Author Archives: connieinasia

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About connieinasia

I have been in the Asia region for 27 years as an English language teacher. A majority of those have been in China with the Amity Foundation , a Chinese NGO that works in all areas of development for the Chinese people. Covid stranded me in America for over 3 years, with China closing its boarders to returning teachers. In 2023, I was accepted into a new teaching role not in China but in Laos. Join me in experiencing this incredible journey into a different culture, a different language, and a different life.

Getting into the Groove of Our College’s English Corner

What Is English Corner, or EC?           For those who aren’t familiar with English Corners (ECs) in China, these are gathering places where people come together regularly to practice their English.  Set times and days are the usual format, with … Continue reading

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Follow-up on Mrs. Lu’s Recent Dinner

                         As mentioned in a previous blog, I met a wonderful retiree, Mrs. Lu, whose little Huan-huan brought us together along our Yangtze river road. The dog’s name, Huan-huan, means “welcome” in Chinese, which is certainly what he does … Continue reading

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Article Published in Christian Science Monitor’s Magazine Edition

            Just thought I’d post a short note about my recent article published in the October 11th weekly magazine edition of the Christian Science Monitor in their Home Forum section.             Those of you who might find the publication in your local libraries … Continue reading

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A Little Dog Brings Two Single Ladies Together as Friends

         Tomorrow evening, I’m having dinner with a new friend which might not have come about had it not been for a little dog, Huan-huan.             A few weeks ago, I was making my way up our river road on … Continue reading

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English Corner and Voting Absentee

English Corner to Begin             Last evening, the newlywed Peace Corp couple (John and Ashley) stopped in for a chat about our upcoming English Corner this evening.            We finally have set aside Thursday evenings, 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., in … Continue reading

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More Golden Week (National Day Holiday) Tales

Hanging Out in My Old Neigborhood                    When I landed in Chengdu, I checked into my 1-room accommodations.  It’s located in my former apartment complex of 5 years ago when I studied Chinese at Sichuan University. I like to stay … Continue reading

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The Start to The Holidays — A New Friend

Friday, September 28, had me scambling aboard a smallish bus headed from Luzhou to Chengdu for my National Day holidays.  I honestly didn’t expect to find myself shoved clear in the back of the vehicle.  I had purchased my ticket the … Continue reading

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Holidays Upon Us . . . Already!

          Here we’ve just started up the school year, this being only my second week with my 1st year and 3rd year students, when it’s time for a holiday. Mid-autumn Festival, known for its specialty mooncake delicacies, and China’s National … Continue reading

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A Glimpse into Countryside Teaching in China

The Story of Smile                Last week, I received an email from one of my former students here at this college.  She was a girl very hard to forget, both because of her chosen English name (Smile) and her diligence in … Continue reading

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The Air-Conditoner/Heating Unit Arrives!

         Slowly, progress has been made over the last 3 weeks to equip my apartment with what is needed.               The school was waiting to purchase  the air-conditioning/heating unit because they were ordering in bulk to save money.  Many of … Continue reading

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