Today, I have officially been in China for two weeks, and what a whirlwind of experiences! When I first arrived in Kunming, I felt like I had reverted back to a two-year-old child. I couldn’t speak, I had no idea where I was, the city is huge, and I was completely dependent on my coworker to show me how to do things. It was such an interesting realization to be starting at square one with endless things to learn: language, food, public transportation system, customs and culture, and so much more! Although it was incredibly exciting to see the opportunities to learn and grow from this experience, it was overwhelming to feel so helpless. I had no choice but to jump right in – sink or swim; and two weeks later, I am excited to report that did not sink, haha! My routine is starting to take shape and everyday I feel more comfortable.
To give you a better idea of a few of the things I have learned so far, I have made an outline of my successes and failures.
Success #1: Apartment and Office. Both are beautiful and welcoming, with Western qualities. My apartment is owned by American expats who love renovation projects. They have put plenty of TLC into the place, and it shows in every room. I am so thankful to have a nice place to call home.
Failure #1: Playing Badminton. One of my colleagues asked me to play badminton with her and some friends last weekend. I humiliated myself (and even that is being generous). I stepped onto the court with three other Chinese people, and I couldn’t even hit the shuttlecock. Literally, we tried to play for ten minutes, but I couldn’t hit the thing – every time I whiffed it. My friend comes up to me and says, “Um, Whitney, I think maybe you should practice against the wall first.” So I had to be removed from the game I was so terrible! The entire time we played (3 hours), I only got one serve over the net. Not only that, but I had a ten-year-old boy speaking to me in Chinese trying to explain how to play. I think he was astonished at my lack of skill.
Success #2: Coffee! I have found three coffee shops that I love. One place, Chicago Coffee is right by my office. It is owned by Americans, has incredible coffee, and even serves American food like pizza and sandwiches. The other two cafes are close to my apartment. One is owned by an Australian man, and the other is run by a British man. They each have great atmosphere and are perfect places to sit and read and relax.
Failure #2: Riding the bus. Haha. I am getting much better at navigating, but in the beginning I had no idea where I was going (and I am usually good with directions). The bus stop signs are often written in characters, and I got lost several times because of it. In one day, I spent five hours on the bus because I missed my stop going two different places. Both times after I realized I missed the stop, I was afraid to get off the bus because I didn’t know where I was. So I rode the route all the way to the end and back. Hence, five hours on a bus. It was great to see so much of the city though!
Success #3: The Chinese friends and colleagues I have met. My CWEF coworkers are so great to me! They have helped me to get settled; they invite me to do things with them; and they are just good, quality people. They are such a great link into the culture here also, and they are just so helpful. My Chinese roommate – xiao wang, is also a blessing. She and I have been able to communicate in English surprisingly well, and she is so sweet! She and her boyfriend made dinner for me one night. (see pictures) They made all of it from scratch, and it was delicious! There are two potato dishes, chicken wings sautéed in coke, pork with vegetables, and soup. The food was excellent – although spicy (I drank 5 glasses of water!) I really enjoy spending time with her.
Failure #3: Walmart. Just as can be expected at home – Walmart on the weekends is a BAD idea. My roommate and I stood in line for what seemed like five hours. Look at all the people in line in the picture! Of course, I was excited about my purchases: Pantene Pro-V shampoo and conditioner, Oreo cookies (!!), Peanuts M&M’s; I would argue that these comforts may be worth standing in line for so long – although, I’m not sure shia wang agreed, lol.
The WalMart Line!
There are many more stories to come; however, they will have to wait for another day. And, I apologize that this update took so long. The delay in blogging resulted from my inability to access the website. Restrictions here are a part of life, but luckily I am able to log onto my blog now. I look forward to posting updates more frequently!
I hope that you are all doing well! I miss and love you!
