Found in Fishers

Life in Nanjing

Flora, and her new friend, Tracy. Tracy teaches Enlish at the Nanjin Foreign Language School.

Today was a somewhat peaceful day compared to yesterday. We spent the day at the Nanjing Foreign Language School. It was really nice to let my feet and knees rest. At the school I spent the morning sharing information with an English teacher there named Hun Jiali (Nancy). We had a great conversation comparing Chinese and American education. We are going to stay in touch via e-mail and do some lesson plan sharing. I am hoping she will help me with our Chinese curricululm and I will help her find resources to supplement her English curriculum. They are required to teach from Chinese textbooks, but she is always looking for additional things to keep the kids motivated. We hope to have email penpals as well. That should be fun.

During our lunch break I had my Chinese first: Using a squat toilet. I was trying to see how long it would take before I would have to participate in that adventure. Not because I was afraid of squatting. For heavens sake, my thigh muscles are pretty strong from all the stairs. Rather, I didn't want my pants to get wet. Thanks to my friend Kara, I successfully transitioned today to Chinese squatting. She gave me wonderful advice and it worked well. No more

Okay, so it looks like an improperly installed urinal. But if public bathrooms stateside were this clean, squatting would be worth the extra effort.

western toilets for me!

The Chinese love stairs. Up and down and up and down all day long. We had meetings on the 4th floor and then lunch on the 2nd floor in a different building. The toilet on the 3rd floor. Jeeze...enough steps already. It was a bit nicer weather wise; the sun hid behind the clouds and there was a slight breeze. My Chinese second act today was crossing the street. OH MY GOODNESS! I'm lucky I don't have a broken leg. The Chinese do not have the same sense of space as me and I don't believe they have traffic laws, or at least that's the way it appears to these Western eyes. Cars even drive on sidewalks! I wanted to cross the street to go to the grocery store during a break. I found the trick: Get in the middle of a bunch of Chinese teens and follow the pack. Tomorrow we have another cultural visit day. Sundays are the only day off for teachers and students in China. Hurrah for Sundays!

Nanjing, Ming, & a little pigeon head

We got to sleep in late today! The group didn't have to leave until 9 a.m. That was a real treat. And the hotel is very nice. Today began at the Nanjing Foreign Language School. It is at this school that

Will that be one hump or two? This is one of stone animals outside the entrance of the Ming Tomb.

children continue to learn English but can also learn Japanese, French, and German. We were there for a tour and history session on Nanjing. Tomorrow we will visit classrooms. The cultural visit today was to the Sun Yatsen Mausoleum and Purple Mountain. The motto of the day: "Sweating with the Oldies." It was unbelievably hot once again. At least 98 degrees with choking humidity. The King of Chu established Nanjing as the Stone City. It was the capital of the Ming Dynasty in 1368. The city itself dates back to 495 BC when it was first called Yecheng. A feature of the city is that it has the largest surviving city wall in the world. It took 200,000 laborers and 21 years to finish the project. Kind of like construction on I-94 in northwest Indiana or the Super 70 project in Indy!

Do they really eat the Pigeon's head?

The Sun Yatsen Mausoleum inside Zhongshan Mountain National Park was our first stop. There were well over 300 stairs to climb to get to the top of the Mausoleum. It has a beautiful blue roof with a theme on it to "Love Broadly." Dr. Sun died in 1925 and was buried here in 1929 after a competition to design the mausoleum was held. The mausoleum is in the shape of a bell to reflect Dr. Sun's spirit in his will. He often was quoted as saying "The World Belongs to the Public."

The next stop was the Ming Tomb. Again, tons of walking and climbing only to get to the top and walk back down again. There were beautiful arches and pathways along the treelined paths. This tomb is the ancient tomb of the founder of the Ming Dynasty and one of the largest burial mounds in China. The tomb in lined with a grand entrance of stone animals such as lions, elephants, and camels. These animals kneel in tribute to the emperor. The day ended with a banquet in town hosted by Nanjing Foreign Language School. It was also a chance to cool down from the heat. Found another head in my food tonight; this time it belonged to a duck. Quack, quack!

From Changzhou to Nanjing

Today was our last day in Changzhou. At breakfast we were able to talk to an American teacher working in Changzhou. He gave us a great perspective on his life in Changzhou. It rained most of the day and

East meets West: The U.S. groups takes time from their busy schedule to meet wtih Chinese teachers.

very hard. That did not change the extreme 98 degree weather; just made it worse. AndI woke up this morning full of bug bites. I kept slapping all night long, and they weren't mosquitoes. When I had enough I opened the duvet cover, took out the blanket and crawled in. That was a blessing but I am covered from the waist down.

We went to a Changzhou Park today and saw a beautiful Chinese garden. We also went to a Zen Buddhist temple. It was very interesting. It has the largest pagoda site in the world. I took lots of pictures. During the cultural revolution many idols were destroyed, but not buildings. This pagoda just opened. Called the Tianning Pagoda, it took 5 years to build. There were 999 small pagodas surrounding this large 13-story pagoda. It is a very modern pagoda and even had an elevator. From floor to floor we stopped to look at the statues of Buddhas inside. From the top floor we were able to see the city of Changzhou. My favorite floor was the Hall of Wishes. It was there that there was a Goddess of Mercy, a God of Wealth, a God of Medicine (health) and a representative for Education. Next door to the Zen temple was another beautiful park that we walked through with umbrellas in hand. There, we saw the Calligraphy Tower, another pagoda. Chinese like to use animals and other images of luck. The city of Changzhou is the Dragon City so we did see quite a few dragon images.

We took the bus from Changzhou to Nanjing. It was a great time to nap. And, most of us did. The highway was very modern, much like one you would

At 510-feet tall, the Changzhou Tianning Pagoda with its 13 stories has been destroyed and rebuilt five times over the last 1,350 years. The complex dates back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD).

find in the U.S. On the bus we joked with each other as the last few days were quite exhausting. It has been 98 degrees with high humidity and we have done some very strenuous walking. We joked that we are at Chinese Bootcamp. Early to rise with lots of physical activity. Others have joked that we are on the "Biggest Loser" meets "Survivor." We test our physical ability throughout the day and push to walk the endless stairs, just to sit down to a dinner much different that at home. What have we eaten so far? Jellyfish, FIsh head soup, Fish Bladder Soup, Shark FIn Soup, Snails, Bamboo, Squirrel Fish, Pigeon, Tree Ear Mushrooms, Tofu in many forms, bean kurd...mmmm. You should have seen us swarm for the french fries around the Pigeon. Oh...and many still had their heads.

Sweatin' up a storm

The Bamboo Ocean Forest is listed as a "world-class" bamboo reserve.

With 98 degree weather the group spent the day touring. We started out at the Bamboo Ocean Forest. It was beautiful, but extremely hot and humid. China is suffering from a drought right now and the sweat from our group could have created a new lake. There were many steps to walk but at the top we were treated to the vision of the symbol of longevity. At the top we burned some incense and were able to take a brief rest before having to walk back to the bus. It was very peaceful and a good feeling to be a part of nature. Next stop was Lake Tianmu. Again, lots of walking, especially up stairs. It was unbelievably hot. Our clothes were soaking but it was worth the trip up the 200 Km of stairs to see the ethnic minorty performance group from Yunan province.

The highlight tonight was the farewell banquet hosted by the Changzhou teachers and administrators. The food was outstanding. The superintendent sang us a song, recited some poetry. Our leaders Dick and Zhai also recited poetry, Gail recited a poem in french, Cathy in English and the group sang "This lang is your land". An American version as well as a version with Chinese landmarks. I met Lynn a teacher from the primary school. We exchanged e-mail addresses so that we could share some materials and penpals. I can't wait for that to happen. Off to Nanjing tomorrow.

The motto of the day: We don't do anything in moderation.

We interrupt this blog...

While our China-visiting educator sleeps - it's now 1 a.m. in Changzhou - those of us back in little ol' Fishers thought we'd provide a brief update. Besides, I've gotten a few emails from those concerned

Here's Mark (also know as "Fluffy" by mom), trumpeter extraordinaire. Sunday's high humidity took a toll on the band.

with how we're doing. On day 9 of this little odyssey we're all still very much alive. There are no signs of physical or mental bruising and the liquor cabinet hasn't been emptied by your's truly. Actually, it's pretty much the same old without the boss lady around. Marching band is on haitus until the last week of July when the full band camp starts up.

Hmm...I wonder where Liz is? The parade was 2 miles, give or take, and not one rifle hit the ground the entire time.

Liz and Mark actually survived the weekend alone (I can report that now since I'm home again). I had to photograph an engagement session on Friday and wedding on Saturday in Chicago. They were booked months ago, long before going to China was on the radar screen. Imagine my delight when our humble abode was still standing on Sunday. Speaking of which, Sunday was the annual Fishers Freedom Festival parade that Frick and Frack marched in with the band. For the second year in a row the morning brought thunderstorms and rain, but this year the sky cleared in time for the parade to go on without a hitch. The festival draws more than 40,000 people; it's reportedly one of the largest small-town weekend festivals around. You might consider visiting next year for the event and stowing your road-weary body on Dekoven Drive.

Liz has a JOB INTERVIEW this afternoon. I'm getting even for her last-minute, "I wanna go to this 4-day music festival" stunt earlier this month: I rescheduled her oral surgery for Friday the 13th! I'm not foolish, though. I realize who will have to listen to "...my mouth hurts" for a couple of days. Until then, I remain a sane and temporarily single parent.

A Day in the Life of Changzhou

It's hard to explain the China I see. A mix of the new and old. Streets filled with bicycles carrying large items next to brand new cars. New buildings being built everywhere you look with bamboo scaffolding on the outside of the buildings. This offers the people of China a wonderful future in the global economy. Changzhou doesn't get a lot of foreign travelers as of yet. The schools do participate in some foreign teacher exchanges but overall, the site of Westerners is rather new. Changzhou has about 4 million people, a bit larger than Chicago. It is amazingly clean. Today I even saw someone washing the guardrails and a man walking on the highway with his bamboo broom. What is here in every face is pride. People our very proud of their country.

Changzhou Institute of Technology (CIT) offers 3- and 4-year degrees. The university has more than 11,000 full-time students, 5000 adult students, and a faculty of more than 1000.

Today we started at CIT University which offers degrees in engineering, education, liberal arts, economics, management, science, and more. I observed two classrooms: One for those learning Chinese and the other for those studying English. They were pretty traditional in terms of American education. Mostly lecture. We then had an opportunity to speak with Chinese teachers of English and share ideas together. That was amazing. I continue to be excited about what we can learn from each other. The best of both worlds.

The rest of the day was spent touring two factories. One was an old comb factory where ancient wooden combs are handmade. It was a small factory and the combs produced there were most beautiful, each hand-painted. The workers were excited that we visited them. The second was a clothing factory; it was very modern and large. We saw Chinese factory workers making clothing for Barberry. It will be sold in Tokyo. It is a very large company and one your birthday they present you with a cake.

Of course we were overfed again. Can't think about food anymore. Many of us are suffering from swollen feet. We believe it is an effect of the sodium in the food since that seems to be a part of each menu. I tried to get some relief with a foot massage. That was wonderful. Tomorrow we are going to some nature places so continue to check back. Finally, here is a quote from Louise in our group about her impressions of China; she shared this with the group. "Once again I find these people charming, engaging, courteous, helpful, warm, humorous, generous, and caring. Granted, they're putting their best foot forward, but their best foot makes other best feet appear haphazard and common place."

Changzhou or Bust!

What an exciting couple of days. I am sorry there has been a delay but there seriously is no time for the computer lately. Sorry about the photos as well; I will try and catch them up but they cannot be attached from China but rather from my family in Indiana so there is a delay.

Some of the kiddos at Changshou's Juqian Jie Primary School.

Our last day in Shanghai was quite exciting. We started with a trip to the Shanghai Art Museum. My favorite part was a display of native Chinese arts and crafts. They are from the various cultures of China and represented the many ethnic groups. I also learned more about calligraphy and the stamps they use on official documents. Following the museum we went to the Jewish settlement area. However, the synogue was closed for construction. We walked the streets to soak up the flavor of the neighborhood. There were no more Jewish people in the area as they left after the war.

The train ride to Changzou was about an hour. I met this wonderful man at the train station who lives in Shanghai and is part of the shipping industry. So many Chinese wish to learn from the Americans and

The flag raising ceremony at Changzhou's Juqian Jie Primary School.

want to share their country. It was very touching. They have such an incredible culture we must share with others. Their pride of country and discipline for schooling is amazing. They look toward Americans to learn more and improve their country while at the same time, this is an incredible time of growth and opportunity for the country.

Today was the best day so far! My exhaustion quickly left the moment I saw the faces on the children at the primary school. And, we got to participate! We first started with a tour of the school and then the flag raising ceremony. The children were so excited to see us. I went to a music class and watched the children sing and dance. There are 50 students in the Chinese classrooms but no discipline problems. And their cute red slippers in music class...wow! Next was a English language class. The children learn English starting in grade 3. Our tour guides took us to the middle school and secondary school campus next where we ate lunch. It was a great lunch and of course, more food than we could eat. The children there were very excited to use their English. They wanted to talk, the primary students were much more shy but sure did love to tell us, "I love you."

At the high school I met some wonderful Chinese students. The middle school is grades 7-9 and the high school grades 10-12. I went to a middle school English class where the students practiced English and asked us questions. They were delightful. I signed so many autographs as that was the big hit. It sure was fun. And their smiles...precious. At the High School I went to a calligraphy class. Learned some new strokes as well but sure do need practice. The last event at the school was a meeting with the teachers. I have learned so much from their schools so far and look forward to sharing the information at home.

Here's a woman who makes painted wooden combs, which the superintendent of Changshou Schools presented to us as parting gifts.

Finally, tonight we had a grand banquet with the superintendent of the Changzhou Schools. He is quite the scholar. He speaks several dialects of Chinese and recited a poem in three. He also shared some other poetry with us. The dinner was on-going with the different treats. I did eat some Shark Fin but could not try the pigeon. It had the head on it still. Remember...can't do heads. We all received a beautiful gifts of handmade painted wooden combs as a gift. We are going to visit the factory that makes them before we leave. I have a new energy thanks to the children of Changzhou. I can't wait to meet more. Tomorrow...off to the University to see how teachers are taught. Keep checking.

It's Goodnight and off to Changzou Sunday

The group is totally exhausted from today's events. Some were fading fast tonight. As you are waking up for the day we are sleeping and getting ready for a busy Sunday in China.

Finally, a photo of the entire group. Hmm...does anyone want to sing, "One of them is not like the others..."?

Today we spent the day at East China University for more lectures on Chinese curriculum and educational reform. Afterwards, we went to see the Chinese acrobatic show called "ERA Intersection of Time." It was truly amazing. No pictures to share of the event; no cameras allowed. I did buy some postcards so that I could share what I saw. Speaking of photos, there is a slight delay in posting photos, they are being blocked from my blog so I am sending them home in a different manner for my family to post after the blog appears. Big brother watches the internet in China.

An oasis in the city: East China University Park.

Sunday morning we will be waking early and spending the morning and afternoon at the Shanghai Museum and the area in Shanghai settled by Jewish immigrants during WWII. Shanghai was a location that they escaped to in fear of the Nazi's. I am really looking forward to it. I never knew that about Shanghai. I haved learned so much in a week about China and its history. I never imagined that I would be able to understand so much about their long history and culture. It helps me better understand China and its place in the world.

Tomorrow afternoon we are off to city number two: Changzhou. We are going by train so we will have a chance to see more of China's landscape. I hope to get some pictures of the high rise apartment buildings in Shanghai before I leave as it is just incredible how many and how close they are to each other. We will be in Changzhou until June 28. It will be a great visit as we will be going to a variety of schools and soaking in the rich culture of that region as well. Hope to check in again from Changzhou!

A Sea of Humanity

I could sit on the corner all day and people watch. It is so amazing to see the people of Shanghai. Rich and old co-existing in one place. People riding bicycles with boxes of food on the back alongside others

The Bund is the waterfront area of Pu Xi (West City) that faces the newer part of Shanghai - Pu Dong (East City). The Bund has been regarded as the symbol of Shanghai for hundreds of years. It is less than one mile long and is a popular desitnation for tourists.

driving their Mercedes or BMW. The city is a busy place, but I thought with 14 million people living in one city it would be a little more crowded on the streets. When we went to the Bund last night for our boat ride it was incredible to see the high rise apartments lined up row after row after row. The air pollution is also incredible. We still have yet to see the sun.

The entrance to East China Normal University in Shanghai.

When we walk over to East China Normal University, I am distracted by people watching. Lots of people walking and riding their bikes. The bikes are parked in long rows in front of buildings on bike racks. There are also many motorized bikes and scooters. When I walked along the street, I saw some of those even parked inside the stores. It is so hard to describe what life is like for the children of Shanghai. The one child policy creates so much pressure on the families here.

But Shanghai is also considered a wealthy city creating a tremendous amount of jobs and disposable income for the Chinese. The Chinese want a harmonious society and there have been some reforms put in place recently to help with that balance. Some are working, others are not. They have such an incredible history so unlike the U.S. Think about having thousands of years of history in one place, trying to be progressive and yet respecting your history. Today is Saturday and we are attending lectures again at East China Normal University. Tonight we will go to the acrobatic show. Keep checking for notes on our journey.

Amazing Shanghai!

A different look to rush hour. With a population of 20 million, there are an estimated 9 million bikes in Shanghai.

All is well in Shanghai. The city is very crowded. I love the way people get around. Scooters and bikes galore. We did not get much time to recover from our jet lag as we started our first full day in Shanghai with a full schedule. Breakfast started early at 7:00. We then went over to East China Normal University to hear some lectures on Chinese history and education. The walk was very eye-opening as we saw life in Shanghai. After the first two lectures, we walked back to the hotel to eat lunch and then went right back to the University for further lectures. After dinner tonight we went on a boat ride along the Bund in Shanghai. It was a great view of the skyscrapers along the city. We also got to see the Pearl, the Shanghai TV tower that defines the skyline.

For me the most interesting part of the day was discussing the curriculum reforms happening in China as a result of the pressure on Chinese children to pass the college entrance exam. This has created a curriculum that is equivalent to "stuffing the duck," lots of information given to students in a factual manner. The pressure is unbelievable on the children and teachers, especially with the one child rule. Tomorrow we are hearing more lectures but also going to see Chinese acrobatics. That should be quite exciting. Early in the AM we have a walk planned down some of the Shanghai streets. Until then, good night...even though most of you are just waking up.