Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Getting Settled in Nanjing
Wow, the first 10 days in Nanjing have been a whirlwind. I think I'm finally feeling like we're settling in, though. Thankfully, our apartment was in great shape when we arrived. However, we have had to make daily trips to Carrefour and Wal-mart (yes, there is a Wal-mart here) to get household essentials. Each day, we get as much as we can carry home. We're getting there, slowly but surely. Travis' biceps are growing with all the bags he's having to cart around. (ha ha) In addition to setting up house, we spent the first week engaged in team building activities. Much of our time together centered around shopping and food. All you ladies can appreciate that! (ha ha) Each day is a learning experience, but with each day, we seem to be getting more comfortable. I never believed I would feel this helpless, but it's what will motivate me to learn the language quickly! It is absolutely beautiful here - very green and lush. However, green and lush come with a price - humidity. Travis and Trey are perpetually sweaty. I, on the other hand, am in heaven. Below are pictures of us during our campus tour and Trey doing Tai Chi. We will post more as we have time to get out and explore.
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You won't get any wrinkles nor will you have to use lotion.
ReplyDeleteThe helplessness will subside once you are comfortable with the language and customs. I felt the same way for quite some time until I just started talking. Everyone loved that I tried and helped me through humor and laughter... it was fun but intimidating at times.
I love the pic of Trey doing Tai Chi... soon he will be out in the parks with all the folks practicing.
You all look great.
Yep. In some ways, the whole first year is getting adjusted to the new situation. although my son and his wife seem to have made that adjustment fairly quickly in Myanmar. They've been there since January and describe themselves as "comfortable" in the culture. So give yourselves plenty of slack, even as you keep working at it. I'm glad to hear the apt. is coming along--it's important to impose your order on at least that part of your world.
ReplyDeleteThinking of you.
Jim
Traipsing through my home email box today and came across your blog link. I'm sure everyday is a new adventure, sometimes good, sometimes frustrating - or frusterating as Skyler would say. Skyler's birthday was on Sept 5 - she turned six. She has lost almost all of her front teeth! Eeeks. Know that you are not forgotten, your picture is on the fridge. Kimberly T. HatCreekGirl
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