Second Quarter at ShiDa

I've started my second quarter at ShiDa. This time I opted for an intensive class, which meets 3 hours a day instead of 2. What I wasn't quite prepared for was twice the amount of homework. I've only had two days of class and have spent nearly all my outside time doing homework or studying, and I don't see an end to it with the aggressive schedule that we have. However, if I can stick with it, my Chinese should improve a lot faster than before.

My class currently has 7 students. Three are Japanese, one from Turkey, one from Guatemala and one other American. My previous class was mostly women, with only 2 men. This time it's mostly men, with only 2 women. The other woman is married and only in Taiwan for 6 months (because her husband is here to learn Chinese for work). The American is also married - he's got Korean parents and a Taiwanese wife and also only here for this quarter. I haven't learned too much else about the other students - most of them are from small families (4-5 people each). At least two of the students are new to ShiDa this quarter. The teacher is energetic and very organized - so far I like her style a lot.

I've been really jetlagged since my return, coupled with all the recent life changes, I don't find a lot of time to blog or take pictures. Some other quick notes on recent activities:

• made homemade applesauce as filling for dessert crepes and chocolate chip craisin cookies to celebrate John's birthday - Becca put on a great surprise party at Carnegies 2
• checked out the almond jello place near Dan's - along with the peanut soup - both delicious, I'll have to go back soon to get my fill - it's very similar to the snack I made with my mom growing up
  
• saw the Puppet Museum - surprisingly interesting (tell them you're a student to get a discount)
• got another sunset induced headache at Sunday ultimate - that makes it the 3rd time this year I've had a migraine trigger while playing ultimate - grrr (mom, tao: don't worry)
• had a goodbye dinner for Stanley with Christina - he is going to start his mandatory military service next week for a year! I'm sad to see him go.

I also am excited to have my knitting needles from Seattle - I need to check out the stores that Catherine mentioned in her blog and then organize a knitting night. I only know of two other knitters so far - so if you're interested in joining, drop me a line. Note that knitting night is open to all genders and you don't even have to knit. It's just an excuse to have a get together with good company and some food and drink.