Mysterious China: entry #1: The Surrogate Ring

This is a photo of a mountain just outside the hotel doors where I was staying in Beilun. On top of the mountain is a Buddhist Temple; inscribed in the side of the mountain is a Chinese character painted red. Mark, the guy I was working with in China, said that they hold a pork barbecue for all the ex-patriots in the city of Beilun, many of whom have moved to China at the request of their employers. They are from around the world: Australia, Germany, Finland, America, Brazil, etc.

Friday, February 15, 2008: 8:45 am e.s.t.

Well, I am finally on the plane getting ready to start the first leg of my trip to China. On the way here my stomach suddenly dropped when I realized that I had left my ring in the closet. I suppose if I hadn't removed it then I never would have left it, but this way at least I can't accidentally leave it in China. But I do have a plan, when I get into Ningbo I am going to buy a surrogate ring to wear while I am there. I love you very much Melissa and I will think of you and the boys often.