My time in Beijing is drawing to a close. Been here a week and a half- about time to mosey on down the road to my real home. It's been very lovely, and I couldn't have asked for a better intro into Chinese city living. I'm ready though; I can't wait to get to Chongqing and be able to have structure and stability again!!
One thing that I don't think I will ever get used to is the picture taking. Everyone here keeps telling me that it's super normal and that I'm going to get used to it, but I don't know. I don't if I will ever be comfortable with some random stranger taking a picture of me for no apparent reason. Sometimes it's from a foot away on the subway. Sometimes its from 30 meters away along the street. Either way, it's super obvious (I actually really like how much they own it- zero shame) and very uncomfortable. I just think it's so strange that there is a picture of me on someone's phone (lots of someones actually). I'll keep you updated on my paparazzi and my adjustment to fame.
My wanderings about Beijing today made me some new friends. Mostly- almost entirely- young children who stared and pointed. I'm not complaining; they're the cutest things that have ever happened. Also a few passing people who I have a hard time reading- are they friendly or creepy. I'll have to get more culturally acquainted to figure out that one. Reality- I'm sure they are mostly all just very friendly people. But good news- you are never alone, so it's not like if they are creepy, you're unsafe. There's at least 7 or 8 other people there.
Thus far, China has been splendid. I'm really brushing up on some of my more crucial Chinese: 对不起 (I'm sorry), 我的中问不太好 (My Chinese is not very good), 我听不懂 (I don't understand), 我不知道 (I don't know), and of course 谢谢 (thank you). But not to worry, my Chinese is not quite that bad. I can order food, buy things, and ask and answer some basic questions. Today though, just as I was feeling moderately content with my Chinese, some random man at the park decided to have a 15 minute conversation with me- I couldn't tell you the first thing he said. He mentioned America a couple times- that's pretty much all I got. There were a lot of confused looks on my part and lots of apologizing. Everyone else at the park thought it was quite the hoot- lots of staring. Made me feel really great about myself. I'm going to make so many friends over here!
Love you all!! Next update from Chongqing- 重庆！
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