The party on Friday night was a grand affair at the top hotel in the city, the Shangri-la. We were escorted to the function by our three foreign affairs office administrators, Wendy, Susan and Maggie, who have become friends. The ballroom was beautifully chandeliered and festive for the party, which was to welcome all the foreign teachers in the province of Guangdong. The platform dignitaries (about 12) assembled in a row on the stage. The vice-governor gave a speech that was translated in intervals. We and the dignitaries were standing while the introductions and the speech were given. This party always coincides with the National holiday.
Then it was time to have something to eat and we were treated to about 100 different dishes to taste. It was all quite (very) wonderful and amazing. It was beautifully presented and we enjoyed the variety. I didn't try the red bean soup dessert, but was told that it was unusual, but delicious. The personal service in China is perfect. We stood throughout the whole dinner. There were a few tall tables that we could stand beside. Susan, from the office, came over to visit and she said to me, "Isn't this odd to be standing while we are eating?" Then I realized that this wasn't the usual thing for anyone to be doing. There was an orchestra of about 15 playing traditional Chinese string and wind instruments. They played background music for a few hours. They started with traditional Chinese music and then went on the play songs from various countries. We noticed "Danny Boy," "Santa Lucia," and "The Red River Valley."
The party ended at the right time because our feet were starting to be tired. There were no gift bags this year as China is experiencing the economic downturn also.
We went home happy and content. It was a fun night.
The photos are from the party and the night lights of the New Town in Guangzhou. Tilt your head again.
Tomorrow we are leaving for a 5 day tour to Urumqi. I remember Dr. Luke Kwong saying in a class that "no self-respecting Chinese would live in Western China." Look on a map and you will see that it should be quite a visit. We will report later.
Good bye for now.
Since we are too busy to become homesick yet. We went to church today at the Ramada.
MOM/ Kathleen/ Aunt Kathy
2 comments:
Most interesting and perceptive observations. Enjoy the National Holiday break, which coincides this year with the Mid-Autumn Festival. Did you sample any Moon Cakes?
too busy to be homesick yet...that is a GOOD THING
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