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.