It is too much 东西太贵了

An old lady who was very deaf and who thought everything too dear, went into a shop and asked the shopman: "How much is this stuff?"
"Seven dollars, Madam, it is very cheap."The lady said,"It is too much, give it to me for fourteen.""I didn’t say seventeen dollars, but seven."
"It is still too much,"replied the old lady,"give it to me for five."
一位耳聋并且总是嫌东西太贵的老太太走进一家商店。
她问店员：“这东西要多少钱?”
“7美元，太太，这是很便宜的。” 老太太说：“太贵了，14美元差不多。”
店员忙说：“我没说17美元，是7美元。”
“还是太贵，”老太太说：“5美元，我就买啦。”
Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com/?a_aid=1007 and Free Trial Now!

拼 音 pin1 yin

Pinyin is a Roman-letter based system that China now uses to mark the pronunciation of Chinese characters. With four tones and pinyin, any Chinese characters can be pronounced precisely. In many cases, Pinyin is quite intuitive to English speakers with only a few exceptions. However, it can be a twist to render Pinyin in four tones for people who just start.Pinyin is made up of 2 tables: vowel table and consonant table, the latter of which will be discussed in consonant.
Vowel Table:
a
o
e
i
u
ϋ
ai
ei
ui



ao
ou
iu



ie
ue
er



an
en
in
un
ϋn

ang
eng
ing
ong



Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com/?a_aid=1007 to learn more.

New Discovery新发现

A hillbilly was visiting the big city for the first time. Entering an office building, he saw a pudgy older woman step into a small room. The doors closed, lights flashed, and after a while the door slid open and a beautiful young model stepped off the elevator. Blinking in amazement, the hillbilly drawled, "I shouldhave brought my wife!" 一个乡下人第一次到大城市游逛。他走进一座大楼，看见一个岁数很大的矮胖女人迈进一个小房间。房间的门随后关上，有几个灯在闪亮。一会儿，门开了，电梯里走出一位年青漂亮的女模特。 乡下人惊奇地眨着眼睛，慢吞吞地说：“我应该把我的老婆带来!”
Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com/?a_aid=1007 and Free Trial Now!

Christmas Promotion:50% off for all the Chinese lessons!

Christmas is coming, wishing you and yours a merry Christmas this holiday season. May peace, happiness and good fortune be with you always.

eChineselearning now is offering a huge discount FOR 50% OFF to our students, which I guess could be a great opportunity for both you and anybody around you who want to learn Chinese with our highly qualified teachers from Beijing. We believe being able to speak Chinese will link you with 1/5th of the world population,

And with the booming economy of BRIC, speaking Chinese could potentially open up more opportunities for your future.

Now Come to http://www.echineselearning.com/?a_aid=081225 to sign up for a FREE TRIAL Lesson! To Learn with Live one-on-one Online Chinese Teacher in Beijing!

Chinese Culture-Terminology and Symbolism

Flowers: Flowers are an important part of the New year decorations. In old China, much use was made of natural products in celebrations as well as in daily life. The two flowers most associated with the New Year are the plum blossom and the water narcissus
Lai-See Envelopes: (Also called Hong-Bao) Money is placed in these envelopes and given to children and young adults at New Year’s time, much in the spirit as Christmas presents. Presents are also often exchanged between families.

Lucky Character: The single word " FOOK ", or fortune, is often displayed in many homes and stores. They are usually written by brush on a diamond-shaped piece of red paper.
Plum Blossoms: stand for courage and hope. The blossoms burst forth at the end of winter on a seemingly lifeless branch. In Chinese art, plum blossoms are associated with the entire season of winter and not just the New Year.
Do you want to learn Chinese more?One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com/?a_aid=1007 and Free Trial Now!

Flunking Math数学没及格

My son, who made the dean's list in his freshman year at Ball State University in Muncie, Ind., called home a few weeks after starting his sophomore year as a psychology student.
"Mom," he said excitely, "I have found the answer to surviving college! It isn't the grades that are so important, but the quality of what is learned and how it is applied to daily life. I'm lucky to be having these wonderful experiences!"
"And just what does this mean?" I asked.
"I'm flunking math," he replied.
我儿子是印第安那市曼西尔波州立大学的学生，大学一年级就上了系主任的名单。第二年他学心理学，刚几个星期他就给家里打了个电话。
“妈妈，”他激动地说：“我找到了如何在大学里生存下去的答案!重要的不是分数，而是具备将学到的知识应用于日常生活的素质。我很幸运地有了这种奇妙的经历。”
“你到底是什么意思？”我问道。
“我数学没及格。”他回答说。
Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com/?a_aid=1007 and Free Trial Now!

Chinese Lunar Calendar

The Chinese calendar will often show the dates of both the Gregorian (Western) calendar and the Chinese Lunar Calendar. The Gregorian dates are printed in Arabic numerals, and the Chinese dates in Chinese numerals. Chinese Lunar Calendar is based on the cycles of the moon, and is constructed in a different fashion than the Western solar calendar.

Chinese Zodiac: The rotating cycle of twelve animal signs was a fok method for naming the years in traditional China. The animal signs for one another in an established order, and are repeated every twelve years. 1976 was the Year of the Dragon, 1977 was the year of the Snake.

Do you want to learn Chinese more?One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com/?a_aid=1007 and Free Trial Now!

Plagiarism 抄 袭

A friend of mine who teachs European history at Washington University in St. Louis tell about the time he spotted a plagiarized term paper. He summoned the student to his office. "This isn't your work." he said. "Someone typed it for you straight out of the encyclopedia.
"You cann't prove that!" the student sputtered.
My friend amiled and show him the paper. Circled in red was: "Also see article on communism."
我有个朋友在圣路易斯的华盛顿大学教欧洲历史，他说有一次他发现了一篇抄袭的学期论文。他把那个学生叫到了办公室。“这不是你写的，”他说，“有人帮你从百科全书上原封不动地打印了下来。”
“你没有证据。”那学生气急败坏地说。
我朋友笑了，他把论文拿给他看。用红笔圈出来的是：“也可参阅共产主义一文。”
Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com/?a_aid=1007 and Free Trial Now!

What Is a Traitor 什么叫叛徒

Young hopeful：“Father，what is a traitor in politics？”
Father（a veteran politician）：“A traitor is a man who leaves our party and goes over to the other one．”
Young hopeful：“Well then，what is a man who leaves his party and comes over to yours？”
Father：“A convert，my son．”
有希望的青年人：“父亲，什么叫政治叛徒？”
父亲（一位老资格的政治家）：“叛徒指的是离开我们党而加入到另一个党的人。”
有希望的青年人：“那么，离开他的党而加入到我们党的人又叫什么呢？”
父亲：“叫改变信仰者。我的儿子。”
Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com/?a_aid=1007 and Free Trial Now!

Chinese Culture-Lantern Festival - 15th Day

The New Year celebrations ended on the 15th of the First Moon with the Lantern Festival. On the evening of that day, people carried lanterns into the streets to take part in a great parade. Young men would highlight the parade with a dragon dance. The dragon was made of bamboo, silk, and paper, and might stretch for more than hundred feet in length. The bobbing and weaving of the dragon was an impressive sight, and formed a fitting finish to the New Year festival.

Everybody’s Birthday
The entire first week was a time for socializing and amusement. On the streets, the stores were closed and an air of gaiety prevailed. There were numberous lion dances, acrobats, theatrical shows, and other diversions. Firecrackers, which symbolized driving away evil spirits, were heard throughout the first two weeks of the New year. The Seventh Day of the New Year was called "everybody’s birthday" as everyone was considered one year older as of that date. (In traditional China, individual birthdays were not considered as important as the New Year’s date. Everyone added a year to his age at New Year’s time rather than at his birthday.)

Do you want to learn Chinese culture more?One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com/?a_aid=1007 and Free Trial Now!

Chinese Culture-Lai-See
On New Year’s Day, the children were given Red Lai-See Envelopes , good luck money wrapped in little red envelopes. On New Year’s day, everyone had on new clothes, and would put on his best behavior. It was considered improper to tell a lie, raise one’s voice, use indecent language, or break anything on the first day of the year.
Starting from the second day, people began going out to visit friends and relatives, taking with them gifts and Lai-See for the children. Visitors would be greeted with traditional New year delicacies, such as melon seeds, flowers, fruits, tray of togetherness, and NIANGAO, New Year cakes.
Family Celebration
On the last day of the old year, everyone was busy either in preparing food for the next two days, or in going to the barbers and getting tidied up for the New Year’s Day. Tradition stipulated that all food be pre-pared before the New Year’s Day, so that all sharp instruments, such as knives and scissors, could be put away to avoid cutting the "luck" of the New Year. The kitchen and well were not to be disturbed on the first day of the Year.
The New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day celebrations were strickly family affairs. All members of the family would gather for the important family meal on the evening of the New year’s Eve. Even if a family member could not attend, an empty seat would be kept to symbolize that person’s presence at the banquet. At midnight following the banquet, the younger members of the family would bow and pay their respects to their parents and elders.
Do you want to learn Chinese more?One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com/?a_aid=1007 and Free Trial Now!

A Girl Just Like Mother 和母亲一样的女孩

No matter which girl he brought home， the young man found disapproval from his mother． A friend gave him advice．
“Find a girl just like your mother-then she's bound to like her．
So the young man searched and searched， and finally found the girl．He told his friendly adviser：
“Just like you said， I found a girl who looked，talked，dressed， and even cooked like mother．And just as you said，mother liked her”
“So，”asked the friend，“what happened？”
“Nothing，”said the young man．“My father hates her！”
无论带哪一个女孩回家，这位青年人总会遭到母亲的反对。一位朋友劝他说：
“找一个和你母亲一样的女孩--那她一定会喜欢她。”
于是这位青年人不停地找啊找，终于找到了这么个女孩。
他对他友好的忠告者说：
“正像你说的那样，我找到一个长相、谈吐、穿着打扮，甚至连烹饪都和我母亲一样的女孩。也正像你说的那样，我母亲喜欢她。”
“那后来呢？”朋友问。
“没什么，”青年人说。“我父亲讨厌她！”
Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com/?a_aid=1007 and Free Trial Now!

Chinese Culture-Kitchen God

After the house was cleaned it was time to bid farewell to the Kitchen God, or Zaowang. In traditional China, the Kitchen God was regarded as the guardian of the family hearth. He was identified as the inventor of fire, which was necessary for cooking and was also the censor of household morals. By tradition, the Kitchen God left the house on the 23rd of the last month to report to heaven on the behavior of the family. At this time, the family did everything possible to obtain a favorable report from the Kitchen God. On the evening of the 23rd, the family would give the Kitchen God a ritualistic farewell dinner with sweet foods and honey. Some said this was a bribe, others said it sealed his mouth from saying bad thins.

Free from the every-watchful eyes of the Kitchen God, who was supposed to return on the first day of the New Year, the family now prepared for the upcoming celebrations. In old China, stores closed shop on the last two or three days of the year and remained closed for the first week of the New Year. Consequently, families were busy in the last week of the old year stocking up on foods and gifts. Chinese New Year presents are similar in spirit to Christmas presents, although the Chinese tended more often to give food items, such as fruits and tea. The last days of the old year was also the time to settle accumulated debts.
Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com/?a_aid=1007 and Free Trial Now!

Gentleman

Dick was seven years old, and his sister, Catherine, was five. One day their mother took them to their aunt's house to play while she went to the big city to buy some new clothes. The children played for an hour, and then at half past four their aunt took Dick into the kitchen. She gave him a nice cake and a knife and said to him, "Now here's a knife, Dick. Cut this cake in half and give one of the pieces to your sister, but remember to do it like a gentleman." "Like a gentleman?" Dick asked. "How do gentlemen do it?" "They always give the bigger piece to the other person." answered his aunt at once. "Oh" said Dick. He thought about this for a few seconds. Then he took the cake to his sister and said to her,"Cut this cake in half, Catherine.". 迪克年龄七岁，他的妹妹凯瑟琳五岁。一天，妈妈把他们带到姨妈家去玩，自己就到大城市去买些新的衣服。 孩子们玩了个把小时，在四点半的时候，姨妈领着迪克走进了厨房。她交给迪克一块精美的蛋糕和一把刀子，并对他说：“喏，迪克，给你刀子，把这块蛋糕一切为二，给你妹妹一块。不过，你得记住要做得像一个绅士那样。” 迪克问：“像一个绅士？绅士怎样做呢？” 他姨妈马上回答说：“绅士总是把大的一块让给别人的。”迪克说了一声“噢”。他对此想了一会，然后，他把蛋糕拿给妹妹，并对她说：“凯瑟琳，你来把这块蛋糕一切为二吧。”
Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com/?a_aid=1007 and Free Trial Now!

Chinese Culture-Traditional Celebration of the Chinese New Year

Of all the traditional Chinese festivals, the new Year was perhaps the most elaborate, colorful, and important. This was a time for the Chinese to congratulate each other and themselves on having passed through another year, a time to finish out the old, and to welcome in the new year. Common expressions heard at this time are: GUONIAN to have made it through the old year, and BAINIAN to congratulate the new year.

Turning Over a New Leaf
The Chinese New year is celebrated on the first day of the First Moon of the lunar calendar. The corresponding date in the solar calendar varies from as early as January 21st to as late as February 19th. Chinese New Year, as the Western new Year, signified turning over a new leaf. Socially, it was a time for family reunions, and for visiting friends and relatives. This holiday, more than any other Chinese holiday, stressed the importance of family ties. The Chinese New year's Eve dinner gathering was among the most important family occasions of the year.

Sweeping of the Grounds
Preparations for the Chinese New Year in old China started well in advance of the New Year's Day. The 20th of the Twelfth Moon was set aside for the annual housecleaning, or the "sweeping of the grounds". Every corner of the house must be swept and cleaned in preparation for the new year. SpringCouplets, written in black ink on large vertical scrolls of red paper, were put on the walls or on the sides of the gate-ways. These couplets, short poems written in Classical Chinese, were expressions of good wishes for the family in the coming year. In addition, symbolic flowers and fruits were used to decorate the house, and colorful new year pictures (NIAN HUA) were placed on the walls (for more descriptions of the symbolism of the flowers and fruits.

Do you want to learn Chinese more? One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com/?a_aid=1007 and Free Trial Now!

My Wife Will Exchange Them Tomorrow 反正我太太明天会来换的。

　　　A gentleman walks into a store and asked for a pair of gloves.
　　　"Cloth of leather?" asked the salesperson.
　　　"Makes no difference, "replied customer.
　　　"What color?" asked the clerk.
　　　"Any," he responded.
　　　"Size?"
　　　"Give me whatever you prefer," the gentleman said, slightly
　　exasperated. "My wife will be back tomorrow to exchange them."
　　一位先生走进一家商店要买付手套。
　　“您是要布的还是皮的？”售货员问。
　　“没什么区别。”这位顾客回答。
　　“那您要什么颜色的呢？”售货员又问。
　　“什么颜色都成。”他回答。
　　“号码呢？”
　　“您就随便给我拿一付吧，”这位顾客有点不耐烦了，“反正我太太明天都会来换的。”
Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com/?a_aid=1007 and Free Trial Now!

Chinese Culture-Giant Panda

Range: southwestern China, in six small forest fragments Habitat: damp, misty forests of bamboo and conifers, in altitudes above 4,000 feet (1,200 meters) Giant pandas are black and white and loved all over. The giant panda is a national treasure in China and is therefore protected by law. This unique bear has long been revered by the Chinese and can be found in Chinese art dating back thousands of years. The Chinese call their beloved pandas "large bear-cats." People outside of China have been fascinated by giant pandas since they were first described by French Missionary Pere Armand David in 1869. Now, more than 100 years later, the worldwide love for pandas has been combined with international efforts to keep them from becoming extinct.
How did the panda get its colors? Scientists aren't exactly sure. One theory is that pandas developed the contrasting black and white colors over time so they would stand out in the forest and be able to find each other to mate. Are giant pandas bears? For years scientists have wondered whether pandas are bears, raccoons, or in a group all their own. Through studying the genetic code (DNA) in pandas’ cells, scientists have confirmed the panda's relationship with bears. Giant pandas are similar to other bears in their general looks, the way they walk and climb, and their skull characteristics. It's important to know that pandas are bears, because the more we know about pandas, the better we can help them reproduce and survive.

Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com/?a_aid=1007 and Free Trial Now!

what's the biggest in the world

Peter dozed off while his teacher was talking. Teacher: “Peter！Tell us, what's the biggest in the world?”Peter: “Well, well....eyelids....” Teacher: “What？Eyelids？”Peter: “Yes, sir. Because as soon as I shut my eyes, the eyelids cover everything of the world.” 老师正在讲课，彼得打起瞌睡来了。老师：“彼得！你说说，世界上什么最大？” 彼得: “嗯……嗯……眼皮……” 老师：“什么？眼皮？”彼得：“是的，老师。因为我眼睛一闭，眼皮就把世界上所有的东西都遮住了。”
Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com/?a_aid=1007 and Free Trial Now!

Chinese Culture—The great wall

A Chinese saying goes like that, "you are not a real hero until you have climbed the Great Wall". The Great Wall, one of the greatest wonders of the world, was enlisted in the World Heritage in 1987. Just like a gigantic dragon, it winds up and down across deserts, grasslands, mountains and plateaus stretching approximately 6,700 kilometers from east to west of China. With a history of more than 2000 years, some sections are now in ruins or even entirely disappeared. However, it is still one of the most appealing attractions all around the world owing to its architectural grandeur and historical significance. The wall was originally built in the Spring/Autumn Period, and Warring States Period as a defensive fortification. It went through constant extensions and repairs in later dynasties. In fact, it began as independent walls for different states when it was first built, and did not become the "Great" wall until the Qin Dynasty. The First Emperor succeeded in his effort to have the walls joined together to fend off the invasions from the Huns in the north after the unification of China. Since then, the wall has served as a monument of the Chinese nation throughout history. However, the wall we see today, starting from Shanhaiguan Pass in the east to Jiayuguan Pass in the west, was mostly built during the Ming Dynasty. The wall is complemented by defensive fighting stations, to which wall defenders may retreat if overwhelmed. Each tower has unique and restricted stairways and entries to confuse attackers. Barracks and administrative centers are located at larger intervals. In addition to the usual military weapons of the period, specialized wall defense weapons were used. It is in the north of China, and if you are in Beijing you can go to Badaling Hill to see one part of the great building.It is i the borth of beijing,about 18kilometers away from the city center.
The construction of the wall, drew heavily on the local resources for construction materials, was carried out in line with the local conditions under the management of contract and responsibility system. A great army of manpower, composed of soldiers, prisoners, and local people, built the wall. The construction result demonstrates the manifestation of the wisdom and tenacity of the Chinese people. The wall has long been incorporated into Chinese mythology and popular symbolism. The most beautiful of several legends is about the collapse of a section of the wall caused by Meng Jiangnu, who cried bitterly over the death of her husband in the construction of the wall. This legend has been spread widely through textbooks, folk songs and traditional operas.
Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com/?a_aid=1007 and Free Trial Now!

incourage激励

A coach pointed at goaly's soccer net say to the goaly: “you have seen this net? The price may not be cheap, if you let the ball damage it, deducted money from yours wages compensates.”
一个教练指着球门的护网对守门员说：“你看见这网了没有？价钱可不便宜，你要是让球把它撞坏了，就得从你的工资里扣钱赔。”
Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com/?a_aid=1007 and Free Trial Now!

Chinese culture-chopsticks筷子

When you go to a Chinese restaurant you have to use chopsticks instead of a knife and fork. 到中国餐馆用餐时,不用刀叉而得用筷子。
筷子，古称“箸”，它是当今世界上公认的独特餐具，对使用刀叉的欧美人士来说，学会用筷子确有一定的难度，可一旦能熟练地操纵这两根小玩意，使用起来却是灵巧无比，所以西方有学者赞扬筷箸是古老的东方文明代表，是华夏民族聪明和智慧的结晶。
中国每天有十多亿人口一日三餐筷不离手，正因为餐餐用筷、日日用筷、年年用筷、人人用筷，所以中国人对筷箸习以为常，视若无睹，因此历史上很少发现有关筷箸文化的记载，即使在某些古籍中偶而写有只字片语，也是记录其他事而非指箸本身而言。千百年来，也很少发现有专人对筷箸进行研究和探讨。
　　
中国是筷子的发源地，以筷进餐少说已有3000年历史，是世界上以筷为食的母国。筷子看起来只是非常简单的两根小细棒，但它有挑、拨、夹、拌、扒等功能，且使用方便，价廉物美。筷子也是当今世界上一种独特的餐具。凡是使用过筷子者，不论华人或是老外，无不钦佩筷子的发明者。可是它是何人发明？何时创造诞生？现在谁也无法回答这个问题。
Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com/?a_aid=1007 and Free Trial Now!

The poor husband可怜的丈夫

"You can't imagine how difficult it is for me to deal with my wife," the man complained to his friend. "She asks me a question, then answers it herself, and after that she explained to me for half an hour why my answer is wrong. “你根本无法想象和我妻子打交道是多么的难，”一个男人对他的朋友诉苦说，“她问我一个问题，然后自己回答了，过后又花半个小时跟我解释为什么我的答案是错的。”
Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com/?a_aid=1007 and Free Trial Now!

The Double Ninth Festival重阳节

On the Double Ninth Festival, people customarily climb mountains, appreciate chrysanthemum flowers, drink chrysanthemum wine, and eat double-ninth cakes. The Double Ninth Festival is also the "Old Men Festival". Old people are especially meant to improve their health by taking part in the activities on the day of the festival.
The Double Ninth Festival is also a time for family get-togethers. It is an occasion to remember one's ancestors, the sacrifices they made and the hardships they underwent. Often, family outings are organised during which people search to renew their appreciation of nature and to reaffirm their love and concern for family members and close friends.
Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com/?a_aid=1007 and Free Trial Now!

The origins of the Double Ninth Festival重阳节的来历

The "Chong Yang Festival" is celebrated on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month, and it is as such known as the Double Ninth Festival.
The festival began as early as the Warring States Period (475 - 221 BC). According to the yin/yang dichotomy that forms a basis to the Chinese world view, yin represents the elements of darkness and yang represents life and brightness. The number nine is regarded as yang. The ninth day of the ninth month is a double yang day, hence the name "Chong Yang Festival". (Chong means "repeat" in Chinese.) The ninth month also heralds the approach of winter. It is a time when the living need warm clothing, and filial Chinese sons and daughters extended this to make the festival a time for providing winter clothes for their ancestors. The Double Ninth Festival, therefore, also became an occasion to visit the graves of dead family members. Clothes made of paper would then be burnt as offerings.
Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com/?a_aid=1007 and Free Trial Now!

The national holiday

The national holiday lasts five days and most workers are given time off to visit relatives and take time for traveling.

The National Day is celebrated throughout mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau with a varietyof government-organised festivities, including fireworks and concerts.Public places, such as Tiananmen Square in Beijing, are decorated in a festive theme. Portraits of revered(VEAR) leaders,such as Sun Yat-Sen, are publicly displayed.

全国公共假期5天，很多工人会选择这时候探望亲友或是旅行。

国庆节是举国同庆的，中国大陆，香港，澳门，和各级地方政府均会举办官宴进行庆祝，同时还会燃放烟花和举行联欢晚会。在一些公共场所，如在北京天安门广场，均以欢庆为主题进行装饰。一些著名的领导人，如孙中山的肖像也会公开展示。

Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com and Free Trial Now!

The National Day of the People's Republic of China

The PRC was founded on FIRST OF October 1, 1949 with a ceremony at Tiananmen Square. The Central People's Governmentpassed the Resolution on the National Day of the People's Republic of China on SECOND OF December 2,1949 and declared( di care) that FISRT OF October 1 is the National Day.
When the anniversary is a multiple of five (e.g. the 50th, 55th, or 60th),large scale official celebrations may be held, including an inspection of troops on Tiananmen Square.
1949年10月1日，中华人民共和国在北京天安门广场举行开国大典。1949年10月2日，中央人民政府通过《关于中华人民共和国国庆日的决议》，规定每年10月1日为国庆日，并以这一天作为宣告中华人民共和国成立的日子。
当周年的年份是五的倍数时（如50 ,55 ，或60 ），将会举行大规模的官方庆典，包括在天安门广场举行阅兵仪式。
Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com and Free Trial Now!

Seeing People Off

Chinese people are justly famous for their hospitality. A Chinese host often personally accompanies the leaving guests to the lift, or goes with them until they are out of his house or office, or even stands gazing after their parting. The farther the host escorts the guests, the greater an honour it will be. A good send-off is commonly given to the guests until they get into the car. It is unusual to immediately shut the door behind guests
Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com and Free Trial Now!

Chinese modesty

Traditionally the Chinese people do not like to show a high opinion of their own merits. Instead they are always modest about their achievements, or prefer a low-key statement to a display of their advantages. When you praised a chinese person, he may humbly tell you how deficient he is. Therefore the chinese reply "nǎ lǐ, nǎ lǐ" (well, it is nothing) to any complimentary remarks may not be interpreted as a denial of the truth. However grateful they are they may not verbalize their thanks, or they will be considered to be insufferable people.
Nowadays some people, especially young and educated Chinese, like to follow the English way and thank admirers for their compliments.
Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com and Free Trial Now!

Different Celebrated Forms Of Chinese Mid-autumn Day

For thousands of years, the Chinese people have related the vicissitudes of life to changes of the moon as it waxes and wanes; joy and sorrow, parting and reunion. Because the full moon is round and symbolizes reunion, the Mid-Autumn Festival is also known as the festival of reunion. All family members try to get together on this special day. Those who can not return home watch the bright moonlight and feel deep longing for their loved ones.Today, festivities centered about the Mid-Autumn Festival are more varied. After a family reunion dinner, many people like to go out to attend special performances in parks or on public squares.
People in different parts of China have different ways to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival. In Guangzhou in South China, a huge lantern show is a big attraction for local citizens. Thousands of differently shaped lanterns are lit, forming a fantastic contrast with the bright moonlight.In East China’s Zhejiang Province, watching the flood tide of the Qian-tang River during the Mid-Autumn Festival is not only a must for local people, but also an attraction for those from other parts of the country. The ebb and flow of tides coincide with the waxing and waning of the moon as it exerts a strong gravitational pull. In mid autumn, the sun, earth and moon send out strong gravitational forces upon the seas. The oath of the Qiantang River is shaped like a bugle. So the flood tide which forms at the narrow mouth is particularly impressive. Spectators crowd on the river bank, watching the roaring waves. At its peak, the tide rises as high as three and a half meters.
Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com and Free Trial Now!

The Origin of Chinese Mid-Autumn Day

The Chinese Mid-Autumn Day this year is coming at 14th Sep. But do you know the origin of Chinese Mid-Autumn Day?
The Mid-Autumn Festival is a traditional festivity for both the Han and minority nationalities. The custom of worshipping the moon (called xi yue in Chinese) can be traced back as far as the ancient Xia and Shang Dynasties (2000 B.C.-1066 B.C.). In the Zhou Dynasty(1066 B.C.-221 B.C.), people hold ceremonies to greet winter and worship the moon whenever the Mid-Autumn Festival sets in. It becomes very prevalent in the Tang Dynasty(618-907 A.D.) that people enjoy and worship the full moon. In the Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279 A.D.), however, people send round moon cakes to their relatives as gifts in expression of their best wishes of family reunion. When it becomes dark, they look up at the full silver moon or go sightseeing on lakes to celebrate the festival. Since the Ming (1368-1644 A.D. ) and Qing Dynasties (1644-1911A.D.), the custom of Mid-Autumn Festival celebration becomes unprecedented popular. Together with the celebration there appear some special customs in different parts of the country, such as burning incense, planting Mid-Autumn trees, lighting lanterns on towers and fire dragon dances. However, the custom of playing under the moon is not so popular as it used to be nowadays, but it is not less popular to enjoy the bright silver moon. Whenever the festival sets in, people will look up at the full silver moon, drinking wine to celebrate their happy life or thinking of their relatives and friends far from home, and extending all of their best wishes to them.
Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com and Free Trial Now!

Chinese Mid-autumn Day

The joyous Mid-Autumn Festival, the third and last festival for the living, was celebrated on the fifteenth day of the eighth moon, around the time of the autumn equinox. Many referred to it simply as the "Fifteenth of the Eighth Moon". In the Western calendar, the day of the festival usually occurred sometime between the second week of September and the second week ofOctober.This day was also considered a harvest festival since fruits, vegetables and grain had been harvested by this time and food was abundant. With delinquent accounts settled prior to the festival , it was a time for relaxation and celebration. Food offerings were placed on an altar set up in the courtyard. Apples, pears, peaches, grapes, pomegranates , melons, oranges and pomelos might be seen. Special foods for the festival included moon cakes, cooked taro, edible snails from the taro patches or rice paddies cooked with sweet basil, and water caltrope, a type of water chestnut resembling black buffalo horns. Some people insisted that cooked taro be included because at the time of creation, taro was the first food discovered at night in the moonlight. Of all these foods, it could not be omitted from the Mid-Autumn Festival.The round moon cakes, measuring about three inches in diameter and one and a half inches in thickness, resembled Western fruitcakes in taste and consistency. These cakes were made with melon seeds, lotus seeds, almonds, minced meats, bean paste, orange peels and lard. A golden yolk from a salted duck egg was placed at the center of each cake, and the golden brown crust was decorated with symbols of the festival. Traditionally, thirteen moon cakes were piled in a pyramid to symbolize the thirteen moons of a "complete year," that is, twelve moons plus one intercalary moon.One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.Entering :http://www.echineselearning.com and Free Trial Now!

Chinese program

Chinese Summer Parade Chinese Summer Parade is presented by eChineseLearning.com, especiallydesigned for students from 5 to 18 years old. Its study objectivesare: 1. Arose and cater children's interests in learning Chinese throughlively and interactive learning methods.2. Respond to their specific developmental stage and learning features.3. Achieve customized learning goals based on their own Chinese levelsand learning backgrounds.
Chinese Summer Parade will be the best gift that parents can give to their children this summer!And it is the most valuable investment that parents can do for their children’s future!By visiting: http://www.echineselearning.com/product/chinese-summer-parade.html and Take Your Free Trial!"Nihao Chinese" Program is presented by eChineseLearning, a worldwideleader in Chinese language education， who has a strong sense of socialresponsibility to establish the eChineseLearning Grant to assist inthe alleviation of difficulties faced by individuals from around theworld who wish to learn Chinese but are unable to do so. By participating in this program, you can not only take a FREEone-on-one Chinese lesson and win fantastic prizes, but alsocontribute to charity causes. For every free trial lesson taken at eChineseLearning, there will beone free Chinese lesson donated to the eChineseLearning Grant. Anyindividual, group or organization may apply for free Chinese lessonsfrom the eChineseLearning Grant provided that he/she/it meets thequalifying conditions and that there are a sufficient number of freeChinese lessons in the eChineseLearning Grant.

Chinese Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is a popular festival for lovers in western countries. On this day, sweethearts buy cards, candy, flowers and romantic dinners to prove their devotion to the one they adore. People fallen in love always dream each day to be Valentine’s Day. While it has been August now, for those sweethearts who are living and working in western countries, the next Valentine’s Day will be about six months later. What a pity!It is a luck that the Chinese Valentine’s Day has come. It falls on the 7th of August this year. In Chinese lunar calendar, it is on July 7, thus it has another name—Seventh Eve. Have you planned to spend a Valentine’s Day in China with your sweetheart in these days? It must be a quite different one because there are totally different customs and traditions for this day. The first one is that on Seventh Eve people always release lotus lanterns on water. As darkness falls, surfaces of rivers, lakes, and ponds are dotted with the lanterns that young men and women have released. The lanterns move slowly on the water, carrying with them the longings of young men and women for a perfect marriage. Under these circumstances, the sparkling stars in the sky, the lotus lanterns in the water, and the lovers in the moonlight or in the light of the lanterns together form the most beautiful and romantic scene on earth! Another one is to sit in the courtyard on Seventh Eve to watch the Cowherd (the Altair) and Weaver Girl (the Vega) stars. It has become a fixed custom in the Chinese culture. On a clear late summer night, the two stars can be seen facing each other across the broad Milky Way. On this night, girls will face the bright moon and pray to heaven for a lover that can satisfy their heart’s desire Why do people watch the Cowherd and Weaver Girl stars on the evening of the Valentine’s Day? That is because the two very bright stars are named on the basis of a fairy tale—the love story of Cowherd and the Weaver Girl. It was said that the Weaver Girl was the 7th daughter of the Jade Emperor. One day while visiting the earth and bathing together with her sisters in a river, she was seen by the Cowherd, a young farmer who had once rescued a holy cow. The holy cow persuaded the Cowherd to take away the clothes of the Weaver Girl. In the process of searching for her clothes, the Weaver Girl fell in love with the Cowherd and they got married very soon. The Cowherd worked in the fields while the Weaver Girl weaved at home, and they lived a happy life. However, the Weaver Girl’s absence was discovered by her mother, Wang Mu, the Jade Emperor’s wife, and she was enraged and took the Weaver Girl to fly back to heaven. The Cowherd flew after them with the help of the holy cow. Just as he was about to catch up with them, Queen Mother of Heaven, removed her silver hairpin and drew a line with it behind her. Immediately, a huge river appeared between the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl. This river is then called “the Silver River”, known in the West as the Milky Way. As a result, the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl were ruthlessly separated. Because of missing the Cowherd who was kept at the other side of the Milky Way, the Weaver Girl wept every day. Wang Mu took pity on the couple and she thus allowed them to meet once a year. Their love moved magpies. On the seventh eve of July in each lunar year, all the magpies would flock together to build a bridge over the Silver River so that the couple were able to meet each other on the bridge. Later, the poor couple each became a star. The Cowherd is Altair and the Weaver Girl is Vega. In ancient times, Seventh Eve was a festival for young girls who would put on best clothes to celebrate the annual meeting of the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl. They would also kowtow before offerings in the courtyard to the Weaver Girl and the Cowherd and pray for ingenuity. Chinese people nowadays no longer hold such activities for the day has turned to be a day for sweethearts. However, the day doesn’t lose its origin but is endowed with new meaning in modern social atmosphere. The annual celebration of the day not only continuously reminds Chinese people of the traditional custom and strengthens the love for the Chinese culture but also gives chances to people to show their love. Therefore, the day has become very popular among young people. “The Cowherd and Weaver” is an extremely influential fairy tale in Chinese culture. For those foreigners who are interested in Chinese culture should have known the tale but may not have a chance to celebrate the day by them in Chinese way. Therefore, foreigners had better try to celebrate this Chinese Valentine’s Day coming on August 7 this year, the previous day before the Beijing Olympics Games. It must be pretty exciting to watch Olympic matches after the day you have celebrated a very romantic Chinese Valentine’s Day with your sweetheart! It is memorable, too. However, if you stay in China to have a deep comprehension of Chinese Valentine’s Day, it is necessary to learn some Chinese. Take a FREE one-on-one live lesson at eChineseLearning, a worldwide leader in Chinese language instruction.

Chinese Lesson __《Lúnyǔ- Xué Ér》

子 曰："学 而 时 习 之，不 亦 悦 乎？有 朋 自 远 方 来，不 亦 乐 乎？人 不 知 而 不 愠，不 亦 君 子 乎？In Present-Day Chinese 孔子说："学到了（知识）并且适时去实习，不也很高兴吗？有志同道合的人从远方来，不也很快乐吗？别人不了解自己，（自己）却不抱怨，不也是个（有德的）君子吗？"In English The Master said, "To learn and in due course apply what you have learnt, isn't that also a pleasure? To have a friend coming from far away, isn't that also a delight? Not to feel piqued when your merits are not recognized by others, isn't that also gentlemanly?"子 曰："不 患 人 之 不 己 知，患 不 知 人 也。"In Present-Day Chinese 孔子说："不担忧别人不了解自己，（只）担忧自己不了解别人。In English The Master said, "I'm not worried about others not knowing me. I'm worried about not knowing others." 注释│Note 《论语- 学而》《Lúnyǔ- Xué Ér》 The Analects is a collection of remarks made by Confucius and his students and on of the most important works in the canon of the Confucian school of learning. The book is divided into 20 chapters and the first two characters of each chapter are adopted as the heading of the chapter. For example, the first chapter begins with "Xue er shi xi zhi", so this chapter is called "Xue Er". 文化链接│Tips About Confucius - Confucius was the first thinker in China's intellectual history to consider moral standard as the first and highest criterion of man's behavior and government. The core of morality, according to him, is humanity (humaneness or benevolence). "To be humane is to be a man," he said. This shows that in his view it is the quality of humanity that makes a man a man.To learn more and get a FREE one-on-one online live Chinese lesson with a professional Chinese teacher, http://www.echineselearning.com Best RegardsVeronica Leehttp://www.echineselearning.com/?a_aid=mail72E-mail:veronica.lee@echineselearning.comMSN:veronica.lee1@hotmail.comSkype:veronica.lee72Tel:(650)515-3580

Making a Telephone Call

In China people usually say "wei" (hello) first when beginning a telephone conversation. If you call an old acquaintance and recognize his/her voice, you may address him/her directly by name. Otherwise, you have to make clear who the other person is by saying, "Hello! Excuse me. Are you so-and-so?" or "Hello! Are you so-and-so?" instead of saying "I an so-and-so" first. "So-and-so" may be name of a person or a company. e.g.--Wèi, shì lǐ míng ma? (Hello! Are you Li Ming?)--Duì, shì wǒ. Nǐ shì Qí Qí ma? (Yes, I am Li Ming. You are Qi Qi, aren't you?)One usually says, "You dialed the wrong number" when receiving a wrong call.e.g.--Wèi, shì lǐ míng ma? (Hello! Are you Li Ming?)--Bú shì, nǐ dǎ cuò le. (No, you dialed the wrong number.) Do you want to learn Chinese more?One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com and Free Trial Now!

Checking the Competition Schedule

Checking the Competition Schedule chá sài chéng查 赛 程 Additional ExpressionsTraveling Vocabularygold medal 金牌 jīn pái silver medal 银牌 yín pái champion冠军 guàn jūn second place 亚军 yà jūn Dialogues (1)In the Hotel Lobby 在宾馆大堂 zài bīn guǎn dà táng
Jack: Excuse me. Can I get online in my room? 杰克: 请问,房间里可以上网吗? qǐng wèn, fáng jiān lǐ kéyǐ shàngwǎng ma Manager: Yes, you can get on-line in any room.经理: 可以，每个房间都能上。ké yǐ měi gè fáng jiān dōu néng shàng
Jack: I tried but failed.杰克: 我试了，上不去。 wǒ shì le shàng bú qù
Manager: You may call 518 in your room and it will be connected.经理: 您可以拨打518开通此功能。nín kě yǐ bō dǎ 518 kāi tōng cǐ gōng néng Jack: Ok. Well, if I didn’t bring my computer,what can I do?杰克: 好。如果没带电脑怎么办?hǎo rú guǒ méi dài diàn nǎo zěn me bàn Manager: There is an internet cafe on the second floor.经理: 二 层 有 网 吧。èr céng yǒu wǎng ba Jack: Great! Thanks.杰克: 太 好 了! 谢 谢。tài hǎo le xiè xièDo you want to learn Chinese more?One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com and Free Trial Now!

Chinese Lesson _ Idiom

1. 天涯原咫尺，到处可逢君。World is but a little place, after all. Explanation: It is used when a person meets someone he knows or is in someway connected with him in a place where he would never have expected to do so.Example: (在火车上，你突然遇到一个同公司但不同部门的同事，你说) 怎么你也出差去深圳吗？真是天涯原咫尺，到处可逢君哪。
2. 入乡随俗 When in Rome, do as the Romans do. Explanation: Conform to the manners and customs of those amongst whom you live.Example: 到了法国就要吃西餐，这就叫入乡随俗
3. 失之东隅，收之桑榆 What you lose on the swings you get back on the roundabouts. Explanation: A rough way of starting a law of average; if you have bad luck on one day you have good on another; if one venture results in loss try a fresh one---it may succeed.Example: 失之东隅,收之桑榆，我们都知道盲人的听觉、触觉都特别发达。这是为什么?原因在于盲人丧失视觉后,生存的需要促使其它感官...实现心理平衡,这被称为"补偿"Do you want to learn Chinese more?One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com and Free Trial Now!

Present for Girlfriend送给女友的礼物

At a jewelry store, a young man bought an expensive locket as a present for his girlfriend. "Shall I engrave her name on it?" the jeweler asked.
The customer thought for a moment, and then said, "No-engrave it 'To my one and only love'. That way, if we ever break up, I can use it again."
在一家珠宝店里，一位年轻人买了一个贵重的小金盒作为送给女友的礼物。“要我把她的名字刻在上面吗？”珠宝商问道。
那名顾客想了一会儿，然后说道：“不－－在上面刻‘给我唯一的爱’。这样，如果我们闹崩了，我还可以再用到它。”
Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com and Free Trial Now!

All Right没关系

Hurrying my 11-year old daughter to school, I made a right turn at a red light when it was prohibited. "Uh-oh," I said, realizing my mistake. "I just make an illegal turn."
"I guess it's all right." my daughter replied, "The police car behind us did the same thing."
我赶着开车将11岁的女儿送到学校去，在红灯处右拐了，而那是不允许的。“啊噢，”意识到犯了错误，我说。“我刚才拐弯是违章的。”
“我想那没关系的，”女儿回答说：“我们后面的警车也同样拐了弯。”
Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com and Free Trial Now!

Best Reward最好的奖赏

A naval officer fell overboard. He was rescued by a deck hand. The officer asked how he could reward him.
"The best way, sir," said the deck hand, "is to say nothing about it. If the other fellows knew I'd pulled you out, they'd chuck me in."
一名海军军官从甲板上掉入海中。他被一名甲板水手救起。这位军官问如何才能酬谢他。
“最好的办法，长官，”这名水手说，“是别声张这事。如果其他人知道我救了您，他们会把我扔下去的。”
Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com and Free Trial Now!

Chinese culture points__Handshaking

Customarily Chinese friends, colleagues and acquaintances shake hands with one another when they first meet or reunite after lone years of separation. Handshaking between men and women may be symbolically brief, but the initiative can be taken by either side although male eagerness often prevails.
To learn more and get a FREE one-on-one online live Chinese lesson with a professional Chinese teacher:
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com
To unsubscribe this news letter, please mail to veronica.lee@eChineseLearning.com

Chinese Lesson__Chinese culture points

The Chinese etiquette for the receipt of guests
You will receive a warm welcome during your visit to a Chinese family. You are likely to be treated to tea, sweets, fruits or refreshments. Just feel free to enjoy everything, for the sincerity and hospitality of the host should make you feel at home. Perhaps you think the entertainment is rich, but the host would insist that they don’t have much to serve, that you just have a taste of whatever you like. This modest attitude should not be taken that their receipt of the guests is below par. Before departure, inviting you to come again is often expressed as a friendly gesture for which the arrangement of a date may not be seriously made。
To learn more and get a FREE one-on-one online live Chinese lesson with a professional Chinese teacher:
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com
To unsubscribe this news letter, please mail to veronica.lee@eChineseLearning.com

Asking for a Raise要求加薪

At the radio station where I worked, the manager called me into his office to preview a new sound-effects package we were considering purchasing. He closed the door so we wouldn't bother people in the outer office.
After listening to a few routine sound effects, we started playing around with low moans, maniacal screams, hysterical laughter, pleading and gunshots. When I finally opened the door and passed the manager's secretary, she looked up and inquired, "Asking for a raise again?"
我在一家电台工作。经理把我叫进他的办公室，让我预试一下我们准备购买的一套新的音响效果设备。他关上门，以免打扰外面办公室的人。
听了几个常规的音响效果后，我们开始试听低声的呻吟，狂乱的尖叫，歇斯底里的大笑，哀求逺和枪声。最后我开门出去，从经理秘书旁边经过时，她抬起头问道：“又要求加薪了？”
Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com and Free Trial Now!

Jonesie The Great Lion Hunter伟大的猎手Jonesie

A small village was troubled by a man-eating lion. So its leaders sent a message to the great hunter, Jonesie, to come and kill the beast.
For several nights the hunter lay in wait for the lion, but it never appeared. Finally, he told the village chief to kill a cow and give him its hide. Draping the skin over his shoulders, he went to the pasture to wait for the lion.
In the middle of the night, the villagers woke to the sound of blood-curdling shrieks coming from the pasture. As they carefully approached, they saw the hunter on the ground, groaning in pain. There was no sign of the lion.
"What happened, Jonesie? Where is the lion?" asked the chief.
"Forget the damn lion!" he howled. "Which one of you idiots let the bull loose?"
有个小村庄正为一只吃人的狮子而烦恼。于是，村长派人去请伟大的猎手Jonesie来杀死这只野兽。
猎手躺着等了几个晚上，但狮子一直没有出现。最后，他要求村长杀只羊然后把头皮给他。把羊皮披在身上后，猎人到草原上去等狮子。
半夜，村民被从草原传来的声嘶力竭的尖叫声惊醒。他们小心地靠近后，看到猎手正躺在草地上痛苦地呻吟。没有狮子出没的蛛丝马迹。
“Jonesie，怎么了？狮子在哪？”村长问。
“哪有狮子！”猎人怒吼道，“哪个傻瓜把公牛放出来了？”
Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com and Free Trial Now!

The Cat and the Bell 猫和铃

All the mice came. Many mice spoke, but none knew what to do. At last a young mouse stood up and said, "We must put a bell on the cat. Then, when the cat comes near, we shall hear the bell and run away and hide. So the cat will not catch any more mice.’ Then the old mouse asked, " Who will put the bell on the cat?" No mouse answered. He waited; but still no one answered. At last he said, "It is not hard to say things; but it is harder to do them."
房屋里有许多老鼠，房主找来一只猫，这只猫吃掉了很多老鼠。这时，最老的一只老鼠就说：“今天晚上，所有的老鼠必须到我的洞里来，我们要想点办法，怎样来对付这只猫。”所有的老鼠都来了，许多老鼠都发言了，但是，谁也不知道该怎么办。最后，有一只年轻的老鼠站起来说：“我们必须在猫的身上安放一个铃，这样一来，当猫走近时，我们就会听到铃声，跑开躲起来，这样，猫就再也抓不到老鼠了。”这时，年纪大的老鼠说：“谁去给猫身上安铃呢？没有一只老鼠回答。它等了一会儿，仍然没人回答。最后，它说：“说起来容易，但做起来难啊。”
Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com and Free Trial Now!

Tongue twister

"Tongue twister" is a distinctive language art form. It refers to an expression that is difficult to articulate clearly, as is composed by words of similar pronunciations but different meanings. For example, "Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled pepper" is such an English tongue twister. However, in Chinese, it is the additional four tones – high ,level, rising, falling-rising and falling, of which all Chinese words have one as its value, that also help to make up a tongue twister.A typical example for beginners is "ma". It can mean very differently depending on the tone: "mother" (妈mā), "hemp"(麻má) "horse"(马mǎ), "scold"(骂mà).Thus, a nice little tongue twister of those with an interest in Chinese tones is: "妈妈骑马,马慢,妈妈骂马", which means "mother rides a horse; the horse is slow; mother scolds the horse".There are more resources for you as follows:四和十： 四是四,十是十，十四是十四，四十是四十，谁能分得清,请来试一试。The Number Four and Ten:"Four" sounds four; "ten" sounds ten; "fourteen" sounds fourteen; "forty" sounds forty. Who can make clear the distinctions? Come and have a try. You can have a nice practice in this tongue twister in telling the retroflex consonant from the rough consonant.化肥： 黑化肥发灰，灰化肥发黑。黑化肥发灰不发黑，灰化肥发黑不发灰。Fertilizer:Blake fertilizer turns grey; grey fertilizer turns black. Black fertilizer turns grey but not black; grey fertilizer turns black but not grey.
You can have a nice practice in this tongue twister in telling the consonant "h" from "f".Anyway, it is good way of practicing your Chinese pronunciation and tones through those interesting tongue twisters.
To attend one-on-one online live Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers by entering: http://www.echineselearning.com/?a_aid=baiyin, Free Trial Now!

The cost for marriage结婚付出的代价

A little boy asked his father: Daddy, how much does it cost to get married?The father replied: I don 't know son. I 'm still paying!!一个小男孩问他的爸爸，结婚要花多少钱？爸爸说：我不知道，因为我仍然在付帐。
Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com and Free Trial Now!

Two Lines In Heaven控制女人的男人

Everybody on earth dies and goes to heaven.God comes and says "I want the men to make two lines.One line for the men that dominated their women on earthand the other line for the men that were whipped by their women.Also, I want all the women to go with St Peter."Said and done, and there are two lines. The line of the menthat were whipped was 100 miles long,and the line of men that dominated women, there was only one man.God got mad and said. "You men should be ashamed of yourselves.I created you in my image and you were all whipped by your mates.Look at the only one of my sons that stood up and made me proud.Learn from him! Tell them, my son,how did you manage to be the only one on that line?"The man said, "I don't know, my wife told me to stand here."世上的每一个人都上了天堂 神说 :" 要男人分成两队 , 一是在世上控制女人的男人 ,另一是被女人鞭打的男人 .另外女子自成一队 , 跟着圣彼德去 ."队伍列好后 , 一是被女人鞭打的 ,有 100 英里长 , 一是在世上控制女人的 ,仅有一人 .神生气的说 :" 你们男人应该感到羞耻 ,我按照自己的形象创造了你们 ,而你们被女子鞭打 . 看看 , 我唯一的儿子 ,站着使我骄傲 . 你们应该向他学习 .告诉他们 , 儿子 ,你如何成为唯一站在这一队上的 ?"这男子回说 :" 我不知道 , 我太太叫我站在这的 !"
Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com and Free Trial Now!

Talking clock 会说话的钟

While proudly showing off his new apartment to friends, a college student led the way into the den. "What is the big brass gong and hammer for?" one of his friends asked. "That is the talking clock," the man replied. "How's it work?" "Watch," the man said and proceeded to give the gong an ear shattering pound with the hammer. Suddenly, someone screamed from the other side of the wall, "Knock it off, you idiot! It's two o'clock in the morning!" 一个学生带他朋友们参观他的新公寓，甚是得意。“那个大铜锣和锤子是干什么用的？”他的一个朋友问他。“那玩意儿厉害了，那是一个会说话的钟”，学生回答。“这钟怎么工作的”，他的朋友问。“看着，别眨眼了”，那学生走上前一把操起铜锣和锤子，拼命地敲了一下，声音震耳欲聋。突然，他们听到隔壁墙那边有人狂叫，“别敲了，你这白痴！现在是凌晨两点钟了！”

Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com and Free Trial Now!

Chinese Summer Parade

In the summer of 2008, eChineseLearning and Sina.com jointly present “Chinese Summer Parade”—live one-on-one lessons specially designed for students worldwide from 5 to 18 years old.( http://www.echineselearning.com/product/chinese-summer-parade.html)

How it works:
Online Live Chinese Lessons
You can actually see and talk with our Chinese teachers (not pre-recorded)!
Professional Chinese Teachers
All of our teachers are experienced and have received professional training in "Teaching Chinese as a Foreign Language."
Pricing and Money-back Guarantee
Get our one-on-one lessons for as low as $10 per lesson (50 minutes/lesson)! We offer money-back guarantee and this can be one of the best investments you make for your children's future.

Program A: Two-Month Package
What: Take (up to) 1 private Chinese lesson every day with (up to) 5 classes per week, from highly qualified Chinese teachers directly in China; your child will be able to take 40-44 private Chinese lessons within these two months.Class Duration: 2 months'of study plus a 2 weeks break for any family trip you may have planned.
Program B: 20-Lesson Package
What: You can take as many as 4 lessons a day. You can use these hours in as little as 5 days or you can spread them out over 2 months.Class Duration: 2 months

This can be one of the best investments you make in your children’s future.
Take a FREE TRIAL NOW by visiting http://www.echineselearning.com/product/chinese-summer-parade.html

The Attraction of the Map地图的引力

Mr. Smith taught English at a school .At the beginning of his lesson, he liked to have one of his students give a report on any subject. When it was Jack's turn, he told his audience about his elder brother who was a local worker. But during the report, his eyes were staring at the world map on the wall all the time. Mr. Smith knew that Jack didn't look at the audience because he was nervous. He said to Jack jokingly, "We can see you miss your brother very much. But is he 0. K. now in South America?"
史密斯先生在一所学校教英语。在每次课的开始，他喜欢叫一个学生上讲台作讲演，题材不限。轮到杰克作讲演时，他向听众讲述了他的哥哥。他的哥哥就在当地工作。但在讲述过程中，杰克的眼睛一直盯着墙上的世界地图。史密斯先生知道杰克不敢看听众是因为紧张。他开玩笑似地对杰克说：“我们能看出你非常想念你的哥哥，他现在在南美还好吗？”
Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com and Free Trial Now!

What Grade哪一级

Kristin,my 17-year-old niece, had just gotten her driver's license and offered to take her mom's car to the gas station. She pulled up to the full-service pumps, and the attendant asked, "What grade, miss?" "Eleventh!" Kristin replied.
我的十七岁的侄女，科里斯蒂，刚刚拿到驾照。她主动提出去加油站给她妈妈的车加油。她把车开到昼夜服务的加油泵前。服务员问她：“（加油加到）哪一级，小姐？” “十一（年）级！”科里斯蒂回答说。
Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com and Free Trial Now!

An Adult Decision成年人的抉择

The year before my son turned 18, he constantly pleaded to be allowed to a tattoo, but I refused to sign permission for one. He argued that soon he would be a man and he should be able to make adult decisions. Sure enough, a few days after his 18th birthday, he come home with a tattoo. Although I was not happy about this, I was curious to see what symbol of masculinity he had chosen. There, on his shoulder, was a two-inch image of Mickey Mouse.
我儿子十八岁前的那一年，他常常向我提出准许他文身。但我拒绝允许他这样做。他争辩说他不久就要成为男子汉了，并说他应该能够作出成年人的抉择了。果然，十八岁生日的几天后，他文了身，回到家里。尽管我对此感到不高兴，但出于好奇，我想看看他选择了什么雄性象征物。原来是他在肩上文了一个两英寸长的米老鼠像。
Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com and Free Trial Now!

Chinese Summer Parade

Chinese Summer Parade is presented by eChineseLearning.com, especiallydesigned for students from 5 to 18 years old. Its study objectivesare: 1. Arose and cater children's interests in learning Chinese throughlively and interactive learning methods.2. Respond to their specific developmental stage and learning features.3. Achieve customized learning goals based on their own Chinese levelsand learning backgrounds.

Chinese Summer Parade will be the best gift that parents can give to their children this summer!
And it is the most valuable investment that parents can do for their children’s future!
By visiting: http://www.echineselearning.com/product/chinese-summer-parade.html and Take Your Free Trial!

地道口语

Don’t sell yourself short 不要看轻自己

I fixed him up with Rose我撮合了他和罗斯

You bet (your) life I would 我肯定会的!

Don’t le me down可别让我失望喔 (我有吗？倒)

You named it 你说得出来的都有，要什么有什么

What if I’m late returning the car ?那如果我还车晚了怎么办？

Not bad at all 还不赖嘛

That was close ! 好险!

a OK ,It’s a deal 好，就这么说定了

No way ,where did you find it ?怎么可能，。。。。

I’m on a budget 我的手头有点紧

You are in great shape 你身材很好

God forbids 但愿此事不曾发生

God bless me 上帝保佑

One word will suffice 一句话就足够了

You can say that again 你说得对

I could not agree more你说得对极了

You are the man 大哥你真厉害!

Theirs is a perfect match 他们是天生的一对

She is very sexy 她很性感

Do you know that affair ? 你知道那件桃色新闻吗？

It is unbelievable 难以置信的

FREE TRIAL

Three eChineseLearning Torch Bearers were named on May 31st, 2008.

The 1st round of eChineseLearning Torch Bearer Honors came to an end on May 31st, 2008. The top three participants in the "Current Ranking" section were all named winners! As promised, the Top 3 winners each won FREE Chinese lessons from 1 year, to 3 month. They can experience One-on-One live private Chinese lessons with professional teachers in China!


Do you want to be the next winner? Of course, you can!

A) If you join us, you may refer as many friends as you like to take a free Chinese lesson with us; the more you refer, the more points you accumulate, the more chances to become a winner;

B) If you have not joined us yet, please feel free to take action immediately and refer our Nihao Chinese Program to any and all around you.

Opportunity is knocking. Act Now!
Nihao Chinese Program Team
www.echineselearning.com/nihao
http://www.echineselearning.com

运动英语小典故：10个最常见的表达

运动英语小典故：10个最常见的表达

　　英语中有许多惯用语 (idiom) 都是源自各种运动术语。这些惯用语除了用做字面的意思之外，经常还含有隐喻 (metaphor) 的意思。

【田径】track and field 　　jump the gun：(字面) 偷跑。田径比赛时，裁判还没有鸣枪，选手就抢先起跑了。(比喻) 过早采取行动。如果用在合唱，某人提前唱出某音时，就是“放炮”。

【美式足球】American football 　　Monday morning quarterback： (字面) 周一早晨的四分卫。美国电视在足球季的每个星期天都会转播一场比赛。由于是现场节目，结果立刻分晓。等到第二天早晨看了报纸才发表‘真知灼见’，为时以晚矣！ (比喻) 事后诸葛亮；放马后炮。

【拳击】boxing 　　have a glass jaw： (字面) 有个玻璃做的下颚。在拳击赛中，下颚像是玻璃做的，一被击中就不支倒地。 (比喻) 不堪一击。

【马术】horseback riding 　　get on one's high horse： (字面) 骑上一匹高大的马。从前，马术师自以为骑马的人高高在上，所以比用脚走路的人优越。 (比喻) 摆出傲慢的态度；摆高姿态。

【高尔夫】golf 　　not up to par： (字面) 没有达到标准杆数。高尔夫球戏中，每一洞依难度及远近有一标准杆数，例如第一洞的标准杆数是四杆。因此，杆数越低越好。若击出超过标准杆数，没有达到一般水平，就是 not up to par。 (比喻) 做事情没有达到应有的标准；也可以说是失常。注意：up to par 不用于肯定句。

【斗牛】bullfighting 　　take the bull by the horns： (字面) 斗牛比赛时，斗牛士常握着牛角以扳倒牛，这是一项艰难又危险的动作。 (比喻) 采取果敢的行动应付艰难的局面；面对困难采取行动。虽然字面的意思上像是中文里的‘执牛耳’，而‘执牛耳’的英文却可以用 rule the roost [roast] 来表达。

【游泳】swimming 　　sink or swim： (字面) 遇到河流时，沉到水底或游泳逃生。 (比喻) 不成功便成仁。

【网球】tennis 　　The ball is in your court.： (字面) 该由你发球了。许多运动的场地以网隔开，并由双方轮流发球，像网球、排球、羽毛球等。 (比喻) 轮到该你负责了；轮到你采取行动了。

【赛马】horse racing 　　neck and neck： (字面) 赛马时两马颈部同时抵达终点，即以平手论。 (比喻) 并驾齐驱；不分胜负；不相上下；不分轩轾。

【篮球】basketball 　　The game isn't over until the fat lady sings.： (字面) 胖妇人未唱歌前，比赛不算结束。这是达拉斯小牛队前教练 Dick Motta 的一句名言，指一场比赛紧张激烈，不到结束时刻，仍然胜负未卜。在歌剧中，往往在结束前的高潮便是由一位身材丰满的女声乐家表演。胖妇人开始唱歌是比喻比赛将要结束。 (比喻) 比赛不到最后一刻不知鹿死谁手。

FREE TRIAL

Three eChineseLearning Torch Bearers were named on May 31st, 2008.

The 1st round of eChineseLearning Torch Bearer Honors came to an end on May 31st, 2008. The top three participants in the "Current Ranking" section were all named winners! As promised, the Top 3 winners each won FREE Chinese lessons from 1 year, to 3 month. They can experience One-on-One live private Chinese lessons with professional teachers in China!


Do you want to be the next winner? Of course, you can!

A) If you join us, you may refer as many friends as you like to take a free Chinese lesson with us; the more you refer, the more points you accumulate, the more chances to become a winner;

B) If you have not joined us yet, please feel free to take action immediately and refer our Nihao Chinese Program to any and all around you.

Opportunity is knocking. Act Now!
Nihao Chinese Program Team
www.echineselearning.com/nihao
http://www.echineselearning.com

What do the Olympic rings mean？ 奥运五环代表什么？

What do the Olympic rings mean？

The colours of the interlinked Olympic rings were chosen by the International Olympic Committee （IOC） ， to represent the union of the 5 continents ， Australia ， Africa ， America ， Asia and Europe and further signify the meeting of the worlds athletes at the Olympic Games.
The plain white background of the Olympic flag is symbolic of peace throughout the games .
The five colours of the rings from left to right are blue， black and red across the top with yellow and green along the bottom ， these colours may be found on most flags of the world and officially hold no other particular significance ， although some believe each colour represents a particular continent.
Blue =Europe Yellow =Asia Black =Africa Green =Australia Red =America The Olympic rings are the official trademark of the I.O.C.

中文翻译：

奥运五环代表什么？

国际奥委会选择五个相连的圆环作为其标志，并选择了相应的色彩。五个圆环代表五大洲：大洋洲、非洲、美洲、亚洲和欧洲。更深一层的意思是代表着全世界的运动员都聚集在奥林匹克运动会上。 朴素的白色背景寓意着和平。 五种颜色从左到右分别是：上方三个蓝、黑、红，下方黄和绿。这五种颜色都为各国国旗上的常见颜色，而且没有被赋予特殊含义。但是也有人认为，这五种颜色分别代表着五大洲。
蓝 =欧洲
黄 =亚洲
黑 =非洲
绿 =大洋州
红 =美洲






FREE TRIAL

Three eChineseLearning Torch Bearers were named on May 31st, 2008.

The 1st round of eChineseLearning Torch Bearer Honors came to an end on May 31st, 2008. The top three participants in the "Current Ranking" section were all named winners! As promised, the Top 3 winners each won FREE Chinese lessons from 1 year, to 3 month. They can experience One-on-One live private Chinese lessons with professional teachers in China!


Do you want to be the next winner? Of course, you can!

A) If you join us, you may refer as many friends as you like to take a free Chinese lesson with us; the more you refer, the more points you accumulate, the more chances to become a winner;

B) If you have not joined us yet, please feel free to take action immediately and refer our Nihao Chinese Program to any and all around you.

Opportunity is knocking. Act Now!
Nihao Chinese Program Team
www.echineselearning.com/nihao
http://www.echineselearning.com

筷子的故事 The Story of Chopsticks

筷子的故事 The Story of Chopsticks

01. Chopsticks are used every day in China. 中国人每天都在使用筷子。
02. Now I'd like to take this opportunity to share their interesting history with you. 现在我想借这个机会和大家一起聊一些有关于筷子历史的有趣故事。
03. I think you'll agree that even an ordinary item used in daily life can have a fascinating story. 我想你会赞同即使是日常生活中一件小物品也会有其引人入胜的故事。
04. Although chopsticks originated in China, they are widely used in many Asian countries. 虽然筷子起源于中国，但现在很多的亚洲国家都在使用。
05. The first chopsticks were made from bone and jade. 最早的筷子是用骨头和玉制成的。
06. In the Spring and Autumn period, copper and iron chopsticks came into being. 在春秋时代又出现了铜制和铁制的筷子。
07. In ancient times, the rich used jade or gold chopsticks to display their wealth. 在古代，富人家用玉筷子或金筷子以显示其家庭的富有。
08. Many kings and emperors used silver chopsticks to see if their food had been poisoned. 许多帝王用银制的筷子以检查他们的食物中是否被人投了毒。
09. Chopsticks are traditionally placed in brides' dowries,because "chopsticks" in Chinese is pronounced "kuaizi", which sounds like "get a son soon." 筷子在传统上是被当作新娘的嫁妆的，因为“筷子”在汉语中读作“kuaizi”，听起来很像“快得儿子”。
10. Many foreign friends try to use chopsticks when they visit China. 许多外国朋友在访问中国的时候都使用筷子。
11. Even the former president of the United States Richard Nixon, used chopsticks at the welcoming banquet held in his honor. 甚至是美国前总统尼克松在为其到来而举办的欢迎宴会上也使用了筷子。
12. As soon as he left his table, a foreign diplomat grabbed his chopsticks as a historical souvenir. 他刚一离开桌子，一名国外的外交人员就抓起了他的筷子，把它作为了具有历史意义的纪念品。
13. Remember to tell this interesting story the next time you eat with foreign friends and show off your knowledge. 下次与外国朋友吃饭时不要忘记把这个有趣的故事告诉他们，卖弄一下你的知识。



FREE TRIAL

Three eChineseLearning Torch Bearers were named on May 31st, 2008.

The 1st round of eChineseLearning Torch Bearer Honors came to an end on May 31st, 2008. The top three participants in the "Current Ranking" section were all named winners! As promised, the Top 3 winners each won FREE Chinese lessons from 1 year, to 3 month. They can experience One-on-One live private Chinese lessons with professional teachers in China!


Do you want to be the next winner? Of course, you can!

A) If you join us, you may refer as many friends as you like to take a free Chinese lesson with us; the more you refer, the more points you accumulate, the more chances to become a winner;

B) If you have not joined us yet, please feel free to take action immediately and refer our Nihao Chinese Program to any and all around you.

Opportunity is knocking. Act Now!
Nihao Chinese Program Team
www.echineselearning.com/nihao
http://www.echineselearning.com

奥运英语轻松学-中英文对照短文

中国人民一向赞赏奥林匹克精神的宗旨和原则，支持奥林匹克运动为促进世界和平所做的努力。中国政府和中国人民正全力以赴，做好2008年北京奥运会的筹备工作，力争把2008年奥运会办成一次弘扬奥林匹克精神、促进世界和平、增进各国人民友谊的盛会，让奥林匹克精神在中国这一东方文明古国 再次得到发扬。


Will Christmas Replace the Spring Festival Christmas arouses increasing attention year by year in China. Christmas cards become popular with students. People hold Christmas parties and exchange Christmas girts. A lot or TV and radio programs about Christmas are on. Meanwhile the Spring Festival is less appealing to youngsters. Thus some people wonder whether Christmas will replace the Spring Festival. This worry is fairly unnecessaryg Why Ⅱ One reason lies that Christmas only affects Christians, college students and joint-venture (workers. Another reason is that Christmas is mostly celebrated in cities. Few people in countryside show extreme interest in this exotic festival. By contrast, the Spring Festival is the most influential traditional festival in every family. I think, it is natural that with increasing exchanges with the West, a lot of Western holidays have been gradually introduced into China. For us Chinese we should never neglect or even discard our own traditional festivals. For centuries Chinese have observed this traditional holiday to welcome the beginning of a new year. And we will treasure the Spring Festival forever.




Easy to learn English!!!

FREE TRIAL

Three eChineseLearning Torch Bearers were named on May 31st, 2008.

The 1st round of eChineseLearning Torch Bearer Honors came to an end on May 31st, 2008. The top three participants in the "Current Ranking" section were all named winners! As promised, the Top 3 winners each won FREE Chinese lessons from 1 year, to 3 month. They can experience One-on-One live private Chinese lessons with professional teachers in China!


Do you want to be the next winner? Of course, you can!

A) If you join us, you may refer as many friends as you like to take a free Chinese lesson with us; the more you refer, the more points you accumulate, the more chances to become a winner;

B) If you have not joined us yet, please feel free to take action immediately and refer our Nihao Chinese Program to any and all around you.

Opportunity is knocking. Act Now!
Nihao Chinese Program Team
www.echineselearning.com/nihao
http://www.echineselearning.com

Why We Have Value 我们的价值

Why We Have Value

In a commencement address to a graduating class at Miami University, columnist George Will gave some statistics that help to diminish our sense of self-importance. He pointed out that “the sun around which Earth orbits is one of perhaps 400 billion stars in the Milky Way, which is a piddling galaxy next door to nothing much.” He added, “There are perhaps 40 billion galaxies in the still-unfolding universe. If all the stars in the universe were only the size of the head of a pin, they still would fill Miami’s Orange Bowl to overflowing more than 3 billion times.”There is a plus side to all that overwhelming data. The God who created and sustains our star-studded cosmos in its incomprehensible vastness loves us. And He doesn’t just love the human race as an entity of multiplied billions. He loves us individually. What Paul exclaims to be true about himself is true about each of us in all our insignificance: Christ “loved me and gave Himself for me” (Gal. 2:20).Astronomically, we are insignificant. But we are the beloved objects of God’s care. While we have no reason for pride, we are inexpressibly grateful to the Lord whose love for us personally is revealed at Calvary’s cross.

我们的价值

专栏作家乔治•威尔在迈阿密大学的毕业典礼致词中，提到一些统计数据，有助于我们不过于自负。他说：「地球循轨道绕着运转的太阳，只是银河系四千亿恒星中 的一颗而已，而我们所在的银河系，和广大未知的宇宙中可能存在的四百亿个星系相比，实在是微不足道。如果所有的星球都像针头一般大，加起来也比迈阿密的球 场大三十亿倍。」 在这些惊人的数据之外，还有一点：上帝创造并托住繁星满天的宇宙，却用无法测度的大爱来爱我们。他爱我们人类，不是把人类当作一个几十亿的群体来 爱，而是爱我们每一个独特的个体。尽管我们微不足道，但我们也能和保罗一样宣告：「（基督）是爱我，为我舍己。」（加拉太书2章20节） 从天文学的角度来看，我们实在是渺小，但我们却是上帝眷顾关爱的对象。我们没有什么值得骄傲的理由，上帝借着各各他的十字架向我们每个人显明了他的爱，为此我们当向他存无尽的感恩。



Do you like it ?

just have a FREE TRIAL

Three eChineseLearning Torch Bearers were named on May 31st, 2008.

The 1st round of eChineseLearning Torch Bearer Honors came to an end on May 31st, 2008. The top three participants in the "Current Ranking" section were all named winners! As promised, the Top 3 winners each won FREE Chinese lessons from 1 year, to 3 month. They can experience One-on-One live private Chinese lessons with professional teachers in China!


Do you want to be the next winner? Of course, you can!

A) If you join us, you may refer as many friends as you like to take a free Chinese lesson with us; the more you refer, the more points you accumulate, the more chances to become a winner;

B) If you have not joined us yet, please feel free to take action immediately and refer our Nihao Chinese Program to any and all around you.

Opportunity is knocking. Act Now!
Nihao Chinese Program Team
www.echineselearning.com/nihao
http://www.echineselearning.com

20 Ways to Stay Healthy and Safe in a Hotel-Holidays

20 Ways to Stay Healthy and Safe in a Hotel-Holidays


Let's say you're lucky enough to get to take two weeks of vacation away from home each year. Maybe your job sends you to a training session or trade conference for a few days. Then there's your niece's wedding, Thanksgiving with the family, a weekend getaway or two with your spouse to the hills -- or Las Vegas. For many adults, a typical year may have us sleeping in a hotel room 10-20 nights per year. That's nothing to sneeze at. Or more accurately, that's a lot to sneeze at. Not all hotels can offer plush bathrobes, superb security, and immaculate cleanliness. The reality is that even five-star hotels have been found to harbor plenty of hidden mildew and germs. However, there are ways to make your home away from home not only more pleasant, but healthier and safer too.

1. Pack your own sheets. If you have any concerns about your hotel's cleaning practices, pack a queen-size sheet to throw over the bedspread so you're not exposed to dust mites, germs, or allergens lurking in the cover.

2. Pack a long-sleeved sleep shirt and long sleep pants. Again, if you are concerned about the hygiene of the bedding, reduce contact by wearing body-covering pajamas and light socks to bed.

3. Use your bed for sleeping only. Don't do work on it, eat on it, and don't watch movies or TV on it. Not only is that more hygienic, but you'll likely find it easier to fall asleep that way.

4. Ask for an allergy-free room. Some hotels are now offering rooms that are built and furnished to minimize the amounts of dust mites and other allergens. Even if you don't have allergies, this might be a good choice for people prone to colds and flus. Other hotels provide allergy packs, including face masks, special pillows, and mattress covers. But you have to ask for them.

5. Choose modern over old. Yes, Victorian bed-and-breakfasts are far superior in terms of charm and personal touches. But they also lead in the amount of allergens and dust you are likely to encounter in the rooms and public sitting areas. So if health is a real concern while traveling, go for good-quality modern hotels.

6. Ask for a room on the third floor or higher. Most thefts occur on the first two floors. Stay below the seventh floor, however; few fire engine ladders can reach above it.

7. Choose a hotel over a motel. This is mostly for safety reasons: Burglaries are easier when your room's door is quickly accessible from the parking lot. You also get more dirt and allergens coming through the doorway when it opens directly to the outside. You wouldn't want to sleep eight feet from the front door at home, would you?

8. If you're going to be staying for several days, book a hotel with a pool or exercise room -- and use them. Exercising will exorcise the traveler's stiffness from your body and burn off some of the calories from that breakfast buffet, business lunch, or wedding cake.

9. Split your breakfast and lunch schedules in two. Use half for eating and the other half for walking outside. Just like you should be doing at work.
Stay Safe

10. Check the bed for bedbugs before you unpack. Have you ever woken up in a hotel room, felt itchy, and assumed you'd been bitten by mosquitoes in your sleep? It might have been bedbugs. Growing pesticide resistance has resulted in outbreaks of bedbugs in even some of the best hotels. These brown bugs, which are the size of an apple seed, can leave itchy welts on the skin. One veteran traveler suggests pulling back the comforter quickly and watching closely to see if any bugs scamper. Also look for bloodstains on pillows or mattress liners and carefully check the seams of mattresses. If you see anything suspicious, ask for another room -- then repeat the process. Even if you don't find any bugs, move the bed away from the wall, tuck in the sheets, and keep the blanket from touching the floor. Just in case!

11. Check your luggage for bedbugs when you get home -- and do it in the laundry room. If you find any, dump the clothes right into the washing machine, then dry them on high heat for at least 15 minutes. Anything that isn't washable should be put into the freezer for a couple of days.

12. Light a scented candle in your room. The scent will help to hide the antiseptic stale smell of the hotel room as well as provide some stress-relieving aromatherapy. (But use common sense: Never leave a burning candle unattended, or light one if you think there's a chance you might fall asleep.)

13. Moisten the dry air with the help of a teakettle. If your room has a kitchen area, fill the teakettle with plenty of water, heat it until it steams, and let the steam escape into the room until the water's almost gone. Your sinuses will thank you.

14. Pack a photograph of someone you love (even your dog). When you come back to your room after a stressful day, begin to feel lonely, or get that "What city am I in?" confusion that often comes with long trips, you can anchor yourself by looking at the picture and reminding yourself of home.

15. Bring along your own battery-operated travel alarm. You'll fall asleep better and sleep better all night if you don't have to worry that you set the hotel alarm wrong and will miss that important appointment.

16. Pack a pair of rubber thongs, a.k.a. flip-flops. Use them in the bathroom, on the carpet (who can guess the last time the carpet was cleaned?) and in the pool area to prevent any fungal (or worse) infections.

17. Stay out of the hotel's hot tub. Okay, now you think we've gone totally nuts. There's no doubt that hot tubs are luxuriously soothing, and if you're willing to take a slight chance, go ahead and plunge in. Just be aware that hot tubs can foster bacteria such as the one that causes folliculitis (itchy red bumps). And some people have developed bronchitis and even serious forms of pneumonia from breathing in air contaminated by bacteria growing in the water.

18. Play it safe. One of the easiest ways to stay healthy is to make sure that you're not physically attacked in a strange place. And hotels are strange places. Here are some important tips on how to protect yourself:
When registering, make sure the front-desk person doesn't say your room number aloud, but instead writes it down and hands it to you. If he does say it aloud, ask for another room and ask that he write down the number.
Ask who is at your door and verify before opening. If you didn't order room service, or don't know why the "employee" is there, call the front desk and verify that they sent someone.
Use the main entrance of the hotel when returning in the evening.
Use all locking devices for your door, and lock all windows and sliding glass doors.

19. Don't leave the Please Make Up Room sign outside your door unless you want to tell the whole world you're not there. Instead, put the Do Not Disturb sign on the door. If you want your room made up while you're out, call housekeeping and let them know.

20. Make sure hotel operators don't give out room numbers. Try it by calling the front desk from your cell phone, giving your name, and asking for your room number.

Do you wanna learn more ?

FREE TRIAL

Three eChineseLearning Torch Bearers were named on May 31st, 2008.

The 1st round of eChineseLearning Torch Bearer Honors came to an end on May 31st, 2008. The top three participants in the "Current Ranking" section were all named winners! As promised, the Top 3 winners each won FREE Chinese lessons from 1 year, to 3 month. They can experience One-on-One live private Chinese lessons with professional teachers in China!


Do you want to be the next winner? Of course, you can!

A) If you join us, you may refer as many friends as you like to take a free Chinese lesson with us; the more you refer, the more points you accumulate, the more chances to become a winner;

B) If you have not joined us yet, please feel free to take action immediately and refer our Nihao Chinese Program to any and all around you.

Opportunity is knocking. Act Now!
Nihao Chinese Program Team
www.echineselearning.com/nihao
http://www.echineselearning.com

Three eChineseLearning Torch Bearers were named on May 31st, 2008.

FREE TRIAL

Three eChineseLearning Torch Bearers were named on May 31st, 2008.

The 1st round of eChineseLearning Torch Bearer Honors came to an end on May 31st, 2008. The top three participants in the "Current Ranking" section were all named winners! As promised, the Top 3 winners each won FREE Chinese lessons from 1 year, to 3 month. They can experience One-on-One live private Chinese lessons with professional teachers in China!


Do you want to be the next winner? Of course, you can!

A) If you join us, you may refer as many friends as you like to take a free Chinese lesson with us; the more you refer, the more points you accumulate, the more chances to become a winner;

B) If you have not joined us yet, please feel free to take action immediately and refer our Nihao Chinese Program to any and all around you.

Opportunity is knocking. Act Now!
Nihao Chinese Program Team
www.echineselearning.com/nihao
http://www.echineselearning.com

Reached Shore Fast快速靠岸

A guy I know was towing his boat home from a fishing trip to Lake Huron when his car broke down. He didn't have his cell phone with him, but he thought maybe he might be able to raise someone on his marine radio to call for roadside assistance. He climbed into his boat, clicked on the radio and said, "Mayday, mayday." A Coast Guard officer came on and said, "State your location." "I-75, two miles south of Standish." After a very long pause, the officer asked, "How fast were you going when you reached shore?" 　　在休伦湖钓完鱼后，我的一个朋友开车拖着他的船回家。路上车坏了。他没带手机，不过，他想，也许他可以通过海事无线广播来请求公路援助。于是，他爬到他的船里面，启动了无线装置，喊道，“求救，求救”。一名海岸护卫队警官作出了回应，“报告你的位置”。“I-75号公路，Standish的南面两英里”。沉默了好一会之后，警官问我的朋友，“你的船靠岸时开得有多快？”
Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering : http://www.echineselearning.com and Free Trial Now!

The World's Greatest Swordsman 世界上最伟大的击剑手

At an exhibition of the world's best swordsman, the third-place fencer took the stage. A fly was released, and with an arc of his sword he cut the fly in half. The crowd cheered. Then the second-place man sliced a fly into quarters. A hush fell in anticipation of the world's greatest swordsman. His blade came down in a mighty arc - but the insect continued on its way! The crowd was aghast. The greatest swordsman had missed his target completely, yet he continued to smile. "Why are you so happy?" someone yelled. "You missed!" "Ah," replied the swordsman, "you weren't watching very carefully. They fly lives, yes - but he will never be a father."
在一场世界最佳击剑手表演中，排名第三的击剑手上场了。一只苍蝇放了出来，剑划了一个弧，他将苍蝇劈成了两半。观众欢呼起来。紧接着排名第二的人将一只苍蝇切成了四半。现场一阵沉默，人们期盼着世界上最伟大的击剑手出场。 他的剑锋以一个巨大的弧线划了下来－－然而那只昆虫还在继续飞行!观众被惊呆了。最伟大的击剑手完全错过了他的目标，然而他还在微笑着。 “你为什么这么高兴？”有人嚷道，“你没击中!” “啊，”剑手答道，“你刚才没有很仔细地看。苍蝇还活着，是的－－但他永远也做不成爸爸了。”
Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering :http://www.echineselearning.com and Free Trial Now!

The World's Greatest Swordsman 世界上最伟大的击剑手

At an exhibition of the world's best swordsman, the third-place fencer took the stage. A fly was released, and with an arc of his sword he cut the fly in half. The crowd cheered. Then the second-place man sliced a fly into quarters. A hush fell in anticipation of the world's greatest swordsman. His blade came down in a mighty arc - but the insect continued on its way! The crowd was aghast. The greatest swordsman had missed his target completely, yet he continued to smile. "Why are you so happy?" someone yelled. "You missed!" "Ah," replied the swordsman, "you weren't watching very carefully. They fly lives, yes - but he will never be a father."
在一场世界最佳击剑手表演中，排名第三的击剑手上场了。一只苍蝇放了出来，剑划了一个弧，他将苍蝇劈成了两半。观众欢呼起来。紧接着排名第二的人将一只苍蝇切成了四半。现场一阵沉默，人们期盼着世界上最伟大的击剑手出场。 他的剑锋以一个巨大的弧线划了下来－－然而那只昆虫还在继续飞行!观众被惊呆了。最伟大的击剑手完全错过了他的目标，然而他还在微笑着。 “你为什么这么高兴？”有人嚷道，“你没击中!” “啊，”剑手答道，“你刚才没有很仔细地看。苍蝇还活着，是的－－但他永远也做不成爸爸了。”
Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering :http://www.echineselearning.com and Free Trial Now!

Sleeping Pills安眠药

Bob was having trouble getting to sleep at night. He went to see his doctor, who prescribed some extra-strong sleeping pills.
Sunday night Bob took the pills, slept well and was awake before he heard the alarm. He took his time getting to the office, strolled in and said to his boss: "I didn't have a bit of trouble getting up this morning."
"That's fine," roared the boss, "but where were you Monday and Tuesday?"
鲍勃晚上失眠。他去看医生，医生给他开了一些强力安眠药。
星期天晚上鲍勃吃了药，睡得很好，在闹钟响之前就醒了过来。他到了办公室，遛达进去，对老板说：“我今天早上起床一点麻烦都没有。”
“好啊!”老板吼道，“那你星期一和星期二到哪儿去了？”
Do you want to learn Chinese more?
One-on-one online live (not pre-recorded) Chinese lessons with professional and native Chinese teachers.
Entering :http://www.echineselearning.com and Free Trial Now!

The first eChineseLearning Torch Bearer Honor will be announced soon!

At May 31st, 2008, the 1st round of eChineseLearning Torch Bearer Honor will come out. Top three participants in the "Current Ranking" section will become our winners, who may get up-to 1-year FREE Chinese lessons, down-to 3-month!

What does this mean to you, our valued friends? Increasing your Current Ranking by accumulating most points. Just need to:

A) If has joined us, please spread your code and refer as most as friends to join us to get more points;
Actually, the Code is a unique link, which was generated after your signing up for the free lesson, pointing to the “Nihao Chinese” homepage. This is how we will know your friends were referred by you!
Visit www.echineselearning.com/nihao and sign in, then you can find your code. Get my code now!
B) If have not joined us yet, please action immediately and refer Nihao Chinese Program to your around simultaneously.
Sign up for Free Chinese Lesson, enjoy your One-on-One Live Private Lesson with professional teacher (totally for free), and spread your Code.
The more people you spread your Code to, the more points you accumulate, and you are the winner finally!

The eChineseLearning Torch bearer prize

The Current Ranking module takes two months is based on participant’s points. The top 3 accumulative students will be honored the “eChineseLearning Torch Bearer” title and the following prizes:
★ Top prize：1 year of free eChineseLearning private lessons
★ Second Prize： 6 months of free eChineseLearning private lessons
★ Third Prize：3 months of free eChineseLearning private lessons

Chances still available. Act Now!



Best Wishes,
Nihao Chinese Program Team
www.eChineseLearning.com