Trying something new

There are so many new things around me. I guess I knew that this would be the case. But now that I am here, how do I figure these things out? At first I thought I would just try new fruits and vegetables out on my own. But some things I am just not sure how to prepare and I ended up stir frying a hairy melon (I thought it was more in the squash family). It was interesting in my chicken stir fry (read: not good).

One of my fellow Americans who has been here for a longer time asked a Hong Kong friend of hers to show us both around the market and point out the foods she uses. I learned a lot! Most of the new vegetables and fruits are either pan fried or made into a soup. Now I guess I need some recipes. Anyone have a recipe for winter melon soup? Or what can I do with ground up octopus? I think I can figure out lotus root and seed pods, water spinach, bok choi, and green beans (although they are super long). After that day of instruction with Linda and Beth, I have had some successful trips to the market. I even ordered half of a roasted chicken. Please note: you will get one foot with this half chicken.

Here are some interesting pictures from the market. I can walk there and often do at least once a day. It is a maze of small markets, a little like a farmers’ market but even better.

If you have not tried a dragon fruit, you really should. It has become my favorite. I have only tried the one that is white on the inside so far but there is one that is red or purplish on the inside. Don’t try to buy them in the USA; it is far to expensive. But come for a visit and I will buy you many of them. I can get three of these for $18 Hong Kong dollars (about $2.25 in US dollars).

I am not sure I will figure out what is in season here at what time but I am getting to know the people at the market shops. They have been very helpful and kind to me.

Another new thing for me is trying out Tai Chi. The group meets in the local par which is beautiful! They are a friendly group and they make me feel very accepted.

I am learning the breathing first. Gradually I will work on the steps and the hand movement. Each movement is very specific and the group wants me to get it right so that I do not hurt myself. There are a few of the members that have taken me aside during their other work and worked with me on stretching and foot placements. The locals all wear pants and tee-shirts and then add sleeves. I have been wearing shorts because it is hot and humid outside even at 7 a.m. So even though I might not be moving much I am drenched by the time we are finished. I sure hope that I can acclimate to this heat. Maybe next year I will try to wear capris but I doubt I will ever wear the sleeves during this heat.

God is good! It has been amazing that as we continue to try new things and explore unfamiliar foods and movements. He continue to provides for us. The past few weeks our church services and lessons, my devotions, and Bible readings have all reminded me about how He provided for His people in the past: by feeding the 5,000 with 5 loaves and two small fish (Matthew 14: 13-21) and how by providing manna and quails for the His people (Exodus 16). These lessons were picked before we were even thinking about moving here and yet at just the right time they provided hope and assurance that HE will take care of me. More and more I see God at work preparing and placing me in the right place at the right time and providing all that I need, including His comfort and encouragement.