A month in…

A month or so in, and 10 more to go…

Morale is semi-high.

Besides knowing how to say hello and thank you, I learned to count to 10, thanks to a Didi driver and a 2 hour cab ride.

I’ve become better acquainted with my ‘hood, enjoying the leisurely bike rides through the village and the freedom to buy my own snacks and drinks at will.

I’ve also familiarized myself with the Sanlitun SOHO area, coming across good grub, beers, clubs, and shopping. Here, you can hear English and walk amongst white folk.

I’ve learned how to online shop on the Taobao App (Similiar to Amazon)… which is in Chinese. I use the pictures.

I’ve been to the bars and clubs, partaking in a sea of confetti while on the dance floor… who knew all it would take was a move to China for me to be hangin’ with the cool kids, past my bedtime.

I know how to use the Didi App (China’s Uber), but still need to figure out how to “converse” when they call— which happens prior to every pick up 🤦🏼‍♀️ I usually say, “Ni hao”, followed by, “Ok, byebye” while crossing my fingers & hoping for the best.

I rode in the back of some crazy lady’s tuk tuk…. now thinking about it, maybe I should have thrown that cabbie the 80 yuan instead.

I’ve ridden on the back of a scooter @3am through the streets of China.

….. I suppose I now understand why my Mom calls me as many times as she does.

I’ve haggled like a pro at the Silk Market, scoring some fab, high quality 😉 knock offs.

I’m finally able to buy shit @ Walmart, without holding up any lines… thanks to a successful WeChat- bank card hook up.

I’m able to order food by myself…. by pointing at pictures.

I’ve established myself on AirBNB, with numerous positive reviews.

We got our first paycheck, so we’re no longer broke jokes. Seeing that pile of cash-ish reminded me of my 8th birthday party at Haunted Trails… that 30 seconds in the money machine… taking it all in.

Andddd…. on my 33rd birthday— I became a fur mama once again to baby Oona.

4 of the sweetest pups were abandoned at our school gate, which I swear is my fault… All these Asians see me walking throughout the village, aww-ing and loving on every stray I lay my eyes on. I might as well have a target on my back… or a sign that reads, “sucker”.

Regardless, these little nuggets have boosted morale and are adored by many…

Although, maybe not when they are whining and howling in the middle night… then I’m sure my name is being cursed.

These past weeks have shown me that I have the resilience to ride out the bad days and the strength to keep at it. I know these next months will have their own challenges, but I’m also certain they will be filled with joy and adventure.