Less than a week to go!

Today is my last Tuesday in China. Wow. The countdown is serious now. With less than a week until my departure, I’m starting to slightly freak out. I’m not ready to go. Not physically for sure. Haven’t yet mailed anything to Albania. Haven’t finished packing. Haven’t done my last minute shopping. Haven’t finished all my work at school. Haven’t sold all my stuff yet. Haven’t gone to the bank. Haven’t run the random errands I need to do. There’s never enough time, is there?

I’m also not emotionally ready to go. Haven’t spent enough time with my friends I’m going to miss dearly. Haven’t spent enough time with my students. Haven’t been to all the restaurants I want to visit one last time. Haven’t seen everything I want to see in Shangers. Haven’t had time to properly say goodbye and process what it’s going to be like to leave my life of five years behind and begin again.

But the thing about deadlines and scheduled flights is that even if you’re not ready, you have to go. The sand in my hourglass is pouring out faster than I’d like, and I just have to take it one day at a time. I’m trying to strike a balance between the have to’s and the want to’s. I know I’m going to leave things unfinished and I know I’m going to have regrets, but I’m going to do my best to soak it all in and surround myself with the people I love in my last few days.

Shangers has been good to me (most of the time), and I’m forever grateful for this experience. The people I’ve met, experience I’ve gained, and places I’ve traveled during my time here have helped shape who I am, so for better or worse, Shangers will always be in my heart.

I ❤ Shanghai!

Mistaken Identity- SOL #27

At Michelle’s birthday dinner this past weekend, we started talking about horrible, funny, and weird flight experiences we’d had. It was then that I was reminded of a funny story that happened to me once…

Back in December 2010, I was headed home to surprise my family for Christmas. I had just spent my first few months in Shanghai, and was looking forward to a little family lovin’. At the airport check-in counter with my Chinese friend Julie, who accompanied me to the airport, I was a little taken aback by the customer service rep’s question.

“Can you see very good?” she asked.

“Ummm…well, I can with my glasses on,” I answered her in a curious-sounding voice.

“But you can see?” she queried.

Leaning over, I whispered to Julie, “Why does she need to know this? Is this some weird China thing?” Julie shook her head no.

“I can see OK, but not very well without my glasses. Is this a problem? I’m not driving the plane, so…I’m not sure what the deal is.”

Apparently that answer was sufficient, since she dropped the conversation and continued with normal check-in. Shaking my head as I left the counter, I chocked it up to a random, weird China experience, said goodbye to Julie, and made my way through immigration and security.

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After boarding the aircraft, I was approached by a middle-aged flight attendant. In a VERY loud voice, she shouted, “Ma’am, I brought you a book to read!” while handing me a large white book. Her loud voice was beginning to draw the attention of the other passengers.

“No, thank you, I brought my own,” I said, wondering why she was giving me, and only me, a book.

“Ma’am, it’s a Braille book for you to read!” she shouted.

“Why do I need a Braille book?” I questioned, my face flushing from all this attention I was getting.

“Because you’re blind!” she said matter-of-factly.

“I’m not blind!” I insisted.

“Yes, you are,” she argued.

“No, really, I’m not,” I again insisted, at this point completely flabbergasted as to why this was happening. I was pretty sure I was being punked.

The older Southern gentleman (AKA good ole boy) behind me bellowed, “I see what you’re doing…trying to get something for free by telling them you’re blind, huh?” as he chuckled and shook his head at me. I wanted to crawl under my seat.

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At our stopover in Tokyo, we all had to go through security and then get checked in again so they could issue us a boarding pass for the last leg of our trip. As I was waiting for the people in front of me to get their boarding passes, I leaned over the edge of the counter and happened to see my name written down on a piece of paper. Once it was my turn in line, I asked, “Why is my name written on that paper?”

“Because I have to escort you to the gate,” the attendant said.

“Ummm…why?”

“Because you’re blind.”

“I JUST READ MY NAME ON THAT PIECE OF PAPER! How could I possibly be blind?” I shouted.

“I don’t know, but I will help you to the gate,” he responded.

“No, you won’t. I do not need help.”

“But it says that I have to.”

“I don’t care. I am capable of going by myself.”

After a few more minutes of arguing, he let me go unattended. Seriously, I felt like I was in the twilight zone or something.

Luckily, the rest of the flight was good, and I was no longer accused of being blind, but looking back, that was some crazy trip! I still can’t figure out how I got flagged in the system, but I’m glad it’s never happened again.

Things I’ve Collected in my Travels- SOL#26

As a traveler, I collect lots of things. Most of these are memories, stories, new friends, and photographs. But I also collect art. Whenever I visit somewhere new, I’m on the hunt for something that calls out to me, begging me to bring it home and be a constant reminder of my time in that special place. Here are some of my favorite pieces that I’ve collected over the past few years.

Walking barefoot through the temples of Bagan, Myanmar, I came across this unique piece of art, a sand painting of monks. Instantly I was drawn to the texture and uniqueness of the piece, and the monks were definitely a part of the Myanmar culture that I would remember long after I returned home.

I found this gem in Seoul, South Korea, as I sifted through some antiques in a little shop in Insadong. Initially looking for an antique Buddha or teapot, the shop owner showed me this 100-year-old writer’s notebook. While I can’t read a word in it, it’s such a treasure to have a piece of someone’s writing.

This picture captures a few pieces. The umbrella lamp was a recent purchase from my second trip to Myanmar. I was drawn to the brightly-colored umbrellas on display in the little shop in town. Shaggers and I stopped in for a look, but kept moving. Later that night, we saw the shop again, only this time, the umbrellas were lit up, casting a lovely glow. I wanted one! But again, I resisted. I didn’t need more stuff, I told myself. At dinner, Shaggers said I should just go get it; that I would regret it if I didn’t. She was right. I dashed down the street and picked it up, happy I did.

After living in Shanghai for two years, I realized I didn’t have any art from China yet. Jody, a friend of mine from back home, was visiting. As we walked around Tianzifang, we came across an art gallery. The artist was there, and he talked with us about his artwork and his techniques. The paper-cut doll was so beautiful, I had to take it. I love that I have a contemporary piece of traditional Chinese artwork.

Last summer, Melissa M. and I traveled to Greece, a beautiful place that I can’t wait to return to, and while we were there, we took a trip to Santorini. If you haven’t yet been, I highly recommend it. Its picturesque views, traditional blue and white domes, and unbelievable natural beauty make it so memorable. As we meandered through the tight pathways cut into the side of the mountainous island, we happened into a shop with paintings of Santorini. This one, with the vibrant colors and the peaceful view, called my name. I love remembering our special time every time I see it on the wall.

Also last summer, I visited Rome. I was on my way to Greece from London, and I was blessed with an 18-hour stopover in Rome. Making the most of it, I spent the day roaming around the city. Walking along the river at dusk, I came across a man selling his water color paintings of everyday Roman life. This one, of a doorway, caught my eye. I’m not sure what I loved about it, but it made me happy, so I supported this local artist and bought it up right away!

My trip to Egypt was one of the most amazing trips I have ever taken. As you can imagine, we saw loads of hieroglyphics while we were there. I loved the ancient artwork, and took countless photos of walls full of stories told through pictures. What I was most drawn to, though, were the ankhs, or keys of life. There was just something about them that displayed beauty and symmetry and life. While in Abu Simbel, we visited a shop that sold handmade pieces made of stone. I didn’t have any intention of purchasing anything, but when I laid eyes on this ankh, I knew I had to add it to my collection. Not only was it an ankh, but it was handmade and it was a beautiful color. I absolutely love it!

These last two pieces are also from Myanmar. While I generally stick to purchasing one piece per country, I simply couldn’t resist picking up more than that in Myanmar! The watercolor painting of sunset at U Bein Bridge was a gem I found on my most recent trip to Myanmar. Shaggers and I headed out on the back of some motorbikes from Mandalay to the bridge to catch the sunset. Missing it by a few minutes, we decided that we’d walk the length of it anyway, since we were already there. On our way across the bridge, we passed by a shop selling paintings. My eyes were instantly drawn to this piece, and while I stopped to gaze at it for a bit, I moved on. Reaching the end, the sun had completely set, and we turned around to head back. Mentioning to Shaggers that I should have bought that picture, she said we should stop by on our way. Noticing that most of the shops we had passed earlier were already closed up, I thought my window of opportunity had closed. Nearing the end of the bridge, we found them putting everything away, ready to head home for the day. Luckily they let me look through the paintings until I found the one I had wanted. Now it is mine! Once I frame it, I’ll display it in my home.

The other piece, the wooden carving of a long neck lady, was picked up on my first trip to Myanmar in Inle Lake. Stopping into a shop on the lake, I was taken aback by the native people who adorn themselves with gold plates around their neck, stretching them more and more each year. They were simply beautiful. As I walked around, this carving stood out out to me, and I loved the profile.

I love that I am brought back back to my travels as I look around my apartment at the beautiful pieces I have (and will continue to) collected over the years. When I’m old and grey, I will be able to share my stories with others and recall these wonderful memories.

The World Through My Eyes… SOL#25

The World Through My Eyes…

The United States is family, friends, good food, and home.

England is not sure the first time, but oh so much better the second.

Germany is meeting people in awkward places and my first taste of independence.

Fiji is adventure and pristine, so-beautiful-you-think-they’re-photoshopped beaches.

Australia is where my heart is happiest, oh and hot accents that make me weak in the knees.

China is weird smells, craziness, ‘The Bridge,’ and my second home.

Hong Kong is civilized China and home to my favorites Shaggers and Jeezy.

The Philippines is beautiful people and juicy mangoes.

Malaysia is lime juice and getting lost.

Vietnam is “beep! beep!” and night markets.

South Korea is my favorite salad, used bookstore love, and meeting my SOL friend.

Macau is long immigration lines, casinos, and Portuguese architecture.

Cambodia is explorations, biting fish, and begging children.

Thailand is tuk tuks, sketchy trains, and golden roofs.

Japan is confusion and sushi and where did my friends go?

Egypt is camel-exchange proposals, koshari, and the call to prayer.

Nepal is roaming cows, do-anything-to-help-you people, rice fields, and peace.

Italy is the kindness of strangers, gelato, and cobblestone streets.

Greece is baklava and feta, blue and white domes, and restful relaxation.

Scotland is rain and beautiful buildings and more rain.

Ireland is old castles, lush green, and Dirty Dancing.

Myanmar is long boats, temples, daily tea leaf salads, and love.

What I Believe- SOL #24

I recently read Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson, and I was struck by the chapter entitled “What I Believe,” so I used it as a mentor text for today’s slice.

What I Believe

I believe in laughter, the kind where you laugh with your whole body, and your belly aches when you’re done.
I believe in good food and good conversation with good friends.
I believe in going and doing all that you can, before it’s too late.
I believe in the country and the city.
I believe in family, the people who will be there for you no matter what happens.
I believe in fighting for what you believe in.
I believe in love, messy, not-sure-if-it-will-work-out-but-you-go-for-it-anyway love.
I believe in a higher power, a God that is there for us and loves us, even though we don’t always deserve it.
I believe in working hard and giving it all you’ve got.
I believe in desserts, indulgent, comforting, make your mouth water desserts.
I believe that a smile or hug can make someone’s day.
I believe in words; they have the power to move mountains or tear down the most powerful fortress.
I believe that sometimes all you need is a good cry.
I believe that books are meant to be shared.
I believe in giving.
I believe that everyone is a writer, just waiting to be discovered.
I believe that reflection and change, while hard, is a necessary part of living.

You Know You’re a Traveler When… SOL #23

You Know You’re a Traveler When…

You’re thinking about your next trip right after getting home from your last one.

You run out of pages in your passport and have to add more.

A great gift idea for you is travel gear- a new backpack, packing bags, travel-sized accessories- or better yet, an airplane ticket!

You buy a ticket to another country just because you suddenly realize you have a three-day weekend!

You have 3 currencies (or more!) in your wallet at the same time.

You speak in airport codes.

You know that familiar itch, the one that signals it’s time to GO!

You’d rather not buy the latest gadget if it means you can take one more trip this year.

You choose your next destination because the airplane ticket is the cheapest. Skyscanner’s “anywhere” destination search is the tool for that!

The thought of living in the same place your whole life scares you shitless!

 

Reader- SOL #22

Reading, like writing, is an integral part of who I am. I can’t remember a time when reading wasn’t important to me. From a very young age, reading caught hold of me and hasn’t let go. I’d like to share a little about me through a reflection of who I am as a reader. I used the poem “Reader” by Billy Collins as a mentor text.

Who I am as a Reader

Thinker, reflector, recommend-er, hoarder,
highlighter, write in the margin-er, connector,
planner, revisit-er, polygamist
by balancing multiple texts,
always stealing time in between moments,
quote collector, goal maker, book store peruser,
Good Reads reading log keeper,
dog-earer I am not,
blurb studier, before and during,
book lover, savor-er, structure notice-er,
before bed reader, need quiet time reader,
never read the ending first reader–
why would anyone do that?
mentor text gatherer, always on the hunt,
connection maker, book saver, bookmark user,
read any and everywhere– even in a car reader,
variety is the spice of life reader,
authentic, read for myself reader,
“real books are always better” kind of reader,
voracious, never gonna stop reader.

Celebrating in Style!- SOL #21

Earlier this month, we celebrated Amy’s birthday. Amy, pictured above, is one of those people that exudes happiness and love and fun. She’s the friend who’s always telling you how beautiful, smart, and amazing you are, and the fact that she is all of that and more makes her a fabulous friend to have! Her birthday theme this year was sexy, which is such an Amy thing to choose. No matter what, Amy thinks the world of her friends, and is always telling us how sexy (or nice or pretty or kind) we are. Amy is sexy, and her beauty showed through on her birthday. I mean, look at her! She’s gorgeous!

Her birthday was so much fun! We celebrated at Malabar, with nibbles, drinks, and laughs. Everyone who came was dressed to the nines, and we all exuded sexiness (despite whatever self-conscious thoughts we may have had when we we getting ready earlier that evening).

The amazingly beautiful and kind woman pictured above is none other than Donna Paxon, this one and only soul that oozes love and goodness. Despite having met her only a few months ago, we have become fast friends and kindred spirits. She holds such a dear place in my heart, and will forever be etched in my memories.

This beauty here is Melissa, the goofy, sweet, ever-loyal lady I’m lucky enough to call my friend. No matter what, she’s positive, uplifting, and sweet. Her heart is genuine and she’s always there to listen when I need a friend. She also makes a great travel buddy and puts up with my crap. I’m going to miss her more than she knows (and probably more than I even know right now) when she leaves this summer. While I’m extremely happy for her new adventures (new country, new job, and new BABY), I can’t help but feel a selfish twinge knowing that she won’t be right down the street or down the hall from me anymore.

Oh Nirada…such a silly lady! I love how we kid around with one another and give each other crap. She’s such a caring person and a really great teacher. Not to mention, she’s gorgeous! I’m glad we have become friends, and look forward to many more memories! 😉

P.S. Love the photo bomb Mel! 😛

Such a sweet group shot! While we won’t all be in the same place next fall, I will certainly hold a special place in my heart for all of these ladies! 😉

So yeah…this is what happens when you leave your phone unattended! Haha…I had such a laugh the next morning when I went through the pictures on my phone and found lots of funny gems like this one!

This has got to be my favorite picture of the three of us- by far! Linner, Michelle, and I have been together for the past 5 years, when we all moved to Shanghai for the first time. Since then, we have been there for one another and have all changed so much. Linner, the always loyal friend, is as beautiful inside as she is outside. She’s caring, giving, a great listener, and loves to finish my food when I can’t. She’s also my veggie counterpart and a sloth. 😉 Michelle, the other half of Kes-Baugh, is my partner-in-crime, both at work and at play. She’s very generous, loves to pick on me, and is drop-dead gorgeous. I’m not really sure what I’ll do without her next year. The three of us unfortunately will be separated next year, but I know we’ll keep in touch and be in each others’ lives for years to come. I love you ladies!

Hello There… SOL #20

Hello there…

I am silly yet serious, friendly and finicky, loving and loquacious.

I keep my word, memories, and a writer’s notebook.

I wish I could live in Sydney, Australia or Inle Lake, Myanmar or Edinburgh, Scotland.

I love goat cheese, a good book, lazy days, traveling the world, challenges, and the anticipation of something new.

I dance more when I’m around my friends, but never very well.

I sing loudly and generally off-key.

I think about where to visit next, about what’s best for kids, and about my family often.

I really love my family and friends and the richness they bring to my life.

I need a massage right now. Good thing I’m planning on one later today.

I should work less and relax more.

I can talk about literacy all day long.

I like familiar routines as well as change, trying new restaurants, swapping funny stories, and writing.

I make friends easily.

I always like to sleep in. Mornings are meant to be eased into… 

Dinner with Linner- SOL #19

Last night, Linner (my nickname for her) and I headed out to Shook, a restaurant in the Swatch Hotel on the Bund, for a fancy Restaurant Week dinner. We both love fine dining, and when we can get it for a cheaper price, we love it even more!

Our first course was the Tomato Basil Bisque with Grilled Cheese “Soldiers.” Giggling as we ordered it, we talked about how we can’t understand why restaurants feel the need to make up names for food like that. They’re mini sandwiches, not soldiers. Just call it what it is. As far as the taste, the soup was really nice, but I personally make better grilled cheese.

Linner with her Espresso Martini…she’s brave drinking so much caffeine at night! Hope she was able to sleep when she got home. 😉

I opted for a Pina Colada, a girly drink where the alcohol taste is masked in sweet goodness. 🙂 Later, my drink would be the idea for a song I would sing whilst walking along the Bund. “Do you like pina coladas and getting caught in the rain?”…

Our main course was the Pan Roasted Snapper with Potato Puree, Blistered Tomatoes, Cucumber, Fresh Herbs, Ginger, and Tamarind Sauce. First thought was that the presentation was gorgeous. Second thought was what’s all this cilantro doing on my plate? I despise cilantro, and would have noticed that on the menu. Ahhh…it must be the fresh herbs. Luckily, it was just on the top, so I could easily pick it off. After that, the meal was really tasty, but on the smaller size portion-wise.

Our third course, always my favorite, was dessert. Linner had the Lemon Cheesecake with Maple Cranberry Compote, Toasted Walnuts, and Whipped Cream while I had the Coconut Lime Creme Brulee. My creme brulee was perfectly done, with that crispy sugary coating you have to hit just right with your spoon to get into the creamy custard beneath. We shared both, as we sipped our cocktails and shared stories.

Linner is one of those friends who will always be there for you. Whether we’re getting together to swap funny stories, laugh at the happenings of the week, and reminisce about the past, or we’re supporting one another through a tough time, she’s a sweet, loyal, dear friend.

Tonight’s conversation was light and fun, filled with stories. We remembered the time she got the nickname Linner, and how she hated it every time I called her that….until I was relentless and she gave in, accepting that, to me, she was no longer Linnea, but the less beautiful-sounding Linner. I playfully call her ‘Linner, Linner, Chicken Dinner.’ Secretly, she loves it. We also recalled the time I changed her boyfriend’s name in her phone to ‘Dee my lover’…haha, she was so mad about that one because she couldn’t figure out how to change it back. It stuck until she finally was able to change it a few days later. We talked about the time in Seoul, on vacation together, when I realized that Linner was not to be messed with in the morning. Taking pictures of bed head is not her idea of fun…haha. I’ve realized that throughout our friendship, I pick on her, but she’s a good sport and we’re still friends. 🙂 She’s the nicer one of the two, for sure!

After I passed the fifth woman taking ‘glamour shots’ on the Bund, I decided to take some myself…haha! I love being in China…you can be completely silly and it’s no big deal! 🙂

My favorite selfie of the night…Linner with her serious face and me with my silly one! She’s definitely a friend for a lifetime. Love you Linner!! 🙂