My Giant Shower

It cannot be said enough; EVERYthing in China is different. People look different, buildings look different, the food tastes different, schedules are different, priorities are different, methods are different, and heaven knows that they sure do drive differently here. What I'm slowly learning and coming to realize is that different isn't always better, but different isn't necessarily worse. It's just different. Besides the language, none of the differences really pose any problems. And even the language barrier can be overcome with universal gestures and facial expressions. Everyone understands head nodding and finger pointing. A smile can often say much more, and say it better (especially since my Chinese is so limited).
And so my perspective has changed on how I see the differences between my life as it is now and as it used to be. I'm actually starting to see many of the changes in a positive light. Mostly on things that are "lacking" in my life here. I'm not missing a car; I have gained an active lifestyle. I'm not lacking an extensive wardrobe; I've found freedom in not worrying about what I wear. I'm not missing my over scheduled hectic running around; I'm savoring a slower pace. I don't have the world's smallest bathroom; it's actually a giant shower with lots of extras. And I love my giant shower!

So those are my thoughts for the day (thanks for asking!) Nothing too exciting has happened in the past week. Our final 2 teammates, Shannon & Peter, arrived on Saturday so we are now ready to kick this semester into high gear. Tuesdays are the night we've set to hang out with students, so tonight we'll be taking a group of them to the "fish restaurant" (there's a picture of a fish on the sign). I've asked my new friend Victory to join me. She's in my sophomore English class and is very sweet and friendly. I happened to mention wanting a map of Langfang, and 2 hours later she was putting one into my hands. So thoughtful! I took pictures of all of my students with their English nametag to help me learn and remember their names, and here's Victory:

And I'm already looking forward to this weekend- Brad, Jess and I are heading into Beijing on Saturday to help our Chinese friends Tony and Lily run an English club for 30-50 of their friends who want to learn and practice English. We'll have games, skits, and a discussion- a lot like what I'm used to back home. We'll take the train in and make a day out of it. Jess and I have already decided that a side trip to the Beijing Ikea is in order. I guess the Chinese also appreciate Swedish bargain furniture :)
Love and Blessings to you all!!