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Blueturtle's Space

March 01, 2010
4:49
Southern China Native Attire
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

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Southern China Native Attire
2:14
Lantern Festival Fireworks
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

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Lantern Festival Fireworks
February 27, 2010
1:20
Jason's Family
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

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Jason's Family
February 08, 2010
19:21
Yuyang Hotel
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

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Yuyang Hotel
January 29, 2010
17:56
太极拳 workshop, sisters, Oregon 2009-10
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

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太极拳 workshop, sisters, Oregon 2009-10
January 18, 2010
16:51
Memorable quote from Martin Luther King
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

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"I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character." - Martin Luther King (1963)
January 15, 2010
13:04
Helping the people in Haiti
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: News and Politics [edit]

I'm donating to this organization to help the people in Haiti. [www.doctorswithoutborders.org]
January 12, 2010
8:44
Chinese practice 2010-01-12
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]

今天，我和文奇在电话上交谈。我也买了去中国的飞机票。
January 11, 2010
17:03
is my pronunciation correct?
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]
December 27, 2009
23:30
Better than a thousand hollow words..........
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Buddhism [edit]

Better than a thousand hollow words, is one word that brings peace.
December 24, 2009
21:43
Chinese practice - 我今年六十四岁。
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]

我一九四五年十月八日出生。属鸡。
我今年六十四岁。
我是美国人, 住在俄勒冈洲, 本德市。
我爸爸，妈妈都在芝加哥。
我喜欢巧克力蛋糕。
下周，同一时间，同一地点见。
下星期三，上午九点半，在你的教室。
13:33
2nd annual burning
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Miscellaneous Rambling [edit]

Today I witnessed the second annual burning of the yams
December 14, 2009
14:12
Lenticular clouds over Oregon
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

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Lenticular clouds over Oregon
December 09, 2009
8:54
Tax Measures 66 & 67
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: News and Politics [edit]

Attended a town hall meeting on Tax Measures 66 & 67. Bill Sizemore sat next to me. I'm voting for measures 66 & 67.
December 06, 2009
17:14
现在正在下雪。暴风雪？
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]

现在正在下雪。暴风雪？
6:42
现在温度华氏14度，摄氏-10度.
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]

现在温度华氏14度，摄氏-10度.
November 30, 2009
21:39
Thanksgiving Turkey
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

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Thanksgiving Turkey
17:17
Losing Weight
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Health and wellness [edit]

My diet is working!
I'm limiting myself to 1600 calories and 44 grams of fat a day.
I have lost weight and feel better.
More important, by tracking what I eat, I realize the signifance of eating only small portions of food.
I am learning much.
November 21, 2009
17:10
2012
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Entertainment [edit]

My lovely wife and I saw "2012" last night. We loved it! The visual effects alone are worth the cost of admission. 5 stars.
November 19, 2009
9:24
我没有工作。
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]

我退休了。我没有工作。
November 12, 2009
22:21
我的中文名字叫安达华。
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]

我叫Allen. 我的中文名字叫安达华。我是大连理工大学的学生。我学习汉语。我是美国人。我妈妈和爸爸都是美国人.
November 10, 2009
22:56
Caldera Lodge at Suttle Lake
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

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Caldera Lodge at Suttle Lake
22:36
Last Hike (for now)
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Last Hike (for now)
November 08, 2009
7:32
太极拳 Workshop
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Health and wellness [edit]

is now attending the 太极拳 workshop taught by Dr. Paul Lam. [www.taichiforhealth.com]
November 04, 2009
15:56
when you see a good man......
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Confucius [edit]

When you see a good man, try to emulate his example, and when you see a bad man, search yourself for his faults. Confucius
October 28, 2009
18:38
USS Constitution (Old Ironsides)
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

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USS Constitution (Old Ironsides)
October 25, 2009
6:13
Cat Shelter in Chapel Hill, North Carolina
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

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Cat Shelter in Chapel Hill, North Carolina
October 24, 2009
17:48
Conquer the angry man by love.
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Buddhism [edit]

Conquer the angry man by love. Conquer the ill-natured man by goodness. Conquer the miser with generosity. Conquer the liar with truth.
October 23, 2009
18:57
Kennebunkport, Maine
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

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Kennebunkport, Maine
18:46
Portland, Maine
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Portland, Maine
18:31
Fall Foliage in New England States
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Fall Foliage in New England States
18:28
Red Jacket Inn in Conway, New Hampshire
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Red Jacket Inn in Conway, New Hampshire
18:19
Woodstock, Vermont
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Woodstock, Vermont
11:13
Calvin Coolidge Museum, Plymouth Notch, Vermont
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Calvin Coolidge Museum, Plymouth Notch, Vermont
11:09
Francoma Notch, New Hampshire
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Francoma Notch, New Hampshire
11:01
Quechee Gorge New Hampshire
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Quechee Gorge New Hampshire
9:45
Calvin Coolidge Museum at Plymouth Notch, Vermont
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Calvin Coolidge Museum at Plymouth Notch, Vermont
9:36
Battle Memorial at Bennington, Vermont
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Battle Memorial at Bennington, Vermont
9:28
Stratton Mountain Inn, Vermont
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Stratton Mountain Inn, Vermont
9:12
Norman Rockwell Museum at Stockbridge, Massachusetts
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Norman Rockwell Museum at Stockbridge, Massachusetts
October 22, 2009
19:47
Seaport at Mystic, Connecticut
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Seaport at Mystic, Connecticut
19:34
Whaling Museum at New Bedford, Massachusetts
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Whaling Museum at New Bedford, Massachusetts
October 21, 2009
19:46
Vanderbilt Mansion at Newport Rhode Island
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Vanderbilt Mansion at Newport Rhode Island
19:43
Mayflower II
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Mayflower II
19:36
Lexington & Concord, Massachusetts
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Lexington & Concord, Massachusetts
October 18, 2009
14:03
Boston
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Boston
October 16, 2009
7:33
Boston
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Boston
October 13, 2009
16:58
Shoot for the Moon.
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Health and wellness [edit]

“Shoot for the Moon. Even if you miss, you will land among the stars.” – Les Brown
October 08, 2009
23:44
Chinese practice 2009-10-08
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]

前天是我汉语老师的生日。

今天是我的生日。

我今年六十四岁。

昨天我的老师给我一块她的生日蛋糕.

好吃极了！
October 06, 2009
21:39
Chinese practice 2009-10-06
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]

明天开学，我很高兴。我不是语言学院的老师。我的中文名字叫安达华。你认识不认识我吗？我是美国人。现在我学习汉语。
16:40
Currently reading this book
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: books [edit]

Currently reading "The Way We Live Now" by Anthony Trollope.
13:49
Too much weight
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Health and wellness [edit]

Doctor told me I must lose 10 pounds (4.5 kilograms).
October 02, 2009
19:08
ANERA
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Organizations [edit]

Allen just donated to the American Near East Refugee Fund (ANERA) and suggests you also do so.
17:23
The Superior Man
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: China [edit]

The superior man is modest in his speech, but exceeds in his actions. Confucius 551BC-479BC
September 29, 2009
11:52
Timpanogos Caves 2009-09-29
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Timpanogos Caves 2009-09-29
September 27, 2009
20:28
Salt Lake City - Alpine Loop - 2009-09-27
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Salt Lake City - Alpine Loop - 2009-09-27
20:20
Alpine Loop in Salt Lake City
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

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Alpine Loop in Salt Lake City
20:09
Our Anniversary Cake
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Our Anniversary Cake
September 22, 2009
17:24
Little Three Creeks Hike 2009-09-21
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Little Three Creeks Hike 2009-09-21
September 17, 2009
19:08
Mary Travers died today
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: music [edit]

Mary Travers died today. She was the female voice of Peter, Paul, and Mary.

My first record album , back in 1963, was "Peter, Paul, and Mary In Concert". What a great album! The epitome of folk music.

Although Ms. Travers did not compose “If I had a Hammer” or “Blowing in the Wind”, her renditions made these songs classics. Almost 50 years later, these songs have the same impact. I still remember and think of these lyrics.

When I hear these songs, I think fondly of Mary Travers.
18:23
Mary Travers
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

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Mary Travers - "The Song of Love Between My Brothers and Sisters All Over This Land"
September 14, 2009
16:04
Doris Lake Hike 2009-09-14
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Doris Lake Hike 2009-09-14
September 12, 2009
15:49
What is this creature
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

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What is this creature
September 05, 2009
16:30
No one should die
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: News and Politics [edit]

No one should die because they cannot afford health care, no one should go broke because they got sick, and no one should be denied care because they can't afford insurance. If you agree, please post this as your status for the rest of the day.
10:24
Hot-Pot Restaurants
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: food and Drink [edit]

Is there a hot-pot restaurant in Bend, Oregon?
10:23
Chinese movies
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Tags: [edit]

Is the Chinese movie "Wo de fu mu qin" (The Road Home) a good movie? Worth watching?
August 30, 2009
14:34
Chinese language practice 2009-08-30
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]

1.    How was yesterday’s Beijing opera?

Zuótiān de jīngjù zěnmeyàng?

昨天的京剧怎么样？

2.    Shall we go swimming?

Wǒmen qù yóuyǒng, hǎo ma?

我们去游泳好吗？

3.    That’s great! When are we going?

Tài hǎo le! Shénme shíhou qù

太好了！什么时候去？

4．Is it okay to go right now?

            Xiànzài qù, kěyǐ ma?

            现在去，可以吗？

5．Do you have time tomorrow?

      Míngtián nín yǒu shíjiān ma?

   明天您有时间吗？

6．Pardon? Would you say it again?

      Qǐng zài shuō yí biàn?

    对不起，请再说一遍？

7．I’m sorry, but I’ll be very busy tomorrow. I’m afraid I can’t.

      Hěn bàoqiàn, míngtiān wǒ hěn máng, kǒngpà bù xíng.

   很抱歉，明天我很忙。恐怕不行。
August 28, 2009
11:12
Pet Names
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Tags: Miscellaneous Rambling [edit]

I name all my pets "Fred". Easier to remember, no mistaken names.
August 27, 2009
18:08
Do not believe in anything simply because you have heard it.
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Buddhism [edit]

Do not believe in anything simply because you have heard it. Do not believe in anything simply because it is spoken and rumored by many. Do not believe in anything simply because it is found written in your religious books. Do not believe in anything merely on the authority of your teachers and elders. Do not believe in traditions because they have been handed down for many generations. But after observation and analysis, when you find that anything agrees with reason and is conducive to the good and benefit of one and all, then accept it and live up to it.
The Buddha
August 26, 2009
23:30
Chinese practice 2009-08-25
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: [edit]

That woman has a good son.

那个女子有个好儿子。

Nà gè nǚ zǐ yǒu gè hǎo ér zǐ

That strong man working in the fields.

那个强壮的男子在田里干活。

Nà gè qiáng zhuàng de nán zǐ zài tián lǐ gàn huó.

The sun and the moon is very bright.

太阳和月亮都很明亮。

Tài yang hé yuè liàng dōu hěn míng liàng

My computer is very small

我的电脑很小

Wǒ de diàn nǎo hěn xiǎo

Friday, same time, same place

星期五，老时间，老地方。

Xīng qī wǔ lǎo shí jiān lǎo dì fāng

Do you want to see my photos of Qing Dao?

Nǐ xiǎng kàn kàn wǒ de qīng dǎo de zhào piàn

你想看看我的青岛的照片？

Nǐ xiǎng kàn wǒ qīng dǎo de zhào piàn ma

你想看我青岛的照片吗？

Míng tiān tong yī shí jiān tong yī dì diǎn jiàn

明天同一时间同一地点见

Yì jīn

译今
August 24, 2009
20:19
Paulina Creek Hike 2009-08-24
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: [edit]

Paulina Creek Hike 2009-08-24
August 22, 2009
14:25
Chinese practice 2009-08-22
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]

Chinese practice 2009-08-22
Thank you, Yijin Chang, for your corrections. 1．Use of the word “Bā” = 八 =   eight
什么时候去？我八点钟去 2.     Use of the word “dāo” = 刀 =   knife
The young man throws the knife.
zhè nián qīng rén bǎ dāo rēng le
这年轻人把刀扔了 3. Use of the word “fēn” = 分 =   separate
The curtain separates the two rooms.
帘子把   2 个房间分开了
lián zǐ bǎ liang gè fáng jiān fēn kāi le. 4. Use of the word “rén” = 人 =   man
他们是中国人 5.   Use of the word “wáng” = 王 =   king
That man is the king of Denmark.
Nà gè rén shì dān mài de guó wáng
那个人是丹麦的国王

6.   Use of the word “quán” = 全 = whole, all
I cannot believe he ate the whole watermelon.
Wǒ wú fǎ xiāng xìn tā bǎ xī guā quán chī le
我无法相信他把西瓜全吃了
August 19, 2009
8:50
Holding onto anger
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Buddhism [edit]

Holding onto anger is like grasping onto a hot coal with the intent of throwing it at someone else. You are the one who gets burned. Gautama Buddha
August 18, 2009
10:18
Canyon Creek Hike
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

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Canyon Creek Hike
August 13, 2009
21:53
My assignment today is to use the word “火” in a sentence. Is this correct?
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]

My assignment today is to use the word “火” in a sentence. Is this correct?

我要买一个火锅.

Wǒ yào mǎi yī gè huǒ guō.
August 10, 2009
16:14
我外孙
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: [edit]

我外孙
August 03, 2009
18:29
Favorite song
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]

可是天路是我最喜爱的中文歌曲
9:23
甜蜜蜜
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]

I just found the lyrics to 甜蜜蜜. What a wonderful love song! It describes the psychological feelings of lovers who have fallen in love at first sight.
August 02, 2009
16:30
Man is the only animal that laughs and weeps
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Miscellaneous Rambling [edit]

Man is the only animal that laughs and weeps, for he is the only animal that is struck with the difference between what things are and what they ought to be.
August 01, 2009
16:39
Birthers
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: News and Politics [edit]

"Birthers" are racists who cannot accept the truth. Even if they were eye-witnesses to Obama's birth, they still would refuse to believe.
15:38
Proud to be a Liberal
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: News and Politics [edit]

Every day, I thank God that I am a Liberal. Liberals advocate change, because change, like evolution, is good for all of us. Jesus was a Liberal because he advocated a new and bold way of thinking.

People who wish to go back to the “good old days” forget that that the good old days weren’t all that good. In fact, the best of times is today and now. We have President Obama, who will be remembered as one of the greatest Presidents in American history.

I am thankful that the present political administration has taken steps to repair the eight years of damage done to our country by the Bush Administration.

Once again our women and children have the right to make life-saving choices without being restricted by some bible-waving fanatics.

At last, we have an administration that recognizes the religions of others, particularly Islam. Too long, our previous administrations have ignored the people and cultures in the Middle East, Africa, and South America.

We do have serious problems with the economy, but that is not the fault of the Democrats or Republicans. Lower taxes and less government will not solve the problem. You get what you pay for. If you want good government, then you need to pay for it. Government restrictions and controls of business are necessary to protect the public.
July 30, 2009
9:09
There is an exciting movie coming out in November.
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: [edit]

There is an exciting movie coming out in November. It is called "2012". Here is a link to the preview:
[www.whowillsurvive2012.com]
July 19, 2009
17:14
现在我学 “文”, “而”, “斋”, “又”, “隹”, “难”
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: [edit]

现在我学 “文”, “而”, “斋”, “又”, “隹”, “难”
July 03, 2009
16:02
Tumalo Falls Hike 2009-06-28
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: [edit]

Tumalo Falls Hike 2009-06-28
June 26, 2009
20:02
Now reading "Chinese Emperors" (from the Xia Dynasty to the fall of the Qing Dynasty) by Ma Yan
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: books [edit]

Now reading "Chinese Emperors" (from the Xia Dynasty to the fall of the Qing Dynasty) by Ma Yan
12:21
You give me ball? I don't want no stinking ball!
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Parakeets [edit]

You give me ball? I don't want no stinking ball!
June 24, 2009
16:31
A meeting with friends about China
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]

昨天我们跟四个最近也去参访中国的朋友见面。
我们六个人花了五个小时谈论中国和它的人民。
大家都对中国有正面的印象。
这是一个非常有趣且愉快的朋友聚会。
June 18, 2009
9:44
Not to know is bad.
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Miscellaneous Rambling [edit]

Not to know is bad.
Not to want to know is worse.
Not to hope is unthinkable.
Not to care is unforgiveable.
--Nigerian saying
June 12, 2009
19:55
昨天，我看了一场话剧，在市区
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]

昨天，我看了一场话剧，在市区

那场话剧很好看
June 07, 2009
16:03
My Parakeet ABDUCTED BY ALIENS!
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Entertainment [edit]

My Parakeet ABDUCTED BY ALIENS!
June 02, 2009
0:13
粽子
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]

上个周五译今老师给我粽子了。

我们吃粽子了.

很好吃!
May 31, 2009
1:03
Salt Lake City 2009-05-23
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: [edit]

Salt Lake City 2009-05-23
0:57
把.
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]

I passed the test, remembering to write six hanzi. Now my challenge is to learn when to use the word, 把.
May 21, 2009
22:15
An Embarrassing Moment
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Frustrated Ramblings from a Grump [edit]

My lovely wife and I had an excellent dinner with their daughter at a great Chinese restaurant in Pleasant Grove, Utah. However, an embarrassing thing happened to me........
May 20, 2009
20:32
我有一只蓝色的小鹦鹉，很可爱
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]

我有一只蓝色的小鹦鹉，很可爱
20:30
我的名字是,可是你可以叫我
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]

我的名字是<Allen>,可是你可以叫我<安达华>
May 11, 2009
22:45
Smith Rock Walk 2009-05-11
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: [edit]

Smith Rock Walk 2009-05-11
April 28, 2009
15:56
Trying to practice Chinese
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]

I am trying to work on my pronunciation, but my parakeet distracts me
April 06, 2009
10:32
Traditional and simple Chinese Characters
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]

The total number of Chinese characters is estimated at over fifty thousand, of which only five to eight thousand are frequently used. Three thousand are normally adequate for everyday situations.
A considerable number of Chinese characters are composed of numerous strokes and complicated to write. Modern scholars have made numerous attempts to simplify the writing system. “Simplified characters” are those which have been altered. “Traditional characters” are those that retain their earlier forms. Simplified characters are easier to learn, memorize, read and write.
The use of simplified characters is now the official policy in the People’s Republic of China. Traidtional characters are restricted mainly to academic use or aesthetic purposes.
10:32
Traditional and simple Chinese Characters
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]

The total number of Chinese characters is estimated at over fifty thousand, of which only five to eight thousand are frequently used. Three thousand are normally adequate for everyday situations.
A considerable number of Chinese characters are composed of numerous strokes and complicated to write. Modern scholars have made numerous attempts to simplify the writing system. “Simplified characters” are those which have been altered. “Traditional characters” are those that retain their earlier forms. Simplified characters are easier to learn, memorize, read and write.
The use of simplified characters is now the official policy in the People’s Republic of China. Traidtional characters are restricted mainly to academic use or aesthetic purposes.
April 04, 2009
0:32
Experience
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Miscellaneous Rambling [edit]

Experience is a hard teacher, because she gives the test first, the lessons afterward.
0:32
Experience
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Miscellaneous Rambling [edit]

Experience is a hard teacher, because she gives the test first, the lessons afterward.
April 03, 2009
9:13
Sore Losers
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: News and Politics [edit]

Dear Republicans: I have been waiting to say this for eight long years. Get over it! Your candidate lost by a large and unchallenged margin. Stop whining and crawl back into your caves. Or, better yet, keep up with the infighting! Keep attacking McCain's daughter about her "weight problem" instead of her concern for the Republican Party!
Bush was no fiscal conservative. Just look at how much the war in Iraq has cost us already - enough to give all low-income people health care, food, housing and more. This is not .including the precious lives of soldiers, our country's image around the world and the stupidity of thinking a penny ante dictator such as Saddam Hussein ranked among Hitler and Stalin. We have already wasted nearly $10 billion in Iraq just from corrupted "officials" and "equipment suppliers" who rip off the US. government without any ·punishment.
Did you really want a vice president who preached abstinence as the only birth control to her 17-year-old daughter who became pregnant and dropped out of high school? And is now yet another single mother?
Please dig up more Democratic opinion columns and leave the right-wing raving to the talk radio. Finding bad things to say about Obama seems to be too tough a job for Republicans. Mostly, they are just being sore losers.
9:13
Sore Losers
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: News and Politics [edit]

Dear Republicans: I have been waiting to say this for eight long years. Get over it! Your candidate lost by a large and unchallenged margin. Stop whining and crawl back into your caves. Or, better yet, keep up with the infighting! Keep attacking McCain's daughter about her "weight problem" instead of her concern for the Republican Party!
Bush was no fiscal conservative. Just look at how much the war in Iraq has cost us already - enough to give all low-income people health care, food, housing and more. This is not .including the precious lives of soldiers, our country's image around the world and the stupidity of thinking a penny ante dictator such as Saddam Hussein ranked among Hitler and Stalin. We have already wasted nearly $10 billion in Iraq just from corrupted "officials" and "equipment suppliers" who rip off the US. government without any ·punishment.
Did you really want a vice president who preached abstinence as the only birth control to her 17-year-old daughter who became pregnant and dropped out of high school? And is now yet another single mother?
Please dig up more Democratic opinion columns and leave the right-wing raving to the talk radio. Finding bad things to say about Obama seems to be too tough a job for Republicans. Mostly, they are just being sore losers.
March 27, 2009
12:09
Stubborn Twig
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: books [edit]

I have just begun reading this book about three generations of Japanese families living in Oregon.
12:09
Stubborn Twig
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: books [edit]

I have just begun reading this book about three generations of Japanese families living in Oregon.
12:08
When Will Jesus Bring the Pork Chops?
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: books [edit]

I just finished reading this wonderful book by George Carlin, surely one of the greatest American humorists. This book is outrageous and true. I highly recommend it.
12:08
When Will Jesus Bring the Pork Chops?
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: books [edit]

I just finished reading this wonderful book by George Carlin, surely one of the greatest American humorists. This book is outrageous and true. I highly recommend it.
March 21, 2009
18:31
Photo Album: No Bugles
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: [edit]

Photo Album: No Bugles
March 09, 2009
10:55
Spelling Rules
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]

I also must remember that, at the beginning of a syllable, “I” is written as “y” (e.g. iě is pronounced yě). “I” is written as “yi” when it forms a syllable all by itself. (e.g. ī is pronounced yī)
At the beginning of a syllable, “u” is written as “w” (e.g. uǒ is pronounced wǒ). “u” is written as “wo” when it forms a syllable all by itself (e.g. ǔ is pronounced wǔ).
When “ü” is at the beginning of a syllable or forms a syllable by itself, a “y” is added to it and the two dots over it are omitted (e.g. ü3 is pronounced yǔ).
10:55
Spelling Rules
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]

I also must remember that, at the beginning of a syllable, “I” is written as “y” (e.g. iě is pronounced yě). “I” is written as “yi” when it forms a syllable all by itself. (e.g. ī is pronounced yī)
At the beginning of a syllable, “u” is written as “w” (e.g. uǒ is pronounced wǒ). “u” is written as “wo” when it forms a syllable all by itself (e.g. ǔ is pronounced wǔ).
When “ü” is at the beginning of a syllable or forms a syllable by itself, a “y” is added to it and the two dots over it are omitted (e.g. ü3 is pronounced yǔ).
10:38
Third tone sandhi
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]

I must remember that, a third tone, when immediately followed by another third tone, should be pronounced in the second tone, but with the tone mark “3” remaining
unchanged. For example, “Nǐ hǎo” is pronounced “Ní hǎo” “Wǒ hěn hǎo” is pronounced “hén hǎo”. “hěn hǎo” is pronounced “hén hǎo” “Yě hěn hǎo” is pronounced “yě hén hǎo”
10:38
Third tone sandhi
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]

I must remember that, a third tone, when immediately followed by another third tone, should be pronounced in the second tone, but with the tone mark “3” remaining
unchanged. For example, “Nǐ hǎo” is pronounced “Ní hǎo” “Wǒ hěn hǎo” is pronounced “hén hǎo”. “hěn hǎo” is pronounced “hén hǎo” “Yě hěn hǎo” is pronounced “yě hén hǎo”
8:42
Photo Album: Our parakeet
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: [edit]

Photo Album: Our parakeet
March 08, 2009
16:03
We bought a parakeet
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Miscellaneous Rambling [edit]

Allen and his lovely wife just bought a bright blue parakeet.

The parakeet does not yet speak English, let alone Chinese.
16:03
We bought a parakeet
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Miscellaneous Rambling [edit]

Allen and his lovely wife just bought a bright blue parakeet.

The parakeet does not yet speak English, let alone Chinese.
March 04, 2009
19:35
Teaching Chinese to my fish
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]
19:35
Teaching Chinese to my fish
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]
March 02, 2009
23:24
Lesson One Chinese
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]
23:24
Lesson One Chinese
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]
February 21, 2009
17:44
"No knowledge is ever to be wasted or ever to be despised."
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: China [edit]

"No knowledge is ever to be wasted or ever to be despised."

This is a quote from "The Man Who Loved China".
These are the words of Joseph Needham, the father of Joseph Needham,
"The Man Who Loved China."
17:44
"No knowledge is ever to be wasted or ever to be despised."
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: China [edit]

"No knowledge is ever to be wasted or ever to be despised."

This is a quote from "The Man Who Loved China".
These are the words of Joseph Needham, the father of Joseph Needham,
"The Man Who Loved China."
February 16, 2009
15:17
Marley & Me
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: books [edit]

I am now reading this book about life and love with the world's worst dog.

What a wonderful book this is!
15:17
Marley & Me
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: books [edit]

I am now reading this book about life and love with the world's worst dog.

What a wonderful book this is!
7:21
Photo Album: Changzhou, December 2008
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: [edit]

Photo Album: Changzhou, December 2008
February 08, 2009
16:11
Photo Album: Sunday Walk 2009-02-08
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: [edit]

Photo Album: Sunday Walk 2009-02-08
January 31, 2009
13:49
我是美国人
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]
13:49
我是美国人
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]

我是美国人
January 22, 2009
22:47
我叫安达华
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: None [edit]

我叫安达华
22:47
我叫安达华
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: [edit]

我叫安达华
January 21, 2009
15:14
Photo Album: A Nice Reunion
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: [edit]

Photo Album: A Nice Reunion
January 18, 2009
18:51
Trying out flashcards
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]

This is not a good video. The sound is not synchronized.
18:51
Trying out flashcards
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]

This is not a good video. The sound is not synchronized.
January 06, 2009
19:28
Shari & I - Christmas 2008
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: None [edit]
19:28
Shari & I - Christmas 2008
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: [edit]
11:28
Photo Album: Blog Images
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: [edit]

Photo Album: Blog Images
December 14, 2008
17:17
Returning to the United States today
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: China [edit]

I'm returning to the United States today after four months in China. This is my third visit to China in as many years. Each time, my experience grow richer and better. Each time I gain more friends. Each time I love China more. Each time I hate to leave.

China, you will always be in my heart.
17:17
Returning to the United States today
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: China [edit]

I'm returning to the United States today after four months in China. This is my third visit to China in as many years. Each time, my experience grow richer and better. Each time I gain more friends. Each time I love China more. Each time I hate to leave.

China, you will always be in my heart.
November 12, 2008
8:10
11/12/2008
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: [edit]

11/12/2008
7:37
Photo Album: Harbin - November 2008
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: [edit]

Harbin - November 2008
Harbin 2008-11-08_001
Sait Sophia Church
Harbin 2008-11-08_003
Harbin 2008-11-08_004
Harbin 2008-11-08_005
Harbin 2008-11-08_006
Harbin 2008-11-08_007
Harbin 2008-11-08_008
Harbin 2008-11-08_009
Harbin 2008-11-08_010
More Photos...
November 11, 2008
23:25
Photo Album: Harbin - November 2008
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: [edit]

Photo Album: Harbin - November 2008
October 31, 2008
4:49
Toward The Rising Sun
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Miscellaneous Rambling [edit]

Every morning, the first thing that comes to the antelope's mind is, “I must be able to run faster than the fastest lion, or I will be killed by a lion.”

And the first thing flashing into the lion's mind is, “I must be able to catch up with the slowest antelope. Otherwise, I will starve to death.”
So, at the same moment, both jump to their feet, and start running toward the rising sun.
4:49
Toward The Rising Sun
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Miscellaneous Rambling [edit]

Every morning, the first thing that comes to the antelope's mind is, “I must be able to run faster than the fastest lion, or I will be killed by a lion.”

And the first thing flashing into the lion's mind is, “I must be able to catch up with the slowest antelope. Otherwise, I will starve to death.”
So, at the same moment, both jump to their feet, and start running toward the rising sun.
October 17, 2008
1:52
Happy With My Progress
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]

Today I took my first two exams since I started my courses over again in September.

I am happy with myself, although my teachers may disagree with my progress.

I certainly did better than I did last year.

This year I am surprised that I could read the questions, which were written in Hanzi. It took a while, but as I reviewed all the questions, i realized that I could recognize most of the words.

I was not unhappy with my oral test either. I was able to remember several Chinese words and sentences.

Still, I have a long way to go. I have learned more hanzi characters, but i often forget the correct tones. My pronunciation still needs a lot of work. I find that even though I can recognize hanzi characters, it is not the same the other way around. I find that I have an extremely hard time remembering the hanzi equivalent of a pinyin word. As my friends tell me, i must practice, practice, practice.
1:52
Happy With My Progress
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]

Today I took my first two exams since I started my courses over again in September.

I am happy with myself, although my teachers may disagree with my progress.

I certainly did better than I did last year.

This year I am surprised that I could read the questions, which were written in Hanzi. It took a while, but as I reviewed all the questions, i realized that I could recognize most of the words.

I was not unhappy with my oral test either. I was able to remember several Chinese words and sentences.

Still, I have a long way to go. I have learned more hanzi characters, but i often forget the correct tones. My pronunciation still needs a lot of work. I find that even though I can recognize hanzi characters, it is not the same the other way around. I find that I have an extremely hard time remembering the hanzi equivalent of a pinyin word. As my friends tell me, i must practice, practice, practice.
October 03, 2008
11:46
BBQ at Golden Stones Beach
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: [edit]

BBQ at Golden Stones Beach
September 20, 2008
3:44
Photo Album: 9/20/2008
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: [edit]

Laoshan Mountain
Laoshan 2008-09-13_001
Laoshan 2008-09-13_002
Laoshan 2008-09-13_003
Laoshan 2008-09-13_004
Laoshan 2008-09-13_005
Laoshan 2008-09-13_006
Laoshan 2008-09-13_007
Laoshan 2008-09-13_008
Laoshan 2008-09-13_009
Laoshan 2008-09-13_010
More Photos...
3:04
First Week in Class
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]

I'm in the middle of my first week of classes. My impression is that I missed an awful lot last year by coming in four weeks late. Possibly improvements have also been made to the curriculum. I notice more English signs in the hallways, and Chinese-in-China has prepared a welcoming packet for each new and returning student The instructors still teach in Chinese and write in Hanzi, the simplified Chinese characters. However, because we're in a very beginning class, they make sure we know what each word and character means. Of course, during the first weeks, the concentration is mostly on pronunciation. However, the instructors go into much more detail than what we experienced last year (because we were late). There also is an emphasis on learning hanzi. We are encouraged to memorize the Hanzi, not the Pinyin (the Romanized versions of the Chinese characters). We are being taught the strokes and how to write the characters. This is exactly what I want, and what I missed last year. Some of our textbooks books have been rewritten. They are better written and have more contemporary illustrations. I have different instructors than I did last year. All the instructors are very good and explain in English if need be. The approach seems more “gentle” than last year. Another improvement is that the listening tapes are now available on MP3. Oh, how I hated those tape recorders! So far, I'm doing okay and pleased with my progress. I seem to be learning hanzi, now that i've started all over. Teacher Ma said that one of the teachers praised me and said that I talked a lot (!!!!). However, today was only the third day of class, and I can see that the learning and difficulty will increase over time. It's easier for me now, but maybe that's because I have little bit of an edge from the classes I took last year. Time will tell. It is comforting to know that some of my classmate know even less Chinese than I do. I told you before that there are less foreign students here because of increased security. There are only ten people in our class. I am happy to say that I am not the only old guy in my class. There is an older Japanese man here. I'm guessing that he's about our age. He, too, seems to have taken Chinese language courses before. We have four Thais in our class, three guys and one girl. We have only one Russian in our class. He seems very young, but appears dedicated to learning Chinese. He actually laughed at one of our jokes. Like me, he likes to volunteer to speak. He's a likable guy. We have two Africans from Benin, one guy from Papua, and one nice Muslim lady from Brunei. The Canadian, Jerry, is also in my class. Real nice guy. I learned today that, in 2006, he was awarded the second place national Canadian award for partners figure skating. That's very impressive. Tony is now in teaching classes in Qingdao. Actually, he was doing the same when we were here last year. He still comes up and visits us every now and then. This weekend, which is a three-day holiday, we are going to Tsingdao. I'm hoping we can visit the brewery there.
3:04
First Week in Class
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]

I'm in the middle of my first week of classes. My impression is that I missed an awful lot last year by coming in four weeks late. Possibly improvements have also been made to the curriculum. I notice more English signs in the hallways, and Chinese-in-China has prepared a welcoming packet for each new and returning student The instructors still teach in Chinese and write in Hanzi, the simplified Chinese characters. However, because we're in a very beginning class, they make sure we know what each word and character means. Of course, during the first weeks, the concentration is mostly on pronunciation. However, the instructors go into much more detail than what we experienced last year (because we were late). There also is an emphasis on learning hanzi. We are encouraged to memorize the Hanzi, not the Pinyin (the Romanized versions of the Chinese characters). We are being taught the strokes and how to write the characters. This is exactly what I want, and what I missed last year. Some of our textbooks books have been rewritten. They are better written and have more contemporary illustrations. I have different instructors than I did last year. All the instructors are very good and explain in English if need be. The approach seems more “gentle” than last year. Another improvement is that the listening tapes are now available on MP3. Oh, how I hated those tape recorders! So far, I'm doing okay and pleased with my progress. I seem to be learning hanzi, now that i've started all over. Teacher Ma said that one of the teachers praised me and said that I talked a lot (!!!!). However, today was only the third day of class, and I can see that the learning and difficulty will increase over time. It's easier for me now, but maybe that's because I have little bit of an edge from the classes I took last year. Time will tell. It is comforting to know that some of my classmate know even less Chinese than I do. I told you before that there are less foreign students here because of increased security. There are only ten people in our class. I am happy to say that I am not the only old guy in my class. There is an older Japanese man here. I'm guessing that he's about our age. He, too, seems to have taken Chinese language courses before. We have four Thais in our class, three guys and one girl. We have only one Russian in our class. He seems very young, but appears dedicated to learning Chinese. He actually laughed at one of our jokes. Like me, he likes to volunteer to speak. He's a likable guy. We have two Africans from Benin, one guy from Papua, and one nice Muslim lady from Brunei. The Canadian, Jerry, is also in my class. Real nice guy. I learned today that, in 2006, he was awarded the second place national Canadian award for partners figure skating. That's very impressive. Tony is now in teaching classes in Qingdao. Actually, he was doing the same when we were here last year. He still comes up and visits us every now and then. This weekend, which is a three-day holiday, we are going to Tsingdao. I'm hoping we can visit the brewery there.
September 19, 2008
20:16
Photo Album: Laoshan Mountain
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: [edit]

Photo Album: Laoshan Mountain
September 18, 2008
9:23
Photo Album: 9/18/2008
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: [edit]

Classmates 2008
Classmates 2008-09-12_010
Teacher Li, our grammar teacher
Teacher Wang, our Listening Teacher
Teacher Han, our conversation teacher
Sarah
A nice lady from Brunei
Two gentlemen from Benin and Papua
Jeremy
Romeo
Sergei
More Photos...
2:12
Photo Album: Classmates 2008
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: [edit]

Photo Album: Classmates 2008
September 02, 2008
4:53
"Youth" by Samuel Ullman
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Health and wellness [edit]

“Youth is not a time of life; it is a state of mind. “It is not a matter of rosy cheeks, red lips and supple knees; it is a matter of the will, a quality of the imagination, a vigour of the emotions; it is the freshness of deep springs of life. “Youth means temperamental predominance of courage over timidity, of the appetite for adventure over the love of ease. “This often exists in a man of 60 more than in a boy of 20. Nobody grows older merely by a number of years. We grow older by deserting our ideals. “Years may wrinkle the skin, but to give up enthusiasm wrinkles the soul. “Worry, fear, self-distrust bow the heart and turn the spirit back to dust. “Whether 60 or 16, there is in every human being’s heart the lure of wonder, the unfailing childlike appetite of what’s next, and the joy of the game of living. “In the centre of your heart and my heart there is a wireless station; so long as it receives messages of beauty, hope, courage and power from man and from the Infinite, so long are you young. “When the aerials are down, and your spirit is covered with snows of cynicism and the ice of pessimism, then you are grown old, even at 20; but as long as the aerials are up, to catch waves of optimism, there is hope that you may die young at 80.”
August 09, 2008
17:16
Olympics Opening Ceremony
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: China [edit]

To My Friends in China: I want to tell you that my wife and I saw the opening ceremonies on television last night. It was unbelievable, beautiful, and wonderful. I have never seen anything like it. We will never forget that ceremony. Congratulations to China! You are magnificent. Andy
July 23, 2008
13:20
Tai Ji Quan - I currently take Sun Style Chinese (孙式)
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: China [edit]

I currently take Sun Style Chinese (孙式) tai ji quan lessons here in Bend.

When i return to Dalian next month, I would like to continue my classes.

Does anyone know where I might take this type of lesson or class in Dalian?
July 07, 2008
17:01
Returning to China!
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: China [edit]

I am returning to China next month. Last year, I missed the first four weeks of classes. Big mistake!

I want to make sure that I attend those important first weeks this time.

Hopefully those will be the missing pieces that will make my learning more successful this time.

If I do not make substantial progress during these first four weeks, I probably will terminate my courses.

If I do make substantial progress, i may stay longer and complete the term.

Either way, I may stay a little bit longer after classes, so that I might visit my friends in China and explore the more rural areas.
June 27, 2008
13:45
我最喜爱的餐厅是沁园春
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: China [edit]

我最喜爱的餐厅是丰鑫
wǒ zuì xǐ ài de cān tīng shì fēng xīn
My favorite restaurant is Feng Xin.
June 24, 2008
10:01
A Seafood Restaurant in Dalian
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: China [edit]

Jason, my student friend from DUT, found out the name of the seafood restaurant that I was looking for.
It is Yangguangju Xuefujiudian (阳光居.学府酒店).
Does that sound right to you?
Another internet friend introduced me to one of Chairman Mao’s poems, “Snow”, because I mentioned the name of our favorite restaurant on Hongling Lu.
The poem was beautiful, and I can understand why many Chinese people memorize parts of it.
However, I am afraid that the English translation cannot capture all the beauty of the Chairman’s Chinese language poem.
I will search for English translations that attempt to capture the color and feelings of Mao’s works.
Of course, the more I learn Chinese, then the more I appreciate and understand the culture. Maybe someday I can read his poems in the original language and understand fully the meaning.
May 07, 2008
19:52
Photo Album: Prineville Reservoir (水库)
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: [edit]

Prineville Reservoir (水库)
Prineville Reservoir Brochure
Prineville Reservoir 2008-05-06 001
Prineville Reservoir 2008-05-06 003
Getting Ready for the Hike (备远足)
Our guide (我们的倡)
Prineville Reservoir 2008-05-06 007
Prineville Reservoir 2008-05-06 009
Juniper Tree (倡)
Prineville Reservoir 2008-05-06 012
Indian Paint Brush (印度人的颜料毛刷)
More Photos...
12:20
Photo Album: Prineville Reservoir (水库)
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: [edit]

Photo Album: Prineville Reservoir (水库)
May 01, 2008
9:14
美国假日
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]
New Year's Day, January 1st. Yuan2 dan4
- 元旦
- Birthday of Martin Luther King,
- 马丁路德金的生日
- 马ma3 丁ding1 路lu4 德de2 金jin1 的de 生sheng1 日ri4
- third Monday in January.
第三周一在一月。
第di4 三san1 周zhou1 一yi1 在zai4 一yi1 月yue4 。
- Inauguration Day, January 20th every four years
- 就职天
- 就jiu4 职zhi2 天tian1
- 1月20日每四年
- 1月yue4 20日ri4 每mei3 四si4 年nian2
- Washington's Birthday, third Monday in February
- 乔治华盛顿的生日
- 乔qiao2 治zhi4 华hua1盛cheng2顿du2 的de 生sheng1 日ri4
- 第三周一在二月
- 第di4 三san1 周zhou1 一yi1 在zai4 二er4 月yue4
- Memorial Day, last Monday in May
- 阵亡将士纪念日
- 阵zhen4 亡wang2 将jiang1 士shi4 纪ji3 念nian4 日ri4
- 上周一在5月
- 上shang3 周zhou1 一yi1 在zai4 5月yue4
- Independence Day, July 4.
- 独立纪念日
- 独du2 立li4 纪ji3 念nian4 日ri4
- 7月4日
- 7月yue4 4日ri4
- Labor Day, first Monday in September.
- 劳动节
- 劳lao2 动dong4 节jie1
- 第一周一在9月
- 第di4 一yi1 周zhou1 一yi1 在zai4 9月yue4
- Columbus Day, second Monday in October .
- 哥伦布纪念日
- 哥ge1 伦lun2 布bu4 纪ji3 念nian4 日ri4
- Election Day, Tuesday on or after November 2.
- 选举日
- 选xuan3 举ju3 日ri4
- 周二日或之后11月2日。
- 周zhou1 二er4 日ri4 或huo4 之zhi1 后hou4 11月yue4 2日ri4 。
- Veterans Day, November 11th
- 退伍军人节
- 退tui4 伍wu3 军jun1 人ren2 节jie1
- 11月11日
- Thanksgiving Day, fourth Thursday in November.
- 感恩节
- 感gan3 恩en1 节jie1
- 第四周四在十一月。
- 第di4 四si4 周zhou1 四si4 在zai4 十shi2 一yi1 月yue4 。
- Christmas Day, December 25th.
- 圣诞日
- 圣sheng4 诞dan4 日ri4
- 12月25日
April 28, 2008
23:11
Photo Album: Pilot Butte
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

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Pilot Butte
Pilot Butte 2008-04-27 001
Pilot Butte 2008-04-27 002
Pilot Butte 2008-04-27 003
Downtown Bend 市区
Pilot Butte 2008-04-27 006
Pilot Butte 2008-04-27 007
Pilot Butte 2008-04-27 008
Pilot Butte 2008-04-27 009
Pilot Butte 2008-04-27 010
Pilot Butte 2008-04-27 011
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22:54
Photo Album: Smith Rock
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

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Smith Rock
Getting Ready for the hike
Smith Rock 2008-04-22 005
Smith Rock 2008-04-22 006
Smith Rock 2008-04-22 007
Smith Rock 2008-04-22 008
我的樏
Smith Rock 2008-04-22 010
Smith Rock 2008-04-22 011
Smith Rock 2008-04-22 012
Smith Rock 2008-04-22 013
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16:07
Photo Album: Pilot Butte
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Photo Album: Pilot Butte
15:49
Photo Album: Smith Rock
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

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Photo Album: Smith Rock
April 20, 2008
23:10
Photo Album: The professor ignores me
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

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The professor ignores me
这星期我们在盐湖城. 我们看了我们的小女儿. 昨天,我们游览了她大学的校园. 校园很美丽. 我看到了一个教授. 她坐在长椅上我坐在她旁边我想告诉她校园多么美丽她不理我你能告诉我为什么吗？
22:59
The Professor Ignores Me
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]

这星期我们在盐湖城.

我们看了我们的小女儿.

昨天,我们游览了她大学的校园.

校园很美丽.

我看到了一个教授.

她坐在长椅上

我坐在她旁边

我想告诉她校园多么美丽

她不理我

你能告诉我为什么吗？

zhè xīng qī wǒ men zài yán hú chéng .

wǒ men kānle wǒ men de xiǎo nu:3 ér .

zuó tiān, wǒ men yóu lǎn le tā dà xué de jiào yuán .

jiào yuán hěn měi lí .

wǒ kān dào le yī gè jiāo shòu .

tā zuò zài cháng yī shǎng wǒ zuò zài tā páng biān wǒ xiǎng gào sù tā jiào yuán duō ma měi lí tā bù lǐ wǒ nǐ néng gào sù wǒ wéi shén me ma ？
15:53
Photo Album: The professor ignores me
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

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Photo Album: The professor ignores me
April 16, 2008
10:51
Photo Album: 西敏寺大学，盐湖城
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西敏寺大学，盐湖城
Westminster College 2008-04-13 003
Westminster College 2008-04-13 004
Westminster College 2008-04-13 005
Westminster College 2008-04-13 006
Westminster College 2008-04-13 007
Westminster College 2008-04-13 008
Westminster College 2008-04-13 009
Westminster College 2008-04-13 010
Westminster College 2008-04-13 011
Westminster College 2008-04-13 013
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3:45
Photo Album: 西敏寺大学，盐湖城
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Photo Album: 西敏寺大学，盐湖城
March 30, 2008
13:32
Where is Long Peace Street?
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: None [edit]

Where is Long Peace Street?
March 23, 2008
17:15
Practicing My Pronunciation
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]

All of my Chinese teachers tell me, "Allen, pronunciation is most important when you learn Chinese. You must learn pronunciation first. Then you may concentrate on vocabulary, grammar, and hanzi." I want to practice spoken Chinese, but, for the following reasons, it is very difficult. 1. I live in a small town in Oregon, and not many Chinese live here. 2. Most of the Chinese here speak Cantonese, not Mandarin. 3. Those Chinese here who can speak Mandarin usually are too busy to teach. 4. In conclusion, there are few. if any, Mandarin Chinese teachers in Bend. So what do I do? Fortunately, there are some options available. 1. I listen and practice with audio CD's 2. I can talk online with my friends in China. These audio and video conversations have been extremely helpful 3. Whenever I go to a Chinese restauarant, I talk to the waitress or owner in Chinese. Often they understand what I say and correct my pronunciation. Using these options, I hope to continue practicing Chinese and learn more, before I return to China later this year.
March 20, 2008
16:55
George Bush gets it right this time
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: China [edit]

Today, President Bush said that he would not support any boycott of the Olympics in China, because the performance of the athletes is separate from any politics.

I agree with President Bush completely.

The Olympics should never be a platform for political protests.
16:50
Violence in Movies
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Miscellaneous Rambling [edit]

My wife and I watched “Enchanted” last night.
I’m sure you’re aware that it’s Disney’s self-parody of its earlier fairy tale cartoons.
The movie is wonderful. It’s fresh, charming, and fun-to-watch.
I especially liked the actress who played the fairy-tale princess. She was just perfect as she broke out in song on the streets of Manhattan.
Now, this is my gripe.
Why can’t a movie like this get awarded Best Movie of the Year, when instead you get crap like “The Departed”?
I’ve have not seen “No Country for Old Men”, but I know its violent, as is “There will be Blood.”
I have not seen “Juno”, but I wonder why more consideration was not given to that movie. That appears to be sweet and original.
Forgive my ranting, but I get frustrated when comedies are not given the attention they sometimes deserve. Too much attention appears to be given to violent and depressing movies.
Over and out…..
Allen
March 14, 2008
8:02
我在中国有很多很好的朋友
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: China [edit]

我在中国有很多很好的朋友
March 03, 2008
0:39
Why Do I Study Chinese?
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Chinese Learning [edit]

When people ask me.
当人们问我。
当 dang1 人 ren2 们 men 问 wen4 我 wo3 。

You are 62 years old.
你 ni3 今年 jin1 nian2六liu4十shi2二er4岁sui4.

Why do you still want to study Chinese?
为什么你还要学习汉语？
为 wei4 什 shen2 么 me 你 ni3 还 hai2要 yao4 学 xue2 习 xi2 han4 yu3?

I want to learn Chinese because this is a difficult language to learn.
我想学习汉语，因为这是一个很难学习的语言。
我 wo3 想 xiang3 学 xue2 习 xi2 han4 yu3，因 yin1 为 wei2这 zhe4 是 shi4 一 yi1个 ge4 很hen3 难 nan2学 xue2 习 xi2的 de 语 yu3 言 yan2 。

The Chinese language is difficult but exciting and interesting.
汉语，是艰难但令人兴奋而er有趣的。
汉 han4 语 yu3 ，是 shi4 艰 jian1 难 nan2 但dan4令 ling2 人 ren2 兴 xing1 奋 fen4 而er 有 you3 趣 qu4 的de 。

I want to learn Chinese, because China is interesting and exciting.
我想学习汉语，因为中国是有趣和令人振奋的。
我 wo3 想 xiang3 学 xue2 习 xi2汉 han4 语 yu3，因 yin1 为 wei2 中 zhong1 国 guo2 是 shi4 有 you3 趣 qu4 和 he2令 ling2 人 ren2 振 zhen4 奋 fen4 的 de。

I am also very happy to visit China, and remain for a while.
我也很高兴来中国访问，并生活一段时间
我 wo3 也 ye3 很 hen3 高 gao1 兴 xing1 来 lai2 中 zhong1 国 guo2 访 fang3 问 wen4 ，并 bing1 生sheng1 活huo2 一yi2 段duan4 时shi2 间jian1. 。
February 22, 2008
18:02
我的中文深入课程的收获
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Chinese Learning [edit]

我已经完成了在中国大连三个月的集中中文（语言）课程的学习。

虽然这个课程正是我想要的，但是我并没有达到两个最重要的目标，就是能听懂（明白）中文对话和阅读汉字。

这次是我第二次到中国。去年，我和我妻子花了一个月的时间游览了中国主要的旅游胜地。虽然能看到长城和兵马俑让我很愉快，但是旅游公司不允许我们自由活动，跟中国当地人一起走或者参观附近地区。换句话，我们没能看到真正的中国。

于是，这次我欣然接受了大连理工大学“在中国学汉语”项目（从大连科技大学中国人在中国）发出的三个月课程邀请。这正是我期望的。这个课程在中国授课，同时给了我和当地居民练习中文的机会。同时，这个课程是由中国教师用（由）中文授课。能在中国由中国老师教授中文，然后体验三个月真正的中国，我还奢求什么呢？

所以, 我又怎么会失败，我哪里会做得不好呢？

回答是，我没有失败。也许我没有实现达成我所有的目标，但是我没有失败。

虽然我没有像我预期的那样学到很多汉字，但是我毕竟学到了一些，现在我比（而且我比我）来中国前知道的汉字要多得多。

虽然我没有达到能听懂（明白）中文口语对话的目标，但是我也学到了许多词汇。现在，我可以进行有限的对话，可以讨价还价（杀价）和基本交流。我比我来中国前知道的中文要多得多。

我没有失败，因为我现在知道的中文和汉字比我上这个课程前要多。

然而，我确实犯了一些重要的错误。一个错误是我晚（迟）上了四个星期的课程。我错误地（的）以为我有足够的中文基础，能很容易在一两个星期内赶上。我太错了。我落后了而且怎么都赶不上了。

另一个错误就是没能意识到我有不好的学习习惯。

一个同道的美国人告诉我，要想学习中文，我必须要学会如何学习中文。回想这次的中文课程和优秀个人教师上过的课，我最终意识到，在我学习中文的时候，我完全忽略了中文汉字，就像它们是透明的一样。在学习时，我必须学着记住这些汉字。

不管怎样，这还不是终点。我的目标是学会中文，这个语言和汉字。我不会放弃的。

解决的方法就是重（从）新来过，用正确的方法。

我计划回到大连，有自知之明地（的）重新上课，从头再来（这次从最开始）。

在此同时，我会继续学习和练习中文发音。我会继续试着学习汉字。这次我想做好准备等到时回到大连和大连科技大学。

过去的三个月对于我仍然是个双赢的情况。我能在中国生活三个月，不像跟旅游团那样的去体验中国。结果是我逐渐开始爱上中国和中国人。几乎没有个例，中国的人们都非常友好而且都非常帮忙。他们会不怕麻烦的帮助我学习中文或者帮助我找到某个地方。

这三个月的经历我会永远记住而且珍藏。
17:59
The Results of My Immersion Course in Chinese
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Chinese Learning [edit]

The Results of My Immersion Course in Chinese

I have finished the intensive three-month Chinese language course in Dalian, China.

Although the course was exactly what I wanted, I failed to achieve my two most important goals, to be able to understand conversations in Chinese and to read Hanzi.

This was my second visit to China. Last year, my wife and I took a month-long guided tour of the main tourist attractions in China. Although it was great to see sights like the Great Wall and the Terra-Cotta Soldiers, the tour agency did not allow us to travel at our leisure, walk among the Chinese people, or visit the local neighborhoods. In other words, we did not see the real China.

I jumped at the opportunity to take the three-month class offered by Chinese-in-China at the Dalian University of Technology. This was exactly what I wanted. The course was offered in China, which gave me the opportunity to practice my Chinese with the local citizens. Also, the course was tought by Chinese teachers in Chinese. To learn Chinese from Chinese teachers in China and to experience the real China for three months, what more could I ask?

So how did I fail? Where did I go wrong?

The answer is, I did not fail. I may not have achieved all my goals, but I did not fail.

While I did not learn as many Chinese characters as I wanted. I did learn some characters, and I know more Hanzi than I did before I arrived in China.

While I did not achieve my goal of understanding spoken Chinese, I did learn several words. I am now able to have limited conversations, being able to bargain for items and communicate basics. I understand more Chinese now than before I arrived in China.

I did not fail, because I now know more Chinese language and characters than before I took this course.

However, I did make some major mistakes. One mistake was to start the course four-weeks late. I mistakenly assumed that I had enough Chinese language background to easily catch up within a week or two. I was very wrong. I fell behind and never could catch up.

Another mistake was failing to realize I had poor study habits.

A fellow American told me that, in order to study Chinese, I must first learn how to study Chinese. Looking back at this Chinese course and past lessons from excellent private teachers, I finally realized that, when I studied Chinese, I was completely ignoring the Chinese characters, as if they were almost invisible. I must learn how to memorize the characters as I study.

However, this is not the end. My goal is to learn Chinese, the language, and the characters. I will not give up.

The solution is to start over again and do it right.

I plan to return to Dalian and, knowing what I know now, take the course over again, this time from the very beginning.

In the meantime, I will continue to study and practice the pronunciation of Chinese words. I will continue to try to learn Hanzi. This time I want to be more prepared when I return to Dalian and the University of Technology

Still, the past three months have still been a win-win situation for me. I was able to spend three months in China and experience China like no other tour group. As a result, I have grown to love China and the Chinese people. With very few exceptions, the Chinese have been very friendly and extremely helpful. They would go out of their way to help me learn Chinese or help me find a particular destination.

These three months have been an experience I will always remember and always treasure.
February 09, 2008
13:17
I think. Therefore..........
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: None [edit]

I think. Therefore, I am a liberal.
December 25, 2007
14:00
Photo Album: 12/25/2007
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: [edit]

Dandong & North Korea
Dandong 2007-12-22 006
Dandong 2007-12-22 008
Dandong 2007-12-22 009
Dandong 2007-12-22 011
Dandong 2007-12-22 012
Dandong 2007-12-22 013
Dandong 2007-12-22 014
Dandong 2007-12-22 015
Dandong 2007-12-22 019
Dandong 2007-12-22 020
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13:54
Dandong and North Korea
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: China [edit]

This last weekend we drove to Dandong in northern China. I have attached photos of our trip. North Korea is right across the river from Dandong, and we could easily see the buildings in North Korea from our hotel room. Later we took a boat along the river and cruised within a couple hundred feet from the North Korean shore. What a difference between these two countries! Dandong on the Chinese side reflects China's booming economy with its towering skyscrapers and continuous construction. The North Korean side appears desolate with little or no visible activity. What we found interesting are the number of watch towers on the North Korean side. Apparently the North Koreans are concerned that too many of their citizens will flee into Communist China. Can you imagine that? The next day, we visited a museum commemorating that war in Korea between 1950 and 1950. I say "that war" because, in the United States, the war is known as the Korean War. In China and North Korea, the war is known as "The War Against American Aggression." The exhibits were impressive and emotionally moving. None of us were old enough to know the details of that war. The Chinese apparently are curious to know the American side of the war, and we were interested in hearing the Communist side. I also am curious to know the details of what caused the start of this war. Afterwards we visited the northernmost part of the Great Wall. Shari and I climbed this wall, too. We enjoyed this experience better than our visit and climb of the Wild Wall in Beijing last year, because the Wild Wall was in poor condition, but this rebuilt wall in Dandong gave us a better picture of what the Great Wall was really like. Today is Christmas Day. It is not a holiday in China. Classes are still held in school, and all the stores and government offices are open. Still, out of a class of 16, only the Australian Ian and I were present in class. Also, the was a noticeable lack of traffic on the streets. Christmas may not be an official holiday, but it appears the many Chinese are celebrating it. I spent Christmas morning in class with our teachers, practicing calligraphy and reviewing previous chapters from text books. Like the schools in Chicago during Jewish holidays, it was kind of fun with so few people in attendance. We had enjoyed more relaxed and interesting conversations with our teachers. Tonight, Shari and I plan to celebrate Christmas by having dinner at a Chinese steakhouse in downtown Dalian. You probably will receive this letter on Christmas day. Shari and I wish you the happiest of holidays and the hope for a bright and peaceful future. Merry Christmas! Shari and Andy Anderson
5:53
Photo Album: Dandong & North Korea
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

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Photo Album: Dandong & North Korea
December 21, 2007
10:21
Photo Album: Beijing Opera
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Beijing Opera
Beijing Opera 2007-12-01_02
Beijing Opera 2007-12-01_03
Beijing Opera 2007-12-01_04
Beijing Opera 2007-12-01_05
Beijing Opera 2007-12-01_06
Beijing Opera 2007-12-01_07
Beijing Opera 2007-12-01_09
Beijing Opera 2007-12-01_11
Beijing Opera 2007-12-01_12
Beijing Opera 2007-12-01_13
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2:16
Photo Album: Beijing Opera
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

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Photo Album: Beijing Opera
December 06, 2007
7:11
Photo Album: Jinan & Qufu
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

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Jinan & Qufu
This is Gracie. She is the sister of one of my Chinese teachers. She took me on a tour of Jinan and Qufu. She worked hard to make my trip perfect.
This is the view we got during most of our carriage ride in Qufu.
Jinan & Qufu 2007-11-22_01
Jinan & Qufu 2007-11-22_02
Jinan & Qufu 2007-11-22_03
Jinan & Qufu 2007-11-22_05
Jinan & Qufu 2007-11-22_06
Jinan & Qufu 2007-11-22_07
Jinan & Qufu 2007-11-22_08
Jinan & Qufu 2007-11-22_09
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7:00
Thanksgiving in Jinan and Qufu
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: China [edit]

I spent most of Thanksgiving week in Jinan and Qufu, the birthplace and home of Kong Zi (Confucius). Allow me to share these photos with you. Most of the photos you see are of the home and tomb of Confuciius and the parks where they are located.
6:34
Photo Album: 12/6/2007
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

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Xinghai Park
Xinghai Park 2007-11-17_06
Xinghai Park 2007-11-17_07
Xinghai Park 2007-11-17_08
Xinghai Park 2007-11-17_11
Xinghai Park 2007-11-17_12
Xinghai Park 2007-11-17_13
Xinghai Park 2007-11-17_14
Xinghai Park 2007-11-17_15
Xinghai Park 2007-11-17_16
Xinghai Park 2007-11-17_18
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December 05, 2007
23:01
Photo Album: Jinan & Qufu
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Photo Album: Jinan & Qufu
22:30
Photo Album: Xinghai Park
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

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Photo Album: Xinghai Park
November 10, 2007
20:32
Photo Album: Shenyang
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

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Shenyang
DSC00183
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11:59
Photo Album: Shenyang
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Photo Album: Shenyang
October 20, 2007
8:13
Photo Album: Dalian University of Technology
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

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Dalian University of Technology
Classmates
Dalian Univeristy of Technology 2007-10-15_01
Dalian Univeristy of Technology 2007-10-15_02
Dalian Univeristy of Technology 2007-10-15_03
Dalian Univeristy of Technology 2007-10-15_04
Dalian Univeristy of Technology 2007-10-15_05
Dalian Univeristy of Technology 2007-10-15_06
Dalian Univeristy of Technology 2007-10-15_07
Dalian Univeristy of Technology 2007-10-15_08
Dalian Univeristy of Technology 2007-10-15_11
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8:04
Photo Album: My apartment in Dalian
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My apartment in Dalian
Apartment in Dalian 2007-10-04_04
Apartment in Dalian 2007-10-04_05
Apartment in Dalian 2007-10-04_07
Apartment in Dalian 2007-10-04_08
Apartment in Dalian 2007-10-04_09
Apartment in Dalian 2007-10-04_10
Apartment in Dalian 2007-10-04_11
Apartment in Dalian 2007-10-04_12
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Apartment in Dalian 2007-10-04_14
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7:55
October 7, 2007 - Description of Dalian
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: China [edit]

Most people take cabs because they’re so cheap. Somewhat like Manhattan, mostly cabs on the street.
Chinese in Dalian appear taller than in other parts of the country. People here are more conservative than in other parts of China. I see quite a few older people in their Mao outfits. Less women wear high heels here. Maybe it’s the weather. Dalian is only 100 years old. That’s very new for a city in China. Apparently, it was built by the Japanese and then occupied by the Russians.
There are several Russian students here. Both Russia and North Korea are just a stone’s throw away. Still I notice that most Chinese stare at foreigners. Most Chinese are very friendly. I think they stare, because it is unusual to see a non-Asian. I think they are very curious about America and other non-Asian countries. Here old age takes priority over gender. When I’m on a bus, young girls get up and offer me their seat. (Yeah, I guess I am that old.) They also prefer that men walk ahead on them when entering a building or climbing steps.
Most of the food here is unusual but good. Dalian being a seaport, most restaurants serve seafood. The food is slimy and hard to pick up using metal chopsticks, but its still good. Had my first live fish today. We picked a fish from the tank, and the chef slammed the fish against the wall. It was okay. I also had jellyfish for lunch. It was different but good.
Ping pong is still the most popular sport in China Monday,
October 8
Unlike Beijing and southern China, there is no pollution in Dalian. The air is fresh and clean.
Most of the cars here are Chinese, although you see quite a few Hyundais, Buicks, and Toyotas. Many Chinese cars are small and have only three wheels, like a tricycle. Some of the bigger Chinese cars look like popular western brands. I saw one Chinese car that looked very much like a Ferrari.
Although you can buy an ample supply of toilet paper for your apartment. There is no toilet paper in the universities, restaurants, or public facilities. You must bring your own toilet paper.
Now I somewhat know how it feels be a minority in the USA without knowledge of written or spoken English. In this part of China, everything is written in Chinese, including the remote controls for the heating system, DVD, and television. When you go to a restaurant, most of the time, there is no English menu. Everything is written in Chinese, often with no pictures. I can get by with my limited Chinese language skills, but it’s not easy.
Don't get me wrong. I love this place. I'm just pointing out the differences between their country and ours. I bet that Chinese find our country just as different and strange. Probably, several Chinese in the USA today are writing home, telling their friends how different America is from China. They are probably laughing at many of the differences.
7:47
October 5 - 2007 - Arrival in Dalian
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: China [edit]

Left Los Angeles at 0140 on Thursday, October 4. Arrived in Beijing at 0520 on Friday, October 5. (We crossed the International Dateline, losing a day) Friday, October 5
The Beijing airport is fantastic.
I witnessed a shift change among the airport employees. Like troopers, the replacement shift marched in single file to replace their co-workers on the previous shift.
Two women helped me check in for the flight to Dalian. They wore uniforms and looked official. After I checked in, they asked for 100 yuan for payment each of them payment plus 100 yuan for my overweight luggage. At 7.5 yuan per dollar, that’s around $40. Was I a victim of a scam? I don’t know. However, I do know that my luggage was a little bit overweight. Also, the women probably saved me several minutes looking for the right gate and checking in. They were a good help. So I’m not going to complain.
1:04
Photo Album: Dalian University of Technology
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Photo Album: Dalian University of Technology
0:58
Photo Album: My apartment in Dalian
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

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Photo Album: My apartment in Dalian
September 22, 2007
13:24
A brief video of me and my wife on the Oregon Coast
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Travel [edit]
September 05, 2007
8:39
Memorable Quote from the genius, Albert Einstein
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Miscellaneous Rambling [edit]

重要的是不要停止问问题。

Zhong4 yao4 de shi4 bu4 yao4 ting2 zhi3 wen4 wen4 ti2 。 The important thing is not to stop questioning.Albert Einstein

US (German-born) physicist (1879 - 1955)
August 31, 2007
8:05
I will return to China and study hard.
» ‎ Blueturtle's Space

Tags: Learning Chinese [edit]

I will return to China and study hard.

我会回到中国,并努力学习.

wǒ huì huí dào zhōng guó , bìng nǔ lì xué xí .