Language Eruption

We've been Here for nine months now.



Language has been diligently studied by all the Junior H family members in their respective classrooms.



Dad and I have managed to cram in some words and phrases that help us get around. And, we can boast a new sense of awareness when locals are speaking...we can understand the gist of the conversation quite often now.



We've heard the kids using some language here and there. They practice with each other. But Magpie has been the only one to really press herself to use the language with strangers. If I encouraged The Bug, Brownie or Potato...I often got shy smiles and giggles.



We were so surprised when, without warning, this past week a Language Eruption began!



The first sign of new language activity was on the part of Brownie (4.) At dinner this week she told us, "you tell me what you want and I will order it for you." And that is just what she did! Not only did she translate our order for us into Chinese, but the waiter UNDERSTOOD her meaning the very first time! This language is a tonal one, meaning the same word "Ma" stated with four different tones has four different meanings. So, Brownie chose the right words and fluently, with the correct tones, ordered our meal. She was so proud! We were awestruck! (It was apparent that so too was the waiter that this foreign girl spoke in perfect Chinese to him!)



Later the SAME evening we were buying bread at a market. The cashier spoke to Potato (5) in rapid-fire Chinese expecting that since Potato is Chinese, she'll speak the language. This has happened countless times and often Potato just smiles and says "I speak ENGLISH." But this time, without any hesitation she launched into a dialogue with he cashier. Answering the questions she was asked, offering some further commentary she smiled proudly at my astonished look.



Yesterday Potato told me..."I only speak English at home, Momma."



A barrier is being deconstructed for our children, right before our eyes. They are learning the language...they are not just surviving, but flourishing with the challenge.