A Different World

Well, here I am, writing from cold, freezing, rainy California.

Yesterday was a long day of travel of Shanghai to San Fransisco. After arrival, Anja, Sandy, and I stood on a sidewalk outside a Motel 8 not only wondering what day and time it was, but also wondering where the heck we were. It felt so strange to be back, so suddenly back to a world we thought we knew.

I was definitely in a different world last night my father took me to dinner with a friend at a trendy restaurant. It was dimly lit, and a soft techno beat oozed from surround sound speakers. Abstract crystal chandeliers and paintings of flowers created a trendy atmosphere. Young professionals in suits sipped martinis, while I stood staring with my 2 day-old clothes, uncombed hair and rain jacket (it wasn't raining). When they dimmed the lights half-way through the meal, I was definitely the only person in the whole place to make the sound: "Oooooooooo."

It is surreal and strange to be back. In a matter of days, we transitioned from the rural Miao village, to urban Shanghai, to home. It all happened so fast, my mind is still catching up, unable to accept the idea that I am in a place where I don't have to bring toilet paper with me to the bathroom.

I am relishing my freedom and the now decadent idea of having a whole house to myself for the day, yet missing the crowded busy streets, my travel buddies, and I can't stop looking for our guide Wen Tao! Really, after 3 weeks, I feel lost without him! How else will I know what is happening today?

Thank you Paul for all your hard work making this blog so great! Thanks to Wen Tao, Eric, and Bruce for organizing such a phenomenal trip! Thank you all my fellow travelers, I will be thinking of you and missing you. Be well and keep in touch!