If You Go Out in the Woods Today...

Saturday the 19th we went for a picnic. It was hosted by Gerald and Elena, two English professors at Qinghai Normal University, and attended by a combination of QNU students and foreigners here for development work.

Photo caption: Gerald about to get thrown in the stream

In a hired bus, we drove to the countryside an hour from Xining. Throughout the day we ate Tibetan bread and yak meat, played soccer, threw each other in the stream, and chased livestock grazing in the area. We also drank heavily, starting at 8:30 in the morning with a shot of local barley beer. It turns out that communal drinking and merry-making are important aspects of Qinghai culture.

Photo caption: The offering

For the first drink, it is customary to offer three drops to the gods before consuming. Later everyone is involved in the festivities, whether offering or drinking alcohol. Offerers often sing or dance in order to entice potential drinkers. Our multicultural singing ranged from the Backstreet Boys and Disney to beautiful Tibetan folk songs.

Midway through the day we hiked up the hill to the local monastery. The buildings were nestled into the mountainside, which helped to lend the place an air of serenity. We especially enjoyed talking to one monk about his motorcycle, which he uses primarily to transport water to the monastery.

We finished the day with dinner and some more offerings at Gerald and Elena’s house. We had tons of fun, and learned a lot by sharing the day with such a diverse group. Thanks to Gerald and Elena, two hilarious and generous Aussies, for inviting three strangers to their annual picnic.

Photo caption: L-R: Elena, Scot, Noura, T Fishy, Catlin, David, Irene, Sara, Carver, Tim, Amy, Jody, Diana, Zachary, Margery, Gerald, Otto