool - at least drowning would come quickly in a cesspool. Taiyuan on the other hand is beyond oppressive. It is depressing, dull, a pall hangs over everything, filthy, beyond gray, choking grayness - like a venomous snake swirling in the slowest, murkiest slow motion movie one can imagine. The grayness is palpable. That isn't fog - it is smog. Smog to the highest power. I was in Shanghai during SARS - we had a great time pestering those taking temps. We got to be tourists without all the pesky tourists. And I was still able to work.
In Taiyuan I am also working - more hours, less air. I think someone should consider investing in some of those oxygen bars that were popular some years ago-I know I would be a patron. Some rose coloured glasses would be helpful too, except I am afraid I would trip over a building I couldn't already see without the added tint of rose. Hard bed-oh yes, that gave rise to a chuckle. Who cares, it's only me. Everyone just disappears once they are finished work, shopping or whatever. Not sure anyone actually plays-although I do know where there is a fitness centre; how to they do aerobics and breathe? Things must be pretty good now, at least I can find yogurt, pasta, tomato sauce and even some form of mayonnaise. Not for me. No real coffee yet, the only coffee makers are $60.00CAD. I really need a cup of Stick coffee that I brought all the way from Sooke, BC.
kld
Dec 7/11 There Are Bears in Them Thar' Hills
There are actually hills in Taiyuan - and bears! The bears were being discussed with teachers after I was exclaiming about seeing mountains. I quickly lowered that to a lesser degree of hills. Somehow we got onto bears - most likely because I had been saying we have bears where I live. In the backyard - they were suitably impressed and a bit incredulous.
To really provide an idea of just significant the change in the air was, I was absolutely flabbergasted to see the bridge I can see from my apartment lit up tonight! Not just simple lights, but pink, yellow and blue - the colours change. There is a stadium across the river; and the river might not have ice floes after all, although I am still inclined to think it did - there are clumps of long grasses.
I even saw blue sky and the sun during the day and the moon and the first star tonight. What a difference to the cityscape. There is a city out there after all. I was beginning to think I would fall off the edge of the sidewalk if I went any further than the end of my street or past Walmart - in the other direction. Too bad the wind had picked up though. Now all the smog is being blown in our faces.
I now know we definitely have a holiday from Jan 1 - 3; then14 - 29. Now to find out if the school will be closing early to put heating in the floors. I said it made more sense to have the holiday and closing occur at the same time - when it is really cold and everyone will be away anyway. Of course the thought of staying in Taiyuan does not appeal to me for a whole month!
We are working on a Christmas Show - so silly. So far all I know is that it will be 1 1/2 hours with five classes (only two are international). We might have to drag the poor children out to perform in public to promote the school. I am dead set on that, as are the parents according to the other foreign teacher. He said the parents were very unhappy with a similar event for Halloween. Who can blame them - they pay a lot of money to send their children here. We are pushing for a show at the school, even if it means inviting interested parents. Much easier to handle the whole thing - even if we do a show, have a dinner and even Santa Claus.
Never mind the original meaning of the holiday!
All this means I am wracking my brain to teach something extra easy for the children to do, and doing something that is a show stopper. So far I have to simplify one song - Winter related rather than Christmas. I do have simple costumes in mind - they go for grand events in China. I suggested that all the children do one or two songs at the end together - the principal liked the idea. Now to make it work!
I had so much to write and now it has all gone from my head - like the smog. I am ready for bed, only 6:36. I just wish my bed did not feel like I am sleeping on the ground - if this is how it feels to sleep on concrete I am doubly sorry for the homeless. I get so exhausted trying to turn over that I usually do not get a really sound sleep until 5, and my alarm goes off at 6:30.
Turning over is torture, all my muscles and bones complain bitterly. To make matters worse, after my first day on Thursday I started to slip on a patch of ice, wrenching my knee - the one I already have a problem with. It has been sore ever since, first thing in the morning after sleeping, then again after work. I must figure out an ice pack - making ice cubes takes days. Perhaps if I put my ice cube tray in the hallway of the school. I have a tiny ice cube tray. It took three days to make enough cubes to take to school today for an ice melting and painting activity. Fortunately that was a success. For the four children in class today.
That is another problem, not everyone comes to school so I never know how many I will have and certainly can't teach anything for a show despite what the principal says. Spending 30 minutes with them sitting on the carpet is also useless when there are only four. Oh well, all I can do is try.
Things are looking brighter though - at least for now, I really hope the smog stays away for a few days at least.
kld
Dec 10/11 Coffee and Museum
My latest adventures were Friday night and Saturday afternoon. I can only handle so much excitement at a time.
Friday, first we had to stay late to meet with the principal whose main focus was that she, "...is worried about your performances." So much for having the support of the school. We also found out that she told the Chinese teachers to plan something, most likely in November, and they must rehearse every Wednesday after school. My response - an aside to Jim - was that they will be showing us up. Then I had to explain what that meant. He is from Russia. We ended up staying until well after 5:30, most likely much to the delight of the principals and the owners - they are demanding we be at school from 8 - 5:30. I fired off a letter, carefully crafted as all missiles should be, to Shanghai providing my views on this. I did see the response Jim received regarding a letter he sent; however, we are not making it known we have been discussing this situation. We are a united front in the back of those who are giving us a headache.
All this does lead up to coffee. I have a TA who speaks English, fairly decently, the problem is that she hasn't a clue where things are here - despite being raised in Taiyuan! So Jim offered to take me to Fashion Walk, we both wanted to see where our classes will b performing. Afterwards we walked back to where he caught his bus and I decided to go for coffee at UBC.
Usually two floors, serving food, coffee, tea and fancy juices - never very busy. Menu in Chinese and English. Of course this is where things started to become confusing. I just wanted a cup of coffee, with milk. Forget trying to say cream - I am sure the concept is beyond some of those who work there. In Taiyuan when people say they only speak a little English they mean it - hello, coffee, bye-bye - are often all I can get out of anyone. The fact I use passable Chinese for very simple requests makes everyone assume I must be fluent. Perhaps all foreigners here are.
First they ascertained I did want to be on the second floor. Then I chose where I would sit. Next, order yi bei kafei; wo yao niu nai. One coffee; I want milk. Except this simple request resulted in about 5 minutes of mass confusion. Did I want cold coffee with milk? No, I want hot coffee, and milk. Did I want hot coffee and hot milk? No, just a little milk. Ah, did I want one cup of coffee and one cup of milk? By this time I had resorted to trying to over-explain things, in Chinese, when it dawned on me to be more explicit with actions rather than words. Remember, all this was in Chinese - except for the few words of English from me when I was at a loss to explain all I wanted was a little cream to put in my coffee to stir and drink. Then it dawned on me - I asked for a little cup of milk, but this time showed the size I meant. Presto, the girl ran over to the counter where she has all her spoons, tissue (they do not use napkins here) and whatnot, pulled out a creamer and presented it to me with a flourish. Feeling triumphant I was just about to say thank you when she asked if I wanted sugar in my coffee! An emphatic no. When the coffee finally arrived, after my food, from the first floor, it was delivered on a tray, the cup sitting beside the saucer, the server seemed to be waiting for something - perhaps he was unsure to whom this one little cup of should go to? After all, everyone else had their coffees - I assume they were having coffee. I beckoned him over, do they not know it is dangerous to get between a foreigner and her coffee? He did not budge, just looked a little scared and helpless, maybe he did know - ah, the upstairs girl had to put the cup on the saucer and present the spoon to said saucer before taking the whole and making a presentation of my coffee to me. With another creamer. Despite the ice cold cream hitting the very hot coffee and coming close to curdling, I used both creamers, it was a decent cup of coffee - or I was just so desperate by then I did not know better. I am discovering that coffee in the evening is good for the soul - at least in Taiyuan it is. I will not blame it on waking up every hour - I hadn't had decent coffee until several days after the rock hard bed.
Thank goodness my food was easier to order. Not only was there English, there were pictures. Well, there were for the coffee too - but I did not have my glasses.
Taiyuan Museum
The museum was today's adventure. Next time I go out I must remember to wear my leggings under my pants - it was fine in a taxi and the museum, but outside was like getting into a bathtub of ice cubes, or having a cold shower - the latter being common here when poor wiring means the hot water tank is not on. (My Friday was like that all day - starting with the cold shower).
I left after 11:00, figuring it was before lunch, but after everyone has gone shopping. Lots of taxis, all going in the opposite direction, with passengers. I could only assume it was the opposite direction - I did not have a clue where the museum was. I copied the address from a site, in Chinese, along with a picture and saved it on my laptop. Thus armed, with a fully charged battery, I headed off. When I had gone all the way to the end of the street, legs now entombed in icicles, I finally saw a taxi coming down the street - one is always trying to walk straight, avoid traffic and turn to look behind for a taxi to come out of the oncoming traffic. I hopped in, he asked where to - and I couldn't see the page on the computer to show him because the sun was glaring in the window. Well, I didn't care if I was going the wrong way, it was an adventure - I finally got to it, he muttered something about having to go around, so I smiled sweetly - most likely frightened him, and we were on our merry way. He of course tried to make small talk - something about why did I want to go to the museum? I was able to say I taught little children every day so today I wanted to see something in Taiyuan. He sort of understood. People in China need to get out more to see what their country has to offer.
Unfortunately the museum was just a museum - great architecture, but the artifacts were very much like other museums I have seen in China. Except the Buddhas - that was interesting. So many of these statues, regardless the size, are missing their right hand (I did not check the ones with several hands that carefully). Some are missing their head - some head and hands. But most are missing the right hand. Then I thought about it, that is the hand that is held up from the extended arm - only from the elbow - making it more liable to be damaged over centuries of people touching it, making offerings or whatever. Being left handed is safer! I managed to stay warm, it was quiet most of the time, only one tour came through while I was there, so I just changed the direction I was going in to avoid them; I noticed one man did the same thing.
There were also models of different wooden structures, mainly for worship and theatrics (not in the same room) that I quite liked. Some of the former still exist, but the majority I believe have either been destroyed over time or were rebuilt. I would love to have one made for children to use.
Then it was back outside to find another taxi and head home. It took a bit to find one at that end too, even with the helpful advice of my first driver who told me it would be difficult to find a taxi on the road where he let me off. Where I did go was nearly devoid of cars that were moving, three taxis stopped to drop people off, but they were too far off for me to get their attention. I finally saw one that stopped and disgorged some people, so I flagged it down. I then heard a child say to its parent something about not having that one - absolutely not in sight when I flagged it, so I did not feel guilty about leaving them out in the cold. They would have a much easier time of it getting one than I. I had the school address written down on my museum paper, so that was easy, but he kept it! All in all not a bad day - the museum was free, my total expense 42RMB - taxis. ($7.00) I had the foresight to bring a snack with me too.
kld
There are actually hills in Taiyuan - and bears! The bears were being discussed with teachers after I was exclaiming about seeing mountains. I quickly lowered that to a lesser degree of hills. Somehow we got onto bears - most likely because I had been saying we have bears where I live. In the backyard - they were suitably impressed and a bit incredulous.
To really provide an idea of just significant the change in the air was, I was absolutely flabbergasted to see the bridge I can see from my apartment lit up tonight! Not just simple lights, but pink, yellow and blue - the colours change. There is a stadium across the river; and the river might not have ice floes after all, although I am still inclined to think it did - there are clumps of long grasses.
I even saw blue sky and the sun during the day and the moon and the first star tonight. What a difference to the cityscape. There is a city out there after all. I was beginning to think I would fall off the edge of the sidewalk if I went any further than the end of my street or past Walmart - in the other direction. Too bad the wind had picked up though. Now all the smog is being blown in our faces.
I now know we definitely have a holiday from Jan 1 - 3; then14 - 29. Now to find out if the school will be closing early to put heating in the floors. I said it made more sense to have the holiday and closing occur at the same time - when it is really cold and everyone will be away anyway. Of course the thought of staying in Taiyuan does not appeal to me for a whole month!
We are working on a Christmas Show - so silly. So far all I know is that it will be 1 1/2 hours with five classes (only two are international). We might have to drag the poor children out to perform in public to promote the school. I am dead set on that, as are the parents according to the other foreign teacher. He said the parents were very unhappy with a similar event for Halloween. Who can blame them - they pay a lot of money to send their children here. We are pushing for a show at the school, even if it means inviting interested parents. Much easier to handle the whole thing - even if we do a show, have a dinner and even Santa Claus.
Never mind the original meaning of the holiday!
All this means I am wracking my brain to teach something extra easy for the children to do, and doing something that is a show stopper. So far I have to simplify one song - Winter related rather than Christmas. I do have simple costumes in mind - they go for grand events in China. I suggested that all the children do one or two songs at the end together - the principal liked the idea. Now to make it work!
I had so much to write and now it has all gone from my head - like the smog. I am ready for bed, only 6:36. I just wish my bed did not feel like I am sleeping on the ground - if this is how it feels to sleep on concrete I am doubly sorry for the homeless. I get so exhausted trying to turn over that I usually do not get a really sound sleep until 5, and my alarm goes off at 6:30.
Turning over is torture, all my muscles and bones complain bitterly. To make matters worse, after my first day on Thursday I started to slip on a patch of ice, wrenching my knee - the one I already have a problem with. It has been sore ever since, first thing in the morning after sleeping, then again after work. I must figure out an ice pack - making ice cubes takes days. Perhaps if I put my ice cube tray in the hallway of the school. I have a tiny ice cube tray. It took three days to make enough cubes to take to school today for an ice melting and painting activity. Fortunately that was a success. For the four children in class today.
That is another problem, not everyone comes to school so I never know how many I will have and certainly can't teach anything for a show despite what the principal says. Spending 30 minutes with them sitting on the carpet is also useless when there are only four. Oh well, all I can do is try.
Things are looking brighter though - at least for now, I really hope the smog stays away for a few days at least.
kld
Dec 10/11 Coffee and Museum
My latest adventures were Friday night and Saturday afternoon. I can only handle so much excitement at a time.
Friday, first we had to stay late to meet with the principal whose main focus was that she, "...is worried about your performances." So much for having the support of the school. We also found out that she told the Chinese teachers to plan something, most likely in November, and they must rehearse every Wednesday after school. My response - an aside to Jim - was that they will be showing us up. Then I had to explain what that meant. He is from Russia. We ended up staying until well after 5:30, most likely much to the delight of the principals and the owners - they are demanding we be at school from 8 - 5:30. I fired off a letter, carefully crafted as all missiles should be, to Shanghai providing my views on this. I did see the response Jim received regarding a letter he sent; however, we are not making it known we have been discussing this situation. We are a united front in the back of those who are giving us a headache.
All this does lead up to coffee. I have a TA who speaks English, fairly decently, the problem is that she hasn't a clue where things are here - despite being raised in Taiyuan! So Jim offered to take me to Fashion Walk, we both wanted to see where our classes will b performing. Afterwards we walked back to where he caught his bus and I decided to go for coffee at UBC.
Usually two floors, serving food, coffee, tea and fancy juices - never very busy. Menu in Chinese and English. Of course this is where things started to become confusing. I just wanted a cup of coffee, with milk. Forget trying to say cream - I am sure the concept is beyond some of those who work there. In Taiyuan when people say they only speak a little English they mean it - hello, coffee, bye-bye - are often all I can get out of anyone. The fact I use passable Chinese for very simple requests makes everyone assume I must be fluent. Perhaps all foreigners here are.
First they ascertained I did want to be on the second floor. Then I chose where I would sit. Next, order yi bei kafei; wo yao niu nai. One coffee; I want milk. Except this simple request resulted in about 5 minutes of mass confusion. Did I want cold coffee with milk? No, I want hot coffee, and milk. Did I want hot coffee and hot milk? No, just a little milk. Ah, did I want one cup of coffee and one cup of milk? By this time I had resorted to trying to over-explain things, in Chinese, when it dawned on me to be more explicit with actions rather than words. Remember, all this was in Chinese - except for the few words of English from me when I was at a loss to explain all I wanted was a little cream to put in my coffee to stir and drink. Then it dawned on me - I asked for a little cup of milk, but this time showed the size I meant. Presto, the girl ran over to the counter where she has all her spoons, tissue (they do not use napkins here) and whatnot, pulled out a creamer and presented it to me with a flourish. Feeling triumphant I was just about to say thank you when she asked if I wanted sugar in my coffee! An emphatic no. When the coffee finally arrived, after my food, from the first floor, it was delivered on a tray, the cup sitting beside the saucer, the server seemed to be waiting for something - perhaps he was unsure to whom this one little cup of should go to? After all, everyone else had their coffees - I assume they were having coffee. I beckoned him over, do they not know it is dangerous to get between a foreigner and her coffee? He did not budge, just looked a little scared and helpless, maybe he did know - ah, the upstairs girl had to put the cup on the saucer and present the spoon to said saucer before taking the whole and making a presentation of my coffee to me. With another creamer. Despite the ice cold cream hitting the very hot coffee and coming close to curdling, I used both creamers, it was a decent cup of coffee - or I was just so desperate by then I did not know better. I am discovering that coffee in the evening is good for the soul - at least in Taiyuan it is. I will not blame it on waking up every hour - I hadn't had decent coffee until several days after the rock hard bed.
Thank goodness my food was easier to order. Not only was there English, there were pictures. Well, there were for the coffee too - but I did not have my glasses.
Taiyuan Museum
The museum was today's adventure. Next time I go out I must remember to wear my leggings under my pants - it was fine in a taxi and the museum, but outside was like getting into a bathtub of ice cubes, or having a cold shower - the latter being common here when poor wiring means the hot water tank is not on. (My Friday was like that all day - starting with the cold shower).
I left after 11:00, figuring it was before lunch, but after everyone has gone shopping. Lots of taxis, all going in the opposite direction, with passengers. I could only assume it was the opposite direction - I did not have a clue where the museum was. I copied the address from a site, in Chinese, along with a picture and saved it on my laptop. Thus armed, with a fully charged battery, I headed off. When I had gone all the way to the end of the street, legs now entombed in icicles, I finally saw a taxi coming down the street - one is always trying to walk straight, avoid traffic and turn to look behind for a taxi to come out of the oncoming traffic. I hopped in, he asked where to - and I couldn't see the page on the computer to show him because the sun was glaring in the window. Well, I didn't care if I was going the wrong way, it was an adventure - I finally got to it, he muttered something about having to go around, so I smiled sweetly - most likely frightened him, and we were on our merry way. He of course tried to make small talk - something about why did I want to go to the museum? I was able to say I taught little children every day so today I wanted to see something in Taiyuan. He sort of understood. People in China need to get out more to see what their country has to offer.
Unfortunately the museum was just a museum - great architecture, but the artifacts were very much like other museums I have seen in China. Except the Buddhas - that was interesting. So many of these statues, regardless the size, are missing their right hand (I did not check the ones with several hands that carefully). Some are missing their head - some head and hands. But most are missing the right hand. Then I thought about it, that is the hand that is held up from the extended arm - only from the elbow - making it more liable to be damaged over centuries of people touching it, making offerings or whatever. Being left handed is safer! I managed to stay warm, it was quiet most of the time, only one tour came through while I was there, so I just changed the direction I was going in to avoid them; I noticed one man did the same thing.
There were also models of different wooden structures, mainly for worship and theatrics (not in the same room) that I quite liked. Some of the former still exist, but the majority I believe have either been destroyed over time or were rebuilt. I would love to have one made for children to use.
Then it was back outside to find another taxi and head home. It took a bit to find one at that end too, even with the helpful advice of my first driver who told me it would be difficult to find a taxi on the road where he let me off. Where I did go was nearly devoid of cars that were moving, three taxis stopped to drop people off, but they were too far off for me to get their attention. I finally saw one that stopped and disgorged some people, so I flagged it down. I then heard a child say to its parent something about not having that one - absolutely not in sight when I flagged it, so I did not feel guilty about leaving them out in the cold. They would have a much easier time of it getting one than I. I had the school address written down on my museum paper, so that was easy, but he kept it! All in all not a bad day - the museum was free, my total expense 42RMB - taxis. ($7.00) I had the foresight to bring a snack with me too.
kld
Jin Ci Hotel Buffet Lunch
Well, 40RMB for a taxi one way to Jin ci Hotel and he did not even go through the gates. Too intimidating? Wrong colour? Don't laugh, in Shanghai the colour of the taxi meant how much you would have to pay and often whether or not you would make it to your destination - well, 7 years ago it did anyway.
Back to the hotel. To confuse everyone this and the park blog will be present and past tense. I was writing in real time, with the intention to transfer to the computer the same day - that did not happen. Therefore, I am adding bits I had not written at the time. Throw away the editing pen!
No matter, despite the cold it was a short, pleasant walk. When I got to the right place, there are several buildings within the hotel compound - that is the only way to describe it, I was able to talk to a very friend help assistant manager. She took me to look at one of the rooms, "Chinese style." This had me asking if it meant actually Chinese or was it decorated in a certain fashion. I believe she found this query confusing; when we finally looked at the room I explained after ensuring there was a western toilet and shower. It seems I am teaching regardless what I am doing.
After we walked back to the main hotel I was asked if I wanted to eat in their banquet room because it was "maybe" too early to go to see the park next door. Translation - it was lunch time and then there would be the inevitable nap (or rest) time. Even this far north. Only the banquet room was available because there were two or three conferences at the hotel that day.
Very sweet coffee! But pretty good. They must assume all foreigners drink coffee rather than tea. The coffee did not taste like the prepackaged stuff; however, there was a machine that readily offered refills. The first cup must have been the special blend - only one cup per person. I am the only foreigner in the banquet hall - buffet lunch, 168RMB - this will be an expensive day! Jin ci Park after I eat and warm up. At least I can take my coat off here.
Braised enema? I do not think that can be right! Despite the automatic, or push button, closing lids for the warming pans much of the food is only lukewarm. Except the shrimp dumplings which are in steamer baskets without lids. They are absolutely delicious! Rice paper wrappings with delectable shrimp and what I believe is a hint of cilantro. I will not ask where the shrimp came from, this being a landlocked province just below Inner Mongolia. The benefit of having a bit more money is being able to eat a good meal without being cold - me, not the food!
I foolishly left my non-working Canadian cell at home - more commonly referred to as mobiles in China, which still works for taking pictures. On the way to the hotel - roughly 30 minutes, everything was all industrial in appearance except for a few glimpses of what might have been small temples. One in particular - for its size and placement, was surrounded by run-down, utilitarian shops, none over a storey high, which made the temple appear to be reaching for the heavens in a last gasp for fresh air and freedom.
What I can only assume were fake gates - gracing entrances to various unknown edifices, empty lots or businesses - were ornate, colourful and mimicking the past made all behind them even sadder, and the gates themselves like painted ladies of the night. In the light of day garish, gray and fading.
As we left the city there were signs of possible destruction in progress amidst row after row of trees. No idea when these were planted or what they were because all the leaves have, of course, fallen and their skeletons are mere spectres - drained of all moisture, frozen in place, black with soot. Everything covered in soot and exhaust. The plants, the trees, the buildings, the people.A flash of white therefore was bound to catch my eye. One of the lovely birds with white wings offsetting bluish black plumes flitted by to land in an otherwise naked, semi-stripped nest.
The banquet hall is far more colourful than the people. Even the conversation, usually loud to deafening in such places, is subdued. The majority of the men in blacks, browns and eggplant hues. At least the latter show some spunk. Also far more men here - there are at least two conferences, most likely upper echelon business managers, going on here. Of course I should not comment on what people are wearing, nor why they are here, I am in my usual grays and dark rose (no turquoise today) I tend to wear here; nor does anyone why a lone foreign, mature, woman would be in such a distant place - the hotel is not easy to get to or from (I discovered this later).
The hall is the usual golds, off whites and rich colours always found in higher class banquet halls in China. This one has rich brown chair coverings and table toppers. It is the huge murals depicting ancient scenes at each end of the hall that have all the colour. These ones are in excellent taste and even match what is going on in the room - eating, entertaining and serving being the themes. It is interesting that both murals portray only women, whereas they are very unevenly represented in the room. As expected, the majority of servers are young women.
I am warm enough to wonder if I should just remain here for the rest of the day. I won't, I do want to make it to the painted ladies at the park next door to the hotel before dark. I have to work off this bountiful meal. The hot and sour soup, near the end of my meal, was horrible. I have never mastered the etiquette for filling plates in China - other than ensuring they are ladened - I believe in having a new plate for each trip to the buffet. And there everyone goes - all at once that magic unseen motion of the head, or unheard whisper - to rise up and leave. Perhaps I should do this once a month in different higher end eateries wherever I am.
Now if only I could master xiao xia. (little lobster - or really big prawns!)
Back to the hotel. To confuse everyone this and the park blog will be present and past tense. I was writing in real time, with the intention to transfer to the computer the same day - that did not happen. Therefore, I am adding bits I had not written at the time. Throw away the editing pen!
No matter, despite the cold it was a short, pleasant walk. When I got to the right place, there are several buildings within the hotel compound - that is the only way to describe it, I was able to talk to a very friend help assistant manager. She took me to look at one of the rooms, "Chinese style." This had me asking if it meant actually Chinese or was it decorated in a certain fashion. I believe she found this query confusing; when we finally looked at the room I explained after ensuring there was a western toilet and shower. It seems I am teaching regardless what I am doing.
After we walked back to the main hotel I was asked if I wanted to eat in their banquet room because it was "maybe" too early to go to see the park next door. Translation - it was lunch time and then there would be the inevitable nap (or rest) time. Even this far north. Only the banquet room was available because there were two or three conferences at the hotel that day.
Very sweet coffee! But pretty good. They must assume all foreigners drink coffee rather than tea. The coffee did not taste like the prepackaged stuff; however, there was a machine that readily offered refills. The first cup must have been the special blend - only one cup per person. I am the only foreigner in the banquet hall - buffet lunch, 168RMB - this will be an expensive day! Jin ci Park after I eat and warm up. At least I can take my coat off here.
Braised enema? I do not think that can be right! Despite the automatic, or push button, closing lids for the warming pans much of the food is only lukewarm. Except the shrimp dumplings which are in steamer baskets without lids. They are absolutely delicious! Rice paper wrappings with delectable shrimp and what I believe is a hint of cilantro. I will not ask where the shrimp came from, this being a landlocked province just below Inner Mongolia. The benefit of having a bit more money is being able to eat a good meal without being cold - me, not the food!
I foolishly left my non-working Canadian cell at home - more commonly referred to as mobiles in China, which still works for taking pictures. On the way to the hotel - roughly 30 minutes, everything was all industrial in appearance except for a few glimpses of what might have been small temples. One in particular - for its size and placement, was surrounded by run-down, utilitarian shops, none over a storey high, which made the temple appear to be reaching for the heavens in a last gasp for fresh air and freedom.
What I can only assume were fake gates - gracing entrances to various unknown edifices, empty lots or businesses - were ornate, colourful and mimicking the past made all behind them even sadder, and the gates themselves like painted ladies of the night. In the light of day garish, gray and fading.
As we left the city there were signs of possible destruction in progress amidst row after row of trees. No idea when these were planted or what they were because all the leaves have, of course, fallen and their skeletons are mere spectres - drained of all moisture, frozen in place, black with soot. Everything covered in soot and exhaust. The plants, the trees, the buildings, the people.A flash of white therefore was bound to catch my eye. One of the lovely birds with white wings offsetting bluish black plumes flitted by to land in an otherwise naked, semi-stripped nest.
The banquet hall is far more colourful than the people. Even the conversation, usually loud to deafening in such places, is subdued. The majority of the men in blacks, browns and eggplant hues. At least the latter show some spunk. Also far more men here - there are at least two conferences, most likely upper echelon business managers, going on here. Of course I should not comment on what people are wearing, nor why they are here, I am in my usual grays and dark rose (no turquoise today) I tend to wear here; nor does anyone why a lone foreign, mature, woman would be in such a distant place - the hotel is not easy to get to or from (I discovered this later).
The hall is the usual golds, off whites and rich colours always found in higher class banquet halls in China. This one has rich brown chair coverings and table toppers. It is the huge murals depicting ancient scenes at each end of the hall that have all the colour. These ones are in excellent taste and even match what is going on in the room - eating, entertaining and serving being the themes. It is interesting that both murals portray only women, whereas they are very unevenly represented in the room. As expected, the majority of servers are young women.
I am warm enough to wonder if I should just remain here for the rest of the day. I won't, I do want to make it to the painted ladies at the park next door to the hotel before dark. I have to work off this bountiful meal. The hot and sour soup, near the end of my meal, was horrible. I have never mastered the etiquette for filling plates in China - other than ensuring they are ladened - I believe in having a new plate for each trip to the buffet. And there everyone goes - all at once that magic unseen motion of the head, or unheard whisper - to rise up and leave. Perhaps I should do this once a month in different higher end eateries wherever I am.
Now if only I could master xiao xia. (little lobster - or really big prawns!)
Monday, 26 December 2011
Visit to Canada
Well, so much for keeping everything up to date via my Blog- I can't access it from Taiyuan!
I hope to get everything caught up while in Victoria for the next month; not that I have a lot - most of what I have had to say was sent via email. However, I do have at least two rather long entries to type in - or they seem long when handwritten.
Here for about a month - now to use my time wisely.
I hope to get everything caught up while in Victoria for the next month; not that I have a lot - most of what I have had to say was sent via email. However, I do have at least two rather long entries to type in - or they seem long when handwritten.
Here for about a month - now to use my time wisely.
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