Ni hao.

 I love China.
I never thought those words would come out of my mouth. Ever.

Don't get me wrong, there are those "China days" 
where I would give anything to be back in 

America enjoying fresh air, blue skies, friends & family and in-n-out. 

On the other hand, I have days where I can picture our future here, working here, 

even raising a family here.

Dan & I have made this our home and I'm truly sad to say goodbye.

Since we have been here I have become an expert chef,

an educator, a world-renowned model and an impeccable housewife.

Joking about the model part. Or am I?

Despite the heat, humidity and pollution,

I have learned to love Suzhou.

While there are many who worship money and would do anything to 

scam you, even drag a dead body to your work and demand 

money since you are white and obviously rich,

(but... that's another story)

the majority of people I have come in contact with have been 
some of the happiest people I have ever met. 
It is amazing how people with so little can be significantly happier
than me we I am blessed with so much more.

Being here has really put things into perspective for me.

While I have learned "you can't trust anyone" and "Americans can get away with anything", 

I have also learned....
 a simple smile can change someones LIFE,

saying even a few words in Chinese at the store awards you great respect from employees,

and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the greatest organization in existence. 

zai jian China.

 Korean barbeque

 Sweaty river cruise

 Compare the sizes. The Chinese baby is half his age.

 He loves his soy milk

 Karaoke TV

Red Bull is not carbonated here

Delish!

Shanghai

 Secret passageway to the high quality knock offs

 crazy makeup artist

 Dan's turn for makeup

They cut a hole in their shoes so they would fit me

 Divalicious

 note: Shirtless photographer

 Winnies glasses were too heavy

 Love her!

sexy working man