Almost in China

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Tomorrow, August 25, I get on the plane to Pudong. This flight is exciting. We leave Chicago, fly over the north pole and land in Pudong, the new city outside of Shanghai. I'll meet my friend, Linell, at check-in and we'll fly together.

Getting ready has been a long series of decisions. Because I'm leaving my house for two, 21-year olds, I had a lot of sentimental stuff to remove. The big question became, "How would I feel if this got broken?" So, I boxed up a lot of breakables and put them in the storage room at the back of the house. In the meantime I was packing my suitcases. I ended up putting way too much stuff in the suitcases and then I had to pay extra at the airport to come to Chicago. Luckily, here I was able to cull a lot of heavy stuff, including the Italian soaps (alas) the espresso coffee maker, three suits, etc. Joey and April (my son and daughter-in-law) will mail me a box of the books.

The visit in Chicago has been relaxing--exactly what I need. Warhol, my "grand-dog," is this fluffy, sweet, non-allergenic, white loveable dog. When I sit down to read, he sits beside me with his head on my lap.

Today is my last day in the States for a year. I'll go to the ATM, to Starbucks, and just sit on the deck and enjoy looking at the people and houses. Very low key.

On the plane, I'll listen to the Chinese CD to learn a few more words. My skills in Chinese are nil so far. Luckily, I'll have a tutor in Nanjing. The next entry will be from China. Please wish me luck.

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Comments

[Margaret and Howard]

Thanks
We lioved hearing from you and look forward to more messaages from time to time. We DO wish you much luck. You're not going to Spain or Mexico, but "Vaya con Dios" anyway. With love,

[Maryann]

Good Luck Girlfriend
Hope that this trip is all that you want it to be. When you get back I will introduce you to your real daughter (the one that I think that I gave birth to; but is really yours). How does that work any way? She is thinking of quitting her real job so that she can travel again! She did not get this travel bug from stoic old me! Good traveling! I can't wait to hear about your escapades! Does one ever get too old for escapades!!! I have not had one yet. Luv Ya Lots.

[Pattie]

Good luck
Susan, I'm thinking good thoughts for you and wishing you the luck you requested. It is going to be fine, a real adventure. You won't miss those suits you left behind. Looking forward to the next entry. Pattie

[deleted_20015]

Good Luck!
Fly Safely! Say hello to Santa for me on your way.

[Linda]

farewell for now
I know your Chinese is nil! You looked blankly at me when I said wo ai ni and zai gien (pinyan is not too good, but April will understand and so will Linell) ! Have a GREAT time! I miss you already as I drive by your house and think, I cannot just call Susie. We'll be looking for your next Blog Report. Linda

[teddi]

I'm still SO envious. What a wonderful adventure!