Not Ready to give up Training Wheels

Yep, I'm back in China for year 2. I likely should lead with a lengthy story of the exploits to this point, such as the seminar in Beijing, seeing friends from the company, and finally being back in Zhengzhou. However, I'll delay the obligatory and continue with the normalcy.

This summer I successfully passed the HSK (Chinese proficiency test) level 4 and can recognize 1,200 characters. This means I can communicate almost fluently with the Chinese. Despite the certificate proving it, I'm still not ready to give up my crutch--English in the form of Chinese English teachers.

On a positive spin, tonight I was able to go out with 3 other Chinese teachers (2 English and one chemistry). Most was in Chinese with only tidbits of English for aid in understanding. It was really nice to spend time with them (as seen in the photo) at a great tepanaki restaurant. And someday it'll be pure Chinese. Just keep working at it...I might even make it a competition with my students since we both need about 4,000 words.