China, I’ve missed you!
August 11th, 2009After much anxious anticipation, I’ve finally bought my ticket to China! I’ll be heading back in just a few days, and even as I write this my heart is pounding! I cannot wait.
I can see in my mind the view from the top of my hotel that overlooks the city. At night, the view is mottled with bright lights blinking quickly-and dark dots in the crowded streets that move slowly and sleepily it seems… and then, in the morning, the rush I feel-hustling through the swarms of people, cars and bikes-en route to a pearl palace full of jewels and gems as far as the eye can see. Sitting for days and days in the same, backless chair and selecting armfuls of pearl strands. Communicating my design ideas through rudimentary pictures and charades when my Chinese fails me. Laughing at the designs that don’t turn out the way I’d imagined; and marveling at the pieces that come alive after they’re made. Trying on each piece in the mirror (twice). Wondering when the vendor might consider installing an air conditioning unit.
Peeling a pomelo. Having to request that my Coke is “bing de” (cold), instead of the standard, unrefrigerated option. Reflexology foot massages. Yogurt that comes with a straw that you can jab through the top and drink. Green tea. Flower tea. Instant coffee. Dumplings from street vendors. Cab rides that may or may not take “the most direct route”. Ordering a club sandwich and removing the fried egg. Trying to see just how lightly I can pack. Receiving a fortune cookie on the plane with my meal-and smiling because I don’t think the airlines know that fortune cookies are American… and then wondering if the airline has a sense of humor. Eating the cookie anyway, and peeking at the meatloaf for the shock affect. Looking around to see who is actually eating their meatloaf. Trying the meatloaf. Feeling guilty for trying the meatloaf. Vowing to never try the meatloaf again.
I haven’t been to China in almost a year, and as you can see I am desperately awaiting my trip. I’ll return in early September; with new jewelry, new stories, and yet another countdown… to my next trip!