Yesterday I agreed to attend an English Club run by my resource teacher (the guy whose class I’m teaching in for these first 3 months.) I went with two other volunteers and we sat in the front of the classroom fielding questions. They ranged from the basic, “Where are you from?” to the more elaborate, “Who did you vote for in the last election.” I got a real kick out of having them sing the Uzbek national anthem (a rather uninspired and endless affair if I may say so.) After, and I should have known better, they had me sing our National Anthem in front of them. I made the single mistake of starting in too high a key. Since I don’t often sing our NA, I was not aware of a major pitfall. So if you are reading this, and you are in a place where you can break into song, try it. Start “oh say can you see” in a mid to high note. As you will continue, you should find yourself reaching very high notes, which may or may not be manly, however you are so inclined to interpret singing at near opera pitches. Regardless of that, they liked it so much that next week I am going to teach them to sing it – now that should be a good indoctrination… uh, I mean cross cultural exercise.
Things are starting to heat up here, and when the sun is out, it is pretty warm. All the snow and ice is gone, and I’m actualy starting to see green on the ground. There has not been any more drama in the neighborhood; I have survived another trip to the choixona; taken a trip to the Tashkent Zoo with my family; and passed (barely) my first language assesment. In about 10 days I should find out where I’ll be plunking myself for the next two years. I’m touched that whenever this topic comes up, I am asked why I can not stay where I am. It’s hard to explain that relatively they have got it pretty good. I’m still enjoying guesting with other members of the community, and meeting some new faces. At the spice Bazaar in Chirchik I ran into a spice guy who spoke English and wanted to practice with me.
There is hope for Uzbekistan 😛
A post from Uzbekistan is never bland. Singing our national anthem is not for a task for the untrained voice. It has to be one of the most difficult pieces to sing. Ofcourse I cannot sing anything on key, high or low. Now that you are performing our national anthem on a regular basis you will have the opportunity to learn all of the words and sing it better than most. Why dont you learn the Uzbek anthem so you can sing it for us when you come home:)
I am glad to hear that your community likes having you around. I can understand why. What is the
choixona? The spice bazaar must be quite an experience. How are your bargaining skills developing?
There is no sign of spring here. In fact, another big snow storm is on the way!!!
All is well.
We look forward to hearing from you again soon
Study hard…this time it is important
XXXXOOOOGQ
I like the idea of a spice bazaar. I wish we had one here.
Granma says she would love to hear you sing, but i would much rather read your writings—. Great to hear that the people want you to stay around. Choixona??? what is it.
Sent off another snail mail this past weekend with a bit of trivia, hope my letters are getting to you.
Miss you Matthew, sorry we didnt connect before you left, take care of yourself, stay well—
Keep the comments coming—-Love, G&G (March 1, 2005 — 10:30pm)
Hey Matt,
Marge, Mom, and I love reading the blog! While you are far away, it makes you seem closer. Sounds like you are having quite an experience. Gram was thrilled to receive your letter. We love you and miss you very much. Enjoy every minute of this adventure!
Love, Bette
Great to hear about the ESOL teaching…I am in teaching to mostly South Americans who immigrated to the States. It’s great that you’re doing it in another country. Keep us posted. Stay positive, Affectionately. Melissa
Choixona is the Uzbek word for teahouse. Choi is tea and hona is house or room. Kasalxona would be hospital because kasal is sick and xona again is room. The Choixonas are places where men only go and eat and drink and drink together.