Inspirational English, May 2017 Inspirational English, May 2017 | Page 29

Chapter 7 Hi from Shanghai, A month later… I arrived two days ago and was really pleased to see my family again. They loved the small gifts that I had brought from England. I got a really nice soft scarf for my mum and a science fiction book for my father. It’s Friday evening and my parents and I are wait- ing at the airport. Russie’s plane is due to land any minute. I am very excited to see my teacher again. Here she is. Smiling at us and looking a little bit tired. Oh dear, I know this feeling. The flight is over 12 hours. I introduce my parents to Russie and I am proud that I can translate for her, my mum doesn’t speak a word of English. We all get into our car and take Russie to her hotel. She definitely needs a good night sleep. In the car Russie com- ments on how beautiful Shanghai is and takes a few photos. I am sitting in my bedroom now and preparing for my presentation on Monday. My English teacher has asked me to tell the class about my stay in England. What a great time I had there! I am look- ing now at the photos I took and they bring so many memories from my days in Folkestone, Ox- ford, the city of Bath and Stratford-upon-Avon. Not only did I meet some lovely people but I also learned a lot about English history and culture. A particular day that stands out for me is Christmas, because I could see how the British people cele- brate the festival. It was quite interesting to listen to the Carol singers and open the Christmas crack- ers with Russie’s family. Talking about Russie, let me tell you a secret, she is coming to China next month. I can’t wait to take her around and show her the beauty of my home country. I need to start planning the itinerary for her visit and I will need my parents’ help to do this. Soon we arrive at the hotel and we wish Russie a good night sleep. Tomorrow she will be able to have a rest because my family and I are going to Wenzhou to mark the Tomb Sweeping Day. Tomb Sweeping Festival 29