I've had my hesitations about taking a trip home this summer. After all, I rather like it here in China and I'm not going back to my life, I'm going back as a guest, a guest who will just have a glimpse back at a life I no longer have. What if the memories are so fond that I don't want to come back to China? Or what if I remember my prior life more fondly than it was and the truth is exposed during our trip home?
I was worried about this until I started making a list of all of the things that I want to do and experience when I go "home". Some are tactical, but most are just the thoughts and feelings of things I used to take for granted. It did the trick, I am now counting down the days...
Have a kiddie pool in a backyard
Sit in a lawn chair
Mavis getting to see birds, squirrels, rabbits, and all things other than just stray dogs
Soft grass on my feet
Go outside without getting touched
Go to a real playground with swings and space to run around
Eat meat that is normal and not full of nasty ligaments
Eat blueberries, raspberries, oranges, corn on the cob, and unpeeled fruit
Eat a normal sweet potato
Wear sandals without my feet getting nasty
Not have to carry toilet paper or soap substitutes with me
Have a price tag on my food, clothing, and all things that one shouldn't have to bargain for in life
Eat lunch meat
Drink water from the tap
Go to a wading pool where Mavis can splash for as long as she wants
Fire pits at night
Giggle with Hudson
Michelob Ultra, Coors Light, or anything other than Budweiser and TingTao.
Speak in English. No more pointing or scherades.
And because it will be too emotional for me to say this in person when I get there...here's a special thank you to our family and a few wonderful friends that have called, Skyped, emailed, and been otherwise amazing while we've been here. I'm not sure I would have been as wonderful of a friend if the roles were reversed and my gratitude is endless. Can't wait to wrap my arms around all of you.
