Three to Get Ready?

Then why aren't I?

 

We went to meet with a factory for work today, which was a 2 1/2 hour car ride each way. The meeting went well; all of our excitement about our company was renewed and intensified. The drive, however, gave me a lot of time to think. And I realized, I'm not nearly as ready to go as I thought I was.

 

In all my excitement to go home I forgot that I would actually be leaving. It didn't hit me until today that I won't be here tomorrow. And I don't know when I'll be back again.

 

It's been so fun to be able to see China and experience some of the culture. I love seeing new things and visiting new places. But neat as it may be, it's just a place. We often say of new places "It's like a whole other world", which often times seems true. But in gazing out the car window at the passing green hills and distant mountains, I realized that it is indeed the same world. Maybe a different face, a different side, but the same world. The hills are covered in trees as opposed to dirt, and the mountains are drenched in green instead of snow; but they are still hills and they are still mountains. It's crazy; when I was home I thought of China as this distant, far-away land. Foreign and untouchable. Now that I'm here, it's China, another country with people living and learning; just like anywhere else. Wherever I go, there are people living and learning, each on their face of the world.

 

I realized that what makes leaving hard is the people I meet. I can leave a country with a wonderful experience, having seen world wonders and modern marvels. I'm not saying I don't miss the places I've been, each holds a special part of my heart. But the people... the family, Sylvie, Hannah, Grace, Jenny... They are the ones that make it difficult to leave. People become intertwined in your life in a way I feel that a place alone cannot. You come to know them and their stories; and to care about what happens in each. Once that happens, I think it eliminates the possibility of ever really being "ready" to leave.

 

To think that I'll be gone and miss the day to day trials and triumphs that shape their lives... it's a little disheartening. I'm going to miss them terribly. (By the way, that is a very strange expression). It was an amazing night to end on, though. With me and Denise talking and laughing in the kitchen like schoolgirls, having a mosquito massacre party with all of us (including Izzy and Josie) in the girls' room, finally getting some last minute pictures, and Josie and McKenna hanging out in my room until they couldn't even force themselves to stay awake. I couldn't have asked for anything more. (Except, maybe one more day).

 

I've come to love this family with my whole heart. They truly have become part of me. So I guess you could say I really did find myself in China...

And Then There Was One...

...One day to go, that is. It will go by fast though, considering we'll be visiting two factories and not sitting working in the living room. (Which is pretty much all my day consisted of today). Though, I'm not particularly looking forward to it. Simply because the factories are 3 hours away. That totals 6 hours in the car, before my 33 hours straight of travelling on Saturday. Here's a quick run-down of my itinerary:

 

Leave Ningbo at 4:30am Saturday for Shanghai. At 10am my 3 hour flight to Tokyo departs. {3 hour time change} Arrive in Tokyo at 2:15pm. Depart at 5:10pm. Ten hour flight from Tokyo to LA. {11 hour time change}. Arrive in LA Saturday at 11am. (Yes, supposedly only an hour after I left China). Meet the parentals for lunch. 5pm-ish California time flight departs for Utah. Arrive in Salt Lake at 8:25pm. {1 hour time change}. After luggage and jazz, it puts me in Provo around 10pm on Saturday.

 

What is technically twelve hours somehow magically morphs into 33. Oh the joys of international travel. I tell you what, my body is going to be screwed up something fierce. I'm gonna have one stellar case of jet-lag!

 

 

The Night Life

Got out a lot again today! It's making for a great last week here!

 

Hanna and Sylvie called and invited me to join them for some Peking Duck, a traditional Chinese must! I caught a taxi there, only to find them sitting on the stairs of a gutted restaurant. No Peking duck for us, unfortunately. We wandered around Gu Lou (I finally learned how to spell it!) waiting for Nick, Sylvie's boyfriend. For the second time today, actually, as I'd gone real quick earlier. We finally settled on a restaurant in Gu Lou they've been to before and loved.

 

On entering the restaurant we ran into two people that Sylvie knows. How these things happen, I'll never know. We'd always run into people from our group in Europe too. In London me and a friend were sitting waiting for Les Mis to start and looked down our row only to find people from our group that we hadn't talked to since leaving Paris the previous day. In all of London, to have bought tickets to the same show, on the same row. It was crazy! Anyway, I digress...

 

Dinner was quite an assortment of characters... two Australians, two Americans (Nick), a German and her Chinese husband, and later joined by another American and Chinese. Dinner was fantastic though; sweet and sour chicken in a pineapple, more of the heavenly green bean vegetable dish, dumplings, slivered potatoes, noodles, spicy salad.... mmmmm! Dinner was amazingly cheap too. More than enough food for 6 people, only 139 (roughly 20 bucks). Gotta love China! 

 

We sat around socializing for the longest time, which was a ton of fun. Me and Sylvie are really regretting not getting together sooner though. We agreed we should have started hanging out when I first got here! I'm really glad I've gotten to know her before leaving though. Hannah too; they've both just been stellar, taking me out and all. The Internet makes our world that much smaller though. After dinner I politely decided to retire, as they were heading to a bar. I figured a 3 hour meal was enough for me, despite how appealing going to a bar sounded. (Sarcasm, anyone?) Besides, I didn't have a key, and I didn't want to be inconsiderate to the fam.

 

I finally caught a taxi after some guy snatched my first one while I was saying goodbye to Sylvie and Hannah. So rude. I was only standing right next to it! I made it home again, all on my own! Some may say I didn't really experience what China's night life may have to offer, but it was wonderful and just the right night life for me!

VICTORIOUS!

I just had to record my victory!

 

The past 2 hours I've been battling with a mosquito in my room. Each time I thought I'd smashed him, his little mosquito body was no where to be found. I snuck up on him 3 different times to no avail, he kept escaping me! Well, I finally got the better of him. (Though it was a close one... it took two attempts).

 

This may seem trivial, but we've had quite the battle against the little blood suckers this weekend. (I think I mentioned about building a fort for McKenna and having Bri sleep on my floor.) My room tends to stay free of the little buggers because it keep it so cold and always have my door closed. I saw one tonight, however, which was unacceptable. I have a zero tolerance policy. I have two bites too many already. (I'm lucky though, the girls have min of 20 each, no joke). The grossest part is when you smash them and it leaves a blood stain... most likely your very own AB+. Ew. 

 

Anyway, just had to let you know I've conquered the little beast. Yes, I can now sleep easy. Thank you for your concern! I shall leave you with with an old favored camp song...

 

Oh I wish I were a little mo-squi-to (MOSQUITO!)

Oh I wish I were a little mo-squi-to (MOSQUITO!)

Oh I'd nippy and I'd bitey

Under everybody's nitey

Oh I wish I were a little mo-squi-to (MOSQUITO!)

 

Night y'all!

One for the money, two for the show, three to get ready...

And day four I go!

 

It's the weirdest thing to think about; that I only have three days left. It just doesn't feel like I'm leaving. I've been looking forward to home, yet there's no body clock countdown... you know that internal timer that makes your heart start beating faster when you get close to "time's up!" It probably won't hit me until until I'm on the plane. I think it's because my excitement comes from being home, not from leaving here, if that makes sense.

 

Another good day to add to my last week, though! I went with Hannah (Sylvie's friend) to Tienyige this morning. That's the old library I went to with the fam a couple weeks ago. I know I'd already been, but I really wanted to get out of the house and see more of China before I leave. It was great being out and about! We grabbed a cab and made it there for 13 Yuan (about $2). We walked around the library, and I enjoyed the beautiful gardens all over again.

 

After the library, we headed off to see Moon lake. It took a little wandering, but we got there without trouble. (For those of you who don't know, my normally horrible sense of direction becomes compass-like in foreign countries. I don't know why). It was really neat actually, we found our way not by main roads, but by wandering through an almost inner-city village. I can hardly describe it. Narrow streets with tiny living quarters, no real floors, no paned windows, and roofs that looked like they were hundreds of years old. Tattered apartment like buildings with the laundry hanging out all the barred windows. Chinese characters on little store fronts on the street with random assortments of who-knows-what. Yet despite how horrible it all sounds, it wasn't. It was quaint. It's a truly humble life that these people live, and that somehow erases any unfavorable perspective. The hole in the wall (size-wise) food places that are probably too dirty to even stand in, really don't seem that dirty or unsanitary. That's just how it is. It the hardest thing to explain...

 

Moon lake was super pretty, more of a "city" feel though as it is back out in the open area out of the area we had walked through to find it. We walked the whole way around it, stopping here and there to wander through a side garden or take a picture of a beautiful view. We saw people playing Chinese chess at stone tables that have the playing boards etched in. There was an old man doing Tai Chi and plenty of people just kind of lazing around. We had plenty of people trying to talk to us; they are somehow able to carry on conversations despite the fact that we speak no Chinese. The old Chinese are the best though. I have no idea what they are saying, but you can tell they just have so much character.

 

We bought some Chinese breads and rolls for lunch, which were really good. (Not to mention super cheap... 2-5 Quai, or 30-60 cents) Can't get better than that! We decided to call it a day after 3 hours of exploring and sweating. And i was able to tell the taxi driver how to get to my house after reaching Dong Hu... Zuo gui, You gui, Zuo gui (give or take the spelling!).

 

All in all a good day! Worked in the afternoon, dinner, some time to myself, and now bed! Couldn't ask for more, really!

 

One For the Books!

My post is delayed this weekend, not because of another relaxing weekend at home, but because I've been to busy to sit down and focus! It's been wonderful!

 

I would have written Friday night, but I there were three little girls asleep on my bed. I had been working out when Aubrey decided she wanted to join me. McKenna then came in, but opted to watch from the bed. (Smart girl). Soon enough Brianna was in here, and we were just kickin it watching the pictures on my screensaver. I finally decided to go clean up, and returned from my shower to find all three asleep, curled up on my bed. I finished getting myself ready for bed, then moved them one by one to their own rooms. By the time I was done, I crashed. Come to think of it, there wasn't much else exciting Friday anyway.

 

Yesterday, though, was a full day! I got a chance to get out into China in the afternoon! After getting the girls off to their acting workshop (Denise and Troy are gone to Hong Kong for a mission reunion) I spent the morning playing with Haley and reading. Then Sylvie and her friend Hannah picked me up and we headed off to the Buddha markets to do some shopping! It was so nice to be able to be out! The area we went was very "China!"; roofs with the pointed corners, crazy traffic, and bikes and pedestrians everywhere.

 

The market we went to was huge! Four levels of mazes of tiny little shops. It was hot and crowded, but fun! (Part of the experience, I say) We even saw a fight. From what I guess, the girl had attempted to steal the shirt the lady was whacking her over the head with. The bargaining wasn't quite as good as in Shanghai, several stores were no bargaining at all. (Hannah apparently offended one lady who went a little sour after she offered a lower price). I found several treasures though, nonetheless, all still super cheap! I'm almost done with my shopping in fact! One more trip to GouLo with Denise to get a set of Bowls should cover it!

 

I had a blast being out with Sylvie! She's just the funnest, warmest person to be around! We started joking around immediately; she's just one of those people who you makes you feel like you've been great friends for ages. (Though, I'm secretly jealous of her awesome Australian accent!) I've decided that you meet the neatest people while travelling. Each is traveling for their own reasons, one normally more fascinating than the next. It was proven time and time again as we stayed in hostiles in Europe. Sylvie and Hannah are leaving here in two weeks to go film a TV pilot in Cambodia, with Sylvie and her boyfriend Nick playing the leading roles. I told them they'll be my claim to fame when I see them on HBO or BBC! Oh, and Australia is my next place to travel to, as now I have personal tour guides and an offer of a place to stay! 

 

It's kind of funny though, as I realize I'm one of those "interesting" travellers as well. I relating my travel plans to Sylvie and Hannah, about how I'm flying to LA, then on to Provo. They couldn't get over the novelty of me flying back to the states and "meeting my parents for lunch in LA" before flying to Salt Lake. We live there, so no big deal, but I guess it's like someone saying "I'm just meeting with my parents for lunch in Paris before heading to Rome". It was one of those "Hey, my life is pretty cool!" moments! 

 

Today was a simple Sunday, a short lesson for the girls followed by a "liken the scriptures" movie. If you've ever seen those... the Nephi one... the "Sons of Lehi" rap. Haha! If you haven't... it's just one of those things you have to see to get.

 

I'm looking forward to this week though. My last week here... still haven't convinced myself of that one. Denise and I are finishing up our "China list" and I have some dinner plans with Sylvie and Hannah. This week is going to fly by, guaranteed!

The Weekend Is Well On It's Way!

Productive day today! Good thing too, or else I'd be exhausted for nothing! The magnetic pull of my bed is getting stronger and stronger.

 

We got a lot done with the company today; got our official logo, are making business cards, and I'm getting a handle on all the legal mumbo jumbo we have to have straightened out. Oh the joys...

 

I've spent this week here at home, save a few bike rides with the girls. I'll be getting out this weekend though. I'm going with Sylvie (our Australian friend) to the Buddha markets to get in the last minute shopping. You know, gotta have tons of stuff so I don't forget China, right!? That's my excuse, at least!

 

You can blame no post last night on the girls. Everyone was tucked in bed, or so I thought, so I took advantage of the empty bathroom to shower. I came out to a creaking door at the end of the hallway. I stopped, and the creaking stopped. I paused for a second, then continued into my room, only to hear creaking again. Sure this time I was being watched, I popped my head out the door to see two faint shadows frozen in the dark! Turns out McKenna and Brianna couldn't sleep, and were apparently spying on the hall.

 

I tried for a half-second to let my adult take over, but to no avail. I ushered both the girls into my room where we had our own little late night party. Hey, I needed help eating the heaping pile of snacks I still have. No way I'd get through them all in one week! After freaking ourselves out about the "mom" coming down, (and a dash or two hiding behind my bed) we decided to move the party to their room. (Snacks included). We amused ourselves for an hour, attempting to stifle everything from giggles to full out laughter. Once I could tell they would probably be able to sleep, I left, and sure enough, they'd both fallen asleep within 15 minutes.

 

Would Denise disapprove? Nah. It may not have been her first choice at the moment, but in 15 years the only thing that would remain would be the memory of the giddy giggles of two little (and one not so little)...

On Chopsticks: "You do not sew with a fork, and I see no reason why you should eat with knitting needles." ~Miss Piggy

Actually, I'm pretty dang good with chopsticks now, after using them everyday for 6 weeks!

 

So the day after my first authentic Chinese food experience at Don Xiang Lake, we were off to another factory, which meant another lunch. This time I wasn't nearly as excited to be out of the office for hours as I had been the day before. Not now that I knew what was coming. Much to my surprise, my anxiety over the ensuing meal was quickly subdued. The meal turned out much more pleasant than the previous day!

 

There was still a fish dish or two, but there was much more that tickled my taste buds! There was a beef dish that melted in my mouth and a pumpkin (or was is squash?) dish that was delicious, as well as shrimp that, once I got past having to take off the tail and head with the little black beady eyes, was pretty good! The whole experience, in fact, was much better. The factory owner's assistant, Katie, spoke English fairly decently, and tried to keep me engaged in conversation throughout the meal. Actually, I'm pretty sure she was just kind of enthralled with me and my being Foreign. She was the sweetest, cutest little thing. (I say that like she wasn't years older than me; but when I've got 7 inches and 30 pounds on her, I can't help it). She really was sweet though, helping me out with the food I couldn't figure out, and serving me more of the stuff I seemed to like.

 

With the good comes the bad, Unfortunately. Muscles. *Shudder*  The worst thing I have ever eaten in my life. Yes, Elizabeth, even worse than the peanut butter hamster treats. I thought I'd be brave and try one, just for the experience. If gagging down the squishy slugness of the muscle wasn't enough, including the goop inside and tentacle who knows what poking out, Katie assumed I liked it because I'd eaten it and loaded my plate up with a second. I didn't want to be rude, but that wasn't even my dilemma. I could make myself choke down a second one, sure, but what if that inspired her to give me a third!? Luckily no third came, probably because I decided to attack the rest of the food I enjoyed, and left her no chance.

 

Overall though, a much better lunch, and a much more pleasant experience. My following meals with Lola (the girl who was my "trainer" in the office) and the select staff members at restaurants around Lau Wai Tan (where our office is) were delicious. I was able to give a little input, so my delicious broccoli beef dish and fried bananas set of their choice of fish head. (Oh yes, just the head). I adjusted to the heavy accents and broken English of the office staff, which made lunches much more enjoyable (and conversation filled).

 

A few interesting things I've noticed:

 

Here, it is not rude to chew with your mouth open. The family warned me, but I learned quick enough on my own. Smacking, chomping, and talking with your mouth full is not considered bad manners; everyone eats like that. It didn't bother me at first. Today, however, Jenny and Grace ate lunch here and I literally could not sit at the table and wait for my lunch. I had to go downstairs and listen to music on my headphones. The surround sound of smacking and chewing was just too much...

 

It is bad manners, however, to use a toothpick without coyly hiding your mouth behind your free hand.

 

They think all Americans drink Coke. I accepted out of politeness at the fish restaurant after everyone looked surprised when I almost declined. Day two everyone looked extremely confused when I politely refused asked for juice, like everyone else. Though, I think I still ended up with glass anyhow...

 

You don't drink out of the bottle or can. You pour it into a tiny glass, and refill if necessary.

 

Chinese drink their water hot. You have to ask for cold water if you want it. I tried drinking hot water one lunch...only lasted about two sips.

 

That's all I can think of for now... look forward to hearing about the traffic!

FYI...You've Never Has Chinese Food

I'm sure there are exceptions, but Panda Express and Dragon House don't even come close.

 

My first experience with authentic Chinese food was during my first week while visiting a factory. I went with two of the girls from the office to meet with the factory owner, who took us out to lunch to discuss business. Now if my description sounds like I was solely focused on the experience and zoned out to what was going on around me, it's because I was. They were all speaking Chinese, which was probably for the best because I had to focus most my attention on figuring out my meal.

 

We went to a restaurant near Don Xiang lake (you can pretend you have some idea where that is if you'd like). Actually, it was on the lake, dock-style. It was actually kind of neat, once you got past the fish and wet-dog smell. We walked past people making the bread, and avoided stepping on the small dogs running around. (Which now that I think about it is a little disconcerting that there were dogs running around where they made the food...) We were led to an individual room for just our party, and seated around a large circular table with a giant lazy sue (susan? suzy?) in the middle. No one asked my input, so I figured they ordered for me. I sat patiently waiting, hands folded (and fingers crossed).

 

When they brought out the food, it was clear why I didn't have to order. Everything is shared. They load up the lazy susan and you just spin it around to get what you want. No scooping up a serving on your plate, you just pick up a bite straight off the dish with your chopsticks. The plates did come in handy, though, for the fish bones and and anything else you may not want to swallow. And there was plenty to choose from. They brought out dish after dish after dish. I thought that was it, but then there was round two; dish after dish after dish. And then round three. Funny thing was, despite everything to choose from...it was slim pickings for the things that were appetizing. We had duck, chicken, fish, and vegetables. Sound good? The duck and chicken was served cold. I didn't recognize a single one of the vegetables. And the fish...was a fish. Full out on a rectangle plate. Head, eyes, fins, and scales. And bones. Lots and lots of bones. There fish soup as well as a fish tail dish. Fish was the specialty, given we were on a lake and all.

 

I impressed myself by trying everything, and impressed them with my ability to pick up a peanut with my chopsticks. (Thanks Dad!) Though, I did have to have a little help serving myself the fish. They were very polite in always letting me serve myself first, but they didn't understand that I needed to watch them first to figure out how!  Apparently fish meat slides right off the bone (the larger bones at least), which unfortunately also makes it very difficult to hold in chopsticks. I had a fish staring at me, taunting me really, because I had no clue how to go about eating him. He got it in the end though, as it looked like a bird had picked him over by the time we were done. Karma, fish...Karma.

 

I tried everything though, some fairly good, others took a little choking. But in the end I was full, and apparently the business went well. To my good fortune, my food experiences have only gotten better... but more on that tomorrow. Time for bed now...

Can you say Tsunami!?

I can't believe I forgot my favorite part of the weekend!

 

If you know me, you know I LOVE thunderstorms and rain. Despite beautiful weather during the day, I walked into my room Saturday night to find it flashing like there were paparazzi outside my window! After I quickly discarded that and a few other ideas (mainly because I'm not aware of being famous, and I'm on the 2nd story) I quickly realized it was lightening! I called all the girls into my room, and they told me they get sudden tsunamis here pretty often. This one was really small, more like a lightening storm, but awesome, nonetheless. We all bundled up in sweatshirts, took a blanket out, and sat on my balcony watching the storm; Hailey on my lap, and the other girls lined up next to me. I've never seen so much lightening in my life! A flash lighting up the buildings bright as day, followed by a chorus of "OoOoOOoo!" More thunder and rain with smaller flashes. Then a huge bolt right above our heads ("AaaAAaHhhhh!!!!!!") with thunder rumbling through our bones! We sat out watching for a good 45 minutes until the lighting, thunder, wind, and rain finally settled down. I have some really cute pictures of all of us out there in our hoodies.

 

The girls went on and on about how fun watching the storm was. Haley even came into my room tonight to say goodnight, adding in a very decided manner, "next time they's a stowm, and..and..and next time you will stay the night, then we watch it. Okay!?" I wholeheartedly agreed, though she was more informing me than asking. She was sure to clarify "and, and I sit on yow lap, okay? Okay!?" Her little toothy grin upon my compliance confirmed it...it's never too early to teach 'em to love the rain!

Another Day Down, Another Half Shade Darker

I took advantage of the fact that it was a beautiful, sunny Sunday and did some reading outside. Nothing like a good book while soaking up sunshine!

 

It's been another weekend of hanging out and relaxing. Saturday we went to see see the girls artwork that's on display at their school (again) so Troy could see. Afterward we went to a dvd shop we'd heard about and I was able to expand my already famously large dvd collection. How could I not when the movies were only 1.25 each!? We weren't sure if we were in the right place at first, but when the store workers saw us come in and start wandering around confused, they opened a door leading to a tiny back room lined with dvds. Some may call it sketchy... we call it VIP. =)

 

After our movie shopping, Brianna and Mckenna took off for Tai Kwon Do, and the rest of us went out to eat at a Thai Restaurant, which was amazing! The food was so good; curry chicken dish, beef kabobs, bean vegetables cooked in a heavenly sauce I couldn't even begin to describe... mmmm! Plus of course rice and coconut milk to wash it down. We all left with full tummys and happy taste-buds!

 

More to come these next two weeks. Denise and I have a lot planned, getting in all of our last minute "China-stuff" in! So weird, I only have one weekend left here...I'm gonna be home before I know it!

 

 

China Pictures!

facebook Rebecca Forbush 8:47am Jun 4th China Pictures! To rlforbush122.revv@blogger.com   Don't know if this will work, I tried sending the album straight to my blog. I can't check it though, so you may just have to check them out on faceplace. (facebook) Rebecca has shared a link to an album with you. To view the album or to reply to the message, follow this link: http://www.facebook.com/p.php?i=17831233&k=Z61UZ46ZVZ6NUCCHSF36PRP If you do not wish to receive this type of email from Facebook in the future, please click here to unsubscribe. Facebook's offices are located at 1601 S. California Ave., Palo Alto, CA 94304.

Four and a Half Down...

...Two and a Half weeks to go!

 

It's crazy to think I'm more than halfway through with my time here! You know in the cartoons, where the character takes off running on a rug or something, and it all piles up behind them without them moving forward an inch? That's what I feel like. I've already piled 4 1/2 weeks behind me, yet it feels like I haven't been here at all, and home is still so far away.

 

I'm having such an amazing experience here, but I'll be ready to come home when the time comes, there's so much to do with the company that will be way easier state-side. Plus, I get giddy when I think about going home. We moved into the house we're renting the day before I left, so I had no time to settle in. I'm so excited to settle into our house, to get to know our new ward, and to enjoy the summer in Provo! I've heard it's nothing like during the school year, and supposedly a blast!

 

The only thing that makes me want to stay here are the girls. They get out of school right when I leave, so I'll miss the summer playing and swimming with them. From what Denise has told me, they don't want me to go either. I've gotten so close to them, I really do feel like their adopted big sister. That's what I was hoping for when I came. It has been such a blessing. I never really got to do the whole big sister thing, but Denise said she would have never guessed that I haven't had a ton of experience with kids; that I'm a natural. And it's something I kind of needed to hear.

 

I've had my own insecurities about how I would be with kids. I'm not always the most patient person ever, especially when kids are bratty or spoiled (luckily the girls aren't, at all). I've always been the youngest, and I was never one of those laurel baby mongers at church. I've been so blessed here though, to have my insecurities dealings with kids resolved. I've learned that patience comes right when you think you're at your wits end, and that no matter how frustrated you may get, it doesn't last more than two seconds before they are doing something that is just melting your heart.

 

I truly do love these girls. Each one is so different. They each have a different personality, a different set of strengths, and a different set of fears. It's been such an experience getting to know each one of them. I've been able to relate to each of them in a different way. I really have been able to be the big sister. I'm gonna miss them when I'm home... they've already added me to their gmails though, and have made me promise to call them on skype as often as possible, and have promised they'll visit whenever they come back to the states.

 

It's just an amazing thing to think about, one that I'm so grateful for. I came here for an internship. Not only did I get that, but I'll be leaving with a company in tow, life changing lessons, and lifelong relationships.

 

Overwhelmingly grateful is an understatement...

Shaghaidaway...a Weekend of Escape!

Okay, so it wasn't really an escape per say, but it was a weekend away with a change of scenery! And another day off work, so no complaints! I decided to cover the whole weekend with one post, so sit tight, it's a long one!

 

We left early Saturday morning in order to make it to the primary activity that started at eleven. Mr. Joe (our driver) was on holiday, so we hired a van to take us out there. There was definitely more space, and shocks, but this driver was very fond of his horn. Especially just to let cars know we were coming up, just in case they decided for some reason to suddenly switch lanes right into us or something. I tried to figure it out, but by the end of trip I still couldn't tell what exactly it was about a car that made him decide it was more liable to switch lanes than another car, hence eliciting a honk. He also had no qualms about speeding up just to hit the brakes to slow down. Despite the luxury of the van, by the end of the trip and several exchanged looks between me and Denise, we were wishing for Mr. Joe and his 30 years driving experience. We made it there and back safely though, which is the important part.

 

So we made it (almost on time) to the primary activity and branch BBQ. It was was a little odd to be around so many ex-pats. (Ex-patriots, just a little lingo the people here use, no big deal *brush my shoulder off*). It was fun and good for the girls, I think. After, the three oldest took off to stay at a friends house while me, Denise, Haley and the baby went shopping! There's a pretty neat market place with a ton of shops in Shanghai by the metro station under the Science Museum. I had to keep myself from laughing as the shop owners called out after me "Lady! Lady, you want bags? Lady come look! Hey lady, you like?" Haha! And the classic "I give you special price, just fo you. Today only. I give special price, because you American. Cheaper than for Chinese". Or some do the reverse... "I give you special price, I give you Chinese price because you speak Chinese so good". The funny thing was, Denise hadn't spoken Chinese yet when the girl said that to her! I found a lot of things I was looking for, though, and bartered my little heart out! I know I the shop owners still plenty off of me, I couldn't get as low as a local or experienced barterer, but I think I was much more difficult than they'd expected! The key is to be willing to walk away. Which I did. They'll follow you right out of the store and down the way continuing to bargain. One guy even came and found us, asking if we were coming back to his shop! They are persistent, to say the least! It was fun, but exhausting. Both me and Denise were ready to be done by the end of it. We couldn't decide if we'd like bargaining to be the norm in the US. Do we want the effort for low prices, or the ease of settling for sales? We're still undecided... 

 

After shopping we headed to where we were staying, with the branch relief society president. She was the bubbliest, sweetest lady; just kind-hearted and fun. They live in this AMAZING community though, apparently mostly of ex-pats and foreigners. It was like driving through some elite club, or at least what I'd imagine one to be. The grounds were gorgeous, and the houses...or mansions I should say...just beautiful. Marble inside, from floor to stairs, and minimum of ten-foot ceilings in every room. Each house was flourished with brilliant landscaping; bright flowers, bridges, and ponds. Apparently Stepford does exist; I just thought it was in Connecticut, not China!

 

The neatest thing about the house we stayed in, though, was the decor. At first it felt like I'd walked into a model home/museum. It was things they'd collected from their travels, though, which made it really neat. Turns out they lived in Paris for two and a half years, only a year before I went there on my study abroad. They lived in Le Vesinet as well, only 1 metro stop from where I was! Crazy coincidence! They had an absolutely GORGEOUS painting hanging above their fireplace of Paris, classic impressionism type of painting of a city street leading to the Eiffel Tower. I couldn't tear myself away from it. Denise caught me numerous times in the living room just staring, she even joined me admiring it from the couch. I'd include a picture, but I can't figure out how. 

 

My only complaint would be the mosquitoes that seemed to love my room. Picture this, if you please. I'm sitting on the bed; sweatpants pulled down over the heels of my socks, sweatshirt zipped up and tied down around my face. Through my hood I hear the incessant buzzing right by my ear. Thinking I'd outsmart those mosquitoes, I slowly raised my hands up on either side of my head. Quick as a flash I slammed my hands together in an attempt to smash the buzzing creature. I forgot about the fact that my head was still between my hands, and I'm pretty sure I popped both my eardrums. K, maybe not, but they are still sore. One of those things where it just didn't occur to me that I was premeditatively planning on slamming my hands as hard as I could against my head... dumb mosquitoes. Dumb me...

 

Like I said though, our host was wonderful. She and her husband have 4 boys, and it so made me want to have boys when I'm older! They were all so cute, they're gonna be studs when they get older for sure! It was also neat getting yet another perspective on raising a family. I really liked their family and parenting approach. I'm just learning so much here!

 

We were also able to go to the branch meeting on Sunday! Denise and I were talking about how nice it was, and how there is definitely a reason why we gather together to meet. It's so uplifting and strengthening to be surrounded by others with the same beliefs and values. It's a support system, even just knowing there are others around you.

 

Sunday evening was had an amazing dinner of a pineapple chicken dish, relaxed, admired the painting some more, watched The Work and the Glory, then ended up talking with Denise on my bed until way too late. I love talking to her, we're really similar and even the same in a number of different ways. It's so helpful, because they are relevant and pertinent to things I'm going through right now, and she can completely relate. Just listens and understands without feeling the need to give biased or judgemental opinions. Her simple relating of experiences and takes on things makes for invaluable advice. I think I was even able to help her a little!

 

This morning we both were wishing for a little more sleep though. We were up early and off to the consulate (which was on the 8th floor in a mall) to add pages to her passport. I had to wait outside because my passport was in the car and was able to finish my book, so all was well! After grabbing a quick lunch at KFC (my sandwich was surprisingly good) we took off to pick up the girls and head home. We finally got home around 6pm, but it was a weekend well worth it! 

 

Only two more weekends here in Ningbo to fill with adventures...crazy! 

My Oh My! I'm in Shanghai!

So I'm in Shanghai, once again! It's been a blast though! I brought my computer this time...unfortunately, I didn't bring the charger. Sad day. I'm using the computer of the people we are staying with, but won't be writing a full post. I'll catch up tomorrow when we get home though, and fill you all in on my adventures here. Just thought I'd keep everyone updated on my whereabouts though!

 

Will write soon!

HoliDAY 2

Another eventful day thanks to the Dragon Boat Festival holiday!

 

Woke up yesterday morning and went walking with Denise. It felt so good to be out in the fresh morning air. Worked a bit more on my Chinese tan! It was nice though; I had a wonderful conversation with Denise about life and marriage, priorities and goals, and the power of thoughts. A great way to start a day, indeed!

 

In the afternoon we went to the oldest library in China, located right in Ningbo. It wasn't really a library, though. More like a museum; it reminded me of an old monastery. It was the old stone buildings midst vast, gorgeous gardens. Inside were tons of ancient, hand-bound books and stone-carved records. There was even a black bird in a cage saying "ni hao" and "hello" to the visitors! The grounds, of course, were my favorite. Just like in Europe. I love imagining people from hundreds of years ago, in the traditional Chinese dress, walking around those grounds, scrolls in hand. It really was beautiful. I'll see if I can post some pictures later on... most of them have the girls in them, and I don't want to go posting pictures of other people's children on the Internet.

 

After the library, we all piled in the van and took off to an antique market. (As in cheap, dirty things trying to pass as antique.) There are a TON of trinkets and beads lined up on the outdoor carts. And if you touch it, they are gonna do their best to get you to buy it. They put things in your hands, hand things to you, try to put on necklaces and bracelets, call after you...anything to make a sell. They'll start really high with their price, and then you barter down. We were able to bargain things down to below 60% what was originally offered. And even then they are still getting a good deal out of it. What makes it hard is that they are really good actors. They know they can get people to pay more by making them feel bad, especially tourists. It's kind of a dilemma, because since you don't know how much things are actually worth and what they paid, you don't want to rip the sellers off. They are trying to make a living, and I'm just glad I don't have to barter trinkets and junk to feed my family. But at the same time you shouldn't pay any more than what you're willing, 'cuz even when you do get the price low, they are still making minimum of 100-200% margins. It was fun though, I got to practice my bartering just a little. Hopefully I'll get the chance to fine tune my skills even more!

 

We headed home with our treasures, and relaxed for the rest of the evening. I spent it with the girls while Denise and Troy met up with some friends for dinner. We went on a bike ride to pick up Izzy, and played around all evening. Even got Haley asleep and in bed before they got home from dinner. Now that is talent! 

 

 

 

 

A Day on the Town

Let me start with a disclaimer that if my post isn't as descriptive/entertaining/edited/clear/well-written/anything-else-it-normally-is, it's because it's super late and I'm super tired, and I have no ability to edit it tomorrow... take what you can get though, right? Bummer too, it's a long one!

 

So I've been able to spend quite a bit of time out of the house these past couple of days, and it's been great!

 

Yesterday we sent Jenny and Grace (two girls that work for us) home early, and took the afternoon to relax! I wandered around outside, across a pond (there were steps) and found myself a bench in the sun, surrounded by plants, and did a little reading. It felt so good to be out in the open with sun on my skin. I've been in Utah winter too long!

 

The girls are on holiday today and tomorrow due to the Dragon Boat Festival (feel free to educate yourselves: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duanwu_Festival), which means no work for us! The girls friends (1/2 Chinese 1/2 Australian), Izzy and Josie, spent the night, and this morning we all headed out for lunch and to visit China's oldest library! Because of the holiday, Mr. Joe (our driver) was off as well, so we were left to splitting up into two taxis. I still haven't talked about the traffic yet, have I? Hmm...I'll do that soon. That's an adventure in and of itself!

 

Due to a late start, we started out with lunch at a restaurant called Hot Pot. If you've ever been to the Melting Pot, you'll have an idea of what it was like. (I haven't explained my food/restaurant experiences yet either, have I? Man, I've a lot to catch up on!) Anyway, the food was really good, but I'm just glad we all made it out alive! There were eight of us sitting around a circular table with a giant boiling pot in the middle. The idea is that you order a bunch of raw meat, veggies, and dumplings, and cook it yourself in the pot! Note that aside from me and Denise, the oldest was 13 and the rest progressively younger, you can see the danger of 16 hands dropping, searching, and reaching over a giant boiling pot of broth. Pretty sure none of us got away without battle scars. And pretty sure they aren't going to let us come back. The servers and manager were a little less nervous by the end, they did stop hovering. Though, they might of regretted it after having to clean up Haley's shattered glass...and our food and broth covered table. The thing is, because we're American, everyone is so fascinated with our group that we can kind of get away with being clumsy, loud, and disastrous. Either way, the food was really good and we were entertaining, if not for everyone else then at least for ourselves!

 

After lunch we headed off to find two more taxis, but to no avail. We decided to start walking towards Wanda (the mall) since it was just down the road, where there was sure to be a plethora of taxis. We walked past shops, stopped in a few, and really just enjoyed being out in China! I may not be as dark as as everyone is getting back home, but none of you can say you have a Chinese tan! (I take what I can get here, okay?) I also got my exercise in for the day running back to the first store we stopped in when I couldn't find my purse. It wasn't there. Turns out Haley was sitting on it in the stroller. I wasn't complaining though, better than the dirty sneak I was imagining that stole it!

 

Once at Wanda and thoroughly warmed up (all the girls decided to run back with me) we decided we needed ice cream to cool down. By the time we made it though the stores, to McDonald's, ate our ice cream, and back out to the taxis, we figured the library was an adventure to be saved for tomorrow.

 

The girls went to their friends house and Denise and I came home and watched a movie. Confessions of a Shopaholic. It was a cute flick, plus the main character had a stellar first name! :) 

 

All in all, a very good day. And I am thoroughly exhausted! I better get to bed...Denise and I are getting up early tomorrow morning to exercise. Go us!

Another Day, Another Dollar...

...Except for the whole dollar part.

 

I really wish I had more interesting and crazy stories for you, but things are still pretty mellow around here. Well, as mellow as you get with 8 people under one roof; five under the age of 11.

 

I've just been working, keeping myself busy getting things going with our company.  (The company of which I am part owner!) I haven't really spent any time at all in the office. Our company is starting to gain some momentum though, which is exciting! That's been pretty much consuming my time and energy.

 

I'm halfway through my stay here, which is kind of crazy when I think about it. Three and a half weeks seems like awhile, but I know it will fly by considering it hardly seems like I've been here for any time at all. I've already finished two books, am currently reading two more, have started a daily health regime, and am making plans with Denise to have a fulfilling China experience. At that rate, I'll be home before I even know what happened. It will be good though, to keep my mind and body busy; I function the best that way.

 

I look forward to the coming weeks, as well as summer. I have time to focus on myself and things I've been wanting to work on. I'm finally in a place where I can, and I have no reason not to. I'm breaking old habits and starting new ones. They say it takes 21 days, so I have the perfect amount of time here to focus on getting things solidified and routine before I get back home. (No, I don't know who "they" are; yes, I'm trusting them anyway).

 

Who says resolutions are only for new years? (And don't tell me "they"...)

Sunday Night and All is Well

I know it seems the blogging has slowed a bit, but it's been a fairly kickback, relaxing weekend. We had a rainy day Saturday, only venturing out to wander around Wanda (the local mall). Lots more encounters with people stopping and gathering around to watch. A few we had to shoo away to keep from touching Maddie. No pictures this time, but we couldn't stop at all without people stopping, crowding around, and following us. Probably because we had the whole family there. I told Denise, I'd have to be in a really good mood to deal with that all day long. 

 

Other than that though, we just kinda hung out all weekend. This morning we had church. Still no sacrament, but we did listen to one of President Uchtdorf's talks, which was really good. Two people here teaching English stopped by and ate lunch with us (both members) as well as one of Troy's US colleagues. I got the chance to spend some time with McKenna, the oldest. I painted her nails as we had some fun girl-chat, then joined her in watching Aladdin. (Forgot how much I like that movie). I'm really glad I got to spend some time with her though, one on one. She's an extremely bright, mature girl for her age, and I think she was excited to have some time to "hang-out" with just me, sans all her younger sisters around. The more I get to know these girls, especially on an individual basis, the more I love them. It's a wonderful family, and I really feel privileged to be staying with them.

 

On another note, you know, sometimes things happen that seem completely random and out of the blue. And even if it isn't clear why or how, you have an ever so subtle feeling that looking back, it is going to be something you really needed. Sorry, one of those things I'm going to mention without really explaining. But once again, I find myself counting my blessings.

 

Ps, saw a really cool quote from a friend today on faceplace..."Do not ask the Lord to guide your footsteps if you are not willing to move your feet"

Mmmm...Massage!

You know, I figured there would be a lot of things I would do in China that I've never experienced before. Lucky me, one of them turned out to be a facial and massage! It's been a busy week getting things under way with the company. Denise decided we needed a break, so we took a girls afternoon out. Her, me, and Jenny (a really sweet Chinese girl working for us) went and got pampered. It felt soooo good! We had it all, wrapped in towels, heads face down in holes in the table, hair wrapped back, masks that peeled off... something every girl yearns for! I only wish we could have hired them to do house service, and right before bed, so I could fall asleep after! Alright, alright, I'll stop making you all jealous now! Not much to the rest of my day, just a quite evening at home. McKenna and Bri were at a birthday party and I babysat the younger three while Troy and Denise went on a date.

 

Tomorrow the family committed to going to some international kids day celebration they were asked to attend. They've all made it clear they do not want to go. Troy was asking Denise why they couldn't just say no; his argument being why not? We say no to tons of stuff like drugs and drinking...why not this? I thought it was a good argument, but Denise said they had to, it's their community service. Just glad I'm not part of the community and get to sleep in while they leave at 7am! I'm excited, though, because we're going to a market in the afternoon. Nothing like retail therapy, I say!

 

Well that's all for tonight. I'm not liking not being able to read what I've written. I forget what I've said and don't know how much to fill in. So forgive me if I repeat myself, and pray I don't leave anything out! Until next post...

A quick post before bed

So, my wonderful sister figured out how to set up email posting for me, so I guess this will be the test! I won't be able to check it but hopefully everything posts according to plan!

 

Nothing extremely newsworthy this week. I've just been playing with the girls, and I've been working from home with our company, doing research. After some pretty intense consideration I decided to leave the fast track to a 30-year career to focus on the entrepreneurial end and help build this company with Denise. I won't get into my reasoning too much, but this just worked out better with my plans and my passions. I'll gonna work enough in the office for it to be beneficial on my resume, but my efforts and focus will be with our company. I really think things are working out amazingly, and I'm excited to see where we go. I've been so blessed with this opportunity to be here in China, for numerous different reasons. I've said it before and I'll say it again, I have no doubt in my mind that this is where I am supposed to be.

 

Let's see, we did have a little excitement tonight. I was in my room reading my journal when the girls start shouting my name from downstairs. I go down to find them all standing up on the back of the couch, huddled in terror, looking up at the bathroom directly behind me. Confused, I asked them what was going on. They pointed and stuttered something about a bug in the bathroom (not an uncommon occurrence, mind you). I peeked my head in, seeing nothing, when suddenly a HUGE cockroach came bolting around the side of the toilet. I jumped back, letting out a shriek and quickly slid the door closed, which only elicited more screams from the girls. I handed Denise the raid spray as she came up to save the day. Problem was, as she hesitantly opened the door, questioning whether the thing could fly, it came pouncing out of the bathroom spreading it's ugly wings! We both shrieked and ran back behind the table. (More screams from the couch dwellers downstairs). The house was filled with squeals and screams as me and Denise pushed each other forward, urging the other to be braver than the roach. By the time we got it flicked to the entry and I smashed it with my shoe, Haley and the baby were in tears with everyone else still flipping out. It took a little courage, a little killing, a little calming, then a little coaxing before we got everyone back up to the table to finish homework. I walked back up the stairs telling them next time they called my name, I was staying in my room!

 

Long time, no blog!

I know what you’re all saying, “About time!” And it’s true. I’ve lots to catch up on. But one post at time!

So turns out we didn’t end up going to Hong Kong this weekend. Not that we didn’t try! And oh, how we tried! Think to the movies with people running through airports; full out sprint with people jumping out of the way…Now imagine it as a family of white Americans tearing through Shanghai as the Chinese vacate the path seconds before being trampled, as they are busy staring and pointing at the 8 fair skinned brunettes. Yeah, that pretty much sums it up.

The thing is we get enough attention as it is without creating a scene. The culture bounds here are extremely different…as in there really aren’t any. People will walk right up and watch, staring like we’re in a zoo. A zoo would probably be better; at least there would be bars and glass to keep them from touching the girls’ and baby’s skin and hair. I’ve already had a picture taken of me, Denise, and Haley while we were out shopping. It’s crazy. I talked to the family about it. They said it bothered them at first, but they got used to it. It just depends on their mood and the kind of day their having. I just don’t know what to do. Do I look at and acknowledge the people who come to watch, or pretend I don’t see them standing there, their awkward toothy grins that kind of just stick as they stare. I wonder what would happen if mouth slightly open, eyebrows ever so slightly furrowed in confusion and head cocked to the side, I stopped dead in my tracks and stared back. I digress. More stories to come about that. Back to our airport brigade.

We’d just driven 3 hours to Shanghai in a car with no shocks that sounds like it’s literally about to fall apart under us. I did, however, explain to the girls what shocks were and how they worked in under a minute! (Sorry everyone, only my immediate family will get that one). We’d then waited two hours for Troy, who was delayed because of swine flu mania. So there we were, running through to a whole other terminal with all our carry-ons, a luggage pusher cart, a double stroller, and girls in tow, to check into our flight scheduled to leave in 45 min. We made it to the counter (completely deserted of customers) and after some frantic calls and printed passes we were once again running, this time after the attendant taking us to the gate. Unfortunately security is as far as we got. After handing over 8 passports and them comparing our sweaty faces to our pictures, they wouldn’t let us through because 4-month old Maddie didn’t have a visa.

We ended up staying at the airport hotel, going to the consulate in the morning, then driving back to Ningbo. Despite it being a crazy 28 hours, it was actually a lot of fun! Hectic maybe, but now that everything is worked out, it was a crazy, fun experience! We were straight out of a movie running through the airport. And the three older girls stayed in my room and we had a fun little slumber party at the hotel! We may have not made it to Hong Kong, but it was fun to even change the scenery for the weekend! I’m glad I was there to help out with the girls, and now I know the airport really well for when I come home! Turns out only Troy has to go to Hong Kong now, but me and Denise are seeing what we can work out for as part of our business trip we’re attempting to organize!

And you never know, sister, maybe this was all so we wouldn’t end up acidified! It’s all about counting our blessings!

So I find myself reminded....

So I find myself reminded that I am living in a communist country. I went to write a new post the other day, only to find blogspot and blogger have been blocked by the Chinese Government. And here I thought things would be so much easier than when I attempted to blog in France. That's what I get for hoping. Apparently it goes back and forth quite often so we'll see if it gets unblocked before I leave, but for now I'm relying on sending my posts to my mom; hopefully you all are reading the same thing I sent her. She's gonna use this as leverage against me now to be nice and call more often. Only playing, I love you mom! (You'd think I'd be more careful since not only could she post whatever she wanted without me knowing, she would!) Either way, hopefully I'll be keeping her busy here soon as I get reorganized once again. If you have any questions, comments, or snide remarks, please email me as well as commenting, just so I can read it too! rlforbush122@gmail.com Will post soon!

Exciting News!

.
I'm going to Hong Kong!

Originally, I was going to be going on a short business trip this weekend. We were going to go to one of our factories that is 4 hours away, leaving on Thursday and returning on Friday. Neat, I thought, but more for the experience considering I wouldn't be much help. Plans changed though, as they always seem to! Due to some confusion and paperwork delays, Denise and the family all have to go to Hong Kong to get their visa's renewed. Turns out they can't even book their flights without having 1 adult to every 2 kids. It seems ridiculous, but there isn't really time to get around it. Ere go, I get to go to Hong Kong with them! It'll be quite a trip for just a weekend, but I'm excited! We'll leave Ningbo tomorrow (Thurs) around 2pm and drive the 3 hours out to Shanghai where we'll meet up with Troy to catch our flight to Hong Kong. I don't think we're coming back until Monday, so I'm sure we'll end up going to the branch there. When the girls found out I was coming they exploded in cheers (which no doubt made me feel all warm and fuzzy inside), so we should have a fun weekend.

I've been told to count my blessings because it's more like I'm on a vacation than an internship. Believe me, I'm counting! I keep thinking about how everything about coming and being here has been laid out so perfectly. I know this is definitely where I am supposed to be right now; it just furthers my conviction that everything happens for a reason. I'm learning invaluable lessons and am excited for my remaining 5 1/2 weeks!

Random...

Two of the cutest things I've seen since being here:

First:
I was on my way home from work one day looking out the windows, watching the traffic (I'll have to explain how crazy it is in a later post) and marveling at the fact that I'm in China. I turned to my right to watch the scooter-ists drive along beside us. There, framed in my passenger window, was a guy and a girl riding on a scooter. They were younger, probably in their twenty's, and both fairly fashionable (by China's standards). The guy was driving, sunglasses on. The girl was sitting on the back of the scooter side-saddle, facing me. She was leaning against him, right arm wrapped around his waist, and her head resting on his back, eyes closed. I wish I had my camera to try and capture the world they seemed lost in; just the two of them, far away and unaware of the noise of the traffic and the myriad of people surrounding them. Call it my inner romantic, but I couldn't tear my eyes away.

Second:
I've had the chance to see many cute moments between Denise and her daughters, but this one topped them all. We all decided to go for a walk, just to be outside for awhile. The three oldest were on their bikes while I walked and Denise pushed Haley and Maddie in the stroller. On the way, home Aubrey got tired and decided to ride on the back of McKenna's bike. I insisted Denise ride Aubrey's bike, as she had just been telling me how it rode so smooth and she loved to ride. I took over pushing the stroller and we were once again on our way. Mckenna took off with Aubrey, leaving me pushing the stroller after Denise and Brianna. At one point, Brianna reached out to grab her Mom's hand as they were riding. It took just a minute to master the balance, but they rode like that the rest of the way home. It was one of the most precious scenes I've ever been privileged to witness. The sun was setting on a beautiful day as I watched Mom and daughter ride up the street, hand in hand, laughing and giggling. At that moment, there was nothing else more important to either one of them. It was just another day. As time goes on I'm sure the memory will fade as I'm not sure they even took note, but for me it was etched permanently into my mind.

Lastly:

You can't get much better than making a baby laugh! I help out with 4-month old Maddie whenever I get the chance, and I'll tell you, there is nothing like having a baby smile at you. You know it's not superficial, it's not out of courtesy, they aren't pretending. It's honest and it's true. And it's one of the best feelings in the world.

Coming to you from the future!

Monday, Monday! And it's another beautiful day here in Ningbo!

I'm off from the office today and working with Denise this afternoon. I just got off of a conference call with Troy, and I'm getting really excited about starting this company! Working at the office is going to be really great for my experience and background, but starting this company is actually going to be doing something! We have the resources to get something going here, we have strengths and connections in sourcing that most other companies just don't have. We have not only the potential, but the ability to truly be successful; and that's exciting! I think it will be slow going at first, but it's always that way when things are getting started. I'm looking forward to getting this thing off the ground and continue working with it state-side!

Alright, enough about that, I'm going to get too excited to write straight! It's Monday, like I said, and I've already had a wonderful morning! It's Mother's Day back home, and I got to speak to lots of people who are important to me! I really wish I could have been home actually; nearly all of my family was there, which doesn't happen too often. We're usually missing one cousin or another, and I'm pretty sure we were only missing one this time...unless I just didn't see him. Hey, I shouldn't be complaining though, I was able to see and talk to them through the magic of the Internet! I didn't have that luxury while I was in France. Granted, after silly antics and funny faces, they probably were reminded why they normally don't mind having me far away, only coming home to visit!

Speaking of family though, it's been nice to have some around, even if they aren't my own. Aside from checking my email and blogging, I spend most of my time with the girls. We played around most of Saturday afternoon and hung out Sunday after church. Speaking of which, there are hardly any members here in Ningbo. And when I say hardly, I mean none. Yesterday was just me, Denise, and the girls. There was no priesthood, so we couldn't have the sacrament. We just had primary then watched a church movie. It's definitely different than having the structure of the church, but it was a neat experience. I really admire Denise and how she keeps the gospel present in her girls lives. Scriptures and Family Prayer every night, family home evening, reading scriptures stories in the car on the way to school... she really does an amazing job. I knew I'd be learning a lot about business while I was here, but I wasn't expecting to learn a lot about being a parent. If possible, I'm becoming even more excited to become a mom!

Non-China Musings

I know this doesn't really relate to me being in China, but I guess by reading my blog you are subject to me sharing my thoughts. I was in the middle of writing my post about food when a song about Mary and the Savior's birth came on my shuffle. I had to stop and listen.

I can't imagine the thoughts and feelings of those who who were present as they looked at that little baby. They must have been in awe as they tried to comprehend that this little child, this little baby boy, would be their salvation. He would be the key to change their eternity. Can you imagine holding in your arms a baby and knowing that, because he was born, your life, your eternity, would be completely different? What a feeling, to be so close and experience moments that were so pivotal for the entire world. Everything about it is nearly unfathomable. There could only be one. Think for a second how scary that is. There was no backup Savior, no second string Redeemer. We had to put all of our eggs in one basket. He had no missteps, no second tries. And He didn't let us down. Among everything else asked of him he didn't just make it. He didn't stop at suffering for our sins; he felt every pain and sorrow, every trial and tribulation. Simply so He could help us. He did not want us to feel alone. And because of Him, we never will be. It's a love I can't even comprehend.

"...and he will take upon him their infirmities, that his bowels may be filled with mercy, according to the flesh, that he may know according to the flesh how to succor his people according to their infirmities." -Alma 7:12

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved." -John 3 16:17

Saturday Already!

I know, I know, about time right!? My, so impatient! Well read appeased, because I have lots of time right now.

I have been here for a week now, and I'm feeling a little like a full sponge. I've soaked things up to my absorption capacity, but I'm still in a bucket full of water! It's nice to have a little time to decompress and get all my thoughts organized.

Work went really well these past three days. I stayed busy, which helped a lot. I've decided, though, that I am just not cut for the 9-5 thing. If I'm busy then I'm good for about 6 hours. Eight, though, is just too much to be in an office. Honestly, I would love to spend all day at home, playing with the girls and getting stuff done. They aren't even my family, but I still can't come up with a single reason why spending twice as much time at work is better than spending it with them. I wouldn't mind an unconventional 8 hour job, doing something I loved, but not spending it in an office. I think that is why I am so excited to work with Denise starting this company. I've always loved entrepreneurial type of stuff, I've just never had a good enough idea to build off of. This is great because I like the implementation and mechanics behind it more anyway. It's right up my ally!

Like I said, the office has kept me busy though the past few days; lots of training in how everything works and overviews of individuals' jobs. On Tuesday and Wednesday I went with two of the girls to visit two of our factories to discuss business. Okay, they did the discussing and I sat and thought about how I wish I knew Chinese. It was interesting to see though, and they took us out to eat both times. That was an experience within itself though, so the food will have it's own post!

Let's see, what else... The other night the girls Drama/Art teacher, Sylvie, joined us for dinner. She's 24 and from Australia. She's a lot of fun! Denise, her, and I are planning a trip for just the three of us to go to Shanghai and spend a night there. Actually, they are always coming up with stuff they should take me to do and to see. It's so nice! So much different than in Europe where our Madame wouldn't even give us a 20 min ride to the city to catch our flight during the strikes. I feel more at home here after a week than I did after 3 months in France. It's wonderful!

Aside from that I've just been spending time with the girls. We had a girls night last night, all piled on my bed surfin' the net! Then we moved it downstairs for a movie! They're all at a friends birthday swimming party right now (hence my time to blog) but we'll do something this afternoon. Alrighty, gonna take a little break before making another post. Stay tuned!

A non update...

So, I have a lot to talk about, but none that I'm going to in this post. Mean, you say? Probably. But hey, I gotta do what I gotta do to keep you few coming back for more. Things have gotten a little busy; I only have four hours between when I get home and when I try to get to bed. Doesn't leave much time when there's dinner to be eaten, girls to be played with, and a bed to be slept in. I haven't forgotten you, however. And not to worry, I'll have plenty of time to catch up this weekend slash Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. I have those days off to work with Denise with the company we're going to be starting.

I do have lots to share though! My second days at work, my first two authentic Chinese meals (not your chow mein, orange chicken, and sweet and sour pork), Traffic, the fam, my new Australian friend... there's just so much to tell! Not tonight though. I'm way tired and it's past my bedtime. I know, I know...don't hate me. :)

It's 3am and all is well...

Unfortunately I wish I didn't know that. I may have gone to bed a little too early. I'll tell you what though, it sure felt like I could sleep for 10 hours when I was going to bed! And if I was good I'd shut my computer and at least try, but I just can't help thinking how I'm going to be tired tomorrow anyway so why should I miss this prime time when everyone back home is awake? Either way, end results of jet lag induced insomnia: a new post. Lucky you!

So yesterday was my first day of work, and my predictions were correct. My new slacks did look good, and my expression was one of confusion. However, I didn't expect the confused looks I got from the other employees when I spoke too fast or used too complex of a sentence structure. That did mix it up a little. These first few days are going to be a little rough. The mere fact that I'm starting a new job is cause enough, and on top of that I'm dealing with a communication barrier. Troy is in the US on business for the next week and a half and left it up to the office workers to show me the ropes. They've been showing me the job of each department and in between I have been pouring over a ton of files that troy left me on a thumb drive.

I'm looking forward to working with Denise, Troy's wife, and her company she's starting up. I think I'll enjoy it a lot more. They both have seemed really excited about me working with Denise, so who knows, maybe I'll end up working more with her and less at the office. Even if not, I only have 24 days of working in the office. (The weekly plan thus far is to work 4 days with Troy, and 1 day with Denise.) Seems like hardly anything when I think about it that way.

Work aside, I really love being here. The girls are great and Denise has made me feel at home. The 3 year old, Haley, has taken a special liking to me. It's a little unnerving because she acts and looks very similar to me when I was her age. She's quite a little Tasmanian, so mom, you can rest easy, I'm getting my payback! I love it though!

Well, I better try to get back to sleep before I regret this too much tomorrow. Another day down!

Jet Lag... fight against slumber...

For those of you who don't already know, let me explain my unnecessarily long URL. It started when I spent 3 months in Europe and despite travelling and unreliable Internet, I attempted to start a blog of my adventures. Ergo, sonowifindmyselfinparis.wordpress.com was created. Yes, there was a double meaning. Yes, it was intended. Either way, after a series of events I now find myself in China! And this time I intend to continue this blog through the end of my stay. (A much easier feat now that I have continuous access to a reliable Internet connection.)



So, at the moment, I've come down with a terrible case of desynchronosis. (Jet lag, for those of you who aren't completely informed through wikipedia). It's 5:30pm here in Ningbo, 3:30am in Provo, 2:30am in Riverside, and I'm fighting with everything I have to not fall asleep with my eyes open. And you thought this blog was to keep everyone informed... really, it's just a means to help combat my jet lag. Granted this won't be near as bad as when I come home, when after 20 hours of travelling, I'll arrive in LA only 55 mins after I leave Shanghai. I'll sleep across that bridge when I come to it, though.



Yesterday, I at least arrived in time to crash in bed. And I hope the world enjoyed Sunday, because I never experienced it. I left Saturday about noon and didn't get to Tokyo until Sunday afternoon. They finally let us de-board after assuring we didn't have sickness of the swine. By the time I got to Ningbo after the 3 hour flight and 3 hour drive, it was 12:30 am Monday morning.



Troy (my boss and host) is actually in the good 'ol USofA right now, but his wife Denise has been especially accommodating. Troy and Denise have 5 beautiful daughters whom I've already been able to spend lots of time with. I'll have to include pictures and descriptions later on, but I have a feeling I'll be getting pretty attached. I'm finally getting to play the big sister role.


Work starts tomorrow, so hopefully that will go well. I'm mostly concerned about being able to understand Lola. I'm really hoping it was just because I was tired, but last night coming home from the airport it took me awhile to understand that it was the weather she was asking me about. At least I'll look cute in my new work slacks and cardigan as I stand smiling and confused. You can picture it; comprehension completely vacant, my mouth hanging sort of open, not sure whether to go into a half smile while I decide whether I can get away with a nod and a nervous laugh or if I'm supposed to be responding to a question. Yeah. Wish me luck.


Well, it's early to bed for me tonight but for now, must... stay... awake....