Timeout in Taiwan

Final Days

2011-07-10T14:53:00.000+08:00

Well, today is my last Sunday in Taiwan. I will spend it reflecting and walking around the riverside and Shilin Night Market. It was supposed to rain today, but so far it has been beautiful and hot. I have enjoyed my time here in Taiwan and have learned a lot about their culture. They have many similarities to America, but have just as many differences. I think that I have served a positive purpose during my visit. The people that I have encountered have learned more about the black culture compared to what they see on TV. Although I still get stared at because of my skin color, I have noticed that they have gotten used to me and begin to speak. It's amazing how a simple smile or nod of the head can change a person's attitude towards you. I will miss being here and being able to walk around carefree and safe. I pray that my suggestions and lessons have helped people grow personally and professionally. I have developed even more patience as well as the ability to not look at things at face value. I questioned the things that I didn't understand and their explanations made perfect sense. So before you judge, dig a little deeper into the real meaning behind something. I have 2 days to go in my count down. Those 2 days include summer camp and a BBQ. Enjoy the videos!

Summer Camp

2011-07-05T15:52:00.001+08:00

Well, summer camp has begun. So far, I have survived. The camp consists of half of Bin Jiang's students and half of students from other schools. There is a big difference in the communication gap, but I feel it's because our students are used to us. I have gotten some blank stares, but they get used to me within in 5 min. Although I'm tired, I am still finding joy in teaching this culture. It's nice to see their personalities slowly evolve. It's almost like they are fighting an inner battle on whether to be creative or just play it safe. I hope that I'm building their confidence enough for them to be creative and not to worry about making mistakes. Sooner or later they have to learn that mistakes are a part of life. I do love their determination to be their best at any and everything. I just pray they find a positive balance. Videos coming soon! Until then, the countdown continues! 8 days to go!

Winding Down

2011-06-28T09:22:00.000+08:00

The semester is finally winding down. Only 2 days to go until the end of the semester. Of course, we still have 2 weeks of summer camp. Summer camp should be a lot easier than regular classes. For summer camp, the students in my classes will create their own dance and do voice overs for animations. I have posted the animations below. It should be interesting to see how they turn out with the student's voices. Enjoy!

Just Eat It!

2011-06-20T19:32:00.000+08:00

This is a simple video about some of the foods that I have encountered in Taiwan.

Parody of "Beat It" (Michael Jackson) New lyrics by Al Yankovic
"WEIRD AL" YANKOVIC: lead & backing vocals * JIM WEST: guitar * STEVE JAY: bass * JON "BERMUDA" SCHWARTZ: drums * PAT REGAN: keyboards * RICK DERRINGER: guitar solo * "MUSICAL MIKE" KIEIFFER: musical hands * TONY PAPA: belch
Produced by RICK DERRINGER * Arranged by AL YANKOVIC * Engineered and mixed by TONY PAPA
Recorded at Santa Monica Sound Recorders, Dec. 13, 1983
Scotti Bros. single #04374, Feb. 28, 1984; Hot 100 #12 (B)

It's The Final Count Down!

2011-06-14T15:12:00.000+08:00

Well, here we are! The final 30 days of my stay in Taiwan. I excited about returning home to my family and job, but I'm also sad to be leaving my new friends here. Lately, I have been finishing up classes in the English Village. Our official last day of school is June 30th. Of course, that is my birthday! I will be expecting gifts when I get home. Lol! After the 30th, we have 2 weeks of summer camp. Summer camp is for grades 3-6th and it will be more of a relaxed environment. I'm currently working on finishing the dance videos that were recorded during class as well as short animations for summer camp.. Once they are completed, then I will post them here. I have lots of pictures and videos to upload so get ready to play catch up!

Taiwanese Wedding

2011-05-22T14:25:00.000+08:00

I attended my co worker's Taiwanese wedding yesterday and it was very interesting. It felt more like a reception. I do remember seeing it written on the calendar as a wedding banquet. I think the term banquet is more of a correct way to describe the event. There were some differences compared to the weddings that I have attended in America. For example, the bride changes into 3 different dresses during the event. Not once, did she sit down to eat and there was no dancing. Let me give you a rundown of how things work.
First you arrive and give your gift to the people in charge of receiving the gifts. Here, they don't go to a department store and do a registry. They simply give money in a special red envelope. The person at the table takes the envelope, writes down your name, and then writes down the amount that you gave in a book. If or when you get married or have some big life changing event, they will give you the same amount.
Next, if you are a female, then you are given a gift. My gift was a box of cookies made by Rivon-The Exquix (Love & Life). I'm assuming these are very popular. All the females that were in attendance received a box. Next, they help you find your table and you have a chance to look around at the decorations and read the menu. Of course, our menu was in Chinese. One of the guests at our table read it in English for us. The food wasn't brought out until the bride made her first appearance. She wore a beautiful white gown. She looked like a Barbie doll or a princess. Here comes one totally different part; there were 13 courses! I don't see how these little people can eat so much! I started getting full after #6. I decided to take bits and pieces from each course that I could make it through #13. My favorite was probably the duck, pork, and spinach spring rolls. The taro we had for dessert wasn't too bad. I liked the toasted almonds on top.
In between some of the courses, there was some form of entertainment. While the bride changed into dress #2, there was a light show. Basically, they turned off the lights and they had some people in a line (maybe 6 or 7 people). The first and last person had a sparkler and the people in the middle held trays that had some lights on top. I'm not sure when they did it, but somehow the candles on our table managed to be lit without us knowing it. They walked around the room and weaved around the tables several times at a fast speed. After the light show, we continued to eat and talk to each other at the table until the bride came wearing another pretty dress.
She stayed in view longer this time around. The groom gave a speech in Chinese and one in English (for us foreigners). After the speech, everyone was asked to raise a glass to toast to the new bride and groom. Each table continued to receive food and socialize. If there was food left over that you wanted, then the servers would pack it up for you and put it in a nice little bag. During this time, I noticed the bride, groom, and the parents of both walked around to each table. At each table, the guests and new couple would share thoughts, prayers, and wishes for a happy life together followed by a toast. When they got to our table, the groom's father spoke in Taiwanese and no one was able to translate for us. After the toast, he looked down and saw me (I couldn't stand up because the couple was standing directly behind me and their were cameramen surrounding them). He asked me where I came from and I responded with from America. I'm not sure if he didn't believe me, didn't understand me, or was just trying to process, but he had this indescribable look on his face. He said something else to me in Taiwanese and then took another drink. Someone tried to translate and thinks he said something about being happy that we were there. I don't know and probably will never know. It was just weird. Now, this couple had 300 guests with around 10 people per table. That gives you around 30 tables! That is a lot of toasting and standing on your feet. I hope she gets a lot of rest today. After they did a toast at every table, the couple showed a photo slide show of how they met and the friends and family members that were in their lives. I happen to be in one of the photos (from Chinese New Year's). That was a surprise!
The bride left again to change into dress #3. After the dessert and fruit platters came out, people began getting ready to leave. I was surprised and then was told that a lot of people come for the food. So, after we finished dessert, we took a few photos and began to walk towards the entrance where the bridge and groom would be standing. In the entrance, they give you candy and you take a photo with them. Once again, the groom's father spoke to me, but this time in English. He asked how I was doing, bowed to me, and gave me candy. It was still a little weird, but I felt more comfortable the second time around. We took a photo with the couple and left. Before I left, the bride's mom gave me a hug goodbye. She was the first adult in Taiwan that asked me for a hug and she will always have a spot in my heart. She is truly a sweet and high spirited person. She looked elegant like a queen. It's amazing how these two little women (barely come up to my shoulders) have grown on me so much. There are quite a few people that I will miss once I return to the States. Until then, I plan on enjoying the rest of my stay.

Summer-itis!!!

2011-05-19T19:07:00.000+08:00

I think that I'm getting to the point where summer-itis is settling in on my brain. I'm still excited about being here, but also excited about going home. June 30th (my birthday) is officially the last day of school. I only have 5 1/2 classes left to teach and 2 weeks of summer camp. More people are talking to me now when I'm on the train which leads me to believe that they have finally gotten used to me. Yay! I still get stared at, but not as much as usual. My collection of videos with the kids dancing is almost complete. It should take me about a week to create after all of the classes are done. I still haven't learned the language, but I am understanding it more. My first Taiwanese wedding is this Saturday and I will take as many pictures as I can. Until then, enjoy the videos and pics!

Too shy to sing

ABC song lol

Trying to get the digits

Nice name for a church, aye!

Liam and Megan (I love this little boy!)

Liam at Mr. Paco's

Liam's baby brother (the boy can work a phone)

Liam's dad

If he isn't eating, then he is sleeping!!!

100th P of C!!! (inside joke)

English Club - School Fair Performances

2011-05-11T19:43:00.000+08:00

Here are some videos of the School Fair Performance. The kids were nervous because there were so many people watching them.

In The Jungle

Do, Re, Mi

Drummers

Pin the Tail

Feed Hungry Helga

Puppet Shows

2011-05-11T08:31:00.000+08:00

The kids made puppets a couple of weeks ago. Sorry, it took me so long to post them. I will do better. I promise! Enjoy!

Talent Show

2011-05-03T08:45:00.000+08:00

May 24th is our 6th Grade Talent Show. I've been practicing with some 6th graders from our English Club and with some random students in other classes for about a month now. They are going to do a skit based off of a Spongebob Squarepants episode. I don't have a lot of money so I needed ideas for costumes. After asking around, I decided to use the box idea. I will add some kind of clear bowl or bubble for Sandy's helmet. Patrick is a little on the heavy side. Mr. Krabs is too small. Gary turned out alright. Spongebob needs to be painted on the sides and on the back. The kids are starting to get into character and add their own personality to the skit. I am no artist, but I think they turned out well. Enjoy!!

Skit Costumes

PowerPoints

2011-04-22T15:30:00.002+08:00

I'm working on getting my PowerPoints uploading to the blog. I'm having some problems, but would like to give you a preview of how it will look.
file:///C:/Users/bj549/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/Temporary%20Internet%20Files/Content.MSO/PubWebPagePreview/pub4360.0/index.htm

Classroom Commands

View more presentations from ten8shus12

http://www.slideshare.net/ten8shus12/classroom-commands

Final MOE Observation

2011-04-06T23:21:00.000+08:00

Today, the MOE (Ministry of Education) came to our school to observe my class and talk with the principal and directors again. I can't say that I was nervous, but I was ready to get it over with. Due to the holiday, we were not in school Monday and Tuesday. It was weird coming back to such a big day, but that's how it happens sometimes. I was prepared and gave 100%. Tomorrow, Taipei City Government is visiting our school. Apparently, the school is applying for some kind of reward of excellency. It should be interesting to see. I only have a review and quiz tomorrow so it should be a pretty easy day. My plan is to finish at least 2 of the 6 videos that I have left to make and to edit lesson plans before publishing. The kids are doing a good job with making up their dances and I enjoy watching them move. They are very creative. Once I get finished with a particular grade, then I will compile their videos and post it. Until then, take it easy and be blessed!!

Semester schedule

2011-03-28T16:22:00.000+08:00

Here is my semester schedule.

Tuesday is not showing because we have students from other schools that come to visit on that day. Wednesday afternoons consists of a 2 hour English Club. On Monday, Thursday, and Friday I am free to edit videos and perform other duties. I have Teach the teachers every 3 weeks on Wednesday mornings and I have English Corner every 3 weeks on Thursday mornings.

Classes

2011-03-16T20:20:00.000+08:00

Well, the semester is rolling by quickly. I love my classes. I feel more relaxed this semester teaching Gym and Dance. The 3rd graders are learning body parts through a Tony Chestnut song. The 4th graders are learning how to do The Cupid Shuffle. The 5th graders are learning how to step while the 6th graders are learning an aboriginal Taiwanese dance. Also, the 5th and 6th graders are learning The Casper Slide. It is fun to watch the 3rd graders put Humpty back together and it is fun watching the 4th - 6th graders create their own version of The Cupid Shuffle. I plan on putting all the creations together in a video. Until then, here are a few pics of Humpty.

Good News and Bad News

2011-03-13T12:01:00.000+08:00

Bad News
We had training Friday on how to work all of the camera equipment in the media room. Basically, they have created a small news station that we can create to record and edit our English Corner videos. After the training, we returned to our office and found out about the 8.9 earthquake that hit Japan. We also found out that a tsunami was headed our way and should hit us around 5:30pm. Well, it was unnerving. I have never been affected by a tsunami or have never learned what to do when one comes. Thank God we have Internet access to research such topics. Instead of hanging out with other foreign English teachers, I decided to play it safe and stay home. I think I was more worried about an earthquake than the wave. If the tsunami hit, then it would have had around 17km to travel before it got to my city (Taipei City). Before going home, I stopped and grabbed some dinner and other foods to get me through the weekend in case something did happen. As I ate my dinner, I watch CNN and the Taiwanese news. I could not believe my eyes! The only thing I could say was "God, please, be with them!" The video clips looked unreal. The aerial shot of the wave consuming everything was hard to take in. I prayed for the people there and thank God that I was blessed not to experience it. I quickly let everyone know that I was alright via Facebook and school email because I didn't want them waking up in panic because it was 3 am in my hometown. Everyday since the earthquake, I have received emails asking if I am still okay. I feel blessed to have so many people concerned about my wellbeing. That feeling of love reminds me that I am never alone. I have a friend that is returning to the states this weekend. He has been teaching in South Korea for a couple of years now. He is currently stuck at the airport in Tokyo and says that it is pure craziness there. He says that people are walking around with pieces of cardboard that they will use to sleep on. He said that the airport is quiet, but people are moving around like crazy. Now, Japan is on alert for a Nuclear Meltdown. One police officer commented on her Facebook account about not knowing if she will be alive the next day. What a tragic day! :_(
Good News
I do have some good news to report. My doctor here in Taiwan sent me an email stating that there is a company that is offering to give me a free stent. This is wonderful news! I will need two stents and each stent costs $50,000 NT, which is around $1,500 USD. The only difference is the US has payment plans and here they want you to pay it all up front. In January, I had tests ran that gave me a diagnosis of MTS like symptoms. My left iliac vein has been compressed or closed in two areas: one up high and one down low. I have had this condition for 13 years now and had given up on any cures because no one knew what to do or why it was happening. The tests were not pleasing, but I made it through. I would rather get it done in the US because I feel like they have better pain medication for the procedure, but I will suck it up and do it again. Here is a rundown of what will happen.
They will give me an IV and I will not be allowed to eat anything 6 hours before the procedure. During the procedure, they will wipe down the site with iodine and give me a shot of some numbing anesthetic on the site. This part hurts like crazy! I remember working on trying to breathe through the pain as I gripped the table. I will ask them for a stronger dose next time. They will insert a catheter into my right iliac and guide it across my body towards my left iliac. They will do this because they fear that if they go into my left iliac, then they would not get far due to the blockage. Of course, I can feel it as they move across my body because I am still awake and no that part doesn't hurt. There will be a screen displaying the procedure. I can watch or I can lay there with my eyes closed feeling everything that is going on. If I can relax, then maybe I will watch next time. I'm not sure if they will need me to do anything special for this form of charity, but if it is something like taking a photo, staying in touch after my return to the states, or even doing an interview; then I'm all in! The company is based out of a Christian hospital so that gives me some comfort as well. Once they get to my left iliac vein, they will insert a stent inside of the compressed area to open it up and allow blood to flow through the area once again. After the procedure, I will have to lay on my back for 2-3 hrs. I will probably have to stay in the hospital for a few days so that they can monitor my progress and see how it feels when I walk. Some people bounce back after the procedure and others have a slow recovery process. Hopefully, I am the type that bounces back. I know that I will have to take blood thinning medicines for a little while and keep my INR levels in a certain range. This will definitely be another change of life experience, but it is one that I need. Any pregnancies in the future (if any), will be high risk and I will have to change some eating habits because they will effect my INR levels. The procedure might take place in April so I will keep you guys posted. Until then, take care!

English Club

2011-03-04T20:04:00.000+08:00

In English Club, we have been learning about different holidays and learning all of the vocabulary that the students will need to know by the end of the year. We have also began working on our 2 songs for the school fair. The songs chosen were "Do, Re, Me" and "In The Jungle." I am posting a few clips of a student that really gets into it. I love watching him and each week he gets better. Enjoy!

Neihu Area/Xihu MRT

2011-02-28T20:14:00.000+08:00

I live on the border lines of Neihu District and Zhongshan District. Today, I decided to walk around and take pictures of restaurants and popular places in the area. I have a daily struggle of deciding what I want to eat and a" hungry girls blog" doesn't have a lot of options when it comes to my area. So, hopefully this will help. The majority of the places had menus in Chinese only, but if they have pictures then I can work with it. I never knew how meaningful pointing to pictures could be. Lol! It was another gorgeous day! It felt like a Sunday. After roaming around, I decided to go to the Riverside park near my apartment to rest and read a few chapters of the Bible. While there, I found out that they have a volleyball court. This is great news because I have been looking for a court to play on since I got here. I only get to play in Tianmu once a week so this should help my skill levels. I do have a team to coach when I get back. Only 4 1/2 months until I return to the States. I will try to get out and take more pictures because that time will fly by. Check out the pictures of the sidewalk. Most of the sidewalks are made of tiles. It gets really slippery on rainy days! Enjoy!

Taipei City Zoo

2011-02-27T15:21:00.000+08:00

I went to the Taipei City Zoo to relax and enjoy the nice weather. It was 79 degrees with the perfect amount of sunshine. There were lots of people out and I saw some very interesting animals. I haven't been to the zoo since I lived in Memphis. I felt like a little kid all over again. My pictures include regular zoo animals, what they call Formosan zoo animals, and some popular clothing trends. A lot of people here wear boots, tights, short skirts or shorts, long socks, and long shirts. Everyone has their own sense of style. Enjoy the pics!

Jihu Lu Temple

2011-02-20T22:23:00.001+08:00

There is a temple at the corner of my street. Tonight, they had a parade, fireworks, and a form of worship. It lasted for about 30 min. No, it didn't help my slight headache, but it was quite interesting to watch. I'm getting better at not being so scared of the fireworks here as well. Yay, me! Here are some photos and a video of their celebration.

Saturday=School Day

2011-02-20T22:00:00.001+08:00

We had to work Saturday to make up for a day that we took as a holiday. I'm not sure why a holiday would need to be made up, but we went. We had to attend a full day like it was a regular school day. I learned that they used to go to school regularly on Saturdays. I'm so glad that was changed before I came! We let the kids play games. They played a heart match up game where they had to put hearts together. Each heart had a part of a poem printed on it. After they correctly put the heart together, they had to put the poem together in the correct order. If they were really good, then they had to recite the poem without reading it. The second game was sort of like horseshoes, but we used plastic food products from our Supermarket Situation Classroom. The students had to toss a mini ring into or near a bigger ring. No one was able to ring the items, but they got pretty close. The students received points if they touched or made it inside of the ring. Winners received a small prize.

Lantern Festival - Part 1

2011-02-17T22:00:00.004+08:00

Today, marks the start of the Lantern Festival. That means lots of locals and foreigners going to the same place. Big crowds!!! It also means that I will hear fireworks from 5pm-10pm, again at 12am, and again at 2am. I don't plan on getting much sleep because the fireworks wake me up and shake the building. Enjoy the pics!

Week 1 - English Club

2011-02-16T16:02:00.000+08:00

Today was our first day of English Club for the semester. The students created personalized bookmarks, filled out an interest survey, and watched 2 video examples for their semester performance. The interest survey results will be used in a family feud game for a future class. Their performance for the School Fair will come from Do, Re, Mi (The Sound of Music) and In The Jungle. The kids seem really excited and I look forward to working with this very energetic group of kids. Enjoy the photos!

Below are some videos showing some of the kids getting into it!

2nd Semester Dialogue

2011-02-15T18:54:00.000+08:00

Here is a video that we showed the students. This is what they will be learning this semester.

Worship Day - School Staff Field Trip

2011-02-15T18:48:00.000+08:00

Our school has a Worship Day each year. In previous years, they would stand at the front gate of the school. Not sure what kind of worship would take part, but I do know that this year they wanted to do something different. So, they got a bus for us and took us to Yilan. Yilan is on the East side of Taiwan. It used to take 2 hours to get there, but they built a tunnel and not it takes only 30-45min. There was a disco ball with working lights on the bus along with karaoke. I was surprised to hear that one of my many directors could sing quite well.
We toured a museum, went to a temple, had coffee at Mr. Browns, and stopped at a souvenir bread shop on the way home. We had lunch a small restaurant located down the street from the museum. The people here at 10 course meals almost everyday! I was full after the first 5 dishes. Yes, I tried everything, but the squid. I was being very brave!!! I have quickly learned that I am not a seafood person.
It was a very tiring day, but I'm glad that we went. It was a great way to fellowship. It started raining so a lot of pictures have rain spots. Sorry! Enjoy the photos!

Danshui Area

2011-02-13T12:37:00.003+08:00

After cold weather and lots of rain, the sun magically appeared on a Saturday. The weather was great! I decided to take a trip out to Danshui, which is on the red line via Taipei Metro. It took me about an hour to get there, but it was a nice ride. I was able to see some different areas of Taiwan because the metro took us through tunnels and out in the open. The water was very calm. I noticed on the metro that a lot of people were looking at me. It was weird! I just smiled, said hello, and acknowledge that I saw them by nodding my head. They looked at me from head to toe, but paid special attention to my hair. One kid even got on the metro, pointed at me, and said "black!" I just smiled and laughed because that wasn't the first time that has happened. It is amazing how many people here that have NEVER seen a black person before. I love how they try to sneak and take your picture. I will take the picture with them if they would just ask or gesture. I guess I will work on that with them while I'm here. The line to ride the ferry was super long so I didn't even attempt to get on it. I will try again when it stops raining so much. Enjoy the pictures!

In-Service Video

2011-02-05T18:35:00.000+08:00

We had to send in our video for teacher in-service so that others could see our school, learn about our responsibilities, and learn about our students. Here is a video about the duties given to me during the 1st semester at Bin Jiang Elementary. Of course, I had to be silly. I was second to last in presenting during our 3 day stay in Taichung. Enjoy!

Diagnosis

2011-01-27T18:19:00.000+08:00

I just got out of the hospital and am thankful that I only had to stay overnight. Basically, they did an old school EKG (the one with the suction cups and not leads), chest x-ray, blood work, venography, and CT scan in 1 day. I was admitted at 4pm and discharged at 4pm the next day. I have a double compression in my left leg that has been causing the swelling. I am on bed rest for 2 days and will get the treatment taken care of when I return to the States. I had fun confusing the hospital staff when they talking to me in Chinese. Because I have worked in the medical field before and have been to the doctor for this condition several times over the past 13 yrs, I already knew the questions being asked and the order to answer them. Naturally, they assumed I understood Chinese. When they began to tell me what they were doing I would stop them and say to them in Chinese that I didn't understand. They would continue to talk to me in Chinese and I would stop and say to them that I didn't know in Chinese. Again, they would talk to me in Chinese and I finally told them that I didn't understand, I was American, and that I speak English. They quickly realized that I only know how to be polite and say that I didn't understand in Chinese. I guess I better get my book out and work on some more lessons. I plan on going back to teach some of their staff some simple English phrases that they can use because they heavily rely on 2 ladies that REALLY need a vacation. I will post pictures of my scan when I get to work on Monday.

School Hotpot and KTV

2011-01-19T22:40:00.000+08:00

Today, the school had hotpot and KTV. It was interesting to listen to the Chinese and Taiwanese songs. The food that they were putting together was quite interesting as well. Enjoy the photos!

Mushrooms going in!!!!

The Peace Group

Teacher Liesl

Teacher Monica and Liesl

Teacher Nicole

Teacher Silvia

Teachers Candy and Nicole

The pot that I won!

This is what goes into a hotpot.

SBL

2011-01-17T19:05:00.000+08:00

The weather has been a lot colder than what the temperature reads. It might say 46, but it is really 31. Nothing like that good ocean weather to keep you cool. I attended a basketball game on Sunday. It was nice to see something more American style. The games show on ESPN Live and only cost $150-$300 NT to watch. I went to take pictures of two of the players that I have befriended on Facebook. I met a man from the states. I fell in love with his son William. He talked and asked a lot of funny questions during the game. He was my other source of entertainment. I have 9 days until my hospital visit. I'm excited! It's been a long time coming! Until then, I will try to move around a little more before the dreaded bed rest kicks happens. Enjoy the pictures and videos!

SBL

New Year's Fireworks

2011-01-11T21:07:00.000+08:00

For New Year's, I went to the Taipei City Hall area to see the fireworks being shot off of Taipei 101. There were lots of people there. The body heat from everyone kept us from getting cold. Some teachers in other areas of Taiwan that are in the program with me came to visit for the weekend. We exchanged stories about the students and our responsibilities at our schools. We will see each other again in Taichung on the 24th of this month. Enjoy the video!

Ben

Nate

David

A dog in a stroller with a sweater on

Is Coffee (can't think of a better title for it)

Nate and Shelby

David, Nate, and Shelby

His drink looks like mouthwash

How many people can fit on one scooter?

Do you see what I see hanging off the bottom of the bike?

Yes, folks! Those are cds! Great reflectors! Only in Taiwan!

We need this for school bullies!

My friend Leifson.

What are you feeding me now!?!

Not bad! Taste like Craisins!

Taipei 101

The end of the 1st Semester

2011-01-08T22:08:00.000+08:00

Well, the last day of the 1st semester is on the 20th and I feel safe to say that I survived. It has taken me the majority of the semester to completely catch on to the ins and outs of things here. We recently had a demo teaching day for principals and teachers in Taipei City. There was 100+ people there. Talk about stress! I have never had to speak or teach in front of that many adults. Kids are a breeze! I managed to sing a quick phrase in front of the entire school with no issue. I don't know! My level of comfort is higher with the little ones. I will figure it out eventually.
We have had several meetings to discuss lesson plans, curriculum, and visiting schools lessons. I think our last meeting was very successful and now I can begin working on my plans for next semester. Thankfully, I get to teach gym and dance. My focus will be on line dances. I think the students will be able to learn them quickly and use English to teach others with some ease. English Club is finished for this semester and I have already been asked to get things detailed for next semester. The kids love Spongebob so I will try to find an episode that they can perform.
I am posting all the videos and pictures that I have yet to post. Sorry that there are so many! With the Chinese New Year coming, I'm sure there will be plenty more. Enjoy!

I had to take antibiotics 3 times a day for 3 days. That was not fun!

I liked how the pharmacist wrote this on my prescription!

Visiting Schools

Christmas Carols from one of the classes

Christmas Decorations

Made from recycled materials

So cute!!!!

My Early Christmas Present!

2010-12-23T17:45:00.000+08:00

Cindy and Cindy are both my students. Cindy #1 (pink) is responsible for cleaning a few of the areas in our English Village. Cindy #2 (blue) gives me hugs and barely knows 20 English words.
On my way home from school, Cindy #2 (blue) yells my name (Teacher Debon) as I'm getting ready to cross the street.I turn around to see who is calling me and I see her sprinting across the park towards me. When she makes it to me, she gives me a hug and tries to tell me that she is playing with her friend Cindy #1 (pink). Cindy #1 runs over to serve as the translator because she knows more words and sentences compared to Cindy #2. Cindy #2 asks for a kiss (she says my names and then perches her lips). She motions for her mouth, but I tell her no. I show her my cheek. She gives me a kiss on the cheek and says something to Cindy #1. Cindy #1 then translates that she wants to sing me a song. I say OK and then quickly tell them to wait so that I can get it on video.

As you can see, she may be a little girl, but she definitely has a big voice! It brought tears to my eyes to hear her sing a song so passionately and without fear. She has become my inspiration! If she can sing wholeheartedly and without fear, then I can too!

Taiwanese Opera

2010-12-03T22:06:00.000+08:00

Well, there has been a Taiwanese Opera going on in my neighborhood. It was cool during the first 2 days, but now it is starting to get old. It has been 7 days and there have been a lot of people and scooters coming and going. This coming up week, we were told (newspaper) to not be outside as much due to an increase of pollution that will be traveling via strong winds. This should be interesting! Well, I have included some pictures and videos of what I could catch of the opera. There were lots of people inside this big tent in front of the temple. Not sure if it is a religious opera or it's theme. It was still nice to see. Enjoy!

Thanksgiving

2010-11-27T12:59:00.000+08:00

Since no one really has an oven or a way to get real Thanksgiving food, we decided to go to TGIF for dinner after work. Yes, we worked during this holiday because they don't celebrate Thanksgiving here. They do have Christmas lights and trees around the train stations, in the stores, and around the neighborhoods. It's funny how majority of them worship different gods, but still manage to celebrate Christmas.
I recently bought a rice cooker. Maybe it will help me save money and keep from getting burned out on all the eating out. I understand that they eat out a lot here because they get home so late (from work and studying at night school), but after awhile you run out of things to try. Let me rephrase that. You run out of "normal" things to try. I'm still not brave enough to try the squid and other random grilled, fried, or raw unknowns. If a Taiwanese person says that it is good, then majority of the time it is not going to taste good to me. I have learned this the hard way! What is sweet and tasty to me is too sweet for them. They are more in to spices and I am not. I don't think I enjoy pizza as much as I did before I came here. As you can see, I am still working on getting used to different foods. Don't worry! I'm not losing weight because I am not eating. I'm losing because of the increased amount of exercise. I can't wait for treatment in January! I know that will help level a lot of things.

Maokong

2010-11-20T23:32:00.000+08:00

Nate has been dying to meet new people, but he doesn't like doing it alone. So, I was talked into going to an international meet up in Maokong today. I don't regret going. We had a good time and saw some cool things. I finally got to go inside of a temple. It was kind of scary to me at first, but that was because of the statues. We went to another temple where they were displaying offerings to the gods and burning paper money. The smell of incense was really strong! While there, another foreigner and I were asked to take a picture with a local woman. Actually, the woman's husband forced her to take the picture. They were a cute little couple with a white poodle. Of course, the poodle was in the picture! After taking that picture, we passed by a lady and a woman that looked like she could have been her grandmother. The girl said something about me being black (it was in Chinese). The next thing I know, the grandmother was standing in front of me. She began talking to me in Chinese and looking at my hair. She wanted me to buy a spiritual necklace that had a picture of Confucius on it. I declined the offer and continued to go outside to see the view. After taking some more pictures with the people in the meet up, I turned around and the lady was standing in front of me again. This time one of the people in my group translated for me. She was asking about my hair. She wanted to touch it. She wanted to know how long it took me to do it. She wanted to know how long it took for me to grow my hair that long. I'm laughing because it is a very cute situation. I'm assuming that she has never seen fake hair other than wigs. I don't know how they explained to her that it wasn't my real hair. She looked confused, but she kept smiling and stroking my hair. The Canadian girl that was with us asked me if I was okay (because she was still touching my hair). I told her that I was fine and that I was used to it because of my students. When I looked up towards the temple, I noticed that there was a crowd of people watching the lady stroke my hair and listening to the conversation that we were having. I guess her little arms got tired of reaching up and she noticed goosebumps on my arms. The weather was chilly, but it felt great! It is hard to explain to the people here that I'm not cold even though my hands and arms are cold. Thinking it would help, she began to rub my arm. Bless this woman with her little calloused hands. They were rough, but her intentions were very sweet. Overall, I had a good time. My dark people count is now up to 45! Many people laugh and question why I am counting. They don't understand that I never thought that I would see so many people that favored me. We (foreigners) are still trying to decide on Thanksgiving dinner. It should be interesting! Until next time, enjoy the pictures and videos.

English Trendsetters - Pilgrim

2010-11-17T23:15:00.000+08:00

Today the kids learned more about Thanksgiving. The topic was on pilgrims. Here are some pics of their art. They made pilgrims out of paper plates. Enjoy!

Sports Day - Races

2010-11-17T22:59:00.000+08:00

Sports Day - Grand March

2010-11-17T22:23:00.000+08:00

I tried to upload one video of the entire Grand March, but it would not allow it. So here are several videos of the Grand March. Enjoy!

Taipei Flora Expo

2010-11-09T21:53:00.000+08:00

Saturday, I spent the night with some locals and another foreign English teacher. They took us to the opening ceremony for the 2010 Flora Expo. The expo will last until April of next year. We met at Taipei Main Station around 6pm in order to get there early and to get good seats. Of course, it was raining. But it wasn't raining hard; it was more like a drizzle or light sprinkles. After riding the bus for about 15 mins and walking for at least half a mile, we finally arrived to Taipei County. We walked to a spot right next to the river and the bridge. I learned that they shut the bridge down after 6pm due to the fireworks. We arrived there around 7pm and the fireworks didn't start until 9pm. So, there was lots of waiting, getting rained on, staring a foreigners (meaning them staring at me), and good conversations with people that wanted to work on their English conversational skills. It was the first time that someone talked with me for 30 mins and didn't say "Sorry! My English isn't very good." I'm still having a hard time understanding that one. I guess their confidence is low or they are not meeting their extremely high self expectations that I always hear about. Either way, it was nice! I did have a local say to me "Your English is very good!" I looked at her (with confusion of course) and said thank you. She went on to explain that she "likes the way I pronounce my words." She said it is kind of like I'm "singing" when I talk. I have never been told that before, but I guess it makes since to people that speak with 4 different tones.
I have never seen so many people in one place. There was enough people to fill up the Razorback Stadium and still have a crowd outside waiting to get in. The fireworks were cool! They are the masters of fireworks in my book. I guess you have to be if you play with them everyday. The fireworks ended around 10pm and we had to walk to the bus stop. The bus was full because of all the people. After getting off, we had to walk a few blocks to get to the MRT. They just opened this MRT on the 3rd of November. It was very nice and I didn't have to ride long.
I got home around 12am and passed out. My feet were hurting so bad. I got as much sleep as I could because the next morning, I had to leave my apartment by 8:15am to get to church on time. There was a girl that I met through a friend that wanted me to show her how to get to a church. I met up with the girl around 9:30 and walked to the church. Before the service, the pastor introduced himself to us (although I met him once before) and made the comment that our English was good and their wasn't an accent that he could detect. We both laughed and explained that we were Americans. He blushed and explained that most of the people that he meet are from South Africa, Nigeria, or the Carribeans. That is a common assumption here when it comes to the black population. Some teachers at my school didn't know how to introduce me to their class. They were afraid of offending me (they are so nice!). I told them not to say that I was African American because then they would have to explain why I was African American and had never been or lived in Africa. Some students still get confused when I say that I am from America. I think it is good for them to get this exposure at an early age. One of the locals told me a story about her friends' daughter that got into a little argument with a boy at school. The little girl is white, but she was born here in Taiwan. The little boy argued that she was American (because of her color) and she argued back that she was Taiwanese (because of her birthplace). I can imagine their faces as they were arguing.
Monday, I finally got to play volleyball!!! It was great! I got to talk English and work on my skills at Taipei American School. I haven't touched a ball in 4 months. They invited me back as a regular. It takes me an hour to get there, but I will be going back. Of course, I felt the muscle soreness come on today. I need to stretch better. Speaking of stretching, I have to lead the cool down stretches this Saturday at our Sports Day event. All the students and their families will be on our campus to watch some friendly relay races, dances, and performances. The students have been practicing very hard and they are so cute! I will take videos and pictures tomorrow because I have a feeling that I won't have any clear shots on Saturday. Because we are working on Saturday, we get Monday off. That is going to be weird and much needed. Well, I have posted videos of the fireworks. You can see some of it. They had so many going off that a big cloud of smoke stayed around during half of the show. The glowing whiteness on the right is the bridge that was strung with fireworks to make it appear as if it were a waterfall. The poor birds got scared and began to fly away. Enjoy!

Saturday Adventure

2010-10-24T10:54:00.018+08:00

Saturday, I decided to try and find this recreation center that is near my apartment. I passed by it before and couldn't remember in what direction it was located. So, I took my normal route and expanded it a little (so I thought). I saw the TV series crew again, but didn't bother trying to get in the background. I saw many people and lots of stores. I stopped at a nice sized high school to look around. They had archery going on and some people were playing basketball. I rebounded for a kid that was shooting free throws. We spoke a little as he shot, but not a lot. It was cool to be around something athletic for a change. So, I bought me a volleyball! After buying my ball, I continued on my journey of finding a gym. I wanted to take a picture of the Kingdom Hall for this couple that will be visiting Taiwan soon. So, I took a picture of the Kingdom Hall and the street sign so that they can find it. There is a bridge near the Kingdom Hall. I always wondered where it would lead me to; so, I took it! And that's when I began to get lost! Lol! I saw parks and fire stations, other foreigners, Costco, Home, and Taipei 101 continued to get closer. I say this because from my apartment, I can see Taipei 101. It is across the river. I didn't know that the bridge that I crossed would take me in that direction. (Oh, yeah! I left my map at home on the table) I took a break near Costco and sat on a bench. There were lots of people around. They were shopping and enjoying the sunshine (it has been raining for a week). They were very nice! The people walking by me smiled and said hello. I was wearing an Arkansas T-shirt so that helped them recognized that I was a foreigner if they didn't know already. It was a good thing that I did too! It gave them a red flag that I was lost. Lol! I started walking in the direction of Taipei 101 because I knew that I would find a MRT near by. All the other railings that I saw in the distance and walked towards just happened to be highways (got more lost because of them). I turned down one street and saw about 5 stray dogs. Of course, I turned left and avoided them all together. Most of the dogs here are very nice, but those are the ones with owners. I have ran across some strays that just sit there and watch you walk by or that look like they are on their own mission. These dogs were big and I didn't want to take any chances. I just continued to take pictures as I walked blindly around. I turn down another street and I could tell that the people there were not used to foreigners. Their mouths dropped open wide, but they still managed to be nice and speak a simple hello. There was an old man sitting at the park across the street. I heard someone speaking (as usual), but realized it was in English. He was yelling to me (rather talking as loudly as he could in his weak voice) Hello, How are you? It made my heart smile! I yelled back to him that I was fine and asked how he was doing. I guess that was all the English he knew because he just smiled back (or he couldn't hear me). It was still nice. Everyone on that street said Hello and didn't just stare. I don't even know the street name, but when I find it I will make sure to go back to speak again. A little further down the street was a family that spoke and ask something about my travels. I wasn't sure if it was where are you from or where are you going. I pulled out my Chinese book, but before I could respond he said station. I assumed that he meant MRT station. Silly me! He walked me down the street and around the corner (very fast paced; like power walking). Of course, I have been walking since 1:11pm (it was 5pm) so my feet are killing me and I'm having a hard time keeping up with him. He takes me to this bridge and we go up in the elevator. On the deck leading to the bridge is a nice view of the river and a bike trail. There are people there taking pictures and sitting down relaxing and talking with friends. As I cross, I see some people sitting down and they have a camera. They were going to take a picture of me as I walked by. I stopped and motioned to them that I would take their picture and this got the ball rolling. We took several pictures and of course they tried to talk to me in Chinese (darn language barrier, lol). They were asking me about my hair and where I was from. Very nice! Out of nowhere, this older lady walks up behind me and looks at me in my eyes and then touches my hair. She is very curious! She says something in Chinese and I apologize for not being able to communicate with her. I guess I better dive into my book more often if I plan on taking more adventures. After I leave this group, I continue walking in the direction the man gave me when we were in the elevator. I like how he said "Good Luck!" He was very optimistic. Lol! I found the station that he was referring to, but it wasn't a MRT. It was a train station. Close, but not cigar! I walked out of the station and walked thru some kind of market (it was mainly vendors). I passed a temple and walked thru a night market. The stinky tofu smell almost knocked me out. It was very strong!! I ended up on some main street and I stopped in at a Family Mart to ask for directions to the nearest MRT (of course with my Chinese Book). The customer that was leaving spoke English. Her directions were "go straight and turn right." That was it! I said thank you and kept going straight in the direction that I was already going. She ended up walking with me because she was going in the same direction. She told me to cross at the bridge and then left me. It was funny because she didn't tell me if it was right or left after the bridge. As, I was crossing the bridge, I saw some graffiti. It was an advertisement for mayor of Taipei City. Creative, free, and easy to read! (it was in English, lol!) After crossing this four way bridge that is over a busy intersection (something the U of A needs to consider), I keep straight and cross a couple of streets and pass several stores. And there to my right, is a MRT. I am so anxious to see the map inside so that I can figure out where I am. I live on the brown line at Xihu and I was standing in Yongchun MRT, which is on the blue line. Basically, I walked in a diagonal south from where I live. In all, I walked at least 3-5 miles. After getting on the MRT and making it back to Xihu, I still had a 10 minute walk home. I know I looked and felt worn out! Today, I will have to go to the grocery store. I'm going to Jason's. It is an American store in the basement of Taipei 101. I won't get lost this time, but I will still take pictures. Enjoy!

Fireworks and Lock Outs

2010-10-20T19:05:00.004+08:00

Saturday was interesting. I woke up to the sound of loud fireworks, drums, and singing/chanting. I'm not sure what time it was but I know it was before 9am because my alarm had not went off yet. I went downstairs to look out the window. I saw men climbing out of the back of a truck. They were putting on costumes. I looked at my calendar and it read "Double Ninth." Last week was Double Tenth. Boy, these people know how to celebrate! So, I grabbed my camera to go take a few pics and videos and my plan was to get back in bed until it was time to get up.

I joined the small crowd outside. Only a few of us had cameras. The rest of the spectators must have been working the little parade because they sat on the sidewalk drinking beers. I stood (hid) under a tree while I filmed because the fireworks were too close and really loud. After they performed their dance and took a break, the workers put their costumes back on and continued with the parade. It had begun to sprinkle so I'm not sure if they finished.

Well, I went back upstairs to get some more sleep and my door failed to open. The deadbolt would not turn. I thought to myself, "How am I going to communicate this to the security guard (he speaks no English)?" I went downstairs and made some gestures with my key and he followed me upstairs to see if he could get it opened. Of course, he couldn't. He said something to me in Chinese and then had me follow him downstairs. He asked the lady to translate for him (she was holding an art class for some kids in the building) and then he made a phone call. To make a long story short, I spent the remaining of the morning in the art class and on the stairs. My morning went something like this: I follow the locksmith upstairs to my apartment and stand to the side as he tries to unlock my door (just like I tried and like the security guard tried). I follow the locksmith downstairs so that he can tell the security guard that I need a new lock and that he is going to go and get one. I go sit in the art class. The locksmith comes for me in the art class and I follow him upstairs to my apartment again and sit down on the stairs as I watch him bang on the door and work on prying off the deadbolt. It doesn't work because he doesn't have the right tools. I follow him back downstairs so that he can tell the security guard that he needs to leave again and will be back. I go back to the art room and the security guard translates to the art teacher who turns around and translate everything that is going on to me. All I have is my nonworking key, a camera, and a hungry stomach. I still don't know the time. The locksmith returns after awhile and I follow him upstairs once again. I sit there and listen and watch as he is having the hardest time getting the deadbolt off. At least I know that the locks around here really do work! He finally gets the lock off, but can't get the bolt out of the hole. He leaves me to call for backup. Yes, I am going crazy on the stairs. I had enough time to count my braids (293 to be exact). He finally comes back after what seems forever and begins working on my door again. Shortly, his back shows up and together they work on the door. The bolt finally comes out and then within a few minutes, I had a new lock and 3 keys. They had some good teamwork going on. When one was getting the tools out of the bag, the other one was working on the door. They never stopped moving until it was done. Almost like they were reading each others minds. I guess installing locks isn't hard for most men, but to see them synchronized was pretty cool. The first thing I did when I got inside was look at the clock. It read 1:40pm. That meant no Tae Kwon Do for me. Boy, what a morning! At least I didn't have to pay $1000NTD for the new lock.

Visiting School

2010-10-11T21:28:00.002+08:00

Well, tomorrow we will teach another visiting school. Last week, things went by fast and we had no real issues (besides that one kid). I hope tomorrow is smooth sailing. I met 5 foreigners from Boston tonight. They are doing the same thing that I am doing, but are teaching at a Hess school. Yesterday, I met a family from Texas. The dad was a former swimmer for the Razorbacks. Such a small world! At least now I am seeing foreigners actually speak instead of acting like they are Taiwanese or Chinese and don't speak English.

Interesting Kid!!

2010-10-05T20:41:00.003+08:00

Well, today was quite interesting. Almost every Tuesday we have a visting school come to our English Village. We teach them how to order food at a restaurant, how to check in at a hotel, how to buy food at a clinic, and what to do on an airplane. Well, today, we had a very unique class of kids. Just this one group. The other 5 were okay. In this class, there was a kid name James (we will give him a fake name). James was very smart and VERY active. James was what you would call a problem child. He was funny, but didn't care if he was doing wrong. The best part about it, he told the other teachers that he didn't care and failed to listen to his teachers from his school. So much fun, James and I had. I had to get him under control real quick, fast, and in a hurry. I had some problems, but not like the other teachers. I have mastered giving the "eye" and talking in that "mother" tone. I will have to pray for my child whenever I choose to have one because I have had a lot of practice. The poor baby will think that I was in the military or something. For the rest of the night, I plan on doing NOTHING. I earned it and so did the other teachers! I will worry about English Club tomorrow. Goodnight!

Question Answered!!!

2010-10-01T22:54:00.003+08:00

Well, yesterday it was raining all day. I bought a new umbrella the previous night and forgot it at home. So, I was stuck with an umbrella that was falling apart at all angles. It still served its purpose and I managed to make it home without it taking me on a flight with all the wind or giving me a shower. While I was walking home, I started thinking about the weather. I was thinking about how it rains basically everyday for at least 15-20mins. Then I began to wonder if it ever stormed or if there was lightening here. I couldn't remember! Well, I got my answer at 3am this morning! I was awaken by the loudest clap of thunder I have ever heard! It was so loud that it felt like it was right there in the room with me. Each time it sounded off, my apartment shook in fear. I probably was shaking in fear too, but can't remember because I was tired. After about the 5th boom, I felt my bed shake. I sat up and said "Are you serious?!?" Yep! You guessed; an earthquake. I was too tired to even care. I simply pulled the blanket up and rolled over to try and get a few more hours of sleep. When it was time for work, the sun was shining like nothing ever happened. This weather is so weird! I checked the Central Weather Bureau and learned that it was a 5.1 earthquake. I guess I am getting like everyone else here. They are used to the shakes and the rain. It doesn't stop them from doing much. Talk about adjusting to your environment.

Jehovah Witness

2010-09-26T17:28:00.004+08:00

Today, I attended a different church that is closer to my house. My neighbor, Sophia and her family, took me to their church in Neihu. They are Jehovah witnesses. The morning service was in Chinese. I didn't understand everything, but could make out what some of it. Her children are very smart in their young age. They showed me where to go in the Bible and their hymn book (even though it was in Chinese). The people there were very nice and I stuck out tremendously. One of the leaders was from New Zealand. He helped me out and copied stuff from his booklet because it was in English (although he taught in Chinese). Nevertheless, I enjoyed it and learned some things. After the service, they took me to a famous restaurant in Neihu. I couldn't tell you the name of it, but I can tell you it was buffet style. We got there in time, but a rush of people came in as we were loading down our plates. After they taught me how to use chopsticks (I have been taught 4 times now and I'm almost there), they took me to the English service. It starts at 1pm and last until 3:30 or 4pm. There were a lot of foreigners there. They were nice as well! I met4 South Africans, 1 Canadian, 1 Czech, and a French couple. There were many other foreigners there, but those were the main ones that spoke to me. After that service, Sophia and I said goodbye to her Aunt and then she taught me what bus to take to get to and from the building. I could tell that the area wasn't use to foreigners like me because everyone was looking at us, smiling at us, and trying to read the little map that Sophia was drawing for me. They were so interested in what we were doing, that one lady actually had her chin over Sophia's shoulder. It was crazy! I'm glad that I am a nice person (insider). The rest of the day will be filled with relaxation because this will be a long work week.

Moon Festival Week

2010-09-24T21:41:00.004+08:00

Well, it was an interesting week. We worked Monday and Tuesday and had Wednesday off for Moon Festival. We went to Jiufen, Taiwan for the afternoon. It was very pretty and relaxing. You could tell that a lot of tourists go there. The bus ride was amusing. The city is on a mountain so it is very curvy. The bus did not slow down for the curves. Talk about gripping the rails! We made it safely there and back. I saw some very interesting foods that I would like to share. Enjoy!

Typhoon Fanapi

2010-09-18T20:04:00.003+08:00

I guess this typhoon will really hit us. They just reported that it is speeding up towards Taiwan. People are preparing for its effects. It has been raining on and off all day. The banks have placed sand bags in front of their doors. Apartment building in my area have tied their trees down and to the building to keep them from blowing away. This will be my first typhoon so I will definitely let you know the outcome.

Today was my first (partici-panting!) Tae Kwon Do class. It was a workout! The kind of class that I took in America was called WTF (world) and this class is ITF (international). The classes are similar, but have different techniques. There was a guy there that spoke English quite well. He is a teacher at a school in Taipei County. He wasn't afraid to talk to me and we chatted during class because we were put in the same group (and he was my translator). A few of the other guys attempted to talk to me, but kept saying that their English was poor. It's funny how they say that their English is poor when we hold a conversation. I have to help boost their confidence. There are only 4 females in the class. The other females (including a 5th grader) are black belts. It was pretty cool watching them do spinning jump kicks. They were synchronized like on TV. I'm going to spend the rest of the night elevating my aching feet.

Earthquake Drill

2010-09-14T22:12:00.006+08:00

Today, we had our first earthquake drill. Very Interesting!! The kids were flying down the stairs with their heads covered with thin paperback books. Some were casually walking and talking with friends, while others were running and screaming. Real actors! lol! It started raining on us, but it felt good. It was in the 90s today. Tomorrow is my presentation to the teachers. I am to tell about myself. I will make it brief because I don't like talking about myself. I have added some pictures of today's drill. Enjoy!

Down by the riverside

2010-09-12T21:03:00.000+08:00

I had a relaxing day by the riverside. The breeze was great! There were many people out today. Kites were flying, people were riding bikes, and kids were playing everywhere. The river is very close to the airport. I saw several planes takeoff next to the bridge. The first one scared me because it was so low. After sitting by the river, I walked around a neighborhood. The neighborhood had a temple at the start of it. I took some pictures, but didn't want to go inside. I walked to Carrefour to get some groceries for the week and saw a coworker that lives in the same building. She told me that she was cooking dinner and wanted to make some for me. I didn't refuse. I still can't pronounce it, but I can tell you what was in it. The dish had chicken pieces, carrots, rice, onions, and some kind of sauce. It was pretty good! She gave me too much (or what I thought was too much) to I packed the rest of it for Monday's lunch. After about 15 mins, she knocked on my door and gave me some soup. I have to get used to eating soup outside of winter time.
Saturday, we had to work from 8:30 - 12pm. It was more like an Open House. Parents visited each English Village classroom. We were done by 10:30am. I just worked on finishing an English Corner video. My next video has to be about Teacher's Day. After work, everyone came to my apartment building for a birthday and housewarming celebration. We had pizza and KFC along with some desserts that Teacher Monica made. We sat and talked for a couple of hours. It was nice. Of course, I worked on my comprehension skills of the language. I'm getting there. I know it will take some time, but I get better each day.

Another Typhoon

2010-09-07T21:50:00.000+08:00

I spent most of the day working on a powerpoint that just wouldn't work properly on the computer in the theater. The computer crashed on me twice. I gave up and hooked my netbook up to the system. It worked so now all I have to do is edit and splice. That shouldn't take too long.
We have another typhoon headed towards us. The other teachers are praying for a Typhoon day similar to our snow days. It looks like it will cross over in the middle of Taiwan. I was told to go to the store tonight in case it did hit because everything would be closed. While I was out, I saw another foreigner. At first, we acknowledged each other with a smile and kept going down separate aisles. Then, he came down my aisle and looked over in my basket. Notice that I didn't say "glanced." So, me being me, teased him and asked if he was following me. Of course, the conversation began! This foreigner is Russian. I have never met a Russian before. It was weird, but in a cool way. I didn't struggle too much with his accent, but I could tell that he was working hard to make the conversation understandable. We walked and talked until it was time to check out. This was not a normal walk and talk. He felt comfortable enough to put his things in my basket and then take over pushing the basket. I thought to myself "Okay!" Of course, everyone was staring at us. I'm pretty sure we looked funny walking through the aisle together. I felt like his child. He was power walking and talking with his accent and I was almost running trying to keep up. He was a gentleman. He placed my items on the counter first, loaded my items in my new backpack (here you have to pay for your grocery bags), and again, pushed the basket to the other carts all while still talking in his Russian accent. He walked me to the MRT and said goodbye. Very nice guy! I would love to pick his brain! As soon as I got home, it began to rain. Talk about good timing and the Grace of the Almighty.
Tomorrow, will be my first English Club meeting with the Trendsetters (Thanks Gary and Sheila). Not sure how it is suppose to run, but I'm sure I will find out. Today, I learned that I will have a week off from teaching in October. I will try to set up my doctor appointments around that time because I won't have any classes to shuffle around.
The security guard tried to teach me how to open the gate if he is not at the desk. Of course, he doesn't speak English. For some reason, he kept thinking that if he kept talking in Chinese that I would eventually get what he was saying. Yeah, Right! It didn't work! He showed me and then tried to talk to me again on the elevator; in Chinese! He is a funny man! One day we will communicate, but it will be a while because he talks too fast for me to break down the words.

Real First Day of School

2010-09-06T19:43:00.000+08:00

Today, was the real first day of school. It was different compared to the other days because I only met with a few students from 5th grade and 6th grade. Today, I got to meet some 3rd and 4th graders. My schedule here is a lot different from my schedule in Arkansas. In Arkansas, I see my students everyday. Here I see my students maybe twice a week. We have each group for two 40 min sessions. The first session has the students involved with reading the dialogue of each situational classroom in groups. The second session is the actual teaching. I teach in the restaurant. My job is to teach the students how to order and pay for a meal in English. I like it! In Taipei, I like to learn about people and their taste buds. Some of the food that I see is questionable in my eyes. But that is coming from an outsider looking in. After pretests and the two morning sessions, we had lunch. After lunch, we have the rest of the day to work on lesson plans, English Corner Videos, and Teachers Teach Day. The lesson plans I can handle. I am currently learning how to be in the movie making business. The teachers in the English Village are responsible for creating English videos about given topics that the classes watch. This year they decided to break the videos up into two levels based on age. I am currently working on a self introduction video and a puppet video. I'm not very good at it, but I think that I am getting better. Tomorrow, I have no classes to teach. I should be able to edit and finish both videos. Other than that, things are going smoothly. I watched a couple of the after school clubs before walking home. They were playing tee ball and soccer. I might join them tomorrow. I miss teaching PE!

Nice Weekend

2010-09-05T18:30:00.000+08:00

This weekend was full of me learning new areas of Taipei. Saturday, I spent the majority of the day trying to find a dojang. The MRTs are broken into colored lines. I live near the brown line and the dojang is near the green or orange. Let me give you a detailed review of the stations that I went through. I started at Xihu and then began my journey as follows: (brown line)Jiannan Rd MRT, Dazhi MRT, Songshan Airport MRT, Zhongshan Junior High School MRT, Naning E. Rd MRT, (blue line) Zhongxiao Fuxing MRT, Zhongxiao Xinsheng MRT, Shandao Temple MRT, (red line) Taipei Main Station MRT, NTU Hospital MRT, (Green line) Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall, MRT, Guting MRT, (yellow line) Dingxi MRT, and finally Yongan Market MRT. Of course, I did a lot of reading on these high speed trains. After getting off the Yongan Market MRT, I had to figure out which direction I should go. I knew I was supposed to go away from the McDonald's that showed up on the right side of the building according to Google Maps. Well, the McDonald's was really across the street. I just laughed and picked a direction. I figured if I didn't run into the street that I was to turn on then, I would just have to turn around and go the opposite direction. I was ready to walk so it wasn't a big deal. I ended up getting a cab. Of course, someone else told him where I needed to go. The driver was very nice! He stated that his English wasn't very good and I tried to convince him that it was because we were holding a conversation. He just kept saying that I was being very nice to him. Once he got me to my destination, he kept saying bye to me even after I closed the car door. It was nice to actually talk to someone for a change. At the school, I was met by a security guard that just happened to be waiting on me to come. He couldn't speak English so he did the usually sign language and motioned for me to follow him. I met all 3 instructors and asked me a series of questions. Questions like "Where do you practice Tae Kwon Do?" "What belt do you have?" "Where do you live in Taiwan?" "Can you come on Saturdays?" and then some questions in Mandarin to which I still have no clue what they were asking. Apparently, that was where their English ran out. A couple of the students could speak a little English and they drew me maps to help me get to the dojang quicker. The younger girl and I exchanged numbers and I promised to help her with her English if she helped me with my Mandarin. After the meet and greet sessions which took about 15 mins (yes, I had a long ride for a 15min conversation), she took me to a bus stop, told me to get off on Gongguan MRT, talked to the driver, and then waved bye. While I was on the bus, a young lady approached me (she was at the previously mentioned bus stop) and told me to get off when she did. She spoke English and felt that I was brave to travel here to teach by myself. We talked on the bus and she also drew me a map so that I could take the route that we were taking at that time. After we got off the bus, we talked for another 15 mins and exchanged numbers. We will also work on English and Mandarin together. On the train ride home, I began to read again. When it was the next to the last stop for me to get off, I closed my nook and looked up to find a 1 yr old staring at me. The expression on her face was priceless! I just laughed and then her mother and grandmother began to laugh. They grabbed the little girl's hand and made her wave to me. I waved back and she began to smile. Such a pretty little smile. I waved bye and exited the train. I have noticed that many people are hesitant to speak to me, but are not afraid to stare or look. Many times when I am walking, they are staring. When this happens, I say ' Ni Hao!" and I don't get a response. After walking about 5 -10 steps, I hear a shout "Ni hao!." That is my sign that they have just gotten over their culture shock! I laugh and keep walking. I make sure that I have my sunglasses in hand and my mp3 charged. I do this for 2 reasons: 1) I know that they will stare. I don't want them to see me staring back at them. lol! 2) When there is no one to talk to, then you always have music for a conversation. Music can take you places that make you feel safe and at home.

Today, I met with a friend named Steve. He has been in Taipei for 2 yrs now. We went to church, then a movie, and then we ate a Japanese restaurant. Ordering consists of me pointing to what I want or saying it in English because it is in English on the menu only to turn around and point at it anyway. I'm still working on using chopsticks. I can tell that I'm getting better because I can actually pick up food. Whether or not it goes in my mouth is the mystery. I just laugh at myself and eat the best way I can. It will eventually become like clock work. I have noticed that they eat a lot and things seem to be super-sized here. I can never finish my meals. After we ate, we walked around for a bit and stumbled upon some kind of temple/offering area. I was very uncomfortable and stopped in my tracks. Steve grabbed my hand and led me thru the temple. On several tables, there were whole chickens and whole fish. The food here were sacrifices to the gods. There was food on other tables, but the fish that looked like it had been sitting there for days had my eyes. The people there were chanting and praying and making marks on this sculpture. It was very interesting to see and watch! I wanted to take a picture, but felt that it would be rude. It seems like there are temples everywhere. They even do a tomb sweep like the Hispanic culture. After saying goodbye to Steve, I went down to the Gongguan MRT to head home and stumbled across some green mascot. Not sure what he was for, but the best pic that I had of him accidentally got erased so I only have the side and back profiles. Sorry! I noticed that I am getting better at knowing when to get off and what direction to go at the train station. Yay, me!

Tomorrow is my REAL first day of school. I thought last week was, but it was only for K, 5th, and 6th. Tomorrow, I will have all of them. We have been testing the students orally. We ask them 6 questions and they are supposed to respond with a complete sentence. Some can, but many can't. This is where the hard work will start. The students are very respectful and eagerly greet me by saying "Hello, Teacher Debon!" I smile, look at the sheet, and try to remember the face and name combination. I don't want to call them by a number. So far, they listen and respond when giving instructions. I have 2 little boys that are in my cleaning group. They are responsible for cleaning the windows and chalkboards, sweeping and mopping the floors, and wiping down counters and tables in the clinic, arts and science room, and the gym. Cute little boys! They keep me laughing with their interactions. This week I will have to show a video about myself. I really don't like talking about myself so this small task was kind of hard for me. I finished it and it should be interesting to see how many actually know what I am talking about aside from the pics and videos. Of course, I inserted a video on fans calling the hogs. I hope you like the photos. I like the video of the crosswalk man. He walks slowly until you have 9 seconds to get across the street. Enjoy!

School day is approaching

2010-08-26T11:27:00.000+08:00

Ok, things are starting to flow now. Each day I make an effort to walk in a different direction so that I may learn my surroundings. Yesterday, I traveled with no map and I didn't get lost. Yay, me! I usually wait until 6pm to walk because it is much cooler and the breeze feels lovely. I make sure that my mp3 is fully charged before I leave. I have learned how to smile randomly at people that stare. Some continue to stare while others either smile back or look away from embarrassment (I caught them staring). The little ones are the best! They have the most curious eyes. They stare, watch, smile, and then ask their mom about me. I'm not sure what mom says, but I know she is telling them not to stare or point.

Today, I am working on reviewing lesson plans and finishing PowerPoint's and videos about myself. They will use the PowerPoint to introduce me to the teachers and the video for the students. We had our first faculty meeting and it was all in Mandarin. It was nice seeing some of my new coworkers. They seem really nice. Some are having a hard time pronouncing my name, but I'm okay with it. At least they are trying.

I haven't gotten homesick yet, but they say it usually comes during the holidays. We will see!

Things are working out!

2010-08-17T16:27:00.000+08:00

Yesterday was very eventful. I rode on the back of a scooter for the first time. Yes, I was scared. I got used to after the 3rd time on it. The driver was small and I wasn't sure that she could hold both me and the bike up. I found an apartment. Now, I have to wait on my ARC card. Things at work are going well. I'm learning the system and admiring some of their computer software. Pictures of the school are coming soon!

2010-08-14T13:34:00.000+08:00

Well, we are no longer at the hotel. I am staying with a coworker from the school. She is very nice. She has given me informed me on what I needed to know before I got here as well as teaching me new things while I'm here. I thank God for allowing her to be my blessing. I will apartment hunt today online and then tomorrow we will go look at a few of the places. The cost of living here is cheaper, but I would like to save money as I take care of things in the States. Again, I have to say that the scenery is beautiful! The site of how busy this place is makes me wonder if people at home view me the same way. I fully understand how working so hard can make you fail to see what is around you. The people here work about 6 days a week. Studying hard begins at an early age. Your test scores in elementary determine what school you get into for junior high. Your junior high scores determine your high school. Your high school scores determine what college or if you will go to college. At Ramay, our students are shown their test scores and are advised on study habits and future plans. They are shown a chart called "Career Explorations." This chart tells them what career works best for them based on their test scores. In Taiwan, some students face similar challenges. Some are taxi drivers because of it.

I rode the MRT for the first time and it was very quick. You can use the MRT to get around anywhere in Taipei. You have to scan your card before and after you get off the train and the bus. There are no food or drinks allowed at the MRT station. There is a 75000 TWD fine if you violate this law. So far, I have been asked to take 1 picture, but have received some looks. I have to remember that for some of these people, it is their first time ever seeing a foreigner. Imagine how they felt when they saw Monica and me walking down the street. Two foreigners of different races within 2 ft! How overwhelming! One little girl spoke to her mom and called us "Americans!" This morning another little girl's mouth hung open in amazement. After we passed her, she finally got over her shock and spoke to us. She asked how we were doing. She was adorable.

I'm still waiting on culture shock to hit me. I find myself waking up several times throughout the night. I guess my body is still trying to adjust to all the changes, sites, sounds, and smells. I definitely have to continue to work on my Mandarin. By the way, they speak Tawanese here too! If I can get out of Spanish mode, then maybe I will pick up a little Tawanese. I get too see my school on Monday and I will probably have my phone by then. If you want to reach me, then you can reach me thru Skype. Just remember that I am 13 hrs ahead of you.

Orientation

2010-08-11T22:05:00.000+08:00

After taking 3 planes to get here, I have finally arrived safe and sound. We left Arkansas at 10:25am and arrived in Taipei at 9:30pm the next day. We saw a lot of daylight and finally began to see night time when we arrived in Tokyo. We were the last group to arrive and ended up getting here late at night. It was amazing to see how busy the city was surrounding the airport. The traffic was crazy! I was surprised that no one had wrecks there. The airport was about an hour away from Taipei. Once we arrived at the hotel, we were greeted by other Foreign English Teachers and some members of the Ministry of Education. They were very nice and helpful. This week, we have been going through orientation to get used to the language and culture. We are learning about our teaching expectations, the counties that we will teach, and the students that we will have the honor of educating. This experience should be very life changing! I can't wait to see my school and meet some of the other teachers.

Getting Ready

2010-07-22T23:54:00.000+08:00

Wow! It is almost time to leave my comfort zone and journey to another place. How does one prepare for such an adventure? I can tell you that packing is not easy nor is the thought of saying goodbye to friends and loved ones. But this is what I decided to do and this is what I will finish. This experience will help me and others become better people as well as become more confident when it comes to thinking and doing things outside of the box. Stay tuned and keep me in your prayers!