Zhaoqing, ChinaThe silence as we awoke on the 2nd day, showed how much effort and energy students had put forth the day before. As the students prepared for the day, they were excited for their Community Service, and final activity. The morning did not disappoint with the weather being clear and sunny, perfect for raft building and cableway hike. As the students returned to a feast of Zhaoqing specialties for lunch, you could see the smiles on their faces from a morning they will never forget. Students made short work of lunch, as they were eager to head to the school that we would be doing our Cultural Exchange with. As we arrived at the school, we were greeted with incredible energy and excitement from students at the school. We headed to the field with equal number TIS students and local school students. To help us get familiar with each other, a variety of team games allowed everyone to feel more comfortable without needing to worry about language barriers. By the end of the games, you could already see friendships and laughter from the mix of students. TIS students then had an opportunity to share ask questions and share their Identity Posters. These posters provided an opportunity for pairs of students to share about themselves, using images and words that would define their identity. TIS students also stepped up by using teamwork to help translate between students as well as practice their Mandarin to share their thoughts. At the end, the students handed over their posters and you could see the joy in the local students faces and that they will cherish this moment for a long time. As a farewell, both groups of students sang to each other as they said goodbye. It was a fantastic opportunity for students to see another school and the different environments that we learn in. In the evening, a campfire presents itself as a fitting end to the week of activities. Games and activities will be played as the evening winds down and students have an opportunity to reflect on the week. Tomorrow starts early as we head out to do an Amazing Race style activity at a beautiful park, before lunch and the trip home. Each child is excited to come back and share all the memories they have made.
Hello Jeya, hope you’re having fun! How’s everything? Cold there yeah? I heard its 12-13 degrees…brrrr cold..anyways ill see you tomorrow already, have a safe flight and enjoy the rest of your time there!
Hi Monica, how are you? I am fine. I see you are having a great time.I miss you. beijinhos, Tiago
Dear Grade 5,
I am so proud of you all! What an amazing experience you are having!! I bet today was very special with the new friends you made in Zhaoqing!! Can’t wait to hear more about it tmr!!
Safe travels back
Claudia (Matthew’s Mom)
hi, Joshua, how are you up today? I hope you’re feeling better now.
Did you make any new friends and today? I believe you have a great time with them.
Enjoy your days. We miss you so much.
Take care!
Mum with a big deal kiss
Hi Jeya,
We hope you had a great last day of the trip! We were looking for you in the very small group photo but the resolution is too low – we cannot see any face! we wish you a nice day tomorrow and cant wait to hear your stories and see you again!
With love & hugs! Mum & dad
Hi Matthew Capuano!!!!
I am so happy you are enjoying your trip! But I am missing you in the Skype! I can’t wait to hear your news!!! Have fun dear! Love you, tia lu
Hi Matthew Capuano, we saw your pictures and we are sure you are having a lot of fun!!! Take care! Love, vovó Regina and vovô Roberto
Hi Bernice,
Hope you have good time during your this trip. I m coming to pick you up at school…..
Let’s go out for party tomorrow night.
Love u daddy
Matthew, cant wait to hear all the great things about your trip….im sure you are not ready to come home yet but we miss you…
Dad……
Dear Natasha,
I can imagine that you have had an unforgettable trip. It is fruitful to get to know some new friends and places. I now know more about Zhaoqing after learning from you. Indeed, I really want to follow your pace to visit Zhaoqing again.
Take care.
Baba
So fun
Super fun
Best trip ever!