Things have been settling down in our household. We actually haven't done anything very tourist-like lately. Carleigh and Brennan started classes at a western creative arts center called "Kid's Gallery" last Saturday. Brennan has a Design and Technology class where they made a miniature kite last weekend, and Carleigh has Musical theatre and Reading for Meaning. Since she is not in school yet, I thought it would be good for her to do a writing/reading class along with something fun . They both really enjoyed it, and we now have Brennan on the waiting list for a fine arts class as well. All of their classes are done before noon, so we headed out to our favorite Latin restaurant for a early dinner.
Carleigh has also enjoyed an occasional "photo shoot" session. This involves finding my camera, making sure no one is paying attention, and taking pictures of anything that is in sight, mostly furniture. She also enjoys taking photos of herself. These include feet, hands, faces, and her personal favorite, up the nose. The picture on the blog today was from her first "shoot" and confirmation to us on who was playing with the camera.
Bill and I have been taking our Mandarin classes three times a week. Our teacher comes to our house, so it is very convenient. We have actually made quite a bit of progress in the four sessions we have had so far. We can talk about eating, meeting someone at a certain time, buying something, ask you your name and where you are from, etc. It might take us five minutes to make the sentence in our heads and then spit it out of our mouth-but we can eventually do it!
I went to a Ladies night out on Tuesday, with the American Womens' Club. It was at a local tapas place, and my friend across the street went with me. We actually had a really good time, and plan on going again next week. Everyone is extremely friendly and we met lots of new people.
Some observations of life in China. The rain ponchos here are made longer in the front. This helps cover your hands and the wares that you are carrying in your bike basket. When bringing children home from school on a rainy day, just throw the back of your poncho over them, their bodies are dry and their little feet are sticking out the bottom.
If you are trying to buy something at Walmart and it doesn't have a bar code, then they tell you that you can't buy it. If you are stubborn enough, they will eventually go find out what the price is suppose to be. All the while, the Chinese people behind you in line are audibly complaining. Stand strong and don't let them push you around. This is a critical progression in the journey from tourist to resident of Shanghai. Don't mess with me!
More later..love to all!
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