Last night our Thai food was wonderful. Maybe we just hadn't had authentic Thai food before, but it was delicious. A funny thing happened at dinner. Susan our other guide ordered a dessert for the group. It was very pretty, but we had no idea what it was. When we asked, she told us that it was a very traditional Thai dessert made with taquilla. Will and I looked at each other and told Susan that we thought that maybe Isabel was a little too young for taquilla. Susan said no, no it's fine for kids, "no problem." After more discussion about the merits of giving alcohol to children, we discovered Susan meant tapioca. A bit different than tequilla. Some things get lost in translation. The group got a big kick at Susan's expense. So needless to say our groups favorite dessert is now "Taquilla Squares."
This morning David took us to Guangzhou Park. Yet again, another amazing adventure. Armed with camera, video camera, and backpack the Pridgen's are such tourists. I'm sure Isabel is already completely embarassed by her parents. I guess she just needs to go ahead and get over it. I'm sure this won't be the last time we embarass her.
This beautiful park is located right in the middle of the metropolitan city. We spent about two hours hiking through it. The park is almost completely shaded but Will and I sweated through our clothes. Not a drop of sweat on Isabel....always seems fresh as daisy. We thought the south was humid, evidently we didn't know what humid was. South China in summer is in a league of its own.
After the park David took us to his house for lunch. We met his beautiful wife Gigi. Gigi and her mother made a huge lunch for us. We had chicken, fish, squid, pork, greens, eggs, and of course rice. After lunch we sat down for hot tea and Gigi entertained us with traditional Chinese music. Gigi is a professional musican and is extremely talented. David has been a true blessing during this entire trip. He and his family have shown us sincere hospitality and given us an experience unlike any others in our group. We will never forget him or his family and it feels like we have made a true friend. We don't have any way of repaying him but perhaps one day he can travel to the states. We would welcome David and his family anytime.
We're headed out now to get Isabel something for dinner. Will and I will skip dinner after our filling lunch. We have to get back early so that we can work on our English and be ready for our favorite Chinese soap opera at 8:00. I don't know what we will do when we come home. Maybe David can email us and keep us updated on our soap.
She was worth the wait and is our new hand to hold.
Hugs and kisses to all.
Will, Marla, and Isabel
Isabel, just wait until you taste banana pudding. Sounds like you folks are enjoying the trip. It's the duty of a parent to embarrass their children. Will there is no embarrassment worse than a dad on your blog.
ReplyDeleteI loved the Japanese, chinese and Korean people. Only went as far as Hong Kong in china for a short stay, but spent a lot of time with the Japanese and Koreans. Respect and kindness
will break down most barriers and you folks do that well. Not surprised you made friends over there. Isabel, your cousin Billie, who will start school this year, against her will, says she needs help with her chinese. you need to come home and help her.
Take lots of pictures. Isabel will always remember those embarrassing moments.
I love you all,
Grandpa
Gradpa, as others have said, I truly enjoy your blog comments. You always know just what to say. Love for your granddaugher and her new parents is quite evident. I am thankful Marla and Will have you to turn to for advice when they get come.
ReplyDeleteMarla, Kari Just Willoughby is in Dalton. Today a bunch of us will be eating lunch at Tijuana's. Even with little miss Anna Grace there, I suspect you and Isabel will be the topic of conversation. We will miss you.
August 1 is almost here! What time do you think you will arrive in Chatt. ?
When will you be ready to have visitors? I think you may need a day or two to just collapse and stay home.
I will be glad to pick up some groceries for you if you will tell me what kind of milk you need and a few items you know Isabel will eat. I will plan on getting Lay's potato chips and Mt. Dew for sure. I will try to get with Kim Crews when she comes to feed Tigger on Aug. 1 and put the groceries in your kitchen.
I love you. I don't have ESL endorsement but I will be glad to help with tutoring.
Oh yes, I almost forgot...Did you prepare Tigger for a new sister? I wonder if she will react as kindly as when we visit in Dalton? Marla, you may have to put that cat in time out if she hisses at Isabel. We can't wait to hear from you guys in person. Love, The King and his Court
ReplyDeleteMarla, I continue to enjoy reading your entries each day. What a trip of a lifetime and an awesome adventure. I'm guessing you're getting excited about coming home and starting your life here with Isabel. I'm looking forward to talking with you.
ReplyDeleteYou're in our thoughts and prayers.
lots of love
Michele
Dear Marla,
ReplyDeleteAs Lisa mentioned earlier, we did all eat at Tijuanas this afternoon and we so very much missed you and Isabel was certainly the topic of conversation. It looks like we will miss you during our short trip to Dalton. We will have to visit soon to meet precious Isabel. You and Will must bring Isabel to Ohio so she can meet some Yankees and have a pop!!! We pray for safe travels for you, Will, and Isabel. Remember not to sweat the small stuff. :) You may not remember this, but when you took me under your wing my first year at Brookwood, you said, "Kari, don't worry. You will be a wonderful teacher. And if for some reason those students don't learn a thing the entire year, they will most certainly know they were cared for, loved, and treasured." Remember your own words and don't fret, Isabel will do just fine!! Love to you and your family!! Kari :)