Christmas Eve was spent with old Chinese friends. Well, they're younger than me, but still old friends.
Christmas Day was spent with old lao wai friends. Norm cooked, and again it was incredible food. It turns out that you can get about 2 liters of champagne for about $4 US. Not great, but drinkable. Sat and talked until late.
I may be giving myself a better phone for Christmas. So I'd have a working camera and can post pictures.
I need to get in more trouble. There are only so many ways to say "my day was filled with joy, and I am at peace."
Friday, December 25, 2009
Eastern Union
My permanently broke colleague Robert had someone send money to him from the US via Western Union. here are the reasons he has been unable to get the money so far:
1. The bank is open, but the Western Union part is closed from 11:30-2:00.
2. The bank is open, but the Western Union part closes at 4:00.
3. No one can read English, so they don't know if the form is correct.
4. The money was sent to someone with the same first and last name, but there is no middle initial on the money, and there's one on the passport.
5. The girl translating for Robert has no ID, so they aren't sure she should be there.
6. They need his address in China.
7. They have our address, but want one of us to write it in Chinese.
8. there pens are out of ink, and they aren't sure his blue pen is acceptable.
9. They aren't sure how much it converts to in renminbi. (conversion rates were posted on the wall)
10. They don't have US dollars (he doesn't actually want dollars).
11. he cursed at them, so they don't want to help him.
1. The bank is open, but the Western Union part is closed from 11:30-2:00.
2. The bank is open, but the Western Union part closes at 4:00.
3. No one can read English, so they don't know if the form is correct.
4. The money was sent to someone with the same first and last name, but there is no middle initial on the money, and there's one on the passport.
5. The girl translating for Robert has no ID, so they aren't sure she should be there.
6. They need his address in China.
7. They have our address, but want one of us to write it in Chinese.
8. there pens are out of ink, and they aren't sure his blue pen is acceptable.
9. They aren't sure how much it converts to in renminbi. (conversion rates were posted on the wall)
10. They don't have US dollars (he doesn't actually want dollars).
11. he cursed at them, so they don't want to help him.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Huang Pu
Wound up meeting some friends in Huang Pu this weekend. It's on the outskirts of Guangzhou (Canton), a city I have always hated.
it was kind of like a trip back in time. less developed than Zhongshan, and I never saw another foreigner. people stopped and stared most places I went. Apart from the people I went to see, I never spoke English. The girls in the group were annoyed that Chinese men in a club were far more interested in meeting me than them.
Just drove home how Zhongshan has changed. We aren't as exotic here now. We are still weird, and sometiems draw stares, but many people have gotten used to us.
One day, people will stop staring at me slackjawed. Not today, but someday
it was kind of like a trip back in time. less developed than Zhongshan, and I never saw another foreigner. people stopped and stared most places I went. Apart from the people I went to see, I never spoke English. The girls in the group were annoyed that Chinese men in a club were far more interested in meeting me than them.
Just drove home how Zhongshan has changed. We aren't as exotic here now. We are still weird, and sometiems draw stares, but many people have gotten used to us.
One day, people will stop staring at me slackjawed. Not today, but someday
Friday, December 11, 2009
Resolution
In the end, my employer blinked. i got paid for my time off. The school says they will not be trying to replace me. I'm kind of skeptical on that, and will be trying to leave before they have a chance to fire me, but may finish out the year. I think I have a part time job that could become full time if necessary.
I know a few people in town were offered my job, nd it seems the responses ranged from polite refusal, to very impolite refusal. Thanks guys.
I know a few people in town were offered my job, nd it seems the responses ranged from polite refusal, to very impolite refusal. Thanks guys.
Things I learned
Going to All You Can Drink San Miguel Thursdays at the Friends bar makes Friday difficult
Monday, November 30, 2009
one month later
10/30 is the day I went out and got stabbed, though i guess it happened early on the 31st.
I just got home from work, and carried the batteries up from my scooter. Each is about the size of a car battery. Not a major feat, but this is the first day I was able to do that without the left arm dropping it or it hurting a lot. So the damaged muscles are apparently healing.
My boss suggested I'd be paid, which is good. he also approached a friend and offered him my job behind my back, which is...also good. I want out of here. My friend turned it down, and the school apparently plans on not telling me anything until a replacement has been found. I plan on being gone soon, though I may wait until after the Chinese New Year. I guess I'd rather they pay me for the few weeks off.
Last night was my debut as a bartender at Friends. went well, largely because I don't do much other than talk to people and put beer in buckets. I have a lot of practice talking, and taking beer out of buckets.
oh i received an apology and money from the guy responible for the stabbing. i don't believe he's sincere, and the amount was less than half of what i'm out after medical bills and suspensions. others are working on his deportation and getting him fired. I'm not spiteful, but would prefer the next attempted murder not be in my city. I'd like him to just leave, but apparently he wants to be driven out. I am not involved in what they're doing. people look out for me (and the other injured ones).
November sucked.
I just got home from work, and carried the batteries up from my scooter. Each is about the size of a car battery. Not a major feat, but this is the first day I was able to do that without the left arm dropping it or it hurting a lot. So the damaged muscles are apparently healing.
My boss suggested I'd be paid, which is good. he also approached a friend and offered him my job behind my back, which is...also good. I want out of here. My friend turned it down, and the school apparently plans on not telling me anything until a replacement has been found. I plan on being gone soon, though I may wait until after the Chinese New Year. I guess I'd rather they pay me for the few weeks off.
Last night was my debut as a bartender at Friends. went well, largely because I don't do much other than talk to people and put beer in buckets. I have a lot of practice talking, and taking beer out of buckets.
oh i received an apology and money from the guy responible for the stabbing. i don't believe he's sincere, and the amount was less than half of what i'm out after medical bills and suspensions. others are working on his deportation and getting him fired. I'm not spiteful, but would prefer the next attempted murder not be in my city. I'd like him to just leave, but apparently he wants to be driven out. I am not involved in what they're doing. people look out for me (and the other injured ones).
November sucked.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Continuing the nonsense
I am still struggling with my employer. I am back at work, but they do not intend to pay me for the time I was off, most of which I missed because they would not allow me to return. Their reasoning is:
1. My contract promises me 15 days paid sick leave. i was not sick. i was injured. I do not have injury leave. This is the first time anyone I have spoken with here has heard that argument.
2. I did nothing to arrange for my classes to be covered when injured, so they had to hire someone else. Again, i am unaware of any other company which requires an ill or injured person to find their own replacement.
3. It isn't fair they have to pay me when I'm not working. Admittedly, they wrote a contract and signed it, saying they would, but only a truly depraved man would expect them to do such a thing.
4. i haven't had the decency to apologize for what i did, and seem unremorseful. One would almost think I don't regret trying to save someone's life, and might do it again in a similar situation
So, at the moment i'm back. The school had pressured me into not trying to force the police to do anything about an attempted murder that scarred me for life because someof their teachers do not have the proper work visas. They are now enraged that I am planning to go to arbitration for half a month's salary, as this is far more likely to lead to the discovery of their illegal workers. It's not inconceivable that I'll mention it in my written complaint. I'd hate to think of people who are uninvolved being deported over this, but I get more offended each day. Cooperating with the police led to my punishment. They felt i was putting them at risk. But they will risk it to save under $900.
Otherwise, the job hasn't been too bad, so it is likely I won't ask for a release in arbitration. i kind of like the thought of forcing them to pay me while they are fined hundreds of thousands of reminbi, then continuing my job as though nothing happened. I could probably get a release and more more money, but this is much more fun
1. My contract promises me 15 days paid sick leave. i was not sick. i was injured. I do not have injury leave. This is the first time anyone I have spoken with here has heard that argument.
2. I did nothing to arrange for my classes to be covered when injured, so they had to hire someone else. Again, i am unaware of any other company which requires an ill or injured person to find their own replacement.
3. It isn't fair they have to pay me when I'm not working. Admittedly, they wrote a contract and signed it, saying they would, but only a truly depraved man would expect them to do such a thing.
4. i haven't had the decency to apologize for what i did, and seem unremorseful. One would almost think I don't regret trying to save someone's life, and might do it again in a similar situation
So, at the moment i'm back. The school had pressured me into not trying to force the police to do anything about an attempted murder that scarred me for life because someof their teachers do not have the proper work visas. They are now enraged that I am planning to go to arbitration for half a month's salary, as this is far more likely to lead to the discovery of their illegal workers. It's not inconceivable that I'll mention it in my written complaint. I'd hate to think of people who are uninvolved being deported over this, but I get more offended each day. Cooperating with the police led to my punishment. They felt i was putting them at risk. But they will risk it to save under $900.
Otherwise, the job hasn't been too bad, so it is likely I won't ask for a release in arbitration. i kind of like the thought of forcing them to pay me while they are fined hundreds of thousands of reminbi, then continuing my job as though nothing happened. I could probably get a release and more more money, but this is much more fun
Monday, November 16, 2009
prices paid and benefits earned
Saying that things have been strange lately is an understatement. Living in China as an expat is different than I imagine it would be living as an immigrant in America. Can't say for sure, but I believe we feel safer.
a bit over 10 years ago, i arrived in Zhongshan, and in my first week, I was directed to the Friends Bar. It was (and is) a fairly unassuming place. I've been in other expat bars here and elsehwere, and they tend to be a bit dark, with flags from all over, a bunch of Chinese people, and classic rock playing. Friends wasn't really any different. Nothing wrong with it. just a comfortable bar.
A few hours later i understood why I had been told to go there. A group of other foreigners discovered there were a few new people, and came over and introduced themselves. The welcome was fairly overwhelming.
Over time, I'd be in and out of that group, as i developed close friendships with many locals, but there was always a feeling of welcome there. It sounds cliched to say we tended to act like a family, but that's what my memory assures me was the case.
So ten years have gone by, and there are about 20 times the foreigners there were then. There are 3 foreign bars in ZS, and another on the way. There are also those who prefer different Chinese clubs, more who stay home, and plenty of people I have never met. There are a lot of advantages to living in a place with a larger foreign population. Can buy better cheese. better restaurants (I need to stop blogging before I eat). There are chances to do things other than sit in the same bar with the same people and hear the same stories. Generally, it's better to be here now instead of in 99.
Then this happened. I'm only aware of one crime this serious involving a foreigner in Zhongshan. There has been violence, but nothing near this. What makes it worse is that one of us called guys to kill another one of us, and they did it in a place we always called home.
So there are two conflicting things happening now. There is a fear now that wasn't here a month ago. There are definitely some people who want to sit at home for a bit, and wait to make sure this is over (I do believe it is, but no one is sure). there are people who go out, but avoid Friends, or all the foreign bars. It feels at times like I'm in a long story, and the narrator is saying "Things were never quite the same. It was hard to get back to normal, and people began to move on to other places. last i heard, Bill had moved on to Sri Lanka, where he runs a fish and chip stand near the beach. Shame the man hates seafood with a passion."
At the same time, there is a certain closeness and concern that had disappeared. One of us was attacked, and the four foreigners there leapt to his defense. thirty seconds later, the staff was there, helping those of us who were bleeding. We ran out without telling them where we were going, so they called other staff members, until one was found with my nuumber. So when this happened, the intended victim wasn't alone. Everyone nearby tried to help. One of the few good things I saw at that time was that there was no hesitation on anyone's part. Chris was attacked, and 4 moved at once to help. When i got hurt, a few 18-20 year old waitresses ran towards me with towels instead of running in the office and locking the door, or heading out the front door. There is a peculiar comfort you can take in that.
The instinct people had was to help. I can certainly attest that the impulse extended to others. I got a lot of phone calls from people. Some were trying to learn what happened, but almost everyone asked the same questions: Can I help Chris? and Can I help you? People have been supportive, offering time, money, food, encouragement, advice, and whatever else i needed.
Robert, the young guy in the fight, has had a few more experienced guys take an interest in him, offering to teach him more about international trade and sales. It's partially a way to thank him, and partially, I think, a desire to help a newer guy out. people are going beyond what they need to do, in a way they might not have done a few months ago.
I certainly do not believe that what happened is for the best. I sincerely hope that the responsible party is either deported or imprisoned. A lot of people are harmed, and the potential closeness wasn't worth it. Just noting what I see
a bit over 10 years ago, i arrived in Zhongshan, and in my first week, I was directed to the Friends Bar. It was (and is) a fairly unassuming place. I've been in other expat bars here and elsehwere, and they tend to be a bit dark, with flags from all over, a bunch of Chinese people, and classic rock playing. Friends wasn't really any different. Nothing wrong with it. just a comfortable bar.
A few hours later i understood why I had been told to go there. A group of other foreigners discovered there were a few new people, and came over and introduced themselves. The welcome was fairly overwhelming.
Over time, I'd be in and out of that group, as i developed close friendships with many locals, but there was always a feeling of welcome there. It sounds cliched to say we tended to act like a family, but that's what my memory assures me was the case.
So ten years have gone by, and there are about 20 times the foreigners there were then. There are 3 foreign bars in ZS, and another on the way. There are also those who prefer different Chinese clubs, more who stay home, and plenty of people I have never met. There are a lot of advantages to living in a place with a larger foreign population. Can buy better cheese. better restaurants (I need to stop blogging before I eat). There are chances to do things other than sit in the same bar with the same people and hear the same stories. Generally, it's better to be here now instead of in 99.
Then this happened. I'm only aware of one crime this serious involving a foreigner in Zhongshan. There has been violence, but nothing near this. What makes it worse is that one of us called guys to kill another one of us, and they did it in a place we always called home.
So there are two conflicting things happening now. There is a fear now that wasn't here a month ago. There are definitely some people who want to sit at home for a bit, and wait to make sure this is over (I do believe it is, but no one is sure). there are people who go out, but avoid Friends, or all the foreign bars. It feels at times like I'm in a long story, and the narrator is saying "Things were never quite the same. It was hard to get back to normal, and people began to move on to other places. last i heard, Bill had moved on to Sri Lanka, where he runs a fish and chip stand near the beach. Shame the man hates seafood with a passion."
At the same time, there is a certain closeness and concern that had disappeared. One of us was attacked, and the four foreigners there leapt to his defense. thirty seconds later, the staff was there, helping those of us who were bleeding. We ran out without telling them where we were going, so they called other staff members, until one was found with my nuumber. So when this happened, the intended victim wasn't alone. Everyone nearby tried to help. One of the few good things I saw at that time was that there was no hesitation on anyone's part. Chris was attacked, and 4 moved at once to help. When i got hurt, a few 18-20 year old waitresses ran towards me with towels instead of running in the office and locking the door, or heading out the front door. There is a peculiar comfort you can take in that.
The instinct people had was to help. I can certainly attest that the impulse extended to others. I got a lot of phone calls from people. Some were trying to learn what happened, but almost everyone asked the same questions: Can I help Chris? and Can I help you? People have been supportive, offering time, money, food, encouragement, advice, and whatever else i needed.
Robert, the young guy in the fight, has had a few more experienced guys take an interest in him, offering to teach him more about international trade and sales. It's partially a way to thank him, and partially, I think, a desire to help a newer guy out. people are going beyond what they need to do, in a way they might not have done a few months ago.
I certainly do not believe that what happened is for the best. I sincerely hope that the responsible party is either deported or imprisoned. A lot of people are harmed, and the potential closeness wasn't worth it. Just noting what I see
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Update
Got the stitches out. Ugly scar, but looks much better than expected. It looked like some sort of zombie arm at first. A benefit of being a hairy guy is that it may hide the scar, at least somewhat.
Most of the physical problems are gone. My blood levels are getting back to normal. I'm off antibiotics, so I can drink again, and I can drink very cheaply, as less blood means you get wasted on a few beers. hey, do i mock your silver linings?
Still suspended. I asked for a release from my contract. they threatened to cancel my visa immediately. I threatened to turn in my colleagues who don't have proper work visas. they agreed to pay me for next week and to allow me to return after that. I have a sneaking suspicion I will not be employee of the month.
I have a friend who is trying to hook me up with a dream job in Sichuan, and if not, I have multiple offers here. What i don't have is a good internet connection, so I'll end this while I still have some access
Most of the physical problems are gone. My blood levels are getting back to normal. I'm off antibiotics, so I can drink again, and I can drink very cheaply, as less blood means you get wasted on a few beers. hey, do i mock your silver linings?
Still suspended. I asked for a release from my contract. they threatened to cancel my visa immediately. I threatened to turn in my colleagues who don't have proper work visas. they agreed to pay me for next week and to allow me to return after that. I have a sneaking suspicion I will not be employee of the month.
I have a friend who is trying to hook me up with a dream job in Sichuan, and if not, I have multiple offers here. What i don't have is a good internet connection, so I'll end this while I still have some access
Monday, November 9, 2009
Things I learned
Don't tell your friends about your imminent departure to begin teaching in Japan until you see that the contract you are sent reflects the deal you negotiated. otherwise, you spend the whole day texting clarification
Saturday, November 7, 2009
start again
It seems I'll be able to post again, at least for a while.
Things are not terribly different than they were 5 months ago. Switched schools, to a place that treats me much better. not necessarily good, but better.
My students are much worse than before. basically, I am teaching in a program for rich students who have flunked out of or been kicked out of other schools. their parents want them to go to university, but they have no chance of passing the exams. So a back door is being created. If they can pass an English exam, they can attend a university to study business and English. So I need to get them ready for the IELTS exam. None speak English well, most speak it very poorly, and a few can't communicate simple ideas in English. One can't answer questions like "what's your name?" but all are taking an exam to see if they can begin studying accounting or finance next year in univeristy classes taught in English. They frequently refuse to do assignments or open their book. The school will not allow most rewards or punishments. Everyone agrees I will fail in my task, but not much that can be done. Since they come from important, rich families, they will be fine. At least until they take over the family business and destroy it, but that's years away.
Little changes regarding friends and the town as a whole. Zhongshan changes, but only slightly it seems.
Last weekend, a friend was attacked by a group of knife wielding gangsters. a few friends and I intervened, and were stabbed. Their original target was stabbed multiple times in the chest and back. One guy was stabbed in the leg, and another in the hand. I had my arm sliced open and was stabbed in ...uh...the posterior. All of us are out of the hospital, and everyone will recover completely. In that regard, we were very lucky.
Why the stabbing? Another foreigner was mad at my friend over a pool game. So he called thugs to scare him, and they instead decided to remove him. So my feelings regarding Chinese haven't changed, just my contempt for Canadians.
My employer is insisting I take a few weeks off to recover. My wounds aren't that big a deal, but the blood loss left me a wreck. One week later, I'm almost back to normal. I think they just want this kept quiet. It's really cool that they are telling me to rest and recover. It's not so cool they are saying I should have run off and called the cops, as a teacher getting into a fight will give the school a bad reputation. Put simply, they are saying i should have let my friend die. There is little doubt that would have been the outcome. I may be replaced due to this, but the other foreign teachers have made it clear that they will resign immediately, and no other foreigners will take my place. At least not from Zhongshan.
Turns out I'm pretty well liked here. I spend a lot of time at home resting, but trek out ot the hospital every day to have the bandages changed. friends are doing a good job of making sure i'm fed, translating for me with doctorsm and generally keeping me happy. Which reminds me that I'm meeting some xiolan friends soon. Finally convinced them to come here to see me. All it took was some blood loss.
To those who heard before and have been sending support, it is appreciated. This is the worst time I've had in China, and I can't wait to move on.
Things are not terribly different than they were 5 months ago. Switched schools, to a place that treats me much better. not necessarily good, but better.
My students are much worse than before. basically, I am teaching in a program for rich students who have flunked out of or been kicked out of other schools. their parents want them to go to university, but they have no chance of passing the exams. So a back door is being created. If they can pass an English exam, they can attend a university to study business and English. So I need to get them ready for the IELTS exam. None speak English well, most speak it very poorly, and a few can't communicate simple ideas in English. One can't answer questions like "what's your name?" but all are taking an exam to see if they can begin studying accounting or finance next year in univeristy classes taught in English. They frequently refuse to do assignments or open their book. The school will not allow most rewards or punishments. Everyone agrees I will fail in my task, but not much that can be done. Since they come from important, rich families, they will be fine. At least until they take over the family business and destroy it, but that's years away.
Little changes regarding friends and the town as a whole. Zhongshan changes, but only slightly it seems.
Last weekend, a friend was attacked by a group of knife wielding gangsters. a few friends and I intervened, and were stabbed. Their original target was stabbed multiple times in the chest and back. One guy was stabbed in the leg, and another in the hand. I had my arm sliced open and was stabbed in ...uh...the posterior. All of us are out of the hospital, and everyone will recover completely. In that regard, we were very lucky.
Why the stabbing? Another foreigner was mad at my friend over a pool game. So he called thugs to scare him, and they instead decided to remove him. So my feelings regarding Chinese haven't changed, just my contempt for Canadians.
My employer is insisting I take a few weeks off to recover. My wounds aren't that big a deal, but the blood loss left me a wreck. One week later, I'm almost back to normal. I think they just want this kept quiet. It's really cool that they are telling me to rest and recover. It's not so cool they are saying I should have run off and called the cops, as a teacher getting into a fight will give the school a bad reputation. Put simply, they are saying i should have let my friend die. There is little doubt that would have been the outcome. I may be replaced due to this, but the other foreign teachers have made it clear that they will resign immediately, and no other foreigners will take my place. At least not from Zhongshan.
Turns out I'm pretty well liked here. I spend a lot of time at home resting, but trek out ot the hospital every day to have the bandages changed. friends are doing a good job of making sure i'm fed, translating for me with doctorsm and generally keeping me happy. Which reminds me that I'm meeting some xiolan friends soon. Finally convinced them to come here to see me. All it took was some blood loss.
To those who heard before and have been sending support, it is appreciated. This is the worst time I've had in China, and I can't wait to move on.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Sunday, May 3, 2009
things she learned
I taught a young woman named Yan back in 2000 in Xiaolan. We've had sporadic contact sense, and bonded over the last month or two. She went with me on a trip to Hainan, which was a blast. She brought an electronic dictionary that translated at times for us, and the following is a partial list of things she translated:
thong
hirsute
drunkard
buffoon
aggravation
motion sickness
manic
knave
albino
thug
discord
nonsense
declasse
pointless
pennywise, pound foolish
nerd
butler
dysentry
blind
sea sick
bald
unappealing
Sums up travelling with me pretty well
thong
hirsute
drunkard
buffoon
aggravation
motion sickness
manic
knave
albino
thug
discord
nonsense
declasse
pointless
pennywise, pound foolish
nerd
butler
dysentry
blind
sea sick
bald
unappealing
Sums up travelling with me pretty well
Monday, April 27, 2009
things I learned
There are people who will sell mobile phones with cameras and mp3 players which cannot be connected to a computer without blue tooth, but not sell the blue tooth. So, no pictures.
Off to Hainan tomorrow. Days in the tropical sun. Wager wisely on just how burned I will be which day.
Off to Hainan tomorrow. Days in the tropical sun. Wager wisely on just how burned I will be which day.
Friday, April 24, 2009
Wii and beaches
The wii works fine now most of the time, so blogging suffers. I must choose between telling tales of students or Lego Star Wars. Incidentally, the Wiis at the electronics store with the Sony sign near the Star Ferry in TST work fine oncce you set them up. Just took a native English and a native Chinese speaker to get to that point. They can be bought cheaper, but they do work.
On another unrelated topic, when playing lego Star Wars, it seems that you need Jar jar to leap about on Naboo. He does it better than the rest. This interferes with the joy I take in slashing him to pieces with a lightsaber. Since I've completed 3 levels out of 160, I don't think I'll ever finish it, but I can't see what greater thrill the game could provide than that, unless it combines Dance dance revolution with Hutts.
On an increasingly unrelated topic, I am heading back to Hainan. I've decided i like being cash strapped each month. Bought a bike, and was poor. Bought a Wii, and was poor. Time to travel and resume being poor. Sanya is a place with nice beaches and monkeys, and there's little else i want in a vacation. I hear it's getting more developed, but that there are still places that accomodate backpackers.
Might rent a motorcycle and drive around the island a bit, visiting a few remote towns. There are a fe flaws with that plan. First, i don't have a credit card. Second, I don't have a driver's license. Third, I'm still sketchy on the intricacies of motorcycles (as opposed to scooters), and might smear myself over the road. Fourth, I speak roughly three words of the hainan dialect, and not a word of the minority languages, which i think are closer to Thai or Vietnamese. I've had Chinese friends tell me that a lot of Hainanese have a weak grasp of mandarin, and cantonese is unknown.
So i might stick to the beach. And Monkey Mountain. You create a monkey preserve, I believe I am obligated to go.
On another unrelated topic, when playing lego Star Wars, it seems that you need Jar jar to leap about on Naboo. He does it better than the rest. This interferes with the joy I take in slashing him to pieces with a lightsaber. Since I've completed 3 levels out of 160, I don't think I'll ever finish it, but I can't see what greater thrill the game could provide than that, unless it combines Dance dance revolution with Hutts.
On an increasingly unrelated topic, I am heading back to Hainan. I've decided i like being cash strapped each month. Bought a bike, and was poor. Bought a Wii, and was poor. Time to travel and resume being poor. Sanya is a place with nice beaches and monkeys, and there's little else i want in a vacation. I hear it's getting more developed, but that there are still places that accomodate backpackers.
Might rent a motorcycle and drive around the island a bit, visiting a few remote towns. There are a fe flaws with that plan. First, i don't have a credit card. Second, I don't have a driver's license. Third, I'm still sketchy on the intricacies of motorcycles (as opposed to scooters), and might smear myself over the road. Fourth, I speak roughly three words of the hainan dialect, and not a word of the minority languages, which i think are closer to Thai or Vietnamese. I've had Chinese friends tell me that a lot of Hainanese have a weak grasp of mandarin, and cantonese is unknown.
So i might stick to the beach. And Monkey Mountain. You create a monkey preserve, I believe I am obligated to go.
things I learned
When someone turns off the light on their electric bike to save power and drives the wrong way down the street at night, blows a red light, and almost hits you, it is possible to slap them off the bike. The face of a person being slapped off a scooter cannot be compared to any other facial expression.
Also learned that Chinese police are remarkably unsympathetic to people who are slapped off bikes when they almost crash into people in a crosswalk.
And Officer Leung is a handsome, witty charming man. A paragon of virtue, and a credit to Chinese culture. All hail this officer's wise decisions, as we enter an era of slapping
Also learned that Chinese police are remarkably unsympathetic to people who are slapped off bikes when they almost crash into people in a crosswalk.
And Officer Leung is a handsome, witty charming man. A paragon of virtue, and a credit to Chinese culture. All hail this officer's wise decisions, as we enter an era of slapping
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
phone
had a few visitors lately, so I haven't been on-line much. Just wanted to know the phone is back on. Yay!
Friday, April 10, 2009
Grandpa needs sleep!
had a friend visit for a week, and spent the week preparing for the visit, drinking, and recovering.
While she was here, a few people made off hand comments about me that were sometimes rather flattering. My students were kind of embarrassing a few times. Not quite the saint they at times portrayed (though they also described me as fat with bad writing. One referred to me as "stupid" which will not be forgotten soon).
Was a weird and somewhat humbling week that way.
Last night, someone gave me a message a bit after midnight, hoping I could meet her and some others. As I was sound asleep, I ignored it. I then received a call about 1:00. Same request. Tempting as the offer of leaving my house with my almost empty wallet to drink with the Euros was, I decided to go back to sleep. After a few more calls, ending at 3:40,I was considering a new number.
so Zhongshan, thanks for the kind words and love. Now just back off a little bit, you smothering drunks
While she was here, a few people made off hand comments about me that were sometimes rather flattering. My students were kind of embarrassing a few times. Not quite the saint they at times portrayed (though they also described me as fat with bad writing. One referred to me as "stupid" which will not be forgotten soon).
Was a weird and somewhat humbling week that way.
Last night, someone gave me a message a bit after midnight, hoping I could meet her and some others. As I was sound asleep, I ignored it. I then received a call about 1:00. Same request. Tempting as the offer of leaving my house with my almost empty wallet to drink with the Euros was, I decided to go back to sleep. After a few more calls, ending at 3:40,I was considering a new number.
so Zhongshan, thanks for the kind words and love. Now just back off a little bit, you smothering drunks
Saturday, April 4, 2009
things I learned
If you rely largely on pantomine to say "please trim the beard a little, you get a goattee.
Monday, March 30, 2009
things I learned
Chinese motorcycle taxi drivers are unbeatable at games of chicken. Don't even try it. They have nothing to live for, and will take you down.
I also learned I'm good at swerving
I also learned I'm good at swerving
I understand the Amish
Been a week of technical glitches and human error.
My camera has finally been returned. shame she took out the memory card to swipe my pictures. So, someday I will have more pictures, including the few birthday ones.
Bought a Wii. Unfortunately, didn't think to buy an adaptor. The plus is an odd shape, and my outlets are a different odd shape, so finding a way to bring the two together is proving challenging. Gives me something to do I guess. Might have to change the plugs, which would be fine if I had an ounce of handiness about me.
The seat on the motorbike isn't locking most of the time. Free batteries for any curious person. Need to drive across town and get it fixed. Hopefully tomorrow that can be combined with shopping for an adaptor.
Rather annoyingly, my phone line at home is more or less down. Tons of static. So my apologies to those who have taken the time to call, just to hear hissing and shrill beeping. If you call for anything important and can hear me answer, blurt out the important news! I am lucky if I get 30 seconds a call that are clear.
otherwise, things go well. The school wants a syllabus. I want to know when classes end and how long we are off for MayDay. Seems to be a standoff developing. I should win, as I can't really write a syllabus without knowing how many classes I'll have. Also don't know if i have the day off for the Ching Ming Festival
Classes remain great. My painfully shy class is stil uiet, but some progress has been amde. Most of the others are a blast.
My camera has finally been returned. shame she took out the memory card to swipe my pictures. So, someday I will have more pictures, including the few birthday ones.
Bought a Wii. Unfortunately, didn't think to buy an adaptor. The plus is an odd shape, and my outlets are a different odd shape, so finding a way to bring the two together is proving challenging. Gives me something to do I guess. Might have to change the plugs, which would be fine if I had an ounce of handiness about me.
The seat on the motorbike isn't locking most of the time. Free batteries for any curious person. Need to drive across town and get it fixed. Hopefully tomorrow that can be combined with shopping for an adaptor.
Rather annoyingly, my phone line at home is more or less down. Tons of static. So my apologies to those who have taken the time to call, just to hear hissing and shrill beeping. If you call for anything important and can hear me answer, blurt out the important news! I am lucky if I get 30 seconds a call that are clear.
otherwise, things go well. The school wants a syllabus. I want to know when classes end and how long we are off for MayDay. Seems to be a standoff developing. I should win, as I can't really write a syllabus without knowing how many classes I'll have. Also don't know if i have the day off for the Ching Ming Festival
Classes remain great. My painfully shy class is stil uiet, but some progress has been amde. Most of the others are a blast.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
dude, where's my camera?
On my birthday, I gave my camera to a friend who was going home, knowing the night would continue. The batteries had died, so there was no point to keeping it. She had complained we don't see each other enough.
The next day, she said she was busy until Friday, when I'll be going to Hong Kong. So, there may be photos Sunday.
If you chip away at the ide in the lowest level of dante's hell, eventually you reach a student run English corner, where no one has any idea what they're doing. I'll be having nightmares for weeks.
The next day, she said she was busy until Friday, when I'll be going to Hong Kong. So, there may be photos Sunday.
If you chip away at the ide in the lowest level of dante's hell, eventually you reach a student run English corner, where no one has any idea what they're doing. I'll be having nightmares for weeks.
Friday, March 20, 2009
Time passes
Months ago, we were talking about political protest in class (I didn't choose the textbook) and I mentioned that my birthday is the day after the US invaded Ira, so for several years my birthday plans involved marching, candllight vigils, or something similar. They remembered and looked it when the invasion was, and yesterday I was serenaded by my students. They were really sweet about it, and gave me what I really wanted; students talking in class. Gave my sore throat a needed rest. Neither class I had on friday liked what we were reading, but they worked pretty hard to understand it. Did a preview of the next reading, which is about first loves, and they find it interesting, but seem to be signalling they will deny having ever been attracted to anyone or feeling any longing for any young men (or young women, for the couple of guys I have). This will be rough.
Mentioned the girl who wept while singing "I Try" when I left. She's normally very busy with work and being a mom, but told me i was spending my birthday with her. Turns out she was correct, at least for a few hours. She is fuuny. She's never free when I call and doesn't respond often to messages, but is worried i don't call enough. I guess it's possible we'd stay in touch for 7 years and then lose touch when I move back here, but I'd not recommend betting that way.
After a dinner with a woman who is all sweetness and light (at least with me), went to Friends. Someone from facebook wished me a Happy Birthday, which led to one of the bartenders providing me with food and beer for a bit, and arranging for the band to sing Happy Birthday and a song of my choosing (Right Na na Na, if you're curious. I love the new Akon). I enjoyed the food and drink much more than being sung at.
The same bartender (some of you also teach English. Is she a bartender, or a bartendrix? Is there a greater possibly real word in the English language?) has made it clear I'm too much at home there. I haven't been going much lately, heading out with Chinese friends, staying home, or heading to the irish bar for foreigner bowling night. On St Patrick's Day, I was in the Irish bar, and got a few text messages from her, as she was bored. Apparently when every foreigner heads to a differen bar, Friends is a dull place on a Tuesday. She alternated between telling me how boring it was and trying to convince me that i should go there, as it would be fun. Eventually, she realized the simple way of getting me to switch bars was to offer me a few free drinks, which was enough to get me to head over. That, and i do like Betty. The staff there is always cool and often underappreciated by their clients. I've talked to enough of them that they seem like real people, and not just a way of getting beer from across the room. Still, I'm kind of worried. We've established that she can write me when bored and lure me to the bar with beer. I'm not sure that's a good relationship between her and my liver.
Mentioned the girl who wept while singing "I Try" when I left. She's normally very busy with work and being a mom, but told me i was spending my birthday with her. Turns out she was correct, at least for a few hours. She is fuuny. She's never free when I call and doesn't respond often to messages, but is worried i don't call enough. I guess it's possible we'd stay in touch for 7 years and then lose touch when I move back here, but I'd not recommend betting that way.
After a dinner with a woman who is all sweetness and light (at least with me), went to Friends. Someone from facebook wished me a Happy Birthday, which led to one of the bartenders providing me with food and beer for a bit, and arranging for the band to sing Happy Birthday and a song of my choosing (Right Na na Na, if you're curious. I love the new Akon). I enjoyed the food and drink much more than being sung at.
The same bartender (some of you also teach English. Is she a bartender, or a bartendrix? Is there a greater possibly real word in the English language?) has made it clear I'm too much at home there. I haven't been going much lately, heading out with Chinese friends, staying home, or heading to the irish bar for foreigner bowling night. On St Patrick's Day, I was in the Irish bar, and got a few text messages from her, as she was bored. Apparently when every foreigner heads to a differen bar, Friends is a dull place on a Tuesday. She alternated between telling me how boring it was and trying to convince me that i should go there, as it would be fun. Eventually, she realized the simple way of getting me to switch bars was to offer me a few free drinks, which was enough to get me to head over. That, and i do like Betty. The staff there is always cool and often underappreciated by their clients. I've talked to enough of them that they seem like real people, and not just a way of getting beer from across the room. Still, I'm kind of worried. We've established that she can write me when bored and lure me to the bar with beer. I'm not sure that's a good relationship between her and my liver.
Monday, March 16, 2009
things I learned
If you are battling the flu and more forgetful than normal, leading to you forgetting to plug the electric razor into the adaptor before you plug it into the scoket, you will get an amazing shave from a really high powered razor. At least until the smoke starts coming out of it.
Friday, March 13, 2009
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Things I learned
The song "Happy Birthday to You" has a surprisingly complex history and is only about 100 years old. There is a version of it in Chinese, as there is in several other languages. There are other birthday songs in Chinese. Oddly enough, I asked a friend about this years ago, and she was kind enough to sing one for me. I have no idea wy I was curious about what Chinese people sang to each other before Happy Birthday arrived here. I think Li and I probably just had spent enough time together we had run out of things to say.
Anyway, I knew there is another birthday song in Chinese, so I asked if anyone knew it, assuring them that person wouldn't be forced to sing. Out of 5 classes and about 200 students, only one knew the song. She offered to sing it, and a few classmates recalled having heard it somewhere, but no one else knew the words.
Anyway, I knew there is another birthday song in Chinese, so I asked if anyone knew it, assuring them that person wouldn't be forced to sing. Out of 5 classes and about 200 students, only one knew the song. She offered to sing it, and a few classmates recalled having heard it somewhere, but no one else knew the words.
random songs
started playing music between classes. They get random picks. today it was
Heavenly- P.U.N.K. Girl
Lily Allen-I Could say
De La Soul- Me, Myself and I
REM-White Tornado
The Doors- Riders on the Storm
The Vindictives- Circles
Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds- O'Malley's Bar (demo)
The Specials- War Crimes
The Smiths- Girl Afraid
The first two got a fairly positive reception. De La Soul was very well received by most. The Specials seems to have won a few fans.
So, who did they immediately recognize? The Vindictives. Yeah, the little known Chicago punk band. Last week, they had to listen to a conversation about music, which mentioned punk. Unlike the sections on the Carpenters, Happy Birthday, and Celine (ugh) Dion, there was no sample of what punk is. This seemed unfortunate. I'm not just a guy paid to play dvds in class, I'm a teacher. It's why I was put on the earth. I will not send my poor students off into the world with gaping holes in their knowledge. They will benefit from the totality of my experiences in life.
So, I was able to play The Vindictives in class. For the curious, it was "Bonnie's Rampage," chosen in honor of a young lady who, if she's not my favorite sista-in-law, is at least in the top 5
Heavenly- P.U.N.K. Girl
Lily Allen-I Could say
De La Soul- Me, Myself and I
REM-White Tornado
The Doors- Riders on the Storm
The Vindictives- Circles
Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds- O'Malley's Bar (demo)
The Specials- War Crimes
The Smiths- Girl Afraid
The first two got a fairly positive reception. De La Soul was very well received by most. The Specials seems to have won a few fans.
So, who did they immediately recognize? The Vindictives. Yeah, the little known Chicago punk band. Last week, they had to listen to a conversation about music, which mentioned punk. Unlike the sections on the Carpenters, Happy Birthday, and Celine (ugh) Dion, there was no sample of what punk is. This seemed unfortunate. I'm not just a guy paid to play dvds in class, I'm a teacher. It's why I was put on the earth. I will not send my poor students off into the world with gaping holes in their knowledge. They will benefit from the totality of my experiences in life.
So, I was able to play The Vindictives in class. For the curious, it was "Bonnie's Rampage," chosen in honor of a young lady who, if she's not my favorite sista-in-law, is at least in the top 5
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
why she hates me
Today in the av class, they heard two people talking about songs that remind them of other people. they were then asked to describe a song that makes them think of someone else. The answers were pretty weak. Nothing wrong with them, but they were clearly just going through the motions. So, they heard about why I had to delete "I Try" by Macy Gray from my mp3 player.
In 2001, when I was preparing to leave China, I was invited to a friend's house for karaoke. Not a big secret that I don't really like karaoke, but i like drinking and talking, and enjoy watching my friends sing. I just can't sing myself. So it was a decent enough time.
At one point, she asked me to pick an English song for her to sing for me. I chose I Try. It was one of the few songs I new and liked on MTV karaoke vol 16 or whatever it was. So, she sand a song about a person unable to say goodbye to someone else. Our feeling for each other were not romantic, but we were very close, and it dawned on her that she was singing a song about an inability to say goodbye to someone who was walking out of her life in a few days, and it was rather likely she'd never see me again. As she sang of a person choking as she said goodbye, she teared up, and as the song continued without her, with the singer trying to walk and stumbling, she tripped over to me, unable to see clearly. In a broken voice, she told me she'd miss me, and how much she hoped i'd be back one day, but that if I wasn't she'd remember me, and hoped I'd always be happy back in the States.
so, ever since, whenever i hear that song, i think of her, and how close we were and how much it hurt to say goodbye. particularly for her, as she didn't hink anyone would be dumb enough to fly that long just to see some friends.
So, after that, my students began giving more detailed answers, and some that were far more personal. Songs of old boyfriends, friends who moved away, songs their grandparents taught them, and other things that really moved some of their classmates. They sometimes forgot to be nervous and awkward as they spoke, getting caught up in the excitement of what they were saying. it worked.
In about 9 days, I'll be gathering a group of friends together for karaoke. One of them will be getting ready to sing, and as usual, I'll ask her not to cry. She didn't think it was funny when I came back to visit in 2002. Or 2004. Or 2005, 06, 07 or 08. Since i moved back into her life, it's gotten less funny. Apparently when i told her husband that she cried when I left, it was less than hilarious to her (though he and i found it pretty amusing). As much as she hates it, she keeps coming around, maybe because she knows she has a trump card. If I annoy her, she knows she can make me cry by singing one song.
In 2001, when I was preparing to leave China, I was invited to a friend's house for karaoke. Not a big secret that I don't really like karaoke, but i like drinking and talking, and enjoy watching my friends sing. I just can't sing myself. So it was a decent enough time.
At one point, she asked me to pick an English song for her to sing for me. I chose I Try. It was one of the few songs I new and liked on MTV karaoke vol 16 or whatever it was. So, she sand a song about a person unable to say goodbye to someone else. Our feeling for each other were not romantic, but we were very close, and it dawned on her that she was singing a song about an inability to say goodbye to someone who was walking out of her life in a few days, and it was rather likely she'd never see me again. As she sang of a person choking as she said goodbye, she teared up, and as the song continued without her, with the singer trying to walk and stumbling, she tripped over to me, unable to see clearly. In a broken voice, she told me she'd miss me, and how much she hoped i'd be back one day, but that if I wasn't she'd remember me, and hoped I'd always be happy back in the States.
so, ever since, whenever i hear that song, i think of her, and how close we were and how much it hurt to say goodbye. particularly for her, as she didn't hink anyone would be dumb enough to fly that long just to see some friends.
So, after that, my students began giving more detailed answers, and some that were far more personal. Songs of old boyfriends, friends who moved away, songs their grandparents taught them, and other things that really moved some of their classmates. They sometimes forgot to be nervous and awkward as they spoke, getting caught up in the excitement of what they were saying. it worked.
In about 9 days, I'll be gathering a group of friends together for karaoke. One of them will be getting ready to sing, and as usual, I'll ask her not to cry. She didn't think it was funny when I came back to visit in 2002. Or 2004. Or 2005, 06, 07 or 08. Since i moved back into her life, it's gotten less funny. Apparently when i told her husband that she cried when I left, it was less than hilarious to her (though he and i found it pretty amusing). As much as she hates it, she keeps coming around, maybe because she knows she has a trump card. If I annoy her, she knows she can make me cry by singing one song.
Monday, March 9, 2009
things I learned
When you are driving through heavy traffic on a little scooter and stop to get a drink, you may notice the type of mop you have been looking for. Before buying it, figure out how you will drive and transport a mop.
factory or school
Some know I was contemplating leaving my current job over some problems between the school and me. My visa situation improved, my pay has been arriving on time, even early, and my schedule is better than last time. still have a lot of small complaints about my home, but they're bearable.
So i just turned down a job offer in Dongguan. Someone start a pool on how long before I start complaining about that.
So, for now, I'm staying in Zhongshan at the college, hopefully not losing my mind in the process.
So i just turned down a job offer in Dongguan. Someone start a pool on how long before I start complaining about that.
So, for now, I'm staying in Zhongshan at the college, hopefully not losing my mind in the process.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
ghost town
I live just outside a fairly big town by US standards. Being from a city of several million, it sometimes seems tiny, but it is still a kind of big place. I'm frequently laughed at by locals who find it hilarious I am fascinated by chickens (or goats) wandering around frreely, but there are still factories, busses, and thousands of people.
So, a few nights ago I met up with a few friends to barbecue. We met at the market by my house, which was crowded with motorcycles, vans, people, chickens, and bad disco music as usual. We then drove about 5 minutes into a place I'd never been.
Up in the hills is a lake thought to be haunted. Apparently some people disappeared there before, though I'm not sure if they are the ones haunting the place or if something haunting it is thought to have taken them. Many Chinese seem to believe in ghosts, and most are extremely uncomfortable with anything involving death (The Chinese word for 4 sounds similar to the word for death, so it's a very unlucky number. The floors in my building are 1, 2, 3, 3a, 5, 6..). This made the land cheap, so a developer built a small hotel and a bunch of houses. Looks like they might have been nice if any had ever sold. All lie empty, with grass and trees growing wild.
So, you can drive to my house in about 15 minutes from downtown (if there's no traffic), in the process passing thousands of people, surrounded by car horns, loud music from shops, jackhammers where the street is being worked on, etc. Then drive 5 minutes more and reach a place where you won't see a soul or hear anything other than the wind and lake.
No classes today, so I might drive back and take some pictures. or go back to sleep. I'm unpredictable that way.
So, a few nights ago I met up with a few friends to barbecue. We met at the market by my house, which was crowded with motorcycles, vans, people, chickens, and bad disco music as usual. We then drove about 5 minutes into a place I'd never been.
Up in the hills is a lake thought to be haunted. Apparently some people disappeared there before, though I'm not sure if they are the ones haunting the place or if something haunting it is thought to have taken them. Many Chinese seem to believe in ghosts, and most are extremely uncomfortable with anything involving death (The Chinese word for 4 sounds similar to the word for death, so it's a very unlucky number. The floors in my building are 1, 2, 3, 3a, 5, 6..). This made the land cheap, so a developer built a small hotel and a bunch of houses. Looks like they might have been nice if any had ever sold. All lie empty, with grass and trees growing wild.
So, you can drive to my house in about 15 minutes from downtown (if there's no traffic), in the process passing thousands of people, surrounded by car horns, loud music from shops, jackhammers where the street is being worked on, etc. Then drive 5 minutes more and reach a place where you won't see a soul or hear anything other than the wind and lake.
No classes today, so I might drive back and take some pictures. or go back to sleep. I'm unpredictable that way.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
back again
The trip back was fairly uneventful. For future reference, the panda hotel is quite nice, pretty cheap, and near the trains, but pretty far from downtown. If you're going sightseeing, its cool, but not if you're going out a lot at night. I wasn't, so it was fine. Lot of pandas decorating that place.
Found a group of people I used to hang with in HK. So now I have a place to stay and people to visit. Yay!
Found a tatto place that promotes punk shows. Next month, I'll be experiencing Hong Kong ska and rockabilly. Should be interesting.
Not much new in Zhongshan. Bought an electric scooter, so I've been driving all over the place. its a lot of fun. The people in my area had been getting a little bored with the sight of me walking around I think. Me buying vegetables or things for my house was fascinating for a month or two, but it was getting a little old. They seem happy that now I'm driving around, as its something different to stare at. I aim to please.
I drove out to school today to time the trip (the bike is not that fast), and had to stop when the road was blocked by goats. I got a few pictures of them when they were chased off to the side of the store, which will be posted soon (I haven't turned the internet back on at my place yet, so I can't use my computer, so no pictures yet). I plan on saving them for a day I'm late, and using the old "goats were blocking the road. Hundreds of the things! I barely made it here alive" excuse.
All for now
Found a group of people I used to hang with in HK. So now I have a place to stay and people to visit. Yay!
Found a tatto place that promotes punk shows. Next month, I'll be experiencing Hong Kong ska and rockabilly. Should be interesting.
Not much new in Zhongshan. Bought an electric scooter, so I've been driving all over the place. its a lot of fun. The people in my area had been getting a little bored with the sight of me walking around I think. Me buying vegetables or things for my house was fascinating for a month or two, but it was getting a little old. They seem happy that now I'm driving around, as its something different to stare at. I aim to please.
I drove out to school today to time the trip (the bike is not that fast), and had to stop when the road was blocked by goats. I got a few pictures of them when they were chased off to the side of the store, which will be posted soon (I haven't turned the internet back on at my place yet, so I can't use my computer, so no pictures yet). I plan on saving them for a day I'm late, and using the old "goats were blocking the road. Hundreds of the things! I barely made it here alive" excuse.
All for now
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
music
1. Hit random button on mp3 player
3. Profit
Manu Chao "me Gustas Tu"
Pete Tong "Deep End" (British Dj, no reggae)
The Damnwells "Graceless"
Cody Chestnutt "The Make Up"
The Specials "Rat Race"
Frankie Knuckles "Bumpkin Song (Gimme Gimme)"
Willie Nelson "Just As I Am"
The Sugarcubes "Hit"
King Tubby "narrow Dub"
Swans "I am the Sun"
I was bored
3. Profit
Manu Chao "me Gustas Tu"
Pete Tong "Deep End" (British Dj, no reggae)
The Damnwells "Graceless"
Cody Chestnutt "The Make Up"
The Specials "Rat Race"
Frankie Knuckles "Bumpkin Song (Gimme Gimme)"
Willie Nelson "Just As I Am"
The Sugarcubes "Hit"
King Tubby "narrow Dub"
Swans "I am the Sun"
I was bored
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Molly Ivins
Molly Ivins died 2 years ago. Still makes me think I'm not the only sane one
“It's hard to argue against cynics - they always sound smarter than optimists because they have so much evidence on their side”
“You can't ignore politics, no matter how much you'd like to.”
“It is possible to read the history of this country as one long struggle to extend the liberties established in our Constitution to everyone in America.”
Although it is true that only about 20 percent of American workers are in unions, that 20 percent sets the standards across the board in salaries, benefits and working conditions. If you are making a decent salary in a non-union company, you owe that to the unions. One thing that corporations do not do is give out money out of the goodness of their hearts.”
“It's hard to argue against cynics - they always sound smarter than optimists because they have so much evidence on their side”
“You can't ignore politics, no matter how much you'd like to.”
“It is possible to read the history of this country as one long struggle to extend the liberties established in our Constitution to everyone in America.”
Although it is true that only about 20 percent of American workers are in unions, that 20 percent sets the standards across the board in salaries, benefits and working conditions. If you are making a decent salary in a non-union company, you owe that to the unions. One thing that corporations do not do is give out money out of the goodness of their hearts.”
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
brief update
I'm back in Chicago after a week in Mexico. Chicago has decided to be reasonable and only be about 6 (-14 C for you non-Americans), so its not as bad as it was two weeks ago. Its still something like 52 (13 C) in Hong Kong, so its kind of cold, but I feel the cold instead of a numbness that makes me think I'll die any minute.
Mexico was great. Lot of sightseeing, only a little beach time. Which is probably good, as I burnt the color of tandoori chicken in about 2 hours. Putting on a wetsuit when you're bright red is a fun task. Luckily diving makes it feel better for two reasons:
The water was cool
You kind of realize at some point that you can't screw up at the bottom of the sea or you'll die. When you have that epiphany, some things become less important.
Not much of note going on. Seeing friends and family, spending tiem with my wife, eating foods that China doesn't have. And complaining about the cold.
Mexico was great. Lot of sightseeing, only a little beach time. Which is probably good, as I burnt the color of tandoori chicken in about 2 hours. Putting on a wetsuit when you're bright red is a fun task. Luckily diving makes it feel better for two reasons:
The water was cool
You kind of realize at some point that you can't screw up at the bottom of the sea or you'll die. When you have that epiphany, some things become less important.
Not much of note going on. Seeing friends and family, spending tiem with my wife, eating foods that China doesn't have. And complaining about the cold.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
days by numbers
So, it takes about 15 hours to get from Hong Kong to Chicago, or 24 hours coming my way. Probably should have spent the extra money.
It was about 17 degrees (60 Fahrenheit) when I left Hong Kong. It's about -31 (-24F) counting the wind today in Chicago. This may not be the ideal time to visit Chicago.
in good news, I was wrong about how much weight I lost in two months. I actually lost 29lbs (13.2 kg). Still have a ways to go before I'll be really happy with my weight, but its a good start. Hopefully, my weight won't rise too much in the month I'm home, though many of my plans here involve eating. we'll see
It was about 17 degrees (60 Fahrenheit) when I left Hong Kong. It's about -31 (-24F) counting the wind today in Chicago. This may not be the ideal time to visit Chicago.
in good news, I was wrong about how much weight I lost in two months. I actually lost 29lbs (13.2 kg). Still have a ways to go before I'll be really happy with my weight, but its a good start. Hopefully, my weight won't rise too much in the month I'm home, though many of my plans here involve eating. we'll see
Monday, January 12, 2009
waiting
Just killing time and the Hong Kong Airport. Its clean and modern, and well laid out, but I have this feeling something terrible will happen, as i was able to go through security without removing my shoes. Who knows what terrible things have been smuggled in?
Soon, I'll be able to stop being bored in HK and move on to being bored in Tokyo, followed by LAX and then Chicago. I guess I won't be bored in Chicago.
Then its off to Mexico for a bit next weekend. Yeah, I'm going from cool days to really cold to hot to really cold. Should help me get over the flu. I have other odd delusions as well as that one.
Anyway, time to look for breakfast
Soon, I'll be able to stop being bored in HK and move on to being bored in Tokyo, followed by LAX and then Chicago. I guess I won't be bored in Chicago.
Then its off to Mexico for a bit next weekend. Yeah, I'm going from cool days to really cold to hot to really cold. Should help me get over the flu. I have other odd delusions as well as that one.
Anyway, time to look for breakfast
Saturday, January 10, 2009
the plan
I'll be on a plane Tuesday morning for about 25 hours. Hong Kong to Tokyo to LA to Chicago. Ugh. I'll be in the States for about a month. Actually, I hope to be in the Carriben for part of that, but somewhere in the greater North American area anyway.
Who is more in love, the woman who buys a ticket for the deadbeat she married or the guy who spends 25 hours flying from a warm placeto a frozen one? The guy is much luckier.
Who is more in love, the woman who buys a ticket for the deadbeat she married or the guy who spends 25 hours flying from a warm placeto a frozen one? The guy is much luckier.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Wow
I'm sitting here grading things and listening to music. The album by The Gaslight Anthem started, and I instantly regretted all the time I spent last year not listening to that. Just awesome.
Oh, and the grades are excellent.
Oh, and the grades are excellent.
Monday, January 5, 2009
back
Just returned from a few days in Hainan. To those who don't know, its China's southernmost province. As its a warm island, its often called the Chinese Hawaii, though its a bit cooler. Still got to experience the 80s again for a bit. I got lazy and skipped the Southern half of the island, which is prettier and warmer, but was a few more hours by bus. After 13 hours sitting on a bus,i had lost interest.
My camera has a neat trick where it loses all the photos. Did it again. Night be time for a replacement. So take my word for it that it looks warmer than wherever most of you are and that I look quite appealing while swimming.
Now I just need to give exams thursday and Friday, and I'm done working until the beginning of march. Sweet.
My camera has a neat trick where it loses all the photos. Did it again. Night be time for a replacement. So take my word for it that it looks warmer than wherever most of you are and that I look quite appealing while swimming.
Now I just need to give exams thursday and Friday, and I'm done working until the beginning of march. Sweet.
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