I hope that you are enjoying the spring spotlights and interviews. I greatly enjoy sharing about my expat adventures, but during the month of May I will share about the experiences of some fellow expats I have met during my time in China.

Eric: Thanks so much for joining me on my blog. More importantly, thanks for sharing with us about your experience in China.

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Let’s do a quick introduction:

1. What’s your name, where are you from, and how long have you been in China?

My name is Eric Sharps. I’m from Baltimore, MD but I came to China from Augusta, Ga. Ive been living here for almost 5 years now.

2. Are you single, married, have any children?

Soon to be married! – that’s exciting! Congratulations friend.

3. If you are married how has married life been for you in China – as a black couple abroad?

Ummm, she’s Chinese haha, but it’s the same as being in a relationship anywhere. The only difference is that the “get to know you” process is a lot longer (In a good way). Two people that have never shared the same types of experiences or lifestyles, it tends to stretch the conversation a bit.

4. If you do have child(ren) how has life been for them growing up in China?

I will never raise my child in China.

5. Would you and your family ever consider moving back to America or to another country?

God willing, I hope I never have to live in America again. Other countries are on the list, we’re just trying to narrow down our options at the moment. We should be leaving within the next 3 years.

6. What brought you to Asia- more specifically China?

The desire to get out of America was so strong I honestly didn’t care where I ended up. China was the first country to send me a job offer. Everything kind of just took off right after I received that 1^st email. Honestly, after everything that has happened, I’m glad that it was China that reached out first.

 

Now we have a little background information about you lets dig a little deeper!

 Breaking and Crushing:

1. In your opinion – what do you think are some of the biggest stereotypes we (generally speaking – though I know you don’t speak for everyone) face as people of color living abroad – here in China?

Off the top of my head, I cant really think of any. I tend to hear more “American” stereotypes rather than any black stereotypes.

2. What are some of the biggest challenges you have faced living here?

The biggest challenge is me getting in my own way. It’s so easy to get caught up with people not doing things my way or to my standards. The world doesn’t revolve around me and it’s rude and disrespectful for me to fault others for not doing something the way I would. A lot of people may disagree but when dealing with other cultures, its ok to lower or even get rid of all your standards and start from scratch.

3. How do you think we are crushing stereotypes- if we are at all?

Stereotypes shouldn’t define or drive anyone. Just do you and let people see who you are as a person, not as a color or a gender.

4. Knowing what you know now- about life in China and being here as long as you have been here, would you still have moved here knowing what you know now?

Absolutely

 

#LIC – Let’s talk a little about Life in China! There are definitely some positives about being here.

1. What are three things you like about living in China (if you can think of three).

How easily accessible the rest of the world is, the freedom make my own schedule, and the pace of life just can’t be beat.

2. What do you do for fun with your free time?

Drink, go on walks with my fiancé and our dog, and travel.

3. Has it been hard for you to meet people and make friends here?

Not at all. It’s extremely easy. You just have to step out of your bubble.

4. What do you do for work here in China?

I Teach part-time and I also assist foreigners find jobs here in China

 Food- Food makes the world go round!

1. How has your food journey been here? Has it been a hard transition from home to here?

As long as you can throw down in the kitchen, food is never a problem. I don’t miss too much of anything back from America.

2. Have you tried anything here that you love that you don’t have at home?

Cauliflower! I know they have it in the states but America COULD NEVER do it how china does it!

3. Have you tried anything here that you absolutely hate and hope to never eat again?

Duck blood

4. How is shopping for food here for you? Do you spend a lot buying food or eating out?

Eh, I don’t pay attention to the cost. If you need it or want it, get it.

Access to travel – A lot of people move abroad because of the access to travel to other countries. Let’s talk about this!

1. China is huge!!! Have you been to any places in China? Are there any places in China you would like to visit? I’ve already done just about all of my traveling in China. Xiamen is the only place left. Other than that, I’m finished.
2. Have you visited any nearby countries since you have been here? Where did you go?

Anyone that knows me knows that Japan is my second home.

3. What cities/countries are on your travel list?

Venice, other than that, I’m down to go anywhere as long as I don’t have to apply for a visa.

4. What is your dream trip? Have you been there yet?

Tokyo, and yes, many times at this point

 

One Last thing-

If you could share one thing with everyone about life what would it be.

Stop letting color define you. Imagine how wonderful the world could be if people weren’t constantly arguing and fighting over skin color.

 

Thanks so much for joining me on my blog! Many blessings.

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Currently Eric is listening to “Sunflower” (&I like this one a lot too)

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Here are a few pictures of Eric while abroad!

 

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#FearlessinShanghai #Thankful #joychangeslives #KMarieTakesChina #BlackGirlMagic #KarlaGirlLivingLife #BlackGirlJoy #LivingMyLifeLikeItsGolden #ChinaorBust #ChinaAintReady #BlackInShanghai #BlackInChina #BlackAmericanInChina #LookOutWorldHereComesKarla  #KarlaGirlJoy #BlackGirlInShanghai #eatsleeppartyrepeat #givingisgood #givingisfun #WakandaForever #ShuriAndNakiaAndOkoye #MelaninMagic #Blessed #FaithfulIsMyGod

“life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all”  – Hellen Keller

*I choose ADVENTURE

     It’s Friday here and we just had a holiday here in China. People often ask me about holidays in China, what they are, and when they are! I am going to do my best to share about the holidays that we celebrate here (as we have them). 

     I feel like I JUST told y’all about a holiday but …. well … were on holiday again! I am not complaining. I am lucky enough to have the entire week off and I have been enjoying every bit of being off from work. Some people were given Wednesday to Friday off and some only Wednesday the May day holiday. At any rate … we all had some time off and it has been lovely! 

     Shanghai gave us a beautiful day for fun and hanging out! Expats have a variety of schedules so when we get time off together we really take advantage of it! Here are a few pictures from our May Day Labour Day Brunch! Impromptu Black Folks Brunch in Shanghai! We really do have non-black friends …  they couldn’t make this meet up! Hopefully next time! 

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FYI:  Labour Day – May holiday – In 1949, the Chinese government declared Labour Day to be a national holiday. This holiday originally served as a way to honor workers all across China. Presently, its a day to have fun and enjoy time off with family and friends!

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#blackgirlmagic and #blackboyjoy #melanatedmomentsinShanghai 

Brunch had us all feeling really great! I can’t wait for the next brunch.

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…the secret to being happy is accepting where you are in life and making the most out of everyday …

… may you enjoy life … all the moments … you deserve to be happy and to live the life that you deserve … 

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I am excited about life! I am filled with Hope. I am overwhelmed with JOY! 

I am going to do my best to live by the ‘Glad Texts’ 

#FearlessinShanghai #Thankful #joychangeslives #KMarieTakesChina #BlackGirlMagic #KarlaGirlLivingLife #BlackGirlJoy #LivingMyLifeLikeItsGolden #ChinaorBust #ChinaAintReady #BlackInShanghai #BlackInChina #BlackAmericanInChina #LookOutWorldHereComesKarla  #KarlaGirlJoy #BlackGirlInShanghai #eatsleeppartyrepeat #givingisgood #givingisfun #WakandaForever #ShuriAndNakiaAndOkoye #MelaninMagic #Blessed #FaithfulIsMyGod

“life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all”  – Hellen Keller

*I choose ADVENTURE

…as always thanks for following my adventures abroad ….

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I know this was our holiday and day off here in China … but remember to take time for you! Find some moments in your day to relax and do something for yourself. If you need to have Siri remind you to sit down and chill. If you don’t have Siri – Alexa can do it and if you don’t have Alexa – POST IT NOTES! Drink some water. Watch some fun tv. Read a chapter in a book. Take a walk. Go and get FROYO!

Whatever it is that works for you.

DO IT.

You need it!!! 

^If you start taking more time for you – you will feel like this ^

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Greetings Everyone!!!

I am so excited to bring back interviews like last spring. I greatly enjoy sharing about my expat adventures, but during the month of May I will share about the experiences of some fellow expats I have met during my time in China.

Chantel: Thanks so much for joining me on my blog. More importantly, thanks for sharing with us about your experience in China.

 

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Let’s do a quick introduction:

1. What’s your name, where are you from, and how long have you been in China?

My name is Chantel Rhodes, I was born & raised in Fort Myers, Florida. I lived in Atlanta for 5 years before relocating to China in August of 2017. I’ve been here a little over a year & a half.

2. Are you single, married, have any children?

I am single and I have no children.

3. What brought you to Asia- more specifically China?

I was attracted to China in particular because I have a friend, Preston, who had already been living here for several years. He was very influential in my decision to choose China for my first expat experience.

Now we have a little background information about you lets dig a little deeper!

 Breaking and Crushing:

1. In your opinion – what do you think are some of the biggest stereotypes we (generally speaking – though I know you don’t speak for everyone) face as people of color living abroad – here in China?

From my vantage point, one of the biggest stereotypes is that we (black people) are all from the continent of Africa. Although it can be frustrating to explain our nationality over & over again, I realize that we are apart of a larger learning process.

2. What are some of the biggest challenges you have faced living here?

Language barriers & overall cultural differences. I was forced to relax my expectations of cleanliness/ hygiene upon moving to China.

While I’ve enjoyed my time in China, I can admit that I’ve experienced some of my loneliest days here. I’ve felt homesickness on levels that I never imagined possible for a globetrotter like myself. Sometimes, I really long for the close relationships with family & friends back home.

3. How do you think we are crushing stereotypes- if we are at all?

We are indeed crushing stereotypes!! Every encounter that a Chinese child or adult has with a foreigner helps to shape the perception that they may have about foreigners. The more examples that they see, the more information that they have to process about foreigners, black in particular. As I mentioned earlier, we are just as much a part of their learning process as they are a part of ours.

4. Knowing what you know now- about life in China and being here as long as you have been here, would you still have moved here knowing what you know now?

Whew chile! I will be able to give you a more profound answer to this question once I depart China for good lol. But for now, I will say that China was a good decision and I’m glad that China has been included in my story. There are some definite concerns that I have living here but overall, I don’t fear my safety and that matters to me.

 #LIC – Let’s talk a little about Life in China! There are definitely some positives about being here.

1. What are three things you like about living in China (if you can think of three).

-I like the opportunities & career options that living in China provides native English speakers like myself.

-I like how inexpensive things can be here. Housing, full body massages, fresh fruit & vegetables and even clothing. Taobao is a dream! Lol

-It would be remiss of me to not mention my students. Honestly the relationship that I have established with my learners has been the one factor that has made this experience extraordinary for me. I am eternally grateful for the influence that my learners (past & present) have imparted into my life. 

2. What do you do for fun with your free time?

Although I enjoy time alone, there is always a party, a workshop, comedy show etc., to participate in when I feel like being more social. The options are plentiful here in Shanghai.

3. Has it been hard for you to meet people and make friends here?

Meeting people here isn’t necessarily hard, however people are constantly coming & going. It can be difficult to form lasting & strong ties with the people that you meet here.

4. What do you do for work here in China?

I am an English teacher at an International School.

 Food- Food makes the world go round!

1. How has your food journey been here? Has it been a hard transition from home to here?

I am not too thrilled about the food here in China, while you can find a few amazing places to eat, I miss the delicacies from America (however unhealthy they may be) lol.

2. Have you tried anything here that you love that you don’t have at home?

I tried cupping (traditional Chinese pain relief practice) for the first time since living in China. While you can find it anywhere in the world, I had easier access to that service here in China. I also began fencing since living in China.

3. Have you tried anything here that you absolutely hate and hope to never eat again?

The fruit- Durian

4. How is shopping for food here for you? Do you spend a lot buying food or eating out?

Shopping for clothing can be pretty enjoyable & simple. Unfortunately, I don’t feel that shopping for groceries is as simple. Most of my money goes towards experiences eating out. It’s mostly because my friends and I choose to be social over meals & drinks.

 Access to travel – A lot of people move abroad because of the access to travel to other countries. Let’s talk about this!

1. China is huge!!! Have you been to any places in China? Are there any places in China you would like to visit?

I have been to Harbin, Wuxi, Nanjing, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Beijing & Hong Kong (if that counts). Harbin’s Snow & Ice festival is a must see! There are so many places in China that I’d still love to visit, including Chengdu, Xi’an & Guilin.

2. Have you visited any nearby countries since you have been here? Where did you go?

The only nearby countries that I’ve visited so far are Singapore & Malaysia.

(only?? Girl that is so cool! you’ve been to 6 cities in China – and HK/Singapore/Malaysia – so many amazing memories to share with everyone)

3. What cities/countries are on your travel list?

I’d love to visit Macedonia, Mongolia, Tibet and a few others.

(Please take me with you to Macedonia)!!!

4. What is your dream trip? Have you been there yet?

My dream destination had always been Egypt, but when I visited there, I was slightly disenchanted with the experience.

 One Last thing-

If you could share one thing with everyone about life what would it be.

Like J. Cole said, “Love yours.”

 

Thanks so much for joining me on my blog! Many blessings. Here are a few pics of Chantel – her friends – and travels!

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#FearlessinShanghai #Thankful #joychangeslives #KMarieTakesChina #BlackGirlMagic #KarlaGirlLivingLife #BlackGirlJoy #LivingMyLifeLikeItsGolden #ChinaorBust #ChinaAintReady #BlackInShanghai #BlackInChina #BlackAmericanInChina #LookOutWorldHereComesKarla  #KarlaGirlJoy #BlackGirlInShanghai #eatsleeppartyrepeat #givingisgood #givingisfun #WakandaForever #ShuriAndNakiaAndOkoye #MelaninMagic #Blessed #FaithfulIsMyGod

“life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all”  – Hellen Keller

*I choose ADVENTURE

Currently Chantel is listening to:

 

 

 

It’s May 2019! WOW! The months, weeks, days, hours, minutes, and seconds are just flying by. If you set any goals for the year how are they coming along? We have finished Q1 so I hope you are making some progress towards your goals. I set a goal to read 8 books for pleasure by EOY and I am now on my 9th book so that’s exciting that I met that goal. Let’s look at April and my life as a teacher abroad! 4

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April 22-26 was Book Week at our school! It was quite eventful in our kindergarten classrooms, but specifically, in Ms. Karla’s Prep A Kindergarten Classroom!

We had a full of week of fun and adventure with different activities for the kids each day.

Monday– Our students brought in their favorite book in English or Chinese and they shared why its their favorite book.

Tuesday– We had a guest author our visit class!

Wednesday– Wacky Dress Day – because sometimes book characters are wacky and silly & we had a 4th grade student volunteer to read to our class

Thursday– Crazy Hair Day – because we should keep kindergarten fun and our imaginations wild & Parent volunteer for story time

Friday– Dress like your favorite character from a book & have a teddy bear book picnic with your teacher outside

Along with everything our kindergarten department planned I planned virtual story time with some great people I know in America! Through the power of technology/ Skype/ Cell Phones/ Laptops/ and wonderful friends I had multiple people of all ages read stories to my students. I let them choose the book and I was able to show them reading on the big screen in my classroom. Along with virtual story time two of my friends came to read to my students in person! I am so thankful for every person who helped to make book week a success! I am so honored and humbled with all of the support given for this idea. We had a blast!

….a little bummed all the pictures are not as clear as i would like but hey ….

And to my two volunteers who were not able to participate because of scheduling issues on my end I hope to have you read to my students soon!

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I appreciate you so much Brea for reading to my students! I have had the honor of watching you grow up. I’m so glad you have kept in touch with Ms. Karla. I love that my students had a student from USA read to them, especially one as amazing as you!

Shandra you have been a mentor to me for many years. You have watched me grow since I was very young in pig tails at youth group- though I still wear pig tails from time to time. Thank you for believing in me, encouraging me while abroad, and always encouraging me! I promise to continue to make door knobs smile.

Laura was a great guest author. She read one of her books to our students and did a cool art activity with them! We had a lot of fun!

T’keyah is a recently published author! I will share a link to her book soon. Thanks for supporting me and reading to my students. I did a spotlight on her last year and shared how we met. I am so proud of you for finishing and publishing your book.

You are wonderful.

WOW! College friends. AUC and beyond. I am thankful for Facebook for keeping me in touch with great friends. Crystal I appreciate you reading to my class. Your energy (even as late at night as it was) was great. These kids kept running to the screen like they could really touch you! Thanks so much! I would love to have you read to my students again – and we can plan an earlier hour of course!

Carla – namesake! Thanks for using your day off and traveling to Songjiang to read to my kiddos! They couldn’t barely process two Ms. Carla’s (Karla and Carla) in one room. You are a true JOY!

Raven– thanks for using part of your prep period to read to my students. I loved the book and they were super engaged. You are fantastic. Maybe I can travel upstairs and read to your kids one day.

Jeffrey – you worked so hard all week practicing your book. Thanks for reading to your brother’s class!

To my awesome parent volunteer – you kept these kids engaged reading to them in English and Chinese. Thanks so very much!

Dr. Nicole Thank You for showing me that 2:9 for Life really means for life. I don’t know how you did what you did – maybe it’s your #blackgirlmagic – I don’t know… but through a screen these kids were engaged, up and moving, answering tons of questions and running to the screen! Thank You So Much for supporting me and your words mean the world to me. I love you friend. XoXo Your Princess!!!

When the AQI is nice you head outside quickly. I read a story then said “Everyone Go Play”  – that was a winning statement.

We had a teddy bear picnic!!! Everyone could bring their teddy bear/stuffed animal to school – we read our story outside and then enjoyed playing!

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Making Memories in Songjiang @Shanghai HD Bilingual School

Honestly Yall – I never thought I would enjoy teaching kindergarten students … but … I love it! We are rocking it in my class.

One goal at our school is to have your students on level 4 reading by the end of kindergarten to have them ready for first grade. I was told that no one teacher has ever had 100% of their students on level 4 … usually you get most of your students on level 4 but not all. So here I am going for it. I currently have 92% of my students reading level 4 or higher books. I am extremely proud of them and I am super proud of the two students who are still making their way to level four… they are currently straddling between 2/3 … we  are working very hard in my classroom and I am in awe of their growth as students since I began as their teacher in December 2018.

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There is more to share… especially about month 16 here in Shanghai … but I will save that for a post soon to come!

May your May be wonderful! Full of bright days and joyous memories. 

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#eslteacher #blackeslteacher #shanghaihdbilingualschool #kindergartenteacher #bilingualschool #smiles #joy #english #books #reading #writing #bookweek #laughs #kinderjoy #makelearningfun #changetheworld #livingmyancestorswildestdreams #livingmydreams #onekidatatime #inclusionmatters #mypositionherematters #blackeducatorabroad #educator #songjiang #shanghai #china #karlaabroad

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I am excited about life! I am filled with Hope. I am overwhelmed with JOY! 

I am going to do my best to live by the ‘Glad Texts’ 

#FearlessinShanghai #Thankful #joychangeslives #KMarieTakesChina #BlackGirlMagic #KarlaGirlLivingLife #BlackGirlJoy #LivingMyLifeLikeItsGolden #ChinaorBust #ChinaAintReady #BlackInShanghai #BlackInChina #BlackAmericanInChina #LookOutWorldHereComesKarla  #KarlaGirlJoy #BlackGirlInShanghai #eatsleeppartyrepeat #givingisgood #givingisfun #WakandaForever #ShuriAndNakiaAndOkoye #MelaninMagic #Blessed #FaithfulIsMyGod

“life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all”  – Hellen Keller

*I choose ADVENTURE

…as always thanks for following my adventures abroad ….

Last April I did Spotlights on some of my favorite small businesses! This year I will spotlight people and businesses that have made an impact on my life.

I want to share about one amazing artist! To many she is Alex Tha GREAT – and she is GREAT – to me she is that and so much more- mostly because she is one amazing sister to me and a fantastic mommy to my gorgeous niece!

I am so excited to share with you about what she does.

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Please give us a little background information about yourself:

Name – Alex Gurley

Age- 33

Where are you from? East Palo Alto, CA

Where do you currently live? Dallas, TX

What do you do for a living? I work in higher education as a Career Planning Specialist and Spoken Word Artist

How do you seek out opportunities to share your work? I find out about them from other poets, social media has become a very great tool.  I search them out myself with google honestly sometimes

What are you the most passionate about? I am passionate about living out my love for Christ, raising my daughter to be the best she can be, and continuing to live out my dreams through my poetry, as well as learning about/teaching/advancing the needs of African American people.

What are you most proud of in your life? My daughter Keilene

I know that you are a poet! Which is so cool! Can you share with us what got you started into poetry?   I started writing poetry at age 14.   It was just something that I did to wrote out my feelings, kind of like journaling.  I didn’t share my own work until I got to college at an own campus open mic, but seriously pursuing it as an art form came when I moved to Texas in 2011.  I googled open mics in the area and met other poets on the scene here and it progressed from there.

Now I just a few more questions for you:

1. Why do you do what you do? I love it. Poetry is a great deal and big part of my life.  It is therapeutic at times, a great release, meditative, freeing, fun. If I wasn’t performing, I would most definitely still be writing.
2. What does your poetry aim to say? Is there one focus? Many? Please share. My poetry tells my story overall.  I write about my own experiences mainly. I also seek to educate with my words and write about certain events in history or current culture.
3. Does living in Texas impact your work? Do you think where you live has an impact on your work at all?  I feel like living in Texas impacts my work.  I think it influences the content of my writing because where I am physically is going to connect to what my personal experiences are.  The experiences I had living in California are not totally congruent to those I am having in Texas because certain factors play out more.  I am more comfortable here with the cost of living for one.  Being in California was stressful financially so there wasn’t really time to pursue my art that hard in my opinion because I was trying to figure how to live.
4. What role does the artist have in society? The artist gives voice to the voiceless, tells stories that are otherwise unheard, sparks change, and amplifies the sound of unrest.
5. What has been a seminal experience for you? Competing in the Women of the World Poetry Slam in 2017 and making the final stage ranking 9^th place of 96 total competitors.  That was also probably my biggest crowd to perform in front of so far, about 3000 people.
6. Who do you look up to as an artist? Who are your biggest influences? My biggest influences are poets Aja Monet, Dominique Christina, Janae Johnson, and vocalists Goapele, Raheem DeVaughn, Lyfe Jennings, Tank, Anita Baker, and Patti LaBelle.
7. If you could work with any artist (any field) who would it be and why)? I would work with the singer Goapele.  Her voice is like pure gold to me.  I always admire something about her energy.  It would be amazing to collab with her in some way.

 

Do you have any books? Can you please share where they can be purchased?

I have self-published 6 books, only 2 of which I actively promote now:

Sticks and Stones Don’t Break My Bones (2012)

Black Souls Dance On Beat (2015)

 They can be found on my website: http://www.alexthagreat.com

 

Are you on social media? Please share how we can follow you!

Facebook: alexthagreatfans

Twitter: alexthagreat1

Instagram: followthagreat

Hergreatness.tumblr.com

YouTube: the1greatpoet

 

Can you share two links for us – one of you performing  so we can all hear your work on the blog and one of someone you look up to in your field!

Alex Tha Great-The Struggle

 

 

Aja Monet-Is That All You Got

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rc29PkUm-nw

 

Finally – if you can share any words of wisdom with the world about life – what would it be ….

1: Focus on God and he will keep you focused. 

2: Take self-care breaks. 

3: Love yourself first. 

4: Follow your dreams. 

 

Thanks for joining us on the blog! I wish you all the success and joy in your career! You are absolutely wonderful and deeply loved. To hear the heart of an artist is beautiful. Thank you for changing the world with your work!

I miss you so much and I am not sure where I would be without you!!! I love you!!!

You are #BlackGirlMagicDefined

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#FearlessinShanghai #Thankful #joychangeslives #KMarieTakesChina #BlackGirlMagic #KarlaGirlLivingLife #BlackGirlJoy #LivingMyLifeLikeItsGolden #ChinaorBust #ChinaAintReady #BlackInShanghai #BlackInChina #BlackAmericanInChina #LookOutWorldHereComesKarla  #KarlaGirlJoy #BlackGirlInShanghai #eatsleeppartyrepeat #givingisgood #givingisfun #WakandaForever #ShuriAndNakiaAndOkoye #MelaninMagic #Blessed #FaithfulIsMyGod

“life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all”  – Hellen Keller

*I choose ADVENTURE

Tomb Sweeping Day

It is interesting moving to a new country and slowly not celebrating the holidays you celebrated at home (but always reminded about them when logging onto social media) and celebrating/enjoying the holidays in your new country of residence.

Today, Friday April 5, 2019 is Tomb Sweeping Day  – a day off holiday in China where you honor those who have come before you! It is one of the most important Chinese festivals and traditions. Many people travel to their hometowns to spend time with their families, clean the graves of their loved ones, and honor all those who have passed on.

I enjoyed the day off (who doesn’t enjoy a day off from work???). I started my day with a run (l run most days, but wanted to still accomplish this) and spent the day at the spa with some friends. I took some time to pray, and give thanks for all those who have come before me. I have been blessed to have had amazing people in my life! They have all made an impact on the person who I am today, so it was definitely nice to have a day set aside to remember them and honor them.

Daddy- I love you! Thank you for everything. All the things. You changed my life.

Cathy- I will never forget how you believed in me when I first started learning sign language and wanted to be an interpreter at ALCF. You changed my life 

 

The list could go on of all those I honor and am thankful for … but nothing like a father’s love and that of a mentor.

I hope you can give thanks for those who have come before you – and give thanks to those who are still here! Let’s give our people their flowers while they are still alive.

Have a great weekend… if you are reading this on the weekend. Its Friday night in Shanghai and Friday morning PST/CST/EST in USA.

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#ChinaLiving #TombSweepingDay #Qingming #Traditions #Festivals #Ancestors #Spring #Trees #Family #Travel #qingmingjie #holiday #travel #meditate #honorthosewhocamebeforeyou #bethankful 

#FearlessinShanghai #Thankful #joychangeslives #KMarieTakesChina #BlackGirlMagic #KarlaGirlLivingLife #BlackGirlJoy #LivingMyLifeLikeItsGolden #ChinaorBust #ChinaAintReady #BlackInShanghai #BlackInChina #BlackAmericanInChina #LookOutWorldHereComesKarla  #KarlaGirlJoy #BlackGirlInShanghai #eatsleeppartyrepeat #givingisgood #givingisfun #WakandaForever #ShuriAndNakiaAndOkoye #MelaninMagic #Blessed #FaithfulIsMyGod

“life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all”  – Hellen Keller

*I choose ADVENTURE

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Know This: Pain doesn’t make you weak. It makes you strong … and loss makes you appreciate so much! Appreciate and bask in your strength. I remember my Great- Grandmother telling me one day, “I’m just thankful I can feel my pain – it’s when you can’t feel ya’ pain that ya’ need to worry.” I didn’t understand this as a child, but I understand it now.

For some reason the song won’t post, but I wanted to share with you all:

FLOWERS– India Arie  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j-iqmElqI2I

 

 

… the seconds, minutes, hours, days, weeks and days and months are all flying by!! It is April 1 here in Shanghai which means the first quarter of the year has come and gone. Did you set any goals for this year? Did you work on a vision board? Do you have a list of things you want to accomplish on or by 12/31/19??? How is it going for you to reach those goals? Hope you’re making progress and if not you can stop and think about steps you can take to reach these goals!

…. I am happy the sun is shining and that we are having days with breathable AQI numbers!

I have a few goals for the year:

Professionally- I would like 80% of my students to be level 4 readers by the end of the school year so that they are on reading level for first grade! (Just hit this goal so hoping to get more students on level 4 or higher before the end of the school year.

Physically – Run 700KM by the end of the year and participate in a SPARTAN race! (Spartan race is in May)

Personally- Read 8  books for leisure! (I have finished 5 already so this number will definitely change)

– Visit 4 new countries and 3-5 new provinces in China!

 

So far the year is off to a busy, but good start. My students are doing extremely well which is super exciting and I am enjoying life in China!

Hope all is well with all of you! Let me know if you’re ever traveling to Asia and I will try and meet up with you!

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I am excited about life! I am filled with Hope. I am overwhelmed with JOY! I am going to do my best to live by the ‘Glad Texts’ 

#FearlessinShanghai #Thankful #joychangeslives #KMarieTakesChina #BlackGirlMagic #KarlaGirlLivingLife #BlackGirlJoy #LivingMyLifeLikeItsGolden #ChinaorBust #ChinaAintReady #BlackInShanghai #BlackInChina #BlackAmericanInChina #LookOutWorldHereComesKarla  #KarlaGirlJoy #BlackGirlInShanghai #eatsleeppartyrepeat #givingisgood #givingisfun #WakandaForever #ShuriAndNakiaAndOkoye #MelaninMagic #Blessed #FaithfulIsMyGod

“life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all”  – Hellen Keller

*I choose ADVENTURE

Let’s Catch Up:

Months: January (13) – February (14)  – March (15) 

A few reasons why you haven’t heard from me. January was super busy as we only had a few weeks of school before Chinese New Year (CNY). Once CNY hit – we had vacation for 3 weeks – and I headed right to Texas the day after  school closed for the holiday. I was home for 3 weeks and loved every second of it. I had Chick Fil A- Twisted Root- McAllisters – was able to drive a car- watch TV easily- stop in Walgreens to pick items up that I would need for life in China- and had the chance to catch up with family and friends in Texas and California which was great.

I didn’t take my computer with me during the holiday to really enjoy my time at home. I originally planned on blogging while I was at home – then just decided to relax and enjoy being home for the first time since leaving America.

I returned to Shanghai mid-February- tired and exhausted after a long flight from Dallas to Canada – then Canada to Shanghai with delays and icky weather. I arrived in Shanghai safely but my luggage did not. That was frustrating, but I was so thankful to get all of my luggage within the week. Once back in Shanghai I was so happy to celebrate my birthday with all of my Shanghai Friends – post coming soon!

Also, the Chinese government controls a lot of the internet waves and our connections were blocked to access a lot of blocked sites so I was unable to long onto my blog and social media sites for a little over a week. That was frustrating!

March is upon us now and we are about 3 weeks into March. It is the first day of Spring here in Shanghai, Wednesday, March 20 – and the weather is finally looking up. We have had a lot of icky, rainy, wet, ugly days. I was able to go to Tokyo (I was super bummed to miss the cherry blossoms in Japan- they should be in full bloom next week) this month and see a friend from childhood – and go to Disneyland!!!

 

I am looking forward to having some time this weekend and upcoming week to catch you all up on my life here in Shanghai. Life is good. I am extremely happy at my job. My students are improving with their English daily – which is super exciting and I have some fun travels coming up soon! …. be prepared fun posts coming soon… I hope you all are well.

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I am excited about life! I am filled with Hope. I am overwhelmed with JOY! I am going to do my best to live by the ‘Glad Texts’ 

#FearlessinShanghai #Thankful #joychangeslives #KMarieTakesChina #BlackGirlMagic #KarlaGirlLivingLife #BlackGirlJoy #LivingMyLifeLikeItsGolden #ChinaorBust #ChinaAintReady #BlackInShanghai #BlackInChina #BlackAmericanInChina #LookOutWorldHereComesKarla  #KarlaGirlJoy #BlackGirlInShanghai #eatsleeppartyrepeat #givingisgood #givingisfun #WakandaForever #ShuriAndNakiaAndOkoye #MelaninMagic #Blessed #FaithfulIsMyGod

“life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all”  – Hellen Keller

*I choose ADVENTURE

…as always thanks for following my adventures abroad ….

Your Gifts Will Make Room For You

Hold Up! Wait! Stop … Yall … Oh My Gosh!

I’m An International Teachers at a Bilingual School in Asia!!! Whoa!!!

     Some days I am just in awe. Seriously. Today I decided to walk home from work. Its about a 3.1KM walk (which is about 1.92 miles) so not too bad. Our day finished early and I had a few choices, wait for the staff bus which wouldn’t leave for about 45 minutes from the time our day ended, wait for a city bus, take a DiDi (China’s version of uber) or walk. So why not walk. The temperature was nice and I don’t live too far… so walk I did.

As I walked home I really thought about “Your Gifts Will Make Room For You” … that thought kept rolling through my head. Never in a million years did I ever think I would enjoy teaching kindergarten. If I am honest, and I promise you I am being honest, I absolutely love it! I am having the best time in my classroom!

All I have ever wanted to do was change the world through education. All my life I have wanted to be a teacher and it is the only job that I have ever had … and now I am teaching in Asia. This is my second job in Asia and I had the opportunity to work with over a hundred students in the short time that I have been here. I hope that my presence has been helpful for each student that I have met.

 

 

 

 

 

I am currently teaching in Songjiang (Shanghai) for Shanghai HD Bilingual School – (https://www.hdschools.org/en/shanghai/) as a Kindergarten English Homeroom Teacher. Someone asked me a little while ago- what does that even mean???? Our school is a bilingual school so our students have multiple teachers, foreign and Chinese and they have lessons in English and in Chinese. I only teach my lessons in English and we have English blocks at different times of the day every day. We focus heavily on phonics to build their reading skills and also work on writing, speaking, and listening skills. We keep learning fun and interactive in our room of 25 young learners with 4 teachers. Life is busy in Ms. Karla’s kindergarten class – but its amazing and intense too! I am so proud of my students learning so much at such a young age. I spoke with a parent today who is a little worried about her child’s reading level and I assured her that if we work together, at school and at home, her child will increase in reading level. That’s a promise for sure!

With all the jobs I have had- all the schools- all the programs – all the all the – none of them have been perfect. But Man o Man … so far this is pretty close to perfect as it gets! IDK if it is the honeymoon/beginning phase of it all – or if its just that good, but I currently have no complaints at my job. I’ll keep y’all posted in future posts on how work is going. I hope it continues this way!

All my years in education, teaching, working with kids, my BSW and my Master’s in Education have prepared me for where I am now. I am honored to have the position that I have now because I know my students are getting an experience like no other. To have bilingual education is already awesome, but to have it for a Black foreigner, IMO is huge. My students will grow up being and it will be normal to be around people who do not look like them. It wont scare them (hopefully) and they will treat these people whom they encounter with decency and respect. They wont jump – and point- and pull out their camera when they see a Black person – they maybe- will just wave and say hello- and continue with what they are doing. They have now encountered an educator who loves and is passionate about education, school, students, and reading, and can give a different perspective about “Black”. There are so many preconceived notions about what a black person is like – (we don’t even have to get into all of that right now) – but I am so glad that I can show that we are educated, fun, caring, and loving towards students. That we are not all like what may be assumed and that “Black is Beautiful” – because ya know… it really is!

Push Through! Wherever you are … whatever you are doing … the decision your battling – that you are on the fence about.

GO for it! BE Brave. Be Bold. Be Fearless. Go After It All.

My gifts have definitely made room for me at HD! My students have stolen my heart. I am learning so much and I am thankful every single day for this experience.

 

Hope Yall Are Well …. Paz!

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I am excited about life! I am filled with Hope. I am overwhelmed with JOY! I am going to do my best to live by the ‘Glad Texts’ 

#FearlessinShanghai #Thankful #joychangeslives #KMarieTakesChina #BlackGirlMagic #KarlaGirlLivingLife #BlackGirlJoy #LivingMyLifeLikeItsGolden #ChinaorBust #ChinaAintReady #BlackInShanghai #BlackInChina #BlackAmericanInChina #LookOutWorldHereComesKarla  #KarlaGirlJoy #BlackGirlInShanghai #eatsleeppartyrepeat #givingisgood #givingisfun #WakandaForever #ShuriAndNakiaAndOkoye #MelaninMagic #Blessed #FaithfulIsMyGod

 

I love me some Kid President!!!

This Denzel Clip Gets Me Every Time!!!

That would have been a super long post for a 10 day trip with my crew so here is Part 2!

Lots of pictures and the second half of our trip ….

 

Day 5 – Beijing- Wuxi

Day 5 was a long day. We had brunch in Beijing at LAD (Lily’s American Diner) and headed to the airport shortly after. We all had different flights to Shanghai, but would meet up in Wuxi. The Hamers and Tony would take a bus with the tour group to Wuxi and I took the speed train. It was a long and exhausting day and I arrived at our hotel around 11PM.

Day 6 – Wuxi-Suzhou

Once in Wuxi all we wanted to see was The Grand Buddha (TGB)

(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grand_Buddha_at_Ling_Shan)

Grand Buddha- Ling Shan – Wuxi, Jiangsu Province

 

 

This was amazing to see and quite a site! I definitely reccommend seeing this if yo are ever in China/Shanghai. Seeing TGB was great – but was also an adventure- since we left our tour group and decided to do a little adventure of our own. We were on a bit of a time crunch because we needed to meet back with the tour group as the bus was heading to the next city- Suzhou. We could get to Suzhou on our own, but who wants to do that when you’ve already paid for a bus ride … well … the bus ride wasn’t that amazing, but we didn’t want to miss our bus to Suzhou. We were minutes late – but our tour group waited for us and we were headed to Suzhou.

 

Day 7 – Suzhou – Hangzhou

Our time in Suzhou was short, but enjoyable. We went to the Suzhou Silk Factory and Lingering Garden. The Silk Factory wasn’t amazing – it was more like “Do you wanna buy some silk” – but hey we can say we’ve been to a silk factory – and the Garden was beautiful. It was a little cold that day and full of tourists. So everything that you have heard about tourists wanting to take your picture, touch you, and be close to you is true. I can do without all of that.

 

Day 8 Hangzhou/Shanghai

We left Suzhou for Hangzhou … this was about a 3 hour bus ride. This was my first time in Hangzhou so I was very excited to see this city – even though I really wanted to get my friends to Shanghai.

In Hangzhou we experienced a green tea tasting- it was wonderful and we went to West Lake. Beautiful historic area. The time was quick here too! We had tea… walked the lake … took some pictures and headed to Shanghai when the tour group went to dinner.

My crew and I took a DiDi (China’s version of Uber) to the nearest railway station – bought train tickets to Shanghai and took the train to Shanghai. We wanted a few extra hours in Shanghai so I could show them as much as possible in the city where I live!

We arrived in Shanghai, checked into our hotel and on our first night in Shanghai we ate at one of my favorite restaurants – Fellas! Fellas in on The Bund and the food is delicious. I have actually shared about this restaurant before.

Day 9/10 – Shanghai 

our time in Shanghai was quick and packed -Breakfast – Al’s Diner/Fake Market/Camera Market/Shanghai World Financial Center-Friends Cafe/Check into hotel /Starbucks Reserve Roastery/Walk around West Nanjing Road Area/Taco Bell (Because you have to go to Western restaurants when in China)-Disneyland /Cheesecake Factory (in DisneyTown)

It’s over Yall! 

Sadness- My crew left for home! I had an absolute blast and ended the trip a little emotional that they really came 1/2 way across the world for me. What Kind of love and homies do I have? The best love … the most amazing homies!

… there are days that I can’t believe my life! My friends traveled across the world for me. None of us take our lives for granted. We value friendship, we love travel, we enjoy food, and making memories together.

Check out this video from #HamerPhotography – Leroy documented our entire trip via video and film – I love this memory. Thanks Leroy

https://gopro.com/v/y8bWJKgO8pw11

https://www.hamerphotos.com/ – Hamer Photography is based in California but you never know he may be in your city/state … check him our for your digital needs!

What am I looking forward to??? Chinese New Year is on the way so I celebrate the new year twice! I am coming home to America for a visit in less than 10 days and I am ecstatic!!!

 

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I am excited about life! I am filled with Hope. I am overwhelmed with JOY! I am going to do my best to live by the ‘Glad Texts’ 

#FearlessinShanghai #Thankful #joychangeslives #KMarieTakesChina #BlackGirlMagic #KarlaGirlLivingLife #BlackGirlJoy #LivingMyLifeLikeItsGolden #ChinaorBust #ChinaAintReady #BlackInShanghai #BlackInChina #BlackAmericanInChina #LookOutWorldHereComesKarla  #KarlaGirlJoy #BlackGirlInShanghai #eatsleeppartyrepeat #givingisgood #givingisfun #WakandaForever #ShuriAndNakiaAndOkoye #MelaninMagic #Blessed #FaithfulIsMyGod

 

 

… only because we could have stayed at the #FreindsCafe forever and Phoebe is hilarious!!!