weekend fun in Beijing

This past weekend was great! Busier than usual, but we had some good times here in Beijing! The first highlight of the weekend was going to our neighbour's parents' house. Scott was visiting our neighbour, and his parents stopped by. They invited us over to their place for dumplings. It was a great experience. We actually hadn't been into the home of a chinese family until this weekend. They live in an older building, about 30 years old, and they have lived there for about 20years. It's a tiny apartment, full of their daily necessities. His mom is retired and it seems like she just spends her days cooking and making things. We made dumplings together. They made the dough, his dad rolled out the little circles, then we filled them with the filling she'd made ahead of time. They were so delicious! They don't eat much else with their dumplings except a cold dish or two. I ate a piece of pickled garlic as a side item!

His parents didn't speak a word of English, but Alex translated that we are welcome to go to their house anytime, even after their son moves away to New Zealand. a generous offer, but that would be very difficult since we don't speak enough Mandarin. They were so warm, kind, and generous to us. Even gave us leftover filling so we could make more ourselves (you can buy the wrappers already made in the market). We made them on Sunday with friends, but it of course did not taste the same. We live in a relatively affluent side of town. The more wealthy chinese, and other foreigners live in this area, so it was great to experience what the majority of the population lives like. We know we are greatly blessed.

Saturday night we were invited to ballroom dancing! A friend from church goes every Saturday. it's free! We didn't really go to dance, but to watch and support our friend. We were so captivated by the great dancers. There were 6 of us newbies, and there must have been more new people, because they decided to do a short rumba lesson. Good times trying to dance "properly" with Scott. He can't help but just goof around :) But he's really intersted in learning. We might find some of the local places where they do free lessons and go there with friends.

Sunday was a great day at church, and hanging out with friends. We've got great friends! It's fun to just relax with them, watch LOST, and play games :) Ever played Nacho Loco??

The time is really just flying by. I can't believe it's March already. This week has been busy with various events at school. They've hired an elementary principal for us for next year and she's been visiting this week from California. We also have our Spelling Bee on Friday! And for all these things I am very grateful! What a blessing to be a part of this school, and to work with such great people.

I hope you're enjoying your week!