 stephanie and cody - stephanieandcodyinchina | All Comments |
Comments | |
| 15th December 2008 mom | it's not over til it's over... - From: So, Has Anyone Heard From Cody Lately? Thoroughly enjoyed your first solo blog---the rugby coverage was fantastic! Especially enjoyed the official write-up on the Rugby Club's site, and of course immediately noticed the reference to flyhalf Pyfer! Love your "uniforms"---did you get to keep your panda mask as a souvenir? Your last month will go so fast, but I know you will pack in as much as you can in your style of non-stop adventure. Enjoy your time there--we will see you soon! Miss and love you tons~ |
| 14th December 2008 Janet | Hi, Cody! - From: So, Has Anyone Heard From Cody Lately? Great to hear from you, Cody. Love the panda uniforms!! Sounds like you're learning a lot of Chinese. Every time you talk about all of the wonderful food, my mouth waters. I think Stephanie misses all that great readily available Chinese food. Have a great Christmas excursion. We all miss you and are excited that we'll see you in a month! Love you lots! |
| 14th December 2008 stephanieandcodyinchina | More Beef More Power - From: So, Has Anyone Heard From Cody Lately? Your video! It takes me back to Yihuan Lu immediately, the bustle and the noises, even the color. I've watched it about 9 times, very cool. Love LOVE the burglar pics haha, I never knew Song Keqing was such a natural! This entry is great Code, really gives us all a taste of the everyday routine. And judging from the sweatshirts, coats and turtleneck sweaters the temperature must really be dropping! Stay warm! I'll leave the Cody Shrine in-tact here so you can see it when you get back - miss you. Have fun in Jiuzhaigou! DEFINITELY post pictures of that! |
| 14th December 2008 larva | awesome bike video - From: So, Has Anyone Heard From Cody Lately? Hello Cody -- great blog as always! Made even better by the knowledge that you will be back home soon. Bittersweet for you, I know, but fantastic for us! We miss and love you, ~Larvey |
| 14th December 2008 Maxine | Merry Christmas - From: So, Has Anyone Heard From Cody Lately? Great to hear from you, Cody. Way to go, Rugby flyhalf! Got to love those Pandas. Last year, China had a record winter freeze/storm. Right now the Northeast is suffering from a record ice storm. See what you are missing? Wonderful to have such educated roomates, who surely spur you forward in you linguistic fluency goal. Going out to dinner for $.60 - unheard of in the USA! Got to love that Chinese economy. Have a wonderful Christmas with your friends, in Jiu Zhai Gou. I am happy to spend this Christmas with family, in southern California. |
| 25th November 2008 Nic Tyson | Hi there - From: When two blogs join forces- 1 superblog Hey buddy, I just discovered your blog. I had no idea you were in Hong Kong/China, that awesome!! I also had no idea any female could stand your presence, or any rugby players for that matter. I plan on trying to read all your blogs. I hope you guys are having a great time. How's the rugby over there? |
| 11th October 2008 Welcome to China again! | - From: Macau and a Surprise at Home! Welcome to China again in the future! |
| 10th October 2008 kevin | what a coincidence! - From: Macau and a Surprise at Home! There's a kitty with no ears that lives on our street! |
| 1st October 2008 christine ann donahoe II | Serendipitous Senators. - From: Macau and a Surprise at Home! Well, it's nice for me to know know Herb Kohl can pop in at any moment to check on you... well, when he's not busy with the Bucks. I MISS you. |
| 30th September 2008 Maxine | HOME - From: Macau and a Surprise at Home! Welcome home to the USA, Stephanie. It was wonderful living through your experiences this past, almost year. Yes, it is always good to touch home base. Cody, what is your goal/time for acquiring more Chinese language? You both have lived through a lot - new culture, new language, historic snow storm, HUGH earthquake, and a lot of fun and new people crossing your paths. What a life! |
| 30th September 2008 George | Awesome - From: Macau and a Surprise at Home! Way to video tape it, and way to take advantage of that once in a lifetime opportunity...now that you have done it, when else can you totally surprise your family in such an amazing way. Hope you settle well into these here States, or that one up there, Wisco. Peace and Love to you sister |
| 30th September 2008 mom/janet | Welcome Home, Stephanie!! - From: Macau and a Surprise at Home! Stephanie-your homecoming was a wonderful-amazing-unbelievable-huge surprise beyond words—there's no topping it!!!! So great to have you home!! Cody, it's great that you have such wonderful roommates. Love you both, Mom/Janet |
| 29th September 2008 Aunt Becky | - From: Olympics 2008 Hi Stephanie and Cody - I've been negligent in keeping up with you, (but then, keeping up is hard to do!) You sure do get around, you've seen so much ...more than most people ever will in a lifetime. I know I would have loved the olympics.....sports lover that I am. Did you get to see Michael Phelps? He's a local boy...right here from nearby Baltimore. He's their hero. All your pictures, with stories and descriptions are so fascinating..thank you for taking the time to keep us all informed....stay well..love Aunt Becky |
| 10th September 2008 Chrissy | - From: Olympics 2008 Pretty scarf Steph, can I have it? Is there any talk of the US election over there? Any thoughts, comments about that from the Chinese? Any photos from the Subway Internet Dorm? That place sounds like my kind of romance. You're still planning on meeting us at the cabin this weekend, right? Joe's already there with a six pack of High Life. |
| 10th September 2008 Christeen | Couples Weekend 2008 - From: Total Eclipse (of the heart, sun) OMG-LOL-LYLAS. I'm so jealous right now, mainly of those sweet jammies, but also of the camel ride. I can't imagine how funny that night on the luxury recliner would have been with you guys. I think I have found the location of the next couples weekend. |
| 1st September 2008 Maxine | - From: Olympics 2008 Where in the world are you now? Or, where in China are you now? Olympics having ended, political conventions have replaced that excitement. Democrats had perfect weather in Denver. However, hurricane Gustav, which is still in progress in New Orleans, has disrupted the Republican convention celebrations. A 6.1 earthquake was reported in China, Sichuan and Yunnan provinces in a city you visited, Panzhihua. And, 2 quakes hit Tibet in past week. Feel that shaking going on? Take care. |
| 24th August 2008 Maxine | - From: Olympics 2008 Have watched the Olympics daily. How exciting to be in the middle of all that energetic competition. That Birdsnest is a beautiful piece of construction. Wonderful that you can obtain tickets to many events. How are you liking Beijing? Hope you find time to go to the Pearl Market, a multileveled building you should not miss. |
| 24th August 2008 Maxine | - From: Total Eclipse (of the heart, sun) Sand dunes, camel riding, camping in the Gobi - makes me speechless. What extraordinary experiences. Love your photos of the dunes. So, you traveled part of the Silk Road. Amazing. I just read a little something about Marco Polo, and you are giving him a run for the money. |
| 22nd August 2008 Elycia | - From: First Half of Summer Travels (Yunnan Province) These pictures are not just memories- they're art! It's impressive that you can capture the spirit of your love and your adventure in one still shot- |
| 20th August 2008 janet/mom | The Northwest - From: Total Eclipse (of the heart, sun) Wow! I'd love to go on a camel caravan! How hot was it in the desert? I take it you didn't see any scorpions! And to see the total eclipse--what a super experience. The bathouse looks like pampering at its finest. What a grand way to watch the start of the Olympics--and it must have been great to watch it with people from China and experience their pride firsthand. Love ya! |
| 20th August 2008 janet/mom | Olympics - From: Olympics 2008 It gives me goosebumps just thinking of you two at the Olympics! Loved your line-up of other medals. What an experience. Love you both tons! |
| 20th August 2008 laura | in-in-inCREDible - From: Olympics 2008 Holy Schmoly, guys! What amazing posts and pictures! Love the camel ride series. Seriously sounds like you are having most quality travels! Love you and miss you. ~larvey |
| 19th August 2008 Carol D. | - From: First Half of Summer Travels (Yunnan Province) ditto to the commento uno before the last. know what i'm sayin? |
| 19th August 2008 CC Sabathia | Picture 17. - From: First Half of Summer Travels (Yunnan Province) Did you ride that tiny horse? Wow, China is crazy. |
| 13th August 2008 Cal Calf-itch | Cody - From: First Half of Summer Travels (Yunnan Province) Do you have transition lenses? Wow. Awesome. Great. etc. |
| 10th August 2008 Maxine | Olympics - From: First Half of Summer Travels (Yunnan Province) You must be enjoying the Olympics right about now. That opening ceremony was the most creative, spectacular opening ceremony I have had the privilege to watch (via TV). Walking horizontal to the ground, while being dangled from wires in the air - too much. And, that "box" routine, I thought it looked like a computerized program, the participants were so perfect in their performance. So, are you planning on staying in China and teaching another semester or year? I will be touring Japan October 20, for 12 days, with same company as the Tailand tour. Can't wait. |
| 10th August 2008 anonymous | - From: First Half of Summer Travels (Yunnan Province) You must be enjoying the olympics |
| 8th August 2008 Erin | Amazing! - From: First Half of Summer Travels (Yunnan Province) Oh my gosh...your pictures are so beautiful! You guys look like you're having so much fun and are really happy....miss you so much! |
| 3rd August 2008 mom/janet | PS: - From: First Half of Summer Travels (Yunnan Province) Thanks so much for the great map! |
| 3rd August 2008 mom/janet | leaping tigers - From: First Half of Summer Travels (Yunnan Province) Wow, wow, wow!!! What amazing pictures and video. I loved the sound of the rushing river. It's so great that you two are finding "mamas" wherever you go. I'll have to look up the story of the "leaping tiger." Stephanie, the photo of you hugging the mountains is spectacular, but it makes my heart skip a few beats. So glad the summer is bringing so many wonderful adventures and memories to last a lifetime. Grandma is loving your letters. "I got something wonderful," she called from the mailbox when she got your last letter while we were there. Love you both so much!!! |
| 1st August 2008 Maxine | summer travels - From: First Half of Summer Travels (Yunnan Province) Tiger Leaping Gorge, Jade Dragon Snow Mountains - how magnificent. Your photography could be in National Geographic!!! Love that photo of Stephanie "hugging mountains". How do you do it - leap on the steep ledge? As if 5 days of hiking in those high mountains isn't enough, you crossed that water fall in a storm. Love your mountain horse story. However, must have been a scare losing the path under such weather conditions. Apples won't be looked at in the same way again. The total eclipse was on TV news. So many experiences. So many memories. |
| 1st August 2008 mom/kay | leaping tigers! - From: First Half of Summer Travels (Yunnan Province) Your photos are absolutely amazing, beautiful, spectacular and so creative! The gorge pictures had both my hands and feet sweating.... Now a solar eclipse, camels, sand caves, the olympics, and more gorgeous countryside: your journey just keeps getting better and better! Thanks SO much for sharing it all with us---miss and love you both lots~ |
| 30th July 2008 mukesh | stephy and cody - From: Stephanie on Being a First Time English Teacher hai dear friends' hai dear friend how are u. this is ur mukesh from malidives ' best whishes in ur life mukesh nair |
| 28th July 2008 Monae | Hi guys! - From: Farewell Chengdu ... for now. Hi Steph and Cody! I hope you're having fun on your vacation. I can't wait until you come back. I'm going to a different school next year. I'm going to Golda Meir. I'm buiding a playhouse in the back yard. See you soon. Love, Monae |
| 23rd July 2008 christian | Staredown - From: Farewell Chengdu ... for now. What prompted the stare-down w/ Mr. Redshorts? |
| 22nd July 2008 Jacob Duellman | You Guys Rock - From: Stephanie on Being a First Time English Teacher This is so cool! I am considering teaching abroad in Asia myself and the information you guys put on here is so informative and helpful. Keep up the awesome posts! Safe travels! |
| 22nd July 2008 Star | hiU r a great teacher - From: Reflections of a First-Time English Teacher in China (including tips and lesson ideas for people headed down a similar path) dear friend ,I've changed my name into Ivy.U r ever ready to make ur class interesting and lively.U 've found so many materials and even recorded funny dialogues with Cody to let students practise.As a teacher here in China,I learn from ur devotion and i shall say 'thank u' |
| 15th July 2008 Rebecca | Thanks for the warm fuzzies! - From: Reflections of a First-Time English Teacher in China (including tips and lesson ideas for people headed down a similar path) Hey there, You don't know me, but I just found your blog by accident while doing research for a training on China I'm doing (I'm a cross cultural trainer in Chicago). I taught English at a Shanghai university from '04-'06 and your blog brought back many fond memories for me. Anyway, just wanted to thank you for that, fellow China-English-teacher! : ) Rebecca P. |
| 14th July 2008 christian | oolong - From: Farewell Chengdu ... for now. I was just in my car and caught a talk radio segment highlighting various tea's of the world. The majority of the segment covered Yunnan's oolong tea varieties. I listened because of ya'll. Yunnan oolong was noted as especially delicious but most difficult to cultivate. What do you think? Can you share your expertise? |
| 14th July 2008 christine ann donahoe II | - From: Farewell Chengdu ... for now. What songs did you sing at the jazz bar? Did you hang out there all the time? Were there any Frenchies there? Christian is going to Quebec this August with his family. He has effectively learned one phrase from the phrase book so far, "J'ai le diarrhee." When you come back you will hear that often. Ethan has a special lady friend who, according to Bridgey and Aldeny, is very pretty and a good golfer. Graham has grown six inches and I have gained 23 pounds. It's hard being in Madison without you guys and sometimes (okay- a lotta time) cheese danishes soften the blow. we love and miss you both very very very very much. |
| 12th July 2008 mom/janet | Holiday at last! - From: Farewell Chengdu ... for now. That fish looks so good!!! Can't wait to see the photos of Tiger Leaping Gorge. Happy traveling!!! You are always in our thoughts. Love you tons! |
| 2nd July 2008 anonymous | - From: Farewell Chengdu ... for now. Happy Travels Guys! We'll be thinking of you in Milwaukee this weekend! Love, Drew |
| 2nd July 2008 Maxine | - From: Farewell Chengdu ... for now. That dancing in the street looks fun. Have a great time in Yunnan Province. Beijing - Olympics - 2 treats in one. What a big fish! |
| 1st July 2008 Maxine | teaching and the Chinese - From: Reflections of a First-Time English Teacher in China (including tips and lesson ideas for people headed down a similar path) Stephanie, such an immense project - teaching 800 students a week who's language you did not speak! And, an awe-inspiring completion of this grand task. Having visited China, I found I love the beautiful people and country. As you discovered, they are warm, curious, loving - and left an indelible imprint on you, as you left on them. Sad to think of all the years of one's life the propaganda made them evil - instead of the regime. Happy continued travels Stephanie and Cody. |
| 29th June 2008 Pam | Yeay!! - From: Reflections of a First-Time English Teacher in China (including tips and lesson ideas for people headed down a similar path) Steph- Congratulations on being done! This is a great post. Thank you guys for taking the time to fill us in on all your adventures. Happy travels! We miss you guys. Love, Pam |
| 27th June 2008 Christine Ann | Cheetahs or Cheetos? - From: Reflections of a First-Time English Teacher in China (including tips and lesson ideas for people headed down a similar path) Stephie- I'm so proud of you! You've been so creative with the games and activities which is quite impressive considering your lack of training and experience in the field. Did you find yourself spending all of your down time planning lessons? Is Cody still alive and well? I want pictures and stories about all of your other adventures. Check out Peder Engelstad's facebook for photos of our past weekend in Minnesota. We all miss you and Cody much. |
| 25th June 2008 mom/kay | teacher of the year - From: Reflections of a First-Time English Teacher in China (including tips and lesson ideas for people headed down a similar path) All I can think of is the impact you had on those hundreds of kids, to say nothing of their impact on you. Good, bad, difficult, easy, fun, challenging--you did it, and you have changed many lives with your work there. You are truly a special lady. |
| 22nd June 2008 Elycia | nice work - From: Reflections of a First-Time English Teacher in China (including tips and lesson ideas for people headed down a similar path) This is an amazing blog! I know you say you are an optimist, but with 60 kids a class, the fact that you share their successes and their character so intimately shows how you really personally connected with all those students! Even with a language barrier! I could read this blog over and over- it is very funny and touching. Thanks for including your "successful lesson plans" section :) Your activism concerning the earthquake is also touching and inspirational- you have really made your trip to China mean so much to many people, not just yourselves. You and Cody are beautiful people and I think of you often. Love, Elycia |
| 20th June 2008 Jamie Buehner | Congratulations on a job well done :) - From: Reflections of a First-Time English Teacher in China (including tips and lesson ideas for people headed down a similar path) Stephanie: This was wonderful to read. Teaching is hard enough when everyone speaks the same language. It looks like you really made the most of your experience, and that you and your students benefited immensely. Bravo! Happy travels! Hi Cody! :) |
| 19th June 2008 mom/Janet | Teaching with "heart" - From: Reflections of a First-Time English Teacher in China (including tips and lesson ideas for people headed down a similar path) What a great blog, Stephanie! And such creative lessons. I loved the commercial idea and Get Out of Jail game. Great photos of the students. The Halfmann joke was extra funny because just a while before I read your blog Dad had asked me if I had ever thought of changing my last name because editors might find it strange. Well, at least it's always a conversation-starter--no matter what country you're in apparently. Have fun traveling. You deserve a vacation! Love ya! |
| 19th June 2008 Betsy | congrats - From: Reflections of a First-Time English Teacher in China (including tips and lesson ideas for people headed down a similar path) i may have just sent you a comment that said "CONGRATS" because i prematurely hit the return key. anyway, what it meant to say was "CONGRATS on being done teaching!" such a wonderful feeling! especially after all that you went through! even though you have decided that teaching is not for you, i am impressed with some of your very creative lessons! i especially loved the guess who game--so great! hope to talk to you soon! enjoy your summer of travels! :) |
| 19th June 2008 Drew | Wow! - From: Reflections of a First-Time English Teacher in China (including tips and lesson ideas for people headed down a similar path) Wow Stephanie. Amazing! Congratulations on finishing and enjoy your travels! Drew |
| 19th June 2008 My uncles Nephew | You did great - From: Reflections of a First-Time English Teacher in China (including tips and lesson ideas for people headed down a similar path) I guess if you're only half man, you must be half animal, at least from a Chinese perspective with less gender distinctions. Or tell them Half man, half woman, now that would surprise them! Since in one being a balance of these aspects called male and female is healthy. Great blog and great job...you did way more successful activities than me, and do not doubt their english improved, regardless of the content you taught, which, doubtless, was better than what many chinese students receive. And they are fortunate to have one who cares. |
| 2nd June 2008 Maxine | - From: EARTHQUAKE! (+How to Help! ) Is it Plan B time? |
| 30th May 2008 Erin | - From: EARTHQUAKE! (+How to Help! ) Love you guys...so glad you're doing okay!!! |
| 27th May 2008 Kate | - From: EARTHQUAKE! (+How to Help! ) Thank God you two are OK!! Sending many, many thoughts and prayers your way! |
| 22nd May 2008 Maxine | camping out - From: EARTHQUAKE! (+How to Help! ) Camping on that stage looks pretty sad. Hope the quakes stop shaking, and life can regain order - like a roof over your heads in your own apartment. And for those who lost their homes, I hope China reacts faster than the US for Katrina disaster. God be with you. |
| 21st May 2008 Laura, Jamie, Evan & baby#2 | hey! - From: EARTHQUAKE! (+How to Help! ) it warms my heart to know that you two are alive and well out there...take care of yourselves and enjoy those stars! Looking forward to hearing more about how y'all are doing. ;-) |
| 19th May 2008 Aunt Becky | - From: EARTHQUAKE! (+How to Help! ) Everyone is thankful you are okay.........would anyone ever have thought this could happen while you were there.......what a tradegy...so many lives lost. A belated thank-you also for the post card. So interesting to hear about your travels - what a great experience for the two of you....please take care |
| 16th May 2008 Nicki | Phew!! - From: EARTHQUAKE! (+How to Help! ) I'm so glad you two are okay!! When I heard about the earthquake I immediately thought about you two. I hope your travels continue to go well and you stay healthy and safe! I miss you so much! Love you! |
| 16th May 2008 Pam | - From: EARTHQUAKE! (+How to Help! ) Steph and Cody I'm so glad you guys are O.K. I heard quickly from Mom that you were all right. How devastating and sad. Please e-mail me when you get the time. P.S. We did get your letters! Love , Pam and Company |
| 15th May 2008 Fergy | Thank Goodness - From: EARTHQUAKE! (+How to Help! ) I'm so glad you guys are okay. I didn't think to check the blog - that probably would have been a good move! But I have been thinking of you and those around you - I hope you stay safe and healthy. <3 |
| 15th May 2008 Maxine | - From: 51 pictures! Emei Shan - magical. Pandas - adorable. Must have been wonderful having company from home. |
| 15th May 2008 Maxine | - From: EARTHQUAKE! (+How to Help! ) Thank God you are OK. Stay safe. Hard and sad times for the 12000 + who have lost their lives, let alone how many 1000's have lost their homes. Thank you for writing so quickly. |
| 14th May 2008 kevin | - From: EARTHQUAKE! (+How to Help! ) been a rough couple a weeks for southeast asia |
| 14th May 2008 Keri | yikes - From: EARTHQUAKE! (+How to Help! ) I was out disc golfing when Adam says, "hey, did you hear about that earthquake in China where over 13,000 people died?" And I FLIPPED OUT and we were only on hole 5, so I had to wait over an hour before getting home to check your blog. Thank God your OK and prayers to those afflicted. It will be interesting to hear more about whats going on with you there as this plays out. Good luck! |
| 13th May 2008 Drew | Wow! - From: EARTHQUAKE! (+How to Help! ) Hi guys, So glad to hear that you are OK! Be safe. We are all thinking of you and the people of Sichuan. |
| 13th May 2008 Emily | glad you are safe - From: EARTHQUAKE! (+How to Help! ) i'm really glad both you and cody are safe, stephanie. much like others posting comments, my thoughts immediately went to you two when i heard the extent of the earthquake damage. sending you good energy as yourselves and your community begin the healing process. |
| 13th May 2008 Andi | gee golly - From: EARTHQUAKE! (+How to Help! ) I sure am happy you are alive and safe! My mother was just working herself up into a tizzy wondering about you guys, as was I. Thanks for posting right away. And thanks for all of your posts, and all of your pictures...especially the one of Cody kicking ass at rugby. And you also give us many warm fuzzies every time we can recognize exactly who wrote which section. Miss you! |
| 13th May 2008 Christie Rosebraugh | - From: EARTHQUAKE! (+How to Help! ) so glad you guys are okay !! im thinking about you ! |
| 13th May 2008 Teresa | - From: EARTHQUAKE! (+How to Help! ) Thinking of you too.. glad you guys are ok. Crazy stuff, seriously. |
| 13th May 2008 James | intense - From: EARTHQUAKE! (+How to Help! ) Hey, glad y'all are okay--don't do any looting now! (w00t!) |
| 12th May 2008 kelly | whew - From: EARTHQUAKE! (+How to Help! ) my gosh. so glad to hear you're ok. you two shot to mind when i heard the news...so relieved you are ok and that you were not hit hard where you are. i'm sorry that this happened and for the stress you and those around you may feel from it. hopefully your community will be able to be a pillar of strength and rally up some support for those hit harder. i suppose it's kind of inappropriate time to make a first comment, but the pictures and blogs are beautifully shot and written and you both look wonderful as ever. it's great to hear about what you are doing and that you're both doing well. just thought i would pop in and say congrats on all your successes abroad so far and thinking of you on this end :) take care. |
| 12th May 2008 Maxine | earthquake - From: Stephanie on Being a First Time English Teacher 7.9 earthquake with over 300 aftershocks. Hope you are safe. My prayers are with you, and and with all the people involved in this disaster. According to the news, it most affected Chendgu area. Isn't that near your China home? God by with you. |
| 12th May 2008 Janet | Everyone involved is in our thoughts. - From: EARTHQUAKE! (+How to Help! ) So glad you're safe!!!!! Thanks so much for sending the blog to let us all know. We feel so bad about all the deaths, injuries, and destruction. Thanks for offering to keep us posted. All our love. |
| 12th May 2008 Angie | Good. - From: EARTHQUAKE! (+How to Help! ) I got a little freaked when I heard news reports coming out of Chengdu this moring, but thank goodness for blogs. You guys should be foreign correspondents - most of the US news is pretty skeptical, saying "reportedly" and "according to China's state media" at least once per paragraph. It's good to hear it straight from the source. Take care. |
| 12th May 2008 Sundeep | - From: EARTHQUAKE! (+How to Help! ) Yikes. Glad you guys are OK. |
| 12th May 2008 christian | thanks - From: EARTHQUAKE! (+How to Help! ) for the prompt notification. |
| 12th May 2008 Mandy Block | Glad you're okay! - From: EARTHQUAKE! (+How to Help! ) Hey Steph~ I saw the news this morning about the big quake in China and I immediately thought of you and I'm so glad you posted something about being alright already-I hope you two are enjoying May in your exciting distant adventure-also, your blog is awesome and I've been checking it out here and there-makes me want to go check out china myself-take care. ~* Mandy |
| 12th May 2008 Mike K | Earthquake - From: 51 pictures! Hear about the earthquake. Are you two ok? |
| 9th May 2008 Mom/Janet | Love the 51 photos - From: 51 pictures! "two aimless waterbugs on the pond of life"--you might know I would love that phrase! Stephanie, did the acupuncture help your back? Those black-and-white-striped rugby uniforms are quite something! The panda photos are great--I can see why you wanted to share them. So glad both of you were able to vacation with Laura and Sarah, but I got breathless just reading about all of that climbing. Is there any easier way to get up the mountain so one can experience the Buddhist temples and guesthouses? Hope all goes well with your visas. Miss you both tons! |
| 9th May 2008 george | nice pics - From: 51 pictures! Good journeys eh, you do more things than me. Love the photos, lets keep in touch about our own travels, I will send you an email. Peace. |
| 2nd May 2008 mom/kay | got my pencil.... - From: Stephanie on Being a First Time English Teacher Finally have our internet back at home, so the first thing I wanted to do was say "hi!" Your teaching experience sounds completely amazing and overwhelming, but you sound like a natural. I believe you will leave a wonderful, lasting mark on the lives of your hundreds and hundreds of students. Now I want to know if you've organized a glee club yet??? |
| 28th April 2008 James Waldo | Here's to teaching! - From: Stephanie on Being a First Time English Teacher Hey Steph, this is so cool! It has been awhile since I have checked out the blog, and I am really interested in all this stuff you are doing. Goose head?!? hard core. I hope that neither you, Cody, nor anyone you know were involved in the horrific train accident that happened today. I have been learning a lot about teaching this spring as well, though in a very different way--I am teaching 8 15-16 year old guys how to pole vault. I used to vault in high school, but that is ancient history, and I have had to do a ton of studying to keep up with these guys. Earning their respect has proven to be the biggest ongoing challenge, but a huge plus is that I am pole vaulting again! Take care, and keep writing! |
| 25th April 2008 Michalina | - From: Stephanie on Being a First Time English Teacher Wow, awesome how you guys are really putting yourselves out there and immersing in Chinese life!! I love this post, Steph. My Chinese teacher, who is adorable and really funny, often hints about the lack of personality shown in Chinese classrooms. Just yesterday she told us that kids aren't allowed to wear hats in school... not crazy, but an interesting difference from UW, anyways. She also told me that karaoke is big in China, is this true? Anyways, I was glad to see that I'm not too behind on your blog! |
| 5th April 2008 David White | Your mother at the dance last night ... - From: Stephanie on Being a First Time English Teacher was just glowing when she spoke of your adventures. I'd think she'd like to visit, too, someday. And I am glad to hear you're getting a visitor. I've been to your blog before and will be back again. Fascinating pictures and stories. How courageous. I remember being young. |
| 2nd April 2008 Maxine | - From: Stephanie on Being a First Time English Teacher Forgot to ask you, Stephanie, how was it, working in the first second hand store in Chengdu? You must be a very high energy person to work "2 jobs". The natural beauty of the mountain you hiked is breath taking. How's your rugby/team doing, Cody? |
| 2nd April 2008 Maxine | - From: Stephanie on Being a First Time English Teacher 800 students !@#$! I will have to start calling you Saint Stephanie, because it is seems so humanly impossible to handle 800 students in a week. I spoke with a college professor here, and he has never had that many students, even when he has an auditorium class. How do you learn 800 Chinese names, and grade 800 students? I am sure they love you. How motivating of YOU to have them teach you in Chinese, what you are teaching them in English. Clever lady. Hard working too. You deserve 800 pats on the back. Hello, Cody. How did the game go? How was your Easter? Love to you both. |
| 26th March 2008 Jannelle | Amazing - From: Stephanie on Being a First Time English Teacher Your trip sounds like it is so amazing! I love reading your blog :) Way to go...800 students...whoa. I'm sure you are a wonderful teacher. |
| 26th March 2008 Peder | - From: Stephanie on Being a First Time English Teacher Always good to read that you are finding ways to keep life interesting and fun, even though there's challenges. Speaking of challenges...and I have no idea if the Chinese government will censor this...but here goes: I'm interested to know what you've been able to learn about Tibetan protests. NPR here says there's been quite a bit of suppression of information regarding it...just curious. |
| 21st March 2008 christine | - From: Stephanie on Being a First Time English Teacher what time to you get home? |
| 21st March 2008 christine | - From: Stephanie on Being a First Time English Teacher well, i just want you to know I am reading and watching your blog diligently. unfortunately i never have any witty quips or inspirational messages. . . . . it's snowing today... again |
| 17th March 2008 alex matos | WOW - From: Stephanie on Being a First Time English Teacher ur blog deffinatly cool!!! *adds to favs* hi im alex long time reader first time commenter :D I just wanted to know how much money you took with you when you went to China? your latest blog entry deffinatly cool, really good to hear some first hand details rather then assumptions from tesol sites. please dont stop blogging!!! :D |
| 17th March 2008 Drew | - From: Do You Know Gong Fu? - Pictures, videos, and commentary from Chinese New Year 2008 Amazing dancing lion! And it was great to see you frolicking in the surf steph! Sorry about the blow to the jewels cody! Drew, Angela and Benji |
| 17th March 2008 Tom/Dad | Hi from Home - From: Stephanie on Being a First Time English Teacher thanks for the lowdown on what your teaching hour/day/week is like, Stephanie. It provides a little better idea of what your situation is. 60 students in a class is pretty much. I'm guessing they must be more manageable than the same age students would be here in the states. How do you find time for other important things, like eating and sleeping? The pictures are really great. I'm sure it must help that you're establishing some good friendships with some of the students and faculty. We're looking forward to hearing how Cody's week went with the rugby team. I hope he has some pictures. We miss you. So long for now. |
| 16th March 2008 janet/mom | A truckload of apples for the teacher. - From: Stephanie on Being a First Time English Teacher Wow, Stephanie, what an interesting blog. You certainly have your work cut out for you--800 students a week is mind-boggling! But you can tell you're getting through to lots of them by the crowds that want to attend your extra class. The mountain climbing looks like a fun way to spend a Sunday afternoon. We'll be expecting some rugby team photos from Cody. Love you both so much. Miss you. |
| 15th March 2008 Teresa | - From: Do You Know Gong Fu? - Pictures, videos, and commentary from Chinese New Year 2008 i absolutely love reading this, you guys. what adventure youre having! Steph, i love the frolicking:) And I cant believe the train fiasco! I love you both!~ |
| 14th March 2008 kevin | - From: Do You Know Gong Fu? - Pictures, videos, and commentary from Chinese New Year 2008 never turn your back on the ocean. |
| 9th March 2008 Nicole | better late then never! - From: And Happy Holidays to You! Mondo Q&A Post. SO, im just a few months late, but i love the videos! you guys are so cute, not to mention very talented! When did you learn to play the harmonica like that cody?? very impressive. I wish we could be singing carols together in stephanies jam-packed car on a ride back home to milw where all you could hear was my voice because my head was buried under all of our belongings for the next month or so...oh do i ever miss you guys. love you both and can't wait to read more!! |
| 5th March 2008 Maxine | - From: Do You Know Gong Fu? - Pictures, videos, and commentary from Chinese New Year 2008 Greetings. As usual, your blog is food for much thought. The generosity and warmth of George's family, who began as strangers to you, is truly notable. I discovered I very much like the Chinese people when I toured China. My experience found them warm family oriented, kind, curious about the US culture/politics. It takes several sessions of viewing your blog to get through all your fabulous photos, and videos, and then viewing them again, and so many experiences you share. Thank you. |
| 3rd March 2008 Pam, Makoe, Monae, East, and West | - From: Do You Know Gong Fu? - Pictures, videos, and commentary from Chinese New Year 2008 HAPPY BIRTHDAY STEPH! WE LOVE YOU! |
| 1st March 2008 mom/kay | gong fu ouch! - From: Do You Know Gong Fu? - Pictures, videos, and commentary from Chinese New Year 2008 As usual, it appears you experienced pretty much everything possible on your latest adventure. What a wonderful, welcoming family! And the food sounded so good! Wisconsin may even seem warm to you after your stay there... Loved best the path-prancing Stephanie picture, and the incredible dancing lion. And the turtle, of course. Love you lots!!! Happy Birthday, Steph! |
| 1st March 2008 michalina | Happy Birthday Steph! - From: Do You Know Gong Fu? - Pictures, videos, and commentary from Chinese New Year 2008 so funny--"There’s nothing worse than onlookers when you’re ruffling your tummy feathers." also so gross. you guys are quite strong to be so patient! and the lion dance is crazy! so colorful! Lovin it! Emails to the both of you coming soon... |
| 29th February 2008 emmy | - From: Do You Know Gong Fu? - Pictures, videos, and commentary from Chinese New Year 2008 woww! that's really cool you were able to meet up with george/family and see China's countryside. that noodle maker is incredible...i bet those were delightful! loving this blog! |
| 29th February 2008 janet/mom | love the dancing lion - From: Do You Know Gong Fu? - Pictures, videos, and commentary from Chinese New Year 2008 Monae and East just loved the dancing lion!!!! They watched it over and over and over again. And they liked the surf dodging too! Love you tons. |
| 27th February 2008 debbie of the wristlet | barf bags - From: Do You Know Gong Fu? - Pictures, videos, and commentary from Chinese New Year 2008 Cody...you make me proud. Barfing in a crowd and hanging onto it...that is what foreign travel is all about. |
| 24th February 2008 janet/mom | Happy Chinese New Year! - From: Do You Know Gong Fu? - Pictures, videos, and commentary from Chinese New Year 2008 Wow!!! What a great Chinese New Year's festival. I love your adjectives describing the food. Makes the mouth water. I simply love the dancing lion!!!!! And I love the countryside. What a treasure to find such a wonderful, warm welcoming family! What does Nu'er mean? The TV watching seemed a lot lile New Year's eve here. I wonder what people there did before TV. How cold was that water, Stephanie? Was that the ocean or a lake? Thanks for sharing your wonderful holiday with us. Love you tons! |
| 15th February 2008 Jay Roberts | teaching & traveling there - From: Back to Living Out of a Backpack Thanks for sharing. Happy Valentine's Day from Utah (originally from Milwaukee). I've been offered a position teaching English at a modern-looking Institute there. I turn 56 this month. Do you think a fellow with background in Humanities, Latin, Library Science, family history, and teaching would be comfortable there? The school offers 1200rmb for housing, plus a salary, but no food or travel allowance. You seem courageous, and I hope you have a Happy Year of the Rat there! |
| 14th February 2008 Michalina | Wo ai ni! - From: The Largest Annual Human Migration Can you understand pinyun without the accent marks? This is what I'm learning in my chinese class... i love it! Steph, how is your Chinese coming along? And Cody, can you understand what's being said on the streets? And hold a conversation? I love you guys! Happy Valentine's Day! |
| 12th February 2008 Dad/Tom | ahow's everything? - From: The Largest Annual Human Migration Hi Stephanie and Cody. I got tired of looking out the window and watching it snow, so I thought I'd send a little note. It's interesting to re-read your blog entries. I often notice something I missed. Glad things went well in HK. It sounds like a pretty neat city. I guess that's kind of an understatement, hey? I get hungry when I look at your blog entries about the food. Looking forward to hearing from you when you get back to Cheng Du. |
| 12th February 2008 Maxine | Snow storm - From: The Largest Annual Human Migration China made the news here again yesterday. Emergency supplies to include blankets, jackets, and food supplies were shipped out from Hawaii through our military, to aide the victims of the severe snow storm in China. So far, Obama and Clinton are almost in a dead heat regarding delegates. It may come down to something called "super delegates" votes, to determine who will be the democratic candidate for presidential candidate. Stay warm. How was you New Year spent with the Chinese family? |
| 11th February 2008 emmy | - From: The Largest Annual Human Migration a belated happy new year! i love how that person made you guys draw a heart..that sleeping train sounds really intense..but rad, it's like an extended version of head to foot sleeping but with the feet of strangers instead of micha's. sss i am glad there are pointy elbowed people everywhere! is that tuna sized correctly? really that huge?! |
| 9th February 2008 Marisa Polansky | - From: The Largest Annual Human Migration Hi guys! Just wanted to let you know im keeping up on your adventures and i miss you dearly steph. So glad to see you're still finding ways to display that beautiful voice of yours. Lots and lots and lots of love. |
| 8th February 2008 mom/kay | snow fun - From: The Largest Annual Human Migration Once again, I am truly impressed with the time and effort you put into your wonderful journal and pictures, given all that you are going through. I believe your positive, upbeat, what next? attitudes are amazing, and most likely why you seem to emerge from any encounter as just one more adventure along the way. We watched the storm coverage on the uncles' China channel---they were showing people shoveling huge highways with what looked like coal shovels. Sure puts things into perspective. Hope your new year was fun, with lots of fireworks! |
| 8th February 2008 Pam | - From: The Largest Annual Human Migration Hi guys. Hope you are surviving your New Year's celebrations! We saw pictures on the news of all the stranded passengers sleeping in train stations, etc. because of the snow, etc. Wow! I love that picture of you guys on the train after like hour 30 or something. Congratulations too Steph on getting your Z visa. When will it start to get warm there? I bet you guys will have a beautiful spring and summer. The big news here is 18 inches of snow! Oh yeah and High School Musical on ice for Monae and Laura. She was so excited about it! Thanks Laura! Love you guys. Pam |
| 7th February 2008 Michalina | Xin nian kuan le! - From: The Largest Annual Human Migration Happy New Year, guys! Can't wait to hear how you spent it! And an ignorant question.... so do you not follow our calendar at all in China? How does that work exactly? Because I know you went out for "New Year's" already... |
| 7th February 2008 Maxine | - From: The Largest Annual Human Migration Kung hee fat choy. |
| 6th February 2008 Maxine | Snow storm - From: The Largest Annual Human Migration Hi. Wow, that snow storm made all the news here and I was thinking about you and how it was affecting your travels. 49 hours on a hard bench on a crowded smelly frozen train. Making unique memories. Congratulations on getting your Z visa, Stephanie. I thoroughly enjoy your excellently written blog and beautiful pictures, especially the steam table one, and the heart with you 2 in it. The news her is that is is Super Tuesday, and 22 states are having primary voting. Won't get California's count until sometime tomorrow - they have 370 or so delegates - the largest of all states. So much for U.S.A. news. Keep warm. |
| 5th February 2008 Mom/Janet | Amazing! - From: The Largest Annual Human Migration I am just blown away by all of your adventures and how you manage to stay mostly upbeat through them all--the stinky bathroom would have driven me to distraction! And those tight sleeping quarters--I get claustrophobic just reading about it. Thanks so much for taking the time to give us so many details. It really does make it seem like I'm there for at least a little bit of the adventure. That day-long bus pass on the island sounds phenomenal! What kinds of snow activities do they do where there is lots of snow? How did you get connected to this family you will be sharing the Chinese New Year with. We'll be thinking of you enjoying all the festivities. Can't wait to hear about them! Miss you both tons! |
| 4th February 2008 mukesh | my friend - From: When two blogs join forces- 1 superblog stephanie i am very happy to watch ur travel photos, i think ur very happy in china. i wish u a happy days, ur smile was great keep it, with regars mukesh nair , kerala |
| 29th January 2008 Annie Blackwood Honrath | This is it! - From: S is for Spicy - everything you want to know about Sichuan food This has been my favorite posting of yours, of course. Excellent job describing in detail each and every colorful dish--I feel as though I have had my dose of cookbook reading for the day. |
| 29th January 2008 anonymous | Happy New Year - From: Back to Living Out of a Backpack Enjoy your travels! I can't believe Laura has already bought her tickets to visit you. We can't wait to come too. Love you! |
| 28th January 2008 throat | SNOW? - From: Back to Living Out of a Backpack I just read about a blanketing. Have you any toboggans? |
| 25th January 2008 Maxine | - From: Back to Living Out of a Backpack Aloha. How are your backpack travels going? 35 degrees and rain and ice sound terrible to me, as I feel cold when we have 68 degree evenings in Waikiki. But, for those folks in 0 degree weather in Wisconsin, it puts perspective. The right wardrobe can make the difference, and I don't think those "sleeve savers" add too much warmth to you. So, stay warm. I am enjoying watching our political caucus season here in the US, with female running for president. Happy Chinese New Year. |
| 22nd January 2008 mom/kay | happy new year! - From: Back to Living Out of a Backpack Sounds like your New Year's celebration was really a lot of fun. Karaoke, hustling foosball, crazy eights: you're definitely leaving your mark on Chengdu! Cannot wait to hear about the actual Chinese New Year/Spring Festival celebrations going on there--especially since it's your Year of the Rat, Cody. Now I must ask: who is watering your chia elucidation while you are gone?? |
| 22nd January 2008 Pam | - From: Back to Living Out of a Backpack Hi guys! You are making me toooo jealous! Hope everything goes well with your visa Steph. Keep up the entries. I love to read them. Happy New Year! |
| 20th January 2008 Mom/Janet | On the road again - From: Back to Living Out of a Backpack Wish I could have been a fly on the wall during the singing extravaganza. Sounds like a great time! The medical exam required is really comprehensive. Is it easer to get a student visa than a workers visa? Hope all of that goes well. We're looking forward to your travel adventures. Are you already expeiencing warmer weater? Today, for the Playoffs atLambeau it's below zero and way below zero with the windchill. People are paying hundreds of dollars to freeze to death. The only news in Wisconsin right now is the Packers and the weather! Stay warm! |
| 20th January 2008 Maxine | Spring Break - From: Back to Living Out of a Backpack Happy Chinese New Year. Seems you 2 make friends ery easily. Must be your winning way. That medical exam of Stephanie's sure was THOROUGH and FAST. The U. S. should take a lesson. Very interesting to learn how Karaoke is done in Chengdu - private rooms. Spring Break in the winter - how does that work? Does it last until Spring? |
| 19th January 2008 Larva | here we come! - From: Back to Living Out of a Backpack we are coming! April 10-May 1. Sarah and I are freaking out over our just-purchased tickets to come see you and are spending the coldest day of the year eating cinnamon rolls at Sarah's in Chicago and reading the Rough Guide to China. Can. Not. Wait! Love you guys. Larva |
| 18th January 2008 Michalina | - From: And Happy Holidays to You! Mondo Q&A Post. hahaha! I love the video! so cute!!! it definitely brought me back into the christmas spirit, one month later.... keep up the good work, guys! |
| 16th January 2008 Monae | - From: S is for Spicy - everything you want to know about Sichuan food Hi Steph and Cody! I just saw all your pictures on your blog. Some of the food looked very good. I just turned 8! I can't wait until you guys come back. Love, Monae |
| 13th January 2008 debbie | fruity cake - From: S is for Spicy - everything you want to know about Sichuan food Cody and Steph...I think you should buy that whole big cake and ship it home to mama...it looks like a quilt! Beautiful, really. I also loved the underground candy store. Any dark, fertive types hangin out there? |
| 13th January 2008 Peder | yum - From: S is for Spicy - everything you want to know about Sichuan food All those dishes make me so dang hungry. Side note: You are doing a wonderful job of blogging. Keep it up! |
| 13th January 2008 mom/janet | Thanks for the food adventure - From: S is for Spicy - everything you want to know about Sichuan food What great food experiences you are having! I felt like I was right there feasting along with you. It's great that you're trying so many new things. Laura has been sending your posts to Grandma, and I can imagine she will enjoy these. Love and miss both of you! |
| 13th January 2008 mom/kay | craving some szechuan... - From: S is for Spicy - everything you want to know about Sichuan food Certainly looks like you are eating well! Your photos are fabulous, as usual. Love the facial expressions and wonderful food detail, all presented so artistically. I believe I am most impressed, however, with the thought of you two eating mashed potatoes and gravy with chopsticks. |
| 10th January 2008 Maxine | a New Year - From: And Happy Holidays to You! Mondo Q&A Post. Aloha. Steph, how is the job? Cody, did you get the classes you wanted? Chengdu looks very pretty from your photos. Yes, how is the food? I listen to Hawaiian music with friends 3 evenings a week, although my group goes 7 evenings a week. Do you have a mailing address? Take care. |
| 4th January 2008 Pam et al | - From: And Happy Holidays to You! Mondo Q&A Post. Hi guys! I loved your Q&A. I got the answers to many of my own probing questions. I too am living in my coat as usual so I feel a connection. Steph, please tell us more about how your job is going. We miss you guys. Keep up the good work! Love, Pam |
| 3rd January 2008 Mike K | Happy Holidays - From: And Happy Holidays to You! Mondo Q&A Post. Thanks for the video and cool Q & A session. Sorry to hear about the fake cave lighting (was my favorite picture). Keep us posted on the chia pet. Be safe. Gung hay fat choy (The only chinese I remember, had to cheat on the spelling though. Probably does not happen there till Feb sometime) |
| 28th December 2007 Angie | Cheese, Obviously. - From: And Happy Holidays to You! Mondo Q&A Post. I'm at home in MN, and I'm suffering from a little WI withdrawal, so, for inclusion in the food post, how's the cheese? Your video was delightful. Happy Holidays! |
| 28th December 2007 Maxine | - From: And Happy Holidays to You! Mondo Q&A Post. WOW. I am so impressed by your Christmas singing video!!! Stephanie, beautiful voice. Cody, did not know you played the harmonica. Enjoyed watching you. Now, on to a happy CHINESE New Year. Very interesting those sleeves for the jacket. Buy blankets and keep warm. |
| 27th December 2007 Mom/Janet | Merry Christmas! - From: And Happy Holidays to You! Mondo Q&A Post. What an awesome performance!!!! Stephanie, you never sing long enough for me! Cody, you're getting very accomplished on the harmonica! Are you two getting used to being cold all the time. Stephanie, I can't imagine you liking this aspect too much. Those sleeve covers are quite something. Do some people wear different ones every day? Are they a style element, sort of like a tie? I loved the answers to all the questions. Which floor is your apartment on? It looks like it's up pretty high. Are there other English teachers from the United States or other countries there too? What is the story behind the Satori tees? I'm probably the only one who doesn't know. You can bet that I'll be listening to your performance over and over and over again. Miss you both so much! |
| 27th December 2007 mom kay | holiday greetings - From: And Happy Holidays to You! Mondo Q&A Post. Truly enjoyed the stunning holiday performance art! And I am quite envious of your chia elucidation... Sounds like you're keeping the family traditions alive even on the other side of the world--way to go! Love you and miss you, but with your caroling video running on a continuous loop in the background, it was like you were actually here with us.... Will we receive a New Year's performance as well? Or do we have to wait for the Chinese New Year? |
| 26th December 2007 Maxine | Mele Kalimaka - From: And Happy Holidays to You! Mondo Q&A Post. Merry Christmas. Your photos continue to be so beautiful and expressive of the culture there. There is a book called "River Town", written by a fellow who worked for the Peace Corp, in Wuhan. He now lives in Beijing. Pulitzer prize winner for his novel. Very informative. One needs to take care of their health there. Pick it up if you can. |
| 26th December 2007 Maxine | Chengdu and guardian angel. . . - From: And Happy Holidays to You! Mondo Q&A Post. Wow. You 2 are so BRAVE Did you do a lot of research before arriving in China? Looking for jobs in a city where you are LOST - yes, determined. The visa process does sound confusing. Hope those come through for you. Tray, your guide, sounds more like a guardian angel. WHAT ACCOMPLISHMENTS. Cody, learning Mandarin. Stephanie, teaching singing, and so cute, the students should adore you. Your apt looks FABULOUS. You should see how terrible the housing is in Waikik. Love those opera masks under your Christmas tree. Lots of love nad keep having the adventures of a lifetime. |
| 22nd December 2007 Fergy | Amnemities - From: The Stats: Chengdu (Part 2) Are there any apartments that DO include the monkeys? If so, please let me know. |
| 21st December 2007 Mom/Janet | Great apartment! - From: The Stats: Chengdu (Part 2) I'm so happy everything worked out with the job and classes and the apartment. Can't wait to hear more about the teaching and classes. The apartment looks wonderful! And with Christmas decorations no less! Your stockings are haning up here, too! Steph, I bet you love all those big windows! I too, would like US dollars for the Chinese currency. I know I could figure it out but we like to relax while we're reading your blog. After all, we're on a virtual vacation! Love and miss you both very much. P.S. Did I tell you we've had 23 inches of snow already! |
| 21st December 2007 Drew | Wow! Beautiful city! - From: Introduction to Chengdu (Part 1) Chengdu looks so beautiful. What a great place to settle. I can't wait to come visit you! |
| 21st December 2007 Drew | Wow! Awesome pad! - From: The Stats: Chengdu (Part 2) A transporter and high solar gain--you've done well for yourselves. I'm so excited for you guys! |
| 20th December 2007 Mike K | Amazing - From: The Stats: Chengdu (Part 2) Very cool! Congatulations on everything, life is definitely amazing. Keep the pcitures and updates coming, we all really enjoy it. Be safe. |
| 18th December 2007 mom kay | just a few questions - From: The Stats: Chengdu (Part 2) Actually, I also have a few questions that hopefully others reading these comments will have been wondering about as well: 1) When you tell us how much your expenses/salaries are in RMB, could you possibly include the American dollar equivalent as well? Imagine how impressed we will all be when we see what deals you are getting without having to try to figure it out ourselves.... 2) Steph: how did you manage to jam a teacher's wardrobe into your backpack? Or will this venture require new clothes? (Because you know what Thoreau said....) 3) Steph again: are you getting enough chocolate? (Can you tell I miss your humor????) love you... |
| 17th December 2007 tinetine | jk - From: The Stats: Chengdu (Part 2) i am so jealous. i hate you both. jk. |
| 17th December 2007 Peder | Seriously - From: The Stats: Chengdu (Part 2) ...that shower is a portal into the future. In-sane. In other news, glad to read that all is going quite swimmingly for you two. I am pleased to know that yall gots an APT and it looks quite swanky. So good of the school to hook that up for you. I surely would like to write to you sometime, so whenever you have the chance please shoot me your new addy. Take care! |
| 17th December 2007 bobble-head lobster | getting jealous - From: The Stats: Chengdu (Part 2) man, you two are cool as hell! don't worry, the truck is running fine. |
| 16th December 2007 mom kay | home sweet apartment! - From: The Stats: Chengdu (Part 2) What a spiffy living space! Must feel wonderful after the hostels and trains. And it's all yours! The festive decorations, computer and wok are all just icing on the tea cake...just doesn't get any better than that. Congratulations on the job, Stephanie, and good luck with your immersion Mandarin, Cody. You two are really truly amazing individuals. love you lots! |
| 16th December 2007 Pam | - From: The Stats: Chengdu (Part 2) Hi you guys! I think Chengdu sounds great! You will have plenty to explore there for a few months, it seems! It's hard to believe you guys are over in China! It is freezing here and we have a foot of snow! Your apartment is so cute! We love reading your posts, keep up the good work! We love you guys. Stay safe. Pam |
| 16th December 2007 larva | sweet pad - From: The Stats: Chengdu (Part 2) Sweeeeeeet pad you guys! Wowsa wowsa! Okay, Sarah and I chomping at the bit over here. Just let us know when you will be ready for visitors! love you! Larva |
| 16th December 2007 Zeppy! | in china!!! - From: Introduction to Chengdu (Part 1) Wow I didn't know you guys were going to China! That is awesome!!! I wish you both the best of luck, BUT, I do miss our days in 310 Swenson :-) ~Betsy |
| 15th December 2007 debbie with the wristlet | toilets - From: Introduction to Chengdu (Part 1) How are the toilets? Steppers? or sitters? You really got the adventure going. Great job on the blog. |
| 15th December 2007 Mom/Janet | - From: Introduction to Chengdu (Part 1) Hi, Stephanie and Cody. Chengdu sounds wonderful. I love the dragon carvings and the tortuga! What do the temples look like inside? Will you be going to some services? Can't wait to hear more about the job search and all. It's sort of like the Dallas cliffhanger--Did she take the job, did the universities swoon over Cody? Can't wait to hear more. Love you tons! |
| 15th December 2007 larvey | small heads! - From: Introduction to Chengdu (Part 1) Yay for beautiful people with small heads! I hope you told her that small headed people are actually very large brained. On behalf of all of us readers out here, may I say that your blogs are absolutely fantastic and that we are so grateful that you are taking the time to share your journey with us. Interestingly, as I read the text I totally gloss over the pictures, thinking, "yeah, whatever, some pictures from China." Then I realize that they are PICTURES FROM CHINA! And that they're your pictures from China from right NOW, and then I get lost in the pictures and forget to read! Needless to say, it takes me hours to get through just one entry! Keep 'em coming! Love you, Larvey |
| 15th December 2007 Sue and Paul | We are really loving your adventure. - From: Introduction to Chengdu (Part 1) The pictures are fantastic. Have a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year. Keep those blogs coming. |
| 15th December 2007 mom kay | what a long, strange trip it's been.... - From: Introduction to Chengdu (Part 1) From touristy to downright intense....whoa. Sounds like you have to make some big decisions a little sooner than you had planned. The pictures are fabulous--what a beautiful city! The temples and carvings are unbelievable--love the tortuga and dragons! I see the jacket has appeared--hope you're staying warm enough, and that Steph's cold has cleared up. Cannot wait for part two!!! Love and miss you both lots! |
| 14th December 2007 Maxine | Central China - From: Pictures we promised 25 hour train ride to Chengdu. Loooong. You must be near Xian and the terra cotta soldiers. What fun. Will you have an opportunity to go to Tibet? Love your photos, you adventurers. |
| 14th December 2007 Maxine | - From: Welcome to Mainland China All the way to Sichuan province. The food is all hotly spiced there. If you can take an old English Riverboat ride on the Yangtze, do it. I spent 5 nights on one. Saw a lot of China along this river, stopping at a different port daily. You mentioned the cold. Beijing is near Russia. It snows in the winter. Very excited hearing about your free lancing travels. Brave. Aloha |
| 13th December 2007 Derek Deezy Grenfellnuts | OH MA GAWD! - From: Pictures we promised Hey you two! The trip looks simply amazing. I can't imagine how much fun you are having. Sorry it has taken so long to comment on your blog, but I have been keeping up with the reading part. The pics along with the blog have gotten me through countless hours spent at work. I want to personally tell you how much I appreciate that...thanks friends. It comes as no surprise to me that Cody's glasses have yet again taken a beating, but I guess there is not much else to do on the long plane ride over. A little update from back home...the Green Bay Packers are only 6 games away from yet another Super Bowl Title...probably gonna have to beat the New England Patriots again, but hey...that's how the cookie crumbles ya know. OK, that's it...back to work for ol' deezy. |
| 13th December 2007 mom kay | I'm with Joe K... - From: Pictures we promised Yeah, where are the photos of you wearing a Satori tee?!? And I'm not noticing any hits on the website from Chengdu, either... Waiting eagerly for the next journal entry in which we will all find out how your lives have changed this week. love you! |
| 13th December 2007 Maxine | - From: Pictures we promised I don't know if you are receiving my comments. 2 different mails disappeared in front of my eyes. Have a lovely Chinese Christmas. Really enjoying your lovely photo/great photography. |
| 9th December 2007 Teresa | HI! - From: Pictures we promised hey guys!!! this looks like so much fun. im so excited to keep reading.. and seeing all the pictures. what an amazing experience, im so jealous up here in wausau, wi. haha. love you!! |
| 8th December 2007 Joseph E Kubiak | Current Events - From: Welcome to Mainland China For some reason I was left off your e-mail list about your little blog here and had to pay Christian $50 for the link. This is unacceptable! I also see that you two have some sick obsession with people leaving comments on your pictures and whatnot, but please explain to me how people are to leave these comments when they are not provided with the link. Unlike all these other people that have posted comments I find your pictures thus far very unimpressive. Where are the all hobo’s, liquor and Wal-Marts? Not to mention there is no picture of either of you in a Satori Shirt. Also I see you two have be blogging about all the good times you are having, however I would like to hear more about the bad times, you know the times you were ready to pack up and go home right then. Please talk more about the fights and disagreements you are having, that’s the stuff that will keep people coming back. I hope things stay fresh in the old country, and don’t worry; I’ll be posting many comments now that I have this link. Godspeed. |
| 7th December 2007 kate | holy VMA - From: Pictures we promised Well, a little short on the singing. You two are making me crazy over here! Pure romance. Pure neon. Pure magic. |
| 6th December 2007 dad/tom | hi, stephanie & cody - From: Pictures we promised Drew set things up so I can view your blog on your laptop. I'm really glad and relieved that you both arrived safely and things are going well. We missed you at Thanksgiving but the turkey, cranberry sauce, etc still tasted really good. I really enjoy the pictues |
| 5th December 2007 Mom/Janet | Thanks for the pictures! - From: Pictures we promised I love the river and countryside pictures. That was so great that you got your own personal tour. I also love Dragon Bridge. I was surprised to see the Chungking Mansions. I had no idea they were a high-rise. Can't wait to hear about Chengdu! Love you tons, Mom |
| 4th December 2007 Betsy | hi friends! - From: Pictures we promised Hey Steph and Cody! Steph, I had a dream last night that you came home to visit for Christmas (I don't know why you would have done that...) and that you hated China and didn't want to go back. I had to check the blog again to make sure everything was o.k. Sure enough! Looks like you two are having a wonderful time and the pictures are absolutely amazing! Glad Cody got himself some glasses. Crisis averted. Well keep blogging because I am thinking about you kids and wondering what you are up to. Love you! Betsy |
| 4th December 2007 Sundeep | neon - From: Pictures we promised That neon cave was stunning. Was that glow actually natural? |
| 2nd December 2007 Annie Blackwood Honrath | Hello Stephanie and Cody! - From: Pictures we promised Hi! I am a little ashamed to admit that I have only just begun to read your posts...I am not so good at keeping up with blogs, whether I am the writer or the reader. So far, though, I have found all of your writings to be very beautiful and interesting, and I hope that you continue these (indescribable) adventures so that us readers can get a little feel for what it's like to travel over there, as most of us for whatever reason have not ventured to China. Being on the west coast of Washington, I guess I am a lot closer to you two than most, and believe that a little hop over the ol' Pacific would be in order at some point. Oh we shall see, all in good time. Anyways, like I said, please keep writing and I will keep reading. I miss the both of you, and am so incredibly happy for you. More videos?! And more about the food! |
| 1st December 2007 Christian | River Photo - From: Pictures we promised Please tell me that the motorbike parked next to Cody was ya'll's mode of transport. RIP Mr. Evel Knievel. The pictures/info are/is great to see/read. Cheers |
| 1st December 2007 Mike K | Keep having fun. - From: Welcome to Mainland China Thanks for the video, enjoyed it. Glad to see Cody has glasses. The pictures of the Reed Flute cave are amazing. Take care and be safe. |
| 30th November 2007 Angela | I am wow'ed! - From: Welcome to Mainland China Hi Steph and Cody, looks like you guys are having a blast! I admire you for being so adventurous and bypassing so often the tourist way of doing things. I am sure you will have fabulous bargaining skills after a few weeks. Much love, Angela (Drew's wife ...) |
| 30th November 2007 Elycia | word choice - From: Only day three!? I love the words canoodle and ragamuffin, and it makes me feel like I can almost hear your voice, Steph! Thanks for keeping this blog for those of us back in the states! Courtney and I sent you a mental hello from Diwali night :) |
| 30th November 2007 Michalina | Thanks for the entertainment! - From: Welcome to Mainland China S + C--Sorry it's taken me so long to comment! I've read all your blog entries, but my computer would shut off before I could write a comment! Well, I waited 6 hours at Circuit City on Black Friday for a new one, so now I can keep up with you guys! I am so jealous, and was just looking up airfare for China! Also, I'm not sure how the visa system works... so you have to come home in two months, or can you reapply after that time? You should also know that I am totally living vicariously through you guys... I have to do an oral presentation in Spanish class on "a past trip I've taken," and I decided to go to China. I hope you don't mind that I stole some of your material... "Yo vi el montana el mas alto a Hong Kong y el tiempo hizo sol y calor." So thanks for the help on the homework! Look forward to reading your upcoming posts Love, Michalina |
| 28th November 2007 Sundeep | Ditto on the Indian sleepers - From: Welcome to Mainland China Reading this post made me hungry. Yay, Cody found glasses! |
| 27th November 2007 Mom/Janet | Yay, another post! - From: Welcome to Mainland China Love and miss you both, too. So glad Cody found glasses, and snazzy ones at that. I have to get a map of China because every time you mention a city, province, etc. I want to see where it is. I'll need to check the video on your computer, Steph, because it's not showing up on mine. Thank goodness for the guardian angels in our lives, huh! What amazing experiences you're having. Thanks so much for sharing them with us. Tell us more about the luck ball--what is the story behind, it etc. How did the other tourists react when you caught it? Love you both tons! |
| 27th November 2007 mom kay | wow.... - From: Welcome to Mainland China That's all I can say: wow!!! What an unbelievably amazing adventure you are having. Loved the video best--so great seeing you guys! Now I am heading out to get my very own, very detailed map of China to follow your path. My 1978 atlas just isn't cutting it. (Apparently a few things have changed since then....) And nice eyewear, Cody! At that price you probably should have picked up a spare pair just in case... Stay intrigued, stay adventurous, stay happy, stay safe....love you both! |
| 24th November 2007 kevin | woe the procrastinator - From: Only day three!? Had I just read your blog before Thanksgiving I would have gotten a Trivial Pursuit question correct (concerning Victoria Park). Thanks anyway! |
| 23rd November 2007 Coco | hey!! - From: When two blogs join forces- 1 superblog HEy guys!! I'm just getting to your blog now....it sounds like you are having an AMAZING experience already! Those pictures really make me want to go there...maybe we will have to have the 2nd annual womens retreat (and cody) there! I miss you guys! |
| 21st November 2007 Aunt Becky | greetings from DC - From: When two blogs join forces- 1 superblog Hi Stephanie & Cody....although only the start, your great adventure already sounds like just that...A"great adventure". I'm quite envious. I'm looking forward to Thanksgiving (especially when I don't have to cook!) It's my most favorite meal. I'm a fan of the Food Network, so am curious about the cuisine there and what you've sampled thus far. Take care...can't wait to hear more.(it's 65 degrees here today)......Love Aunt Becky..p.s. the pics are great! |
| 21st November 2007 Maxine | - From: Only day three!? Happy Thanksgiving, Cody and Stephanie. Visa's yet?? Guilin is lovely, and you must cruise the Li River, I think it is, for half day, to a lovely little village. From there, you can tour the "caves" in the hills. Beautiful. Be safe and have fun. |
| 21st November 2007 Pam, etc. | - From: When two blogs join forces- 1 superblog Hey there guys! It is so nice to hear that you are safe and sound and having fun!. We've all been thinking about you guys alot. Love you! |
| 20th November 2007 Maren | im giddy FOR you - From: Only day three!? so glad to hear you two made it safe! i wish you had a permanent-ish address cuz I would send you a play ball!!!! every word of your blog makes me smile HUGE style! I love you steve and you too cody the roadie. safe travels!! xoxo |
| 19th November 2007 Maxine | Fabulous Photos - From: Only day three!? You are in the thick of it, in Kowloon and HK. Great photos you are taking. Hope you have the opportunity to tour the island that houses the airport. Has a fishing village and hugh budda there. How's the food? |
| 19th November 2007 christine | get serious - From: Only day three!? Hot Rod - 1.5 Stars? So you watched Hot Rod in its entirety and slept through Harry Potter. This logic should get you far. I want Engrish pictures. You know what I mean. "Panty Thong Pharmacy" and "Make Lave Boutique", etc. We are all celebrating your safe arrival with a Thanksgiving feast at Yummy Buffet. Kisses. Yalla nanu yalla boolay ball (And may God forgive us all). |
| 18th November 2007 Nicki | happy day! - From: Only day three!? Hello Steph and Cody, Congrats on getting there, applying for visas, and having a great couple of days in the city. I'm so happy for you! Have you done karaoke yet? Hopefully that will be one of your next big adventures...show 'em what you got, Steph! I just want to tell you that I love you both and I hope it continues to go well and that you can find new glasses for Cody. Be safe and have fun! Lovelove, Nicki |
| 17th November 2007 Mom | Wow! Another comment - From: Only day three!? I was so excited to find another post so soon! That shadow hopscotch grid is amazing! Did you see any wildlife on Victoria's peak? So glad things are going so well. Great to see the new pictures of you. Love you tons. |
| 17th November 2007 mom/kay | what a beautiful city! - From: Only day three!? Your pictures are fabulous! Sounds like you're enjoying being tourists---and using your travel savvy skills to pump the locals for the real deals and meals.... Good luck with the glasses, Cody--wish I could send you some more contacts! love and miss you both! Keep having fun~ |
| 17th November 2007 laura | amazing pics! - From: Only day three!? Hello my dear friends! Cody, It appears your glasses hunt has intrigued us all! Forget football, we are now all participating in Fantasy Find-glasses Follies. Oh, there are a couple of pools going too, so I hope to make some serious cash with my prediction that a young panda bear on a unicycle will hand you a pair of perfectly snazzy, perfectly fitting glasses as she meanders past you. Don't let me down, I have a lot riding on this. For real, Hairspray on the plane?!!! Steph, I know you were nothing short of giddy at that moment. Also, I cry when I read every post. Aw, geez. Not sure how I can be so homesick for you guys already, but sure enough, I am. Longer letter coming later via your gmail, Steph. Cody, somehow I don't have your email address, so for now I'll send emails for you to Steph. Love you both! ~Larva |
| 17th November 2007 Aunt Sue & Uncle Paul | Glad you made it - From: When two blogs join forces- 1 superblog and glad you are safe. Can't wait to hear more from you, and good luck with the glasses. It's cold here, so enjoy the warm with for us. |
| 17th November 2007 zoe | yay! - From: When two blogs join forces- 1 superblog Steph and Cody!!! I am so excited that you are beginning such an amazing journey! And I get to tag along via this amazing blog....great great great. I can't write too much now, off to see Beowulf in 3D! good luck with the glass cody, and i miss you and love you steph. Zoe |
| 16th November 2007 laura | whew! - From: When two blogs join forces- 1 superblog Hi Guys! Thank you so much for your post. Even though I've signed up to be notified of new entries, I still check your blog everyday just in case...what a dork I am. Anyway, I am wayyy curious to hear the story of how you get new glasses, Cody. Was the visa process laborious? Is it for 4 months? More, more, more, please! |
| 16th November 2007 Mark Kloeckner | in touch - From: When two blogs join forces- 1 superblog Hey, glad you guys made it safe. Sounds like you have embarked on an adventure of a life time. I look forward to hearing about the rest of the journey. Be safe! Stephanie, sorry I miss you at my Mom’s. Uncle Mark |
| 16th November 2007 Mike K | Have Fun - From: When two blogs join forces- 1 superblog Very cool. I am new to this whole blog experience. I am excited to be able to track your trip. Enjoy it and be safe. It is definitiely a once in a lifetime opportunity. |
| 16th November 2007 Rach | - From: When two blogs join forces- 1 superblog I am so glad you two made it safely!!!! It already sounds beautiful, Steph. Code--bummer about the glasses! Seriously though, the glasses in China are probably cheaper and much sweeter :) Love you guys! Can't wait to see more updates. |
| 16th November 2007 Drew | - From: When two blogs join forces- 1 superblog You made it! Congratulations! Good luck finding glasses Cody! |
| 15th November 2007 erin brainerd | hello in china - From: When two blogs join forces- 1 superblog HI Stephanie. It is so hard to believe you and Cody are on the other side of the world!!! Congrats on the start of your adventure. Alec and I look forward to seeing many more photos (hint hint) and hearing all of your journeys. State side in Maine we are getting ready for Turkey day!!!! I love holidays that are about food and not gifts! Hope this finds you well. Good luck finding glasses...do either of you speak Chinese or is it mandarin or any of the dialects? |
| 15th November 2007 Marisa | - From: When two blogs join forces- 1 superblog Hiii beautiful travelers, Please update your blog often as I will be living vicariously through you and the warm weather in China while hiking up Bascom hill. I'm so happy for you two- miss you already steph (...and Cody) love from my continent to yours, Marisa |
| 15th November 2007 Katie Knutson | - From: When two blogs join forces- 1 superblog So glad you are safe and sound! Enjoy getting settled in. |
| 15th November 2007 Mom and Dad | Yeah! You arrived! - From: When two blogs join forces- 1 superblog So glad to hear you arrived safe! The adventure sounds amazing already. Also sounds like you picked a good hostel. Too bad about Cody's glasses--hope all turns out well there. We were thinking and talking about you all day yesterday. You know you both are always in our thoughts and often on our lips. Love you both tons! |
| 15th November 2007 Sundeep | Woot - From: When two blogs join forces- 1 superblog Yay for landing safely :) The city sounds awesome so far, can't wait to hear more. |
| 15th November 2007 Kay/Mom | you made it! - From: When two blogs join forces- 1 superblog So happy to hear you're there safe and sound, and already having adventures. And, well, you needed new glasses anyway, Cody.... Great idea, this superblog--it makes way more sense. Thanks for sharing your adventure with us! |
| 15th November 2007 Betsy | HEY HEY HEY!!! - From: When two blogs join forces- 1 superblog hey guys! i guess i'm the first one to read your blog! i'm glad to hear you guys are safe and sound. the past couple days, i've been finding myself thinking, i wonder what steph and cody are doing! good luck on the glasses cody. that sucks a little. keep us posted! :) |
