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An Argument for Non-native speaking English teachers

I saw an article recently about the benefits of non-native speaking teachers in ESL and I had to admit it was quite interesting. One of the more interesting parts was that many of the points raised were ones that I agreed with and had experienced first hand with my job here in Malaysia.  Without any further ado here is a list of 5 benefits for a non-native English teacher. They understand the difficulties of adapting If we look at language in a cultural standpoint there are many conceits and practices in English that don't exactly translate. It is true that it is the teacher's job to guide the students through this but sometimes that added level of personal experience helps the message come through clearer. They know all the same terms. Maybe this isn't a huge deal but I have seen that non-natives usually know all the terminology right off the bat, which is a great resource for learners. They know all about non-defining clauses, subjects, objects, etc. Where did they l
Recent posts

Dewan Bahasa Dan Pustaka - The Angriest Building in THE WORLD!

Some architect had a sense of humour. The Dewan Bahasa Dan Pustaka building in Kuala Lumpur is definitely not a building I would show as 'iconic' in a tour of KL but it has emotion down to a science.  This building is pissed off and I'm pretty sure it is because they have yet to showcase him as a transformer... poor guy doesn't even realise he is a 'Go Bot' (google it or be born in the 80s) see the pics below and judge for yourself! Look at the furrowed brow... totally angry It strikes an imposing figure

Perogies Poutine or Poutine Perogies

First off just want to say I'm not very good at making perogies. I've tried 3 times now and I would have to say that they have got better each time. Here in Malaysia we have a small problem with getting the right ingredients for any western cooking job. for these bad boys I was really at the mercy of one particular ingredient - sour cream! The grocery store near my house doesn't always have sour cream in stock or perhaps it is a hot item and I never knew.  I better get off my rant and on to my post. I used a very simple recipe for the perogies The shell  4.5 cups of all purpose flour (I used a bit more) 3 eggs 2 cups of sour cream 2 tbsp of butter 2 tbsp of oil (or more butter if that's your thing) salt (you need a couple tsps or so) basically you mix the wet items then add them to the flour (I thought it was more difficult) make a ball or two and let stand covered for about 10-15 mins The filling 4-6 baking or other large potatoes 1 cup of cheese shre

clearing my junk

Over the course of the years I have collected a lot of things but there comes a time when you really have to learn to let go and downsize.  I think I have reached that point with some of my more space hogging collections that I'm really not that into anymore. Today I had my first sale and we will see how it goes from here on in. I'm trying to liquidate some games, books and toys so, if you have ever been to my house feel free to make me an offer on anything you like... I really need those American/Canadian Pickers guys to roll through. LOL

The masks we wear

These are the masks we wear, For better or worse, The signs that do protect us. This is the shadow cast For outside glance A mirror shone to save us. When tempers flare And we're not there Come gather all around us. Slip on this sheathe, A warm embrace, And breathe relief Problems will never find us.

Best Western Causeway Bay Hong Kong - Great location on a moderate budget

Let's get something out of the way right now. This is neither the best nor is it particularly western. It is, however, not a bad place to stay in Hong Kong.  Fairly centrally located near 'Times Square' according to the signage this hotel is independently operated and is not a "corporate" hotel. The people were generally very friendly and helpful for the most part. The location superb. Right off the airport bus line e11 and a stones throw from the mall.  Great eateries surround this hotel so you won't be disappointed. The decor is... interesting. The room ambiance is highlighted by this wonderful chandelier. Is this a mirror???  NO! It is a mirror frame with a lovely accent of wallpaper. The bed was nice but rather unsupportive overall I would say Location: 10/10 Comfort: 6/10 Friendliness: 7/10 Value: 7.5/10

10 valentine's things that have gotta stop... and a few that have gotta keep on truckin'

It has been about a week since Valentine's Day and there are some things that have just gotta stop. 10. Reposts on facebook of art and poetry. People of the world do you know what would be great? If your loved one created his or her own love letter to share on fb not a repost or share of somebody else's (yeah even Shakespeare) I will write my own to  show you how easy it is Roses are funky Violets are nice Let's make like monkey(s) And pick off our lice 9. Couple anythings Couple shirts Couple shoes Couple hats Couple whatevers Stop... just stop 8. Bouquets of wannabe roses Roses are a classic (I'll deal with them next) but what the heck is with pretend roses. Bouquet of muffin roses Bouquet of chocolate roses Bouquet of organic brussel sprout ROSES Classics are classics for a reason people! 6. Roses (I told you) Can y'all pick a new flower? How about hyacinths? Of lily of the valley? Maybe a flowering cacti for a change? And what's t