The Seaview Metro is Open!

Since we've been here, August 2008, the city of Shenzhen has been working on expanding their metro (subway) system by making a metro station across from where we live, among other places. Periodic blasting would shock us & the bustle of construction would fill the air (cough, cough). Well, it is now open for business, though from the pictures it still looks like it is under constructions. Oh, above ground they are still working on it but below ground is a clean, orderly, & extensive system that models Hong Kong's metro. Now it means getting to different parts of the city will be a little smooth but not necessarily quicker as millions will be taking the system. The cost is subsidized by the gov't as the most expensive one way ride is 7 yuan, rmb, kwai, (what they call their money) or just over 1 USD, not bad.

Our South East Asia Tour: Cambodia & Vietnam

We just got back from a fabulous vacation from these two countries. I cannot express in enough words to describe our experiences there. Both countries overcame many, many years of difficulties & they are now optimistic about their future, despite the obstacles of poverty & corruption. Both of these negatives we faced with difficulty but it is a fact of life. Each tour guide gave us their personal insights & experiences at each site we visited. I would move to either place in a heart beat! If I would be of any use to them. Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, & Da Nang are great places. Also, just getting out to see the country side was well worth it. We got a good taste of the culture, mind set, & overview of each location. Whether it was tasting local foods like red ants in fish paste, dodging scooters when crossing the streets, watching special celebrations like a funeral procession, examining the architecture of the past (Angkor or Hoi An) or present (Hanoi), it was all an enriching experience. If you want to read my full notes on this trip just send me an email.

Geology Rocks!

Eileen teaches 5th graders or 10 year old students. One of topics she covers in science is geology. Well, for "Open House" the students from each 5th grade class have been putting on a 40 minute musical play called "Geology Rocks!" for the last two years. A former principle had found it and thought it was a great teaching tool. It has been a hit every year & drama is up Eileen's ally! The students learn about geology, sing songs, & act out a story of two young girls looking for their missing teacher, Professor Rock. Lots of fun!