Aug 2008

I was hoping to see the Torch when it came through Tai'an. I had it all planned out. Even bought an Australian Nike Shirt.

Well I drew the short straw and had to teach that day. That's cool I thought we will go on an excursion. It just didn't seem right that the students would miss such a huge event and for them probably a once in a life time event!

The school was concerned about riots and potential terrorist attacks. I went to the school leaders. They said no. I had my teachers aide ask the school leaders. The end result was no.

I didn't see the torch, but I understand from Barbara, that it was good. Great atmosphere, heaps of activities to keep you busy during the wait. Although she didn't enjoy the 3 hours standing in the China heat and humidity for a 5 second glimpse

It was Sunday Night before the torch was due to arrive in Tai'an. Olympic fever hit Tai'an. You could find on the streets heaps of vendors selling t-shirts, wrist band, hats, stickers and anything else that you can think of.

We got caught up in the fever and bought shirts, flags, wrist bands, etc. It was very exciting and easy to get caught up in the moment!

I'm known to have clothes made in most countries I visit. Don't see why China should be any different.

I found a tailor near the potato shop. I had a pair of pants, 3/4 pants and shorts made for Y220 ie $36. Took them 5 days and I'm happy with the purchase.

I sometimes act as the Guinea Pig. Barbara was happy with my clothes that she has since had 2 pair of pants made. Another excuse to go to the Potato restaurant.

The students at the Summer School put on a concert for the Foreign Teachers. I wasn't overly excited about having to sit through this but it was quite good.

They sang in Chinese, English and Japanese. They performed acts, did magic and skits. It was a good night

Outside our apartments a teacher has started a garden which I refer to as the "Teachers Garden". This garden has a history although it has only a short life.

The teacher saw this rock that he liked. He borrowed the girls 3 wheeler bike to bring the rock back to the apartment. He took another teacher with him to help him lift it.

When he went to get the rock there was all sorts of commotion. Basically the rock was owned by someone else and if he wanted it he could buy it for 600Y ie $100. He wasn't having this. Eventually he took the rock.

A school leader came to the apartments to tell Ian he couldn't do this and he was stealing from someone else. He convinced them that he wasn't and that he was just borrowing it, it is still for sale but just living somewhere else!

Check out the photo!