Things that become normal #4

Full Camouflage Gear

Our teammate, Andy, bundles up to head outside everyday much like everyone else in Harbin only he wears full camouflage gear. Coming from the southern USA this is the only warm gear he owns. Good thing he hasn't tried to hide from us or we may not be able to find him. Then again, he would probably stand out against the white snow!

Things that become normal #3

Putting on layers before heading outside for anything.

Every time we want to go outside, we start the process early. It takes time to get all the clothes on. Since our apartment is heater, we often wear shorts and t-shirts inside. Thus the long process of putting on "outside clothes." These outfits include 2 pairs of long johns, pants (flannel lined if extra cold outside), undershirts, t-shirts, sweater, and a jacket. Not to mention the gloves, hats, and scarves. Hopefully sometime this nest term we'll get a video posted of layering up Kanyon to head outside.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

We've safely arrived in Thailand and have since been hanging out with friends enjoying the great Western food and warm weather. It is great to not have to bundle up every time we head outside. However, we discovered that we really like the cold weather of Harbin as we feel just dirty after a day walking around and sweating.

So far we have been really low key in Chiang Mai. We've taken care of some business like meeting our adviser, doctor's appointments, and dentist's appointment. We've enjoyed each of these great foods Jerusalem Falafel, Mike's Hamburgers, great Italian food, and The Art Cafe for Mexican food. We are now ready for round 2 at each. Check out some of the photos from around Chiang Mai:



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Things that become normal #2

After a semester of giving Kanyon a bath, the giant orange bath tub becomes normal. We don't flinch even once when we take the shower head off the wall to fill up the tub. We don't flinch when we unplug the tub and let the water drain all over the bathroom floor. (Remember bathrooms in China are a combo toilet, shower, sink, all-in-one.) The tub does have some normalcy in that there are bath toys stuck to the wall keeping him entertained.

Off to Thailand

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Today's the day! We're off to Thailand for the Annual Conference. We'll fly south for 2 weeks of training, rest, Western food, and visiting with friends and co-workers. We are excited to get south out of the winter for at least a bit and be able to step outside without having to bundle up to the extreme. It will be awesome to wear shorts, t-shirts, and sandals outside the house for a change.

During the conference over 600 workers will gather together for a time of training and encouragement. It is incredible to see so many workers together in one place celebrating together. We'll learn from the most experienced teachers beginning new ideas into the classroom. We can't wait to get south and will post all about our time in yet another country.