Christmas in China

I survived my first Christmas away from home because of two holiday “miracles.” The first being an incredible care package from my loving, thoughtful, and happy shopper Aunties, the second being some much-needed Skype conversation love with the whole family on Christmas day. Ok, so these were made possible by modern-day technological miracles, but doesn’t everything have that “holiday magic” feel in December? Even being far from home in a culture that does not celebrate Christmas, I still had that feeling!

My care package was full of the necessities: chocolates, my favorite organic cereal and almond butter, and plenty of warm clothes! Now my stomach and dresser cabinets are overflowing and I’m trying to make space for all the new stuff!

Actually, the holiday was enjoyable, though I did miss home more this week than I have up until this point. I’ve been away from Colorado for almost nine months, and as exciting as this adventure will continue to be, I am consciously counting the days till my visit back home in March.

Nanjing is very well decorated with the strappings of Christmas, considering it’s not an official holiday. I spoke with many Chinese who all seemed to agree that the young people of China are more interested in the holiday and like to celebrate it with friends. I saw two large trees (as in two story tall trees), and almost every shopping center or restaurant had a picture of Santa Claus on their doors.

My school celebrated the holiday with a Secret Santa gift exchange. We did one exchange just among the staff, and then coordinated exchanges for each class of students. Since I teach three classes, I had to buy gifts for three different students, which also meant I received three gifts after all was said and done. I received some nice presents, but I really enjoyed watching the kids open theirs and guess who their Secret Santa was.

My favorite gift (not including those in the care package!) was a large, beautiful poster of the Great Wall. I hurried home to find the best place for it in my apartment!

After my classes were finished for the day, I said goodbye and Merry Christmas to co-workers, then joined one of my good Chinese friends, Mr. Lou, for a movie at the nearby cinema. We saw a Chinese movie (no English subtitles), by the name of “Dragon Gate, Flying Sword.” The star was none other than Jet Li, who has always impressed me with his acrobatic kung fu! My Chinese is not anywhere near the level of understanding actual conversations spoken at normal talking pace; but I was able to catch bits and pieces. By pieces, I really do mean pieces. A lot of: “he is…I am…she is…” but whatever language came after was lost on me! Still, I could easily follow the story line and the kung fu moves can be understood without any language!

I went home for the evening, relaxed, and made my scheduled skype call with the family, before waking up again to catch the relatives at Aunt Reta’s house. Thanks everyone for being a part of my Christmas, no matter how far away!