I officially finish my contract today (even though I have not taught for 4 days) and I confess it is a day of mixed emotions: happiness to be embarking on a new adventure but a tinge of sadness at having to say farewell to some of my new found friends. But today is also a very special day on a personal level. 10 years ago on this day my father was taken from us but it still feels like yesterday. So today I am dedicating my blog to my father who I hope is proud o...

Well I have taught my final class here at Qifu, although in typical Chinese fashion I did not know it was my final class!! I was told I finished teaching on 15 January so obviously assumed I would be teaching all this week.....off I go to my 0730 class on Monday morning and take the class - thought the students seemed a little pre-occupied but put it down to exam nerves. At the end of the class a few students came up to me and said didn't I realise that there wer...

Had a lovely New Years Day. Was taken to Cheng Bi Lake scenic spot by my senior FAOs family which is a short drive from Baise. Although the day was a little misty and cool it was still enjoyable to see the scenery, smell fresh air and walk on a dirt track (not concrete for a change). After spending a few hours there I was then taken to a local restaurant which was booked out by the family for their celebrations. As usual there was a feast to feed an army, too muc...

It has been non-stop since Christmas and thank you to my friends who so kindly remembered my birthday on NYE. Given the performance of the Aussie cricket team I figure my 1/2 century is looking good...however.....It is now time to start counting backwards!! Had a great birthday. The school bought me a magnificent cake which arrived beautifully boxed. No half measures when it comes to presentation in China! Of course I have included the photos for you all to dro...

Hello All and I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and are looking forward to the New Year! Firstly I have to say that while the Chinese don't celebrate Christmas they sure know how to party!! I started off on Christmas Eve with the arrival of the senior teachers to my apartment just as I had finished work with a bloody big Xmas tree complete with decorations, tinsel and fairy lights! Lots of photos taken for the school and the head No. 2 made a speech in Chi...