Day 110 & 111: "I may be small, but I am the best kisser" -- Joan

I keep wanting to say that it's been a wonderful weekend, but in reality, I am writing about my time spent on Tuesday and Wednesday. Whatever the case, I have had a very fulfilling and productive two days here. 

Yesterday, Jenna, Lexi, and I did some last minute shopping around walking street with our two favorite boys here in China, Carmelo and his best friend Joan. We've been to this street a number of times, but we have never enjoyed ourselves as much as we did today. It was a very different experience this time, because we got to see Joan and Carmelo interact with each other, which is quite entertaining in itself. They always jab at each other, wrestle each other, or call each other garbage/rubbish. I will just leave it at that, because no explanation will do them justice.

After our shopping escapades were over, we joined Carmelo's family for dinner in his hometown. I must admit that I was a little nervous to meet his parents. This is another one of the times that I was kicking myself for not learning Chinese. I have decided I want to start studying it harder when I get home, I just think it's such an incredible and useful language to know.

One interesting thing that I tried at dinner, and one that I have never heard of before, was corn juice! The waiters came out and poured this hot yellow liquid in a fancy cup, and everyone at the table raised their glasses to cheers. Naturally, I raised mine as well, and took a sip. I was so surprised that it was corn flavored, i was expecting like mango or pineapple or something along those lines. Joan said that all it is is steamed corn put through a juicer and then hot water is added to it. It sounds kind of funky, but I absolutely loved it. With each sip, I just wanted more. It was just such a warming and delicious drink, and it tasted so clean. So, I think the next thing that needs to hit America should will be corn juice and it'll be a hit!

We ate a tasty family style meal with the five of us, Carmelo's parents, and two of their friends. I always get a little nervous when the meals are served family style, because when something comes out that I don't recognize, I fear that I will make myself look like a fool because I have no idea what to do. For example, when the waiters brought out grilled pigeon, I hadn't a clue how to eat it. Fortunately, I was sitting by Carmelo and he helped me out in my times of difficulty :). He is such a good one. 

Carmelo's parents were some of the sweetest people I have met here thus far. Although we cannot communicate much with them, I can just feel their warmth and happiness simply by being in their presence. They both wore the biggest smiles all evening as we chatted, through translation of Carmelo of course. When we were through with the meal, we followed Carmelo's mother to their home to take a few photos with her. 

As we pulled up, I couldn't believe how incredible it was. Their house was so beautifully decorated and in such a great area. In the middle of their gated neighborhood, there is a little square designated for the elderly to dance, there are fun places to have the kids play, etc. I felt like I was cruising my own neighborhood with my family, it was a very warm and familiar feeling. 

After we spent a good amount of time at Carmelo's, we all ventured back to Kaiyin and spent the rest of the evening playing card games with other members in our group. It was definitely a night to remember, with many wrestling matches, mixed up translations, different "strategies" being utilized, etc. It was just a good night.

Because we were up very late, we all slept in for the first time while being here. The three of us girls woke up at noon, which is super pathetic, but from then on, I got so much done. I managed to finish making most of the props for my play next week, finished my student profiles, made lesson plans for next week, etc. Lets just say that I got to cross off quite a few things on my to do list today, it felt great. 

I ended the day by getting my favorite Muslim noodles at the fruit market with Ms. Lexi, and then watching Oz with some of the groupies. Although it was a super cheesy movie, it was entertaining I suppose! We needed an easy and relaxing night, we've been up so late every night here. So with that, I am now off to bed and ready to start a new day tomorrow. 

Mine and Lexi's accidental purchase on Taobao. We love our new nighties though, they fit and look so well :/ :) hahahaha