Good-bye China and a brief hello to S. Korea

(I'm coming home...I'm coming home...Tell the world I am coming home.)

My final weeks in China (Weeks 7-11)

Disclaimer: I am having technical difficulties posting my blogs, pictures, and videos. When I arrive back in the states, I will update my blog with all my pictures and videos. Technical difficulties are expected, when being in a country that has limits on access and viewable internet sites.

The entire month of March, I have been continuing life like a Chinese citizen. Overall, life here is ok since things here seem more simple, but inconvenient all at the same time.  For example: Electricity here is pre-paid and is loaded on electric cards. This allows consumers to have control over the amount of energy used by the amount of money placed on the card. Once the card is loaded, then the next step is to go home and put the card in the electric meter which is located in the hallway outside of the apartment units. It’s always best to reload your card when you ‘guess-timate’ that your electricity is running low. With that said, not being proactive will cause the electricity will go out and you will surely find yourself literally in the dark. The inconvenient part is that the power company’s office is closes at 5pm during the week and is closed completely on the weekends, so if the electricity goes out during an inaccurate guess then you have to wait until business hours during work week to take your electric card so the power company can reloaded with the any monetary amount you think is necessary to keep your electric going.  SIDE NOTE: $200 RMB ($30 USD) will last about 3months if you practice being energy efficient. Now, that’s amazing!

China has the best karaoke ever, which is called KTV. KTV is a high tech luxury karaoke venue with sound proof private rooms. Groups can rent out plush private rooms, order food, and karaoke using microphones and several 50 inch TVs. I had an opportunity to experience KTV when one of the teacher’s that Kellie works with had a going away gathering after ending his employment contract. I must say it was great time for us all.

A few days ago, I received a job offer from the company Kellie’s works with. I was quite flattered by the offer as it was definitely something to consider being that I am currently unemployed.  I will not rush any of my decisions, as I am continuing on my journey for as long as it takes me. However, it‘s always great to have options. 

Last week, I flooded Kellie’s apartment and a portion of the outside hallway while washing clothes. I guess I got to confident in my washing abilities and I became relaxed. I was doing fine until I got to the last load of clothes. On the last load, I forgot to turn off the water to the machine and when I realized it water was on the bathroom, living room, partial bedroom, foyer, and outside in the hallway floors of Kellie’s apartment. I just stood in shock for a couple minutes and then I came up with a game plan which took me about 2 ½ hours to complete.  Upon completion, I was absolutely weary and extremely apologetic when Kellie arrived home from work, to finally dry floors.  

On the morning of March 18^th we had a Snow Day! We were told that the weather would turn by early to mid March but it looks like we are having an extended winter here in China. However, on the morning of March 18^th there was snow covering the grounds. We had gotten about 1 to 2 inches of snow. I could not believe it since the entire time since I have been here it has not snowed and not even on the high winds and coldest of days. I can’t stress how much I miss warm weather.  My Georgia warm weather…I can’t wait to experience you.

What’s next for me?

I’m not sure yet…what’s next for me, but that’s the beauty of allowing flow to take over on the journey. However, what I do know is my travel day back to the states is coming up this weekend and I am mentally trying to prepare myself for the trip.

(In my singing voice:)   “I’m coming home…I’m coming home… tell the world, I’m coming home…”

SIDE NOTE: Trying to decide on where to go for my next adventure. Maybe, I will go somewhere for a brief stay, but definitely somewhere tropical or at least 70-80 degree weather.

Thanks for reading along during my journey. 

Take care and many blessings!