A few weeks ago, I had a two banana day.
Banana number one: It was around 1 PM in the afternoon, just between lunch and class. I had to quickly go and make copies of some paperwork for the other foreign teachers, so I went to the place I usually go just a few apartment buildings away from home. I make my copies and ask "how much?" The girl hands me a banana. I push it back at her, once, twice, but finally give in. It's custom in China to first refuse a gift ... I'm still learning this one. On top of this, she didn't let me pay. Next time I go to make copies I think I'll bring oranges.
Banana number two: Later that evening I was walking out the side gate to go get dinner. I pass by one my my students and give the normal English greeting: "Hi, how are you?" To which he replies, "I just bought fruit" and hands me a banana. It all happened so sudden, I couldn't refuse. Let's just say it reminded me that I need to review greetings with this students' class.
