Pudong, Shanghai

It has been a long time between postings. It took quite some time to get my internet up and running, and then I had to sort out a way to get to my blog / Facebook / Youtube and so on. It has been 3 weeks of wonder, learning, excitement and new experiences.

I am enjoying China, despite being currently in the middle of a typhoon. We were advised last night that school would be cancelled today by mandate from the Shanghai local governing body. Today was to have been the first day of school for the local schools (but we have been going a week). The children looked pretty happy to have another day off!

My school is fantastic. There were 3 people (with a bus!) to meet us at the airport and take us to our apartments. I have a two-bedroomed apartment which is decorated in a fairly modern style. There are two bathrooms and two balconies which overlook several canals. The compound is sentried at our entrance, and in other areas there is a barrier. There are always two men on duty at each entry / exit point and many others who patrol. There are security cameras everywhere!

During the day there are street cleaners who use brooms made of branches and men who empty the garbage bins. Also men who come along to each apartment entrance and uplift the garbage that you leave out for them to take. The ayi (aunties) are the house cleaners or maids. Mine started 4 days after I arrived and she comes twice a week on Tuesdays and Fridays. At this stage she mops the floors, washes and hangs out clothes, orders water and cleans the bathrooms. Once I have my things I will get her to shop for and prepare some meals. At the moment it is hard since I only own 1 plate, bowl, glass, etc....

I love my little class. I have 17 Year One children and boy, is it an eye-opener teaching girls again!!! I have had daily compliments on my skirts, jewellery, hair, etc. And the gender differences are very marked. The school is run with great efficiency and although I have a lot to take in, I am loving it. Oh yes, I applied for the senior teacher's position for Year 1 and was appointed as Year Group Leader. Needless to say I am thrilled about that!

Today I had my first hairdresser's visit. It was interesting - 3 hours long! After that I walked over to the supermarket and stocked up on groceries in case the weather really closes in badly.

There will be much more to report, along with pictures as things progress.

xxx,

Shanghai Suz