The Best of Times and...the Not So Good Times

-Written August 18, 2011-

Living abroad is the most exciting and challenging times of my life. From language barriers to navigating the bi city of Beijing, I have had such an experience. I've done so much walking, I'm going to have legs of steal when I get back to the states. With all the walking, it makes me hungry. Last night I had Hot Pot for the first time. The dish comes in a boiling bowl that is filled with rib and spine of some mystery animal. After the broth boils the dinner eats the meat off the bone...if you are 'lucky' you will get some spinal cord. The side dishes include vegies and noodles. Alex and I ordered a white vegetable that had holes like Swiss cheese, angle hair noodles, and a leafy green of some sort. With a lack of knowledge I observed locals and aked the waitress in gestures how to eat the dish traditionally. The meal was a unique experience! Andrew Zimmern and Anthony Bourdaine would be proud. As far as school goes, learning the British system of education is a brain full. I have thoroughly enjoyed comparing the two education systems. More on that another time. Being abroad though, is physically, mentally, and emotionally taxing. There have been a couple occasions where Alex and i have been pushed to the brink. After walking many miles or trying to hail a taxi and being denied can be frustrating. It really puts into perspective my place in the city. I am the foreigner who doesn't know the language. It's a disadvantage for me to not know and that pushes me to learn more of the language; so I don't end up walking home instead of riding in an air conditioned taxi. Food is great, people are friendly, life is good. All that I can ask for is an internet connection in the apartment. Teaching as the BSB (British School of Beijing) will be contrasting to Valley Middle School. Teaching at both schools give a teacher a unique experience to the classroom teacher. Mrs. Janet (Head Teacher) is very kind at the same time she expects great teaching. I am ready to meet the expectation. My cooperating teacher, Miss Dawn Burnette, arrives this weekend. I can't wait to start curriculum planning with her. Today we have been getting to know the other teachers of the school. It is fun to talk education with a different perspective. Tonight we are going to dinner with them.