Anyways, just wanted to let you know I'm alive! Check out Sarah and Tracy's site for more information:
Thanks for reading!
Monday, January 26, 2009
Quick Update
Hello all! I'm alive and living it up in Thailand. Since I'm vacationing, I'm not spending too much time behind a computer. I'm having a great time! We (Tracy, Sarah and I) have left the rural location of Ao Luk and are now seeing all the travel destinations of Thailand (Railey Beach, Phi Phi Island and Phuket).
Anyways, just wanted to let you know I'm alive! Check out Sarah and Tracy's site for more information:
Halfway Around the World
Thanks for reading!
Anyways, just wanted to let you know I'm alive! Check out Sarah and Tracy's site for more information:
Thanks for reading!
Sunday, January 18, 2009
In THAILAND!
Before we dive into Thailand, here is my quick China update: Ty is awesome, I got my wallet stolen (Cari had to rescue me in downtown Xi’an) and the city is being covered with Chinese New Year Decorations: Year of the OX! Now, on to the main event:
Amazing Race: Thailand Style!
That's right, it's official! I am in Thailand! I was a long a crazy trip to get here. Originally, I was to leave my apartment at 5:20 am to catch my flight, but it was delayed 2 hours. Then, when I arrived at the airport- delayed another hour! And finally, after getting on the plane, we sat on the run way for- yep, you guessed it- another hour. Finally I left Xi'an, China for Bangkok, Thailand 4 hours behind schedule.
This wouldn't have been a problem except I was foolish and booked my second flight with a different company. So I missed my flight from Bangkok to Krabi (I feel like the more excited you are to travel, the more problems you are likely to have) and I had to buy another ticket. Thankfully, another plan was leaving in only 40 minutes- great timing! I was relieved to finally be on a plane, but the last leg of my journey to the rural city of Ao Luk was still uncertain.
I was warned about overpriced taxis at the airport in Krabi, so I walked to the main road (point "A" below). Using the Google map of the area and my GPS system, I started walking down the Highway 4 towards Krabi... at dusk (sorry mom!). As I walked a large man on a moped approached me (point "B" below). I said "Krabi" and he motioned for me to jump on the back. How could I refuse? He took me to a booth on the side of the road where an older man who knew a little English was sitting. I think it was a moped rental shop, but I showed him my map and told him I wanted to go to Ao Luk. Then he said "big bus" and I smiled and nodded.
I was back on the moped with the large man who reminded me of a Hawaiian local. Side note: both I and the large man on the moped were wearing blue Hawaiian shirts, just to give you a visual. We arrived at one bus stop, but we literally saw the last bus for Ao Luk pulling away. Thankfully, there was a bus heading to Phuket (point "C" below) and I was able to ride that bus and get off early.
View Larger Map
Now dark and in the city of Ao Luk (point "D" below), I used a picture Tracy had sent me to navigate to my hotel. On the way, I found an internet cafe full of little children. I might have been closed, but they let me come in. I was able to contact Tracy by Instant Messaging. After all the children introduced themselves and taught me how to count to ten (although I've already forgotten their names and the numbers), I headed down the dark rural road to the Ao Luk "Bangalows" (that's right- bungalows spelt wrong!). After checking in buy pointing at a sheet of paper I had with Thai words on it, I dropped off my luggage and went to meet Tracy and Sarah.
I had finally arrived after a 12 hour day of traveling (which should have taken only about 7). Aren't travel stories fun?!
First Impressions/Day
Ao Luk, Thailand is the exact opposite of Xi'an China. Here are some of the differences:
On second thought, Xi'an and Ao Luk are not totally opposite; rice and spice is just as important (if not more) in the food, people love to ride mopeds and motorbikes and everyone is very friendly- just like in Xi'an.
Like any good foreigner, I spent most of the first day in Ao Luk getting way too much sun at the pool with Sarah and Tracy- I am a lovely shade of red right now!
I love it here; it is absolutely beautiful and the people have the relaxed islander feel of Hawaii. Also, since Ao Luk is so rural- there are not many foreigners or tourist spots, so that's nice!
Well, it's about time for me to go! I've been typing from an internet cafe in the big part of Ao Luk (there's a cute little kitten who sleeps on top of the computer screens and chases the mice... pun intended!). I'll be trying to update again from Thailand and hopefully I'll be able to upload my pictures by then!
Thanks for reading!
Amazing Race: Thailand Style!
That's right, it's official! I am in Thailand! I was a long a crazy trip to get here. Originally, I was to leave my apartment at 5:20 am to catch my flight, but it was delayed 2 hours. Then, when I arrived at the airport- delayed another hour! And finally, after getting on the plane, we sat on the run way for- yep, you guessed it- another hour. Finally I left Xi'an, China for Bangkok, Thailand 4 hours behind schedule.
This wouldn't have been a problem except I was foolish and booked my second flight with a different company. So I missed my flight from Bangkok to Krabi (I feel like the more excited you are to travel, the more problems you are likely to have) and I had to buy another ticket. Thankfully, another plan was leaving in only 40 minutes- great timing! I was relieved to finally be on a plane, but the last leg of my journey to the rural city of Ao Luk was still uncertain.
I was warned about overpriced taxis at the airport in Krabi, so I walked to the main road (point "A" below). Using the Google map of the area and my GPS system, I started walking down the Highway 4 towards Krabi... at dusk (sorry mom!). As I walked a large man on a moped approached me (point "B" below). I said "Krabi" and he motioned for me to jump on the back. How could I refuse? He took me to a booth on the side of the road where an older man who knew a little English was sitting. I think it was a moped rental shop, but I showed him my map and told him I wanted to go to Ao Luk. Then he said "big bus" and I smiled and nodded.
I was back on the moped with the large man who reminded me of a Hawaiian local. Side note: both I and the large man on the moped were wearing blue Hawaiian shirts, just to give you a visual. We arrived at one bus stop, but we literally saw the last bus for Ao Luk pulling away. Thankfully, there was a bus heading to Phuket (point "C" below) and I was able to ride that bus and get off early.
View Larger Map
Now dark and in the city of Ao Luk (point "D" below), I used a picture Tracy had sent me to navigate to my hotel. On the way, I found an internet cafe full of little children. I might have been closed, but they let me come in. I was able to contact Tracy by Instant Messaging. After all the children introduced themselves and taught me how to count to ten (although I've already forgotten their names and the numbers), I headed down the dark rural road to the Ao Luk "Bangalows" (that's right- bungalows spelt wrong!). After checking in buy pointing at a sheet of paper I had with Thai words on it, I dropped off my luggage and went to meet Tracy and Sarah.
I had finally arrived after a 12 hour day of traveling (which should have taken only about 7). Aren't travel stories fun?!
First Impressions/Day
Ao Luk, Thailand is the exact opposite of Xi'an China. Here are some of the differences:
| Xi'an, China... | Ao Luk, Thailand |
| ... is HUGE (pop. ~9 million) | ... is not (pop. ~45,000, and that's the whole district!) |
| ... is a dry-as-a-bone desert city with a concret jungle | ... a lush rural town and has literal jungles |
| ... is cold (today's temperature in Xi'an: 0 C/32 F) | ...is hot (today's temperature in Ao luk: ~27 C/80 F) |
On second thought, Xi'an and Ao Luk are not totally opposite; rice and spice is just as important (if not more) in the food, people love to ride mopeds and motorbikes and everyone is very friendly- just like in Xi'an.
Like any good foreigner, I spent most of the first day in Ao Luk getting way too much sun at the pool with Sarah and Tracy- I am a lovely shade of red right now!
I love it here; it is absolutely beautiful and the people have the relaxed islander feel of Hawaii. Also, since Ao Luk is so rural- there are not many foreigners or tourist spots, so that's nice!
Well, it's about time for me to go! I've been typing from an internet cafe in the big part of Ao Luk (there's a cute little kitten who sleeps on top of the computer screens and chases the mice... pun intended!). I'll be trying to update again from Thailand and hopefully I'll be able to upload my pictures by then!
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
That guy Ty
I've been a little late on updating my blog. Why? Because my 室友 (shiyou, roommate) has arrive!
New Roomy
Ty arrived last Monday and has spent a week getting to know our lovely city of Xi'an. He's visited downtown several times, ate many exciting meals and began his Chinese schooling. Here's some info on my new roommate:
Ty was born and raised in Northern California. After, his family moved to Wisconsin. He has been living there and going to college. Now, at 22 years old, Ty has come to China as part of an internship. He will be here in Xi'an learning Chinese and working on several correspondent classes for the next 5 months to complete a minor in East Asian Studies. After that, his studying abroad will take him to other locations in China and more adventures! Ty has a great sense of humor (see photo on left for a more 'dramatic' Ty). He also loves to jam on the guitar and speaks the best Pig Latin I've ever heard; he's fluent. It-ya is-ya a-ya ittle-lay ary-scay.
I couldn't be more excited about Ty! We've already shared some good adventures and there are still many are to be had. My only concern is a lack of sleep from too much fun (currently watching Planet Earth: Great Plains while blogging... way past my bedtime)!
Makin' 饺子 (Jiaozi)!
This week, Ty and I (that has a nice ring) had some Chinese friends over. We made Jaozi (dumplings)! It was a lot of fun and a very uniquely Chinese experience! To Make a jiaozi, you must first make the dough, then cut it into small pieces, then roll it, then stuff it (probably the hardest part for me) then boil them. It was a great time and some delicious food! I'm thankful our friends were there to help... my Jiaozi didn't look so good!
US Holidays End/Chinese Begin!
It's official, I just celebrated what will probably be my last Christmas until next year. Cari Cook was home for Christmas and not able to enjoy Christmas here in China. Today, Cari and I opened presents! Nothing wrong with one more Christmas! For those of you who were worried about me being overseas during the holidays, here is a recap of my holiday season:
Thailand Countdown
That's right, less than a WEEK! I am soooooo excited (and still need to pack!). It is going to be a great time visiting a new (warm) country as well as seeing my friends Tracy and Sarah!
Below is a sneak peek of the area I will be visiting Tracy and Sarah. For more information, check out my last blog or their web site at Halfway Around the World.
A preview of one of the places I will be visiting!
Since I will not be traveling with my computer and I am uncertain of how available the internet will be, this could be my last post for several weeks! I hope I'll be able to send out a couple quick updates. If not, keep posted in February for a HUGE update.
Thanks for reading!
Two 很酷
New Roomy
Ty arrived last Monday and has spent a week getting to know our lovely city of Xi'an. He's visited downtown several times, ate many exciting meals and began his Chinese schooling. Here's some info on my new roommate:
Ty was born and raised in Northern California. After, his family moved to Wisconsin. He has been living there and going to college. Now, at 22 years old, Ty has come to China as part of an internship. He will be here in Xi'an learning Chinese and working on several correspondent classes for the next 5 months to complete a minor in East Asian Studies. After that, his studying abroad will take him to other locations in China and more adventures! Ty has a great sense of humor (see photo on left for a more 'dramatic' Ty). He also loves to jam on the guitar and speaks the best Pig Latin I've ever heard; he's fluent. It-ya is-ya a-ya ittle-lay ary-scay.I couldn't be more excited about Ty! We've already shared some good adventures and there are still many are to be had. My only concern is a lack of sleep from too much fun (currently watching Planet Earth: Great Plains while blogging... way past my bedtime)!
Makin' 饺子 (Jiaozi)!
This week, Ty and I (that has a nice ring) had some Chinese friends over. We made Jaozi (dumplings)! It was a lot of fun and a very uniquely Chinese experience! To Make a jiaozi, you must first make the dough, then cut it into small pieces, then roll it, then stuff it (probably the hardest part for me) then boil them. It was a great time and some delicious food! I'm thankful our friends were there to help... my Jiaozi didn't look so good!
 |  |
 |  |
US Holidays End/Chinese Begin!
It's official, I just celebrated what will probably be my last Christmas until next year. Cari Cook was home for Christmas and not able to enjoy Christmas here in China. Today, Cari and I opened presents! Nothing wrong with one more Christmas! For those of you who were worried about me being overseas during the holidays, here is a recap of my holiday season:
- Christmas Celebrations: 5 (including one conducted over a webcam!)
- Thanksgiving Celebrations: 3 (3 Turkey Meals!)
- New Years: Only one... but Chinese New Year is quickly arriving!
Thailand Countdown
That's right, less than a WEEK! I am soooooo excited (and still need to pack!). It is going to be a great time visiting a new (warm) country as well as seeing my friends Tracy and Sarah!
Below is a sneak peek of the area I will be visiting Tracy and Sarah. For more information, check out my last blog or their web site at Halfway Around the World.
A preview of one of the places I will be visiting!Two 很酷
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Party like it's 2009!
It's 2009- HAPPY NEW YEAR! I had a very restful first weekend of the new year, so not a ton to report. Here's what did happen:
New Years Eve!
Like Christmas Eve, I worked on New Year's Eve. After school, I had my first class of Chinese with my new professor- should be a great quarter! Then, I ate dinner and had to get ready for our New Year's Eve Costume Party that was happening at our school. For my costume, I went as bread. Why? I'm glad you asked! My name, Brad, as pronounced by many of my Chinese friends sounds like "bread." After telling several of this mistake, they began to call me 面包 (mianbao; bread in Chinese). Since I knew there would be both the Chinese teachers as well as other people from the states, I thought this would be a great costume! We spent New Year's Eve eating snacks and playing games.
New Years Day I spent some time on the computer with the parents, wishing them a Happy New Year. It was definitely a different New Year than I am used to!
Thailand Update
If you missed last week, I now have an official countdown for my vacation to Thailand:
In other Thailand related news, I will have the awesome opportunity to meet up with my good friends Tracy and Sarah while I'm in Thailand! It's official; Tracy and Sarah are flying out of San Francisco today (Jan. 4th ) at noon! They will be living in Thailand and teaching English. They have set up their very own website to keep people posted on their adventures. Check it out at the link below:
Halfway Round The World: Tracy and Sarah's Website
www.halfwayroundtheworld.com
My nextvisitor roommate?!
As of tomorrow (Jan. 5th), I will have a ROOMMATE! All I know is that his name is Ty and he is a 20 year old college student who has studied some Chinese. He will be living here in Xi'an for 5 months working on an internship. I'm super excited to meet him! Next week I'll be informing you what life with a roommate is like (can't be worse than Jake... just kidding)!
And...
Final update, See video below:
祝你生日快乐，
祝你生日快乐，
祝你生日，生日快乐，
祝你生日快乐!
Thanks For Reading!
New Years Eve!
Like Christmas Eve, I worked on New Year's Eve. After school, I had my first class of Chinese with my new professor- should be a great quarter! Then, I ate dinner and had to get ready for our New Year's Eve Costume Party that was happening at our school. For my costume, I went as bread. Why? I'm glad you asked! My name, Brad, as pronounced by many of my Chinese friends sounds like "bread." After telling several of this mistake, they began to call me 面包 (mianbao; bread in Chinese). Since I knew there would be both the Chinese teachers as well as other people from the states, I thought this would be a great costume! We spent New Year's Eve eating snacks and playing games.New Years Day I spent some time on the computer with the parents, wishing them a Happy New Year. It was definitely a different New Year than I am used to!
Thailand Update
If you missed last week, I now have an official countdown for my vacation to Thailand:
In other Thailand related news, I will have the awesome opportunity to meet up with my good friends Tracy and Sarah while I'm in Thailand! It's official; Tracy and Sarah are flying out of San Francisco today (Jan. 4th ) at noon! They will be living in Thailand and teaching English. They have set up their very own website to keep people posted on their adventures. Check it out at the link below:
www.halfwayroundtheworld.com
My next
As of tomorrow (Jan. 5th), I will have a ROOMMATE! All I know is that his name is Ty and he is a 20 year old college student who has studied some Chinese. He will be living here in Xi'an for 5 months working on an internship. I'm super excited to meet him! Next week I'll be informing you what life with a roommate is like (can't be worse than Jake... just kidding)!
And...
Final update, See video below:
祝你生日快乐，
祝你生日快乐，
祝你生日，生日快乐，
祝你生日快乐!
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Christmas in China!
I officially celebrated my first Christmas away from family; very, very far away. Here was the excitement of my Christmas while here in China!
Christmas Eve
Since we had school on Christmas Eve, the whole day was dedicated to fun and games. Movies were watched and each class had a party. I spent the day before searching for gifts for all my students. Each student ended up getting a bunch of candy, a yo-yo, a little book, pencil, etc- just a grab bag of fun stuff. I ended up getting some nice gifts from my students as well! At the end of the day, we opened our presents, recorded the video in my last blog and then played some games. For working on Christmas Eve, it was not bad at all!
After school, I went to Carrie Jones and Vicki's house (the same house I celebrated Thanksgiving at). There, Carrie had been working very hard all day with a gourmet feast prepared for the three of us. It was a delicious meal and a very relaxing Christmas Eve. We watched some movies, played some games and called it a night.
Christmas Day
Christmas morning in China was Christmas Eve back in the states. This made for an interesting morning- I spent the morning jumping back and forth between Skyping with my family back home and celebrating here in Xi'an. My Christmas celebration here consisted of a brunch and gift exchange. Later in the day, we played more games and had some dinner. It was a great Christmas celebration and very fun.
Meanwhile, during breaks in my Christmas day festivities, I was running to my computer to Skype with my family while they were celebrating Christmas Eve- confusing, I know! I was able to talk with all my relatives, open my gift for that gift exchange (which TJ had delivered during his visit), watch my gift being open and play in a family game of poker! It was hilarious; my brother's laptop was placed on the table and people would hold cards up to me and I would place bets, just like a normal game! The funny thing is, I did really well (third, I think- right mom and dad?). It was a lot of fun and a great opportunity to visit with family. Technology is incredible. I really felt like I was right there in the room!
The Day After Christmas
The morning after Christmas in China was Christmas Day in the states. So, I celebrated again! This time, it was just dad, mom, TJ and Grandma SaLeal. I was able to open the rest of my presents with them over Skype and watch them open their presents. Again, I was amazed at technologies ability to help me fell as if I were in the same room as my family! I am so thankful I was able to spend so much time with my family. Although using the webcam is no substitute for spending Christmas with my actual family, it made this Christmas away much easier. It was a fun and new experience!
A Year in Review
2008 was grrrrrrreat (and it rhymes)! It's hard to imagine a one year ago I was a student at Western Washington University and living with Brad, Eric, Blake and Katie- it seems like a lifetime ago! Big moments from this year: I continued to make incredible friends in college while having way too much fun with the one's I already had, I ran my first Marathon, I graduated from college at WWU, I was at the Olympics in Beijing with my family, and I traveled farther from home than I ever had to teach for a year. In honor of this time of reflection, here is a note that I found that I wrote during my flight to China over 4 months ago:
Thank you to everyone who has supported me over the last year. For my parents putting me through college and always encouraging me in everything I do. For my amazing friends who still talk to me even though I left them for a year. For my family who is so awesome. And to you! All the people who continue to read my blog and follow my journeys, it makes it much easier to write! Thank you for you updates to- I love hearing about life in the states. I love all of you very much!
Looking Ahead...
Only 4 days until 2009?!?!?! WOW! I can't believe it! Here are some exciting things coming up soon:
A new roommate! I will be having a roommate living with me here in Xi'an. I've been reorganizing my apartment in order to make room for him (TJ, you wouldn't even recognize it). He is a college student who is coming to Xi'an to do an internship. I'm very, very excited to meet him and share some adventures!
My Vacation! Because I'm in China, our school did not give us the traditional break that schools in the states receive for Christmas during the winter. Instead, I received a 4-day weekend. Although Christmas is not a huge deal here in China, the Chinese New Year is! So, starting January 16th, I will have a vacation until February 9th! Not only do I have 3 weeks off, I will be spending these weeks in THAILAND! I'm a little sad to miss the Chinese New Year, but I can't wait to travel in Thailand (and to feel some warm weather)! I'm so excited, I've included this countdown:
Engagements! There have been so many engagements lately! I just wanted to say congratulations to all my friends and loved ones and that I will do my best to be back for your weddings!
Amanda and Sasha
Treavor and Heather
Blake and Christie
Cody and Al
Alex and Tyler
Congratulations all!
Finally, HAPPY BIRTHDAY DANA!!! I know this may come a little late, but I hope you had a great Birthday and thanks for sending my Christmas gift with TJ. I know Catch Phrase will be a huge hit!
Thanks for reading and Happy New Year!
Christmas EveSince we had school on Christmas Eve, the whole day was dedicated to fun and games. Movies were watched and each class had a party. I spent the day before searching for gifts for all my students. Each student ended up getting a bunch of candy, a yo-yo, a little book, pencil, etc- just a grab bag of fun stuff. I ended up getting some nice gifts from my students as well! At the end of the day, we opened our presents, recorded the video in my last blog and then played some games. For working on Christmas Eve, it was not bad at all!
After school, I went to Carrie Jones and Vicki's house (the same house I celebrated Thanksgiving at). There, Carrie had been working very hard all day with a gourmet feast prepared for the three of us. It was a delicious meal and a very relaxing Christmas Eve. We watched some movies, played some games and called it a night.
Christmas Day
Christmas morning in China was Christmas Eve back in the states. This made for an interesting morning- I spent the morning jumping back and forth between Skyping with my family back home and celebrating here in Xi'an. My Christmas celebration here consisted of a brunch and gift exchange. Later in the day, we played more games and had some dinner. It was a great Christmas celebration and very fun.
Meanwhile, during breaks in my Christmas day festivities, I was running to my computer to Skype with my family while they were celebrating Christmas Eve- confusing, I know! I was able to talk with all my relatives, open my gift for that gift exchange (which TJ had delivered during his visit), watch my gift being open and play in a family game of poker! It was hilarious; my brother's laptop was placed on the table and people would hold cards up to me and I would place bets, just like a normal game! The funny thing is, I did really well (third, I think- right mom and dad?). It was a lot of fun and a great opportunity to visit with family. Technology is incredible. I really felt like I was right there in the room!
The Day After Christmas
The morning after Christmas in China was Christmas Day in the states. So, I celebrated again! This time, it was just dad, mom, TJ and Grandma SaLeal. I was able to open the rest of my presents with them over Skype and watch them open their presents. Again, I was amazed at technologies ability to help me fell as if I were in the same room as my family! I am so thankful I was able to spend so much time with my family. Although using the webcam is no substitute for spending Christmas with my actual family, it made this Christmas away much easier. It was a fun and new experience!
A Year in Review
2008 was grrrrrrreat (and it rhymes)! It's hard to imagine a one year ago I was a student at Western Washington University and living with Brad, Eric, Blake and Katie- it seems like a lifetime ago! Big moments from this year: I continued to make incredible friends in college while having way too much fun with the one's I already had, I ran my first Marathon, I graduated from college at WWU, I was at the Olympics in Beijing with my family, and I traveled farther from home than I ever had to teach for a year. In honor of this time of reflection, here is a note that I found that I wrote during my flight to China over 4 months ago:
08/09/08 (6:11 PM/5:11 PM?)
I just passed over Anchorage, Alaska. I really feel that the magnitude of this trip has only just struck me. I was watching "Bee Movie" (fair at best. I'd rather watch 3 episodes of Seinfeld back-to-back) and I started thinking about the movies on my return flight. Then it hit me; I don't have a return ticket. In fact, the only ticket I have is sending me farther into China! Well, no turning back now. It will be a whole YEAR before I cross this ocean again. Here goes nothing! (P.S. I think the guy next to me has restless leg syndrome!)
Thank you to everyone who has supported me over the last year. For my parents putting me through college and always encouraging me in everything I do. For my amazing friends who still talk to me even though I left them for a year. For my family who is so awesome. And to you! All the people who continue to read my blog and follow my journeys, it makes it much easier to write! Thank you for you updates to- I love hearing about life in the states. I love all of you very much!
Looking Ahead...
Only 4 days until 2009?!?!?! WOW! I can't believe it! Here are some exciting things coming up soon:
A new roommate! I will be having a roommate living with me here in Xi'an. I've been reorganizing my apartment in order to make room for him (TJ, you wouldn't even recognize it). He is a college student who is coming to Xi'an to do an internship. I'm very, very excited to meet him and share some adventures!
My Vacation! Because I'm in China, our school did not give us the traditional break that schools in the states receive for Christmas during the winter. Instead, I received a 4-day weekend. Although Christmas is not a huge deal here in China, the Chinese New Year is! So, starting January 16th, I will have a vacation until February 9th! Not only do I have 3 weeks off, I will be spending these weeks in THAILAND! I'm a little sad to miss the Chinese New Year, but I can't wait to travel in Thailand (and to feel some warm weather)! I'm so excited, I've included this countdown:
Engagements! There have been so many engagements lately! I just wanted to say congratulations to all my friends and loved ones and that I will do my best to be back for your weddings!
Amanda and Sasha
Treavor and Heather
Blake and Christie
Cody and Al
Alex and Tyler
Congratulations all!
Finally, HAPPY BIRTHDAY DANA!!! I know this may come a little late, but I hope you had a great Birthday and thanks for sending my Christmas gift with TJ. I know Catch Phrase will be a huge hit!
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!
Hello everyone- It’s me, Brad, again! It’s been a very exciting couple weeks. If you missed out, T.J. visited a couple weeks ago. While he was here, he posted 2 blogs: One for Dec. 2nd to Dec. 9th and one for Dec. 10th to Dec. 16th Check them out if you haven’t already!
While visiting, T.J. took a TON of pictures! Here are the new albums that you can see T.J.'s adventures in:
I'm going to highlight some of our adventures during his stay:
Xi'an... When Brad's not at school!
Although I was working a 40 hour week for TJ's first week in China, we got to do some great stuff. You better believe I took him to my favorite park in Xi'an: TANG PARADISE! And in case you thought this blog couldn't get any cooler, now, for the first time, introducing VIDEO!
Filmed by T.J. ThomasFilmed by T.J. Thomas
Familiar Territory
It was so strange going back to Beijing with T.J. First, it was the farthest I've traveled since I've arrived in Xi'an. Second, it was familiar, but not home... very strange. On good example was my second trip to the Summer Palace and getting to walk on the ice where 4 months ago I was paddle boating! Plus, I have now been to the Forbidden City 3 time! I was thrilled to find that each place I went to offered new experiences.
We are NERDS!
As suggested by our father, T.J. and I took several pics at the tourist hot spots in China holding up our local newspapers, the News Tribune and the Gateway... I hope one of those makes it!
Thanks for visiting T.J.! I had tons of fun (and I got to miss 2 days of class)! Now that we’re all caught up, it’s time for…
CHRISTMAS!
Christmas in China has been very different. Unlike Thanksgiving, you can see Christmas decorations in a lot of areas around China. McDonalds’ goes all out (which, I don’t think they can even do that in the states because of all the “politically correct” issues!). Unlike in the states, I will only be receiving a four day weekend for my Christmas break. But, this does not bother me in the least bit since I have a 3 week-long break in January for Chinese New Year where I will be traveling to THAILAND!!!
I’ve already had the Christgiving (see T.J.’s blog) celebration and I also have a Christmas Eve and Christmas day party to attend this week, so don’t worry about me! Also, T.J. brought over a bunch of gifts that I hope to open with the family over Skype!
This will have to be part one of Christmas. Next week, I’ll catch you up on the rest of the happenings!
Thanks for Reading!
Watch the video below for some Season Greetings from Xi’an China!
While visiting, T.J. took a TON of pictures! Here are the new albums that you can see T.J.'s adventures in:
I'm going to highlight some of our adventures during his stay:
Xi'an... When Brad's not at school!
Although I was working a 40 hour week for TJ's first week in China, we got to do some great stuff. You better believe I took him to my favorite park in Xi'an: TANG PARADISE! And in case you thought this blog couldn't get any cooler, now, for the first time, introducing VIDEO!
Filmed by T.J. ThomasFilmed by T.J. Thomas
Familiar Territory
It was so strange going back to Beijing with T.J. First, it was the farthest I've traveled since I've arrived in Xi'an. Second, it was familiar, but not home... very strange. On good example was my second trip to the Summer Palace and getting to walk on the ice where 4 months ago I was paddle boating! Plus, I have now been to the Forbidden City 3 time! I was thrilled to find that each place I went to offered new experiences.
 |  |
 |  |
We are NERDS!
As suggested by our father, T.J. and I took several pics at the tourist hot spots in China holding up our local newspapers, the News Tribune and the Gateway... I hope one of those makes it!
 |  |  |
Thanks for visiting T.J.! I had tons of fun (and I got to miss 2 days of class)! Now that we’re all caught up, it’s time for…
CHRISTMAS!
Christmas in China has been very different. Unlike Thanksgiving, you can see Christmas decorations in a lot of areas around China. McDonalds’ goes all out (which, I don’t think they can even do that in the states because of all the “politically correct” issues!). Unlike in the states, I will only be receiving a four day weekend for my Christmas break. But, this does not bother me in the least bit since I have a 3 week-long break in January for Chinese New Year where I will be traveling to THAILAND!!!
I’ve already had the Christgiving (see T.J.’s blog) celebration and I also have a Christmas Eve and Christmas day party to attend this week, so don’t worry about me! Also, T.J. brought over a bunch of gifts that I hope to open with the family over Skype!
This will have to be part one of Christmas. Next week, I’ll catch you up on the rest of the happenings!
Thursday, December 18, 2008
T.J. in China Part 2
Hello again from T.J. I am writing one more blog from my trip to China. I am currently back in Gig Harbor, Washington and it is snowing like crazy outside. A lot of these stories go with my pictures so be sure to check them out here.
Tuesday
On Tuesday, we went to the Tang Paradise in Xi’an. It is a big park that has performances from the Chinese culture. While we were there, we saw a dog dance performance that had two people dressed up in a dog costume that jumped from poles to poles. They were very good. Another show that we saw had a group of people on stilts doing dance moves. The third show was a drum show and was very loud. After the shows and some walking in the park we headed to a restaurant and had Beijing duck. It was very good. When we left the restaurant the fountain by the Wild Goose Pagoda had a performance going so we watched it.
Wednesday
Today, I headed to the Wild Goose Pagoda and Brad meet up with me after school. The pagoda is seven stories high and a tough stair climb inside. When Brad met up with me we walked around for awhile and then went back to his place to get ready for English corner. English corner was on a college campus and was a group of Chinese students learning English. During this session Brad and his group decided to sing Christmas songs. It was funny to watch the student sing and do some hand gestures to the 12 Days of Christmas.
Thursday
After school, Brad and I headed downtown to do a little shopping. We also stopped by a Pizza Hut for some dinner. It was a pretty uneventful night.
Friday
I made one more visit to Brad’s very energetic classroom. The students were sad to see me leaving. After school, Brad made up some lesson plans and I headed to his apartment to pack. Went Brad came back we went to his favorite restaurant next to his place. The Chinese restaurant had good food and knew Brad and Cari very well. Went we finished the food it was time to finish packing and head to the train station for an all night trip to Beijing.
Saturday
After a 10 hour train ride in a sleeper car, with three beds on each side, we made it to Beijing. A taxi ride later we made it to the hotel that Brad and everyone else stayed at during the Olympics. It was a cool spot kind of back in an ally. The day had just begun and we started by heading to the Tiananmen Square where we went to the Forbidden City. The Forbidden City is where emperors use to live and have their day to day life. After the Forbidden City, we crossed the street to Tiananmen Square where we met a lady that was practicing her English and gave us a tour of the square and the area. The lady took us to a tea shop for some drinks, I think the drink cost us our tour fees. After we left that lady, we headed to the temple of Heaven where the emperors sacrificed cows to the gods. After this long day we wanted some food and bed. Brad heard of a Mexican place in Beijing so we went to find it. The Tex Mex restaurant was just like being in Texas and had great Mexican food.
Sunday
Another long day in Beijing that started at the Summer Palace. The Summer Palace was huge area and it was beautiful. I took a lot of pictures here and we even walked on water! Or the lake there that was frozen over. After a few hours at the palace we took the subway to the Olympic Pavilion. The Olympic area is still pretty much a tourist area. We walked around and decided to go into the birds nest. They were playing the opening ceremonies on the big screens. Another subway trip put us in a Hutton area, or ally courtyard, where we got dinner. On the ride back home we found a place to get back massages. It was a great way to finish a long day.
Monday
In the morning we met up with a lady for a Gray line tour. The tour included the Ming Tombs, A Jade factory and a visit to the Great Wall. The tour was a lot of fun but of course the Great Wall was amazing. We climbed about a quarter mile up the wall and then back down. It was tons of fun and you bet I took a ton of pictures. After the tour we got dropped off at the Buddhist temple. Lots of people were praying and lighting incense. After the temple we went for our last dinner at a hot pot restaurant. The restaurant gives you a pot of bowling water and you cook your own food in it.
Tuesday
Tuesday was another early morning, but this time we were heading to the airport. Brad was heading back to Xi’an and I was heading home to the states. I had a lot of fun in China and for those of you that are thinking about visiting Brad, be ready for a different culture and be ready to try some new things. Brad thanks for the fun time and I will talk to you soon.
Tuesday
On Tuesday, we went to the Tang Paradise in Xi’an. It is a big park that has performances from the Chinese culture. While we were there, we saw a dog dance performance that had two people dressed up in a dog costume that jumped from poles to poles. They were very good. Another show that we saw had a group of people on stilts doing dance moves. The third show was a drum show and was very loud. After the shows and some walking in the park we headed to a restaurant and had Beijing duck. It was very good. When we left the restaurant the fountain by the Wild Goose Pagoda had a performance going so we watched it.
Wednesday
Today, I headed to the Wild Goose Pagoda and Brad meet up with me after school. The pagoda is seven stories high and a tough stair climb inside. When Brad met up with me we walked around for awhile and then went back to his place to get ready for English corner. English corner was on a college campus and was a group of Chinese students learning English. During this session Brad and his group decided to sing Christmas songs. It was funny to watch the student sing and do some hand gestures to the 12 Days of Christmas.
Thursday
After school, Brad and I headed downtown to do a little shopping. We also stopped by a Pizza Hut for some dinner. It was a pretty uneventful night.
Friday
I made one more visit to Brad’s very energetic classroom. The students were sad to see me leaving. After school, Brad made up some lesson plans and I headed to his apartment to pack. Went Brad came back we went to his favorite restaurant next to his place. The Chinese restaurant had good food and knew Brad and Cari very well. Went we finished the food it was time to finish packing and head to the train station for an all night trip to Beijing.
Saturday
After a 10 hour train ride in a sleeper car, with three beds on each side, we made it to Beijing. A taxi ride later we made it to the hotel that Brad and everyone else stayed at during the Olympics. It was a cool spot kind of back in an ally. The day had just begun and we started by heading to the Tiananmen Square where we went to the Forbidden City. The Forbidden City is where emperors use to live and have their day to day life. After the Forbidden City, we crossed the street to Tiananmen Square where we met a lady that was practicing her English and gave us a tour of the square and the area. The lady took us to a tea shop for some drinks, I think the drink cost us our tour fees. After we left that lady, we headed to the temple of Heaven where the emperors sacrificed cows to the gods. After this long day we wanted some food and bed. Brad heard of a Mexican place in Beijing so we went to find it. The Tex Mex restaurant was just like being in Texas and had great Mexican food.
Sunday
Another long day in Beijing that started at the Summer Palace. The Summer Palace was huge area and it was beautiful. I took a lot of pictures here and we even walked on water! Or the lake there that was frozen over. After a few hours at the palace we took the subway to the Olympic Pavilion. The Olympic area is still pretty much a tourist area. We walked around and decided to go into the birds nest. They were playing the opening ceremonies on the big screens. Another subway trip put us in a Hutton area, or ally courtyard, where we got dinner. On the ride back home we found a place to get back massages. It was a great way to finish a long day.
Monday
In the morning we met up with a lady for a Gray line tour. The tour included the Ming Tombs, A Jade factory and a visit to the Great Wall. The tour was a lot of fun but of course the Great Wall was amazing. We climbed about a quarter mile up the wall and then back down. It was tons of fun and you bet I took a ton of pictures. After the tour we got dropped off at the Buddhist temple. Lots of people were praying and lighting incense. After the temple we went for our last dinner at a hot pot restaurant. The restaurant gives you a pot of bowling water and you cook your own food in it.
Tuesday
Tuesday was another early morning, but this time we were heading to the airport. Brad was heading back to Xi’an and I was heading home to the states. I had a lot of fun in China and for those of you that are thinking about visiting Brad, be ready for a different culture and be ready to try some new things. Brad thanks for the fun time and I will talk to you soon.
 |
| From T.J. in China 2 |
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
