Just a few thoughts...

I'm starting to really enjoy my morning runs with Abby. We usually have very uplifting conversations that always leave me in a very pensive state of mind. I like it.

I was thinking today about what year it is, and how absolutely incredible it is that it is already 2010... and then I realized that there are only two years left until the world is supposed to end. (or so I've heard) And I was thinking of all of the people who truly and sincerely believe that the world is really going to end December 21st, 2012. I started to think about what they are doing with their lives. Living it to the absolute fullest I'm sure, doing everything they've ever wanted to do. I don't know... just an interesting thought I had today.

Our motto here in China is, "We love China. Become Chinese!" So, the goal is to eventually be to the point where aside from physical appearances, we don't stick out like sore thumbs :) and today I decided I am going to create a list of things we need to do or master before we can be considered "Chinese".

1){This is an exception to the appearances rule} Loose weight because thus far in our journey... we have yet to see an overweight Asian. I'm sure they are out there... a few, but it's slim picking for sure.
2) We must master the art of chopsticks, which we are constantly working on...every day...at every meal. {A quick story to go along with this. The other day the cooks made us spaghetti and they gave us forks. Uh...wierd. The forks almost hindered our meal, it was far more of an inconvenience than a convenience anymore. Spaghetti is meant to be eaten with chopsticks. It just is}
3) Wear really awesome shoes, jeans and sweaters...even if nothing matches, and wear it with pride knowing you look way rad!
4) Walk fearlessly across streets with heavy traffic without hesitation...
5) Speaking through your nasal, learn and speak enough Chinese to get by in everyday activities.
6) Replace "yes" with "ok"
7) Learn and Practice Tai-chi, well enough to teach it :)
8) Don't worry about planning anything, preparation of any sort, or any type of organization. An hours notice is plenty of time.
9) Be blaitantly honest. About everything. There is no holding back.
10) Squat. Whenever you are waiting, do not stand or sit, squat on your hind legs...butt nearly touching the ground. We've tried it, and it is really quite comfortable.
11) Push your way to the front of the line; any line. Whether it be getting on the bus, ordering food, just get to the front. If you wait in line, you will either be there forever, or you will be last :)
12) Meditate. In Nature. For a long Time. Everyday. Without moving a muscle.
13) Gawk at foreignors.


I'm chatting with Tarah in 15 minutes :) I love those chats. I'm excited.