Monday, December 29, 2008

Oh to learn Chinese...

I (Stefanie) recently completed a beginning Chinese language class. It was a very enjoyable experience and I actually have pictures to accompany this post, so I thought I would document it. At times it was frustrating, considering it is still Chinese, but I had a very patient teacher/laoshi (Catherine) who was always willing to help me through my difficulties. We had very interesting dynamics due to the differnt backgrounds of the class members: English, Belgium, Philippians, and American (me), along with our teacher from Shanghai.
I am sad to see it completed, it was a good use of the spare time I've found on my hands and allowed me to feel a little more connected to this mysterious land.
Robert continues to be the Mandarin expert in our family but now at least I have something to contribute.
Catherine and me...with my certificate!
The good old Han Fan class

6 comments:

Becky Knowles said...

Congrats! That's awesome. I'm so proud of you. A new language is something I never plan on learning...and, to be honest, I don't know that I am capable. :) You are amazing! I'm very impressed.

Shandra and Christian said...

Congratulations! What an accomplishment. I finally found someone I can speak Chinese to. I've been holding it in forever.

Jeppson Clan said...

Great job Stef! So did you call her laoshi or Catherine? :) It was fun to skype with you guys on Christmas eve. Happy New Year to ya too! We're getting Mandarin take out tonight and playing games. Can I get a whoop whoop?! Miss you sister!
p.s.
My word verification on here is "hangshin", that's how the chinese say hang ten right? I know I'm a dork...

Anonymous said...

Happy day! Excited to have found your blog.

Niki McDowell said...

Yes, I have three kids, isn't that crazy? Even I can't believe it, and my oldest in kindergarten, so that makes me feel old. But I love them to death! I live in So. California. My husband is from here and he works with his dad, so we're probably here for the long run, which I don't mind. I love having the beach only an hour away and only a 45 minute drive to Disneyland. So your in China? That is awesome, what a great experience. I'm assuming its for your husbands work. How long will you guys live there?

DustLinz Anderson Family said...

Stef, that's impressive! Most people just take their two years of a language in high school and call it good :-) aka-me!jk You're awesome!

Sounds like you guys had a great Christmas!
PS: How long do you plan on living there?