Hello All!
We just got internet, so I apologize for how long this has taken. I'm not really sure where to start and this will probably turn out to be a smattering of thoughts, so bear with me.
We got here on Tuesday, the airport was crazy and it was a mass exodus. We saw something like 20 hours of daylight on Monday/Tuesday. The whole day was pretty overwhelming- new country, new language, everything is foreign and I wouldn't be getting along well without Cheng. By night time I was ready to get back on a plane and head home.
Woke up on Tuesday, asked God for some serenity and felt significantly better, the rest probably helped too. The food is awesome, I have yet to find something I don't like. Then again, we've been to the same restaurant 4 times and the menu has pictures. I have, however, skipped the "Pig Ear Gelatin," can't say I'm going to try it either.
Cheng & I wondered around a good deal last night, bought quite a few things. Dirt is probably more expensive than items here. I think in 3 days I've spent $30 and have bought many a meal and houseware. I'm starting to enjoy it, but the language barrier isn't as easy to overcome the U.S/Mexico border. I talk a lot less now than I am accustomed to and rely on Cheng. I try, but it seems futile.
Started my internship today. it consisted of commencing the proofreading a 150pg. press release for the company. I made it to about page 7. Supposedly a Hong Kong PR company is their translator. There are commas, "and"s and run-ons galore. I attempt to explain this to the only English speaker in the building, probably the only one in the country, but she sees no problem in the grammar and arrangements. English is my first language, but I don't bother mentioning that point. I think I've learned that Hong Kong has British influences because everything seems fairly squirrely. I don't think I'll be learning much Chinese in my workplace.
I ate lunch in the Global Trade Center basement dining room, it was like a Chinese ant farm. I spent the duration staring at a wall and desperately searching for another white person. I sat with some employees but I understand 0 of what was said.
This email is littered with stress-induced complaints, but don't get me wrong- I am very fortunate to be here and am very grateful for the opportunity. It's out of my system now and the following emails should be of a better disposition.
I hope all is well in the States, I've been pretty out of the loop. I got asked how I like Obama today, in comparison to Bush. I didn't know the Chinese words to let on with how I really feel, so I said "he's okay."
Tomorrow I'm hoping to tag up with the Beijing Aggie Club for dinner, we'll see how that goes. Cheng's dad, Lam, will be here so hopefully he won't mind if we do so.
Until next time!
Craig
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