China Romance
All About China => Your trip to China => Topic started by: Rhonald on October 27, 2009, 10:04:38 pm
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Well this trip to Magical Dumpling Land start with me down in the dumps :@
I woke up to a major dumping of snow in Calgary on October 14th. The early storm took the city by surprise and the trip to the airport was slow with me checking my watch constantly worried about my checkin time. I would have had a 2 hour layover in San Fransico before conecting my flight to Hong Kong if I arrived on time in San Fran. However, we were kept on the runway in Calgary for 2 hours - not allowed to take off. But not because of Calgary's snow storm :huh: We found out the delay was because the western seaboard had been hit by the remnants of the typhoon that wrecked havoac in the Philippines. San Fransico experienced power faliures that caused them to get back logged recieving new planes.
My plane landed at 1:13 pm and the HK flight was to leave at 12:55. Last December when I was flying with China Air, we were held up at Beijing for an hour because of 8 people connecting from India. With 6 people on my plane also going to HK, I thought that they would hold the plane for us. :@ in fact our HK plane had left early at 12:45. I noticed the trend that many departure flights had left ahead of schedule - probably to free up space at the airport.
I queued in a line to get a transfer ticket and was quickly in the front and assigned a ticket to Shanghai then to HK. The agent confirmed that I had a seat but he was having problems printing the ticket. His counter was for express flights so he said I had to go to the international counter for them to print it out. Well that counter had a long line and after waiting 40 minutes I was at the counter for my ticket. :@ We regrett to inform you that the Shanghai plane took off at 1:33 - Well that explains why the express counter agent could not print my ticket. Finally I was given a new ticket for tomorrow:s
The same flight but leaving tomorrow for HK had standby only so instead I was scheduled to fly to Tokyo and then after a 5 hour layover on to HK. I was given a voucher for reduced rates at recommended hotels but I decided to stay at the airport overnight since with so many other stranded travellers, I figured the hotels were booked. Also I heard that there was a convention in town. San Fransico's airport has almost exclusively seats with armrests on all the chairs that prevents a person to rest vertically. Needless to say being stuck in San Fransico for 22 hours left me feeling down in the dumps.
Well thats it for today's post. I am tired since I returned home 4 hours ago. I will post more updates and more photos from this trip that had other turns and twists for me.
The 1st set of pictures is from the hotel I stayed in for 1 night in HK. I arrived at 23:30 so we decided to not push on to mainland China but wait for the morning.
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Welcome back Rhonald :):)
So far, seems a gruelling experience.....Patiently waiting for Episode 2 !!!
Must get better ????
DavidE
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Yes Rhonald welcome back we missed you rwit on a few things...lol
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Welcome back.
Shaun
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Rhonald,
They gave you a reduced rate voucher, If this was the airlines fault by leaving ahead of the sheduled time, they should of been laying everything on for you, including a hotel room for the night. I've never heard of aircraft leaving ahead of time, not in all the time i've been flying!!!!
Anyway , glad you made it in the end .....and got back too!! ..lol!!
David.....
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AND Rhonald..important question?
"DID YOU GET THE SHOES...?????":icon_cheesygrin::icon_cheesygrin:
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No !!! They properly are still stuck in somebody's behind at the Airline Counter . Hahaha
Good to see you back Rhonald . I too , hope everything else turned out better for you .
The third Photo , that is a kind of high Diving board ... better check the depth of that Pool first .
Is that your Sweet wifey looking " Who's there " ?
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No !!! They properly are still stuck in somebody's behind at the Airline Counter . Hahaha
Good to see you back Rhonald . I too , hope everything else turned out better for you .
The third Photo , that is a kind of high Diving board ... better check the depth of that Pool first .
Is that your Sweet wifey looking " Who's there " ?
Hope that isn't a diving board. I wouldn't go out on it let alone dive from it. Just looking at the photo gives me the willys. There he goes again.
Shaun
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I had the same experience in London last time. My flight was to leave at 18.30 but didn't leave until 02.30.. Funny to the only passengers on a big and empty airport. All this because the plane had some troubles with the hydraulic system..
This meant that I was 5 hours late for my connection flight to Changsha in Hong Kong. I had to spend a night on the hotel at the airport but this was paid by Cathay Pacific since I used them for the whole flight. The next flight was the day after at 16.30 so I had breakfast and lunch too before my flight.. Pity the I didn't take the opportunity to visit Hong Kong but I was quite tired.. I can go by train but this will take 3 weeks :icon_biggrin:
Good luck on your trip and it can only get better
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Good to hear from you Rhonald. With such an interesting start to your trip, I look forward to reading the rest.
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Crossing The Border:
Well I found out that airports are pretty dead in the wee hours of the morning. My plane departed at 11:30 the next morning for Tokyo. I can now claim to have been to Japan, even though just in an airport. I can tell the Japanesse take great pride in their throne room. In the airport wash room the seat for dumping is king size. The hi-tech gadget came with buttons to warm the seat and also the ability-if you dare- to wash your derrière with wash and dry functions. I wonder if the dryer setting has a good blow....function:blush:
The flight on Nippon Air to HK had all pretty stewardesses but of all the airplane food I have ever tried, their meal was the worst I had. At least I got to see the movie The Taking of Pelham123.
My next worry had to do with my entry visa into mainland China. On the visa it had "Enter Before Oct 17th." I was originally slated to land at HK on the 15th - so 2 days should be enough. Now I was slated to arrive on the 16th at 10:45 pm. My plane was arriving late and I finally cleared the airport at 11:35 pm. I did not know if I could still enter on the 17th or if they would say the visa was invalid. It usually takes about 40 to 60 minutes to reach the Shenzhen border. I thought that I didn't have enough time to arrive before midnight so I decided to try the next day. I would have hated arriving just after midnight and been denied just to have to return to HK to apply for a new visa the next day.
The next day we left to reach the border. My wife was foolish in that the shoes she wore to HK were brand new, and never having been broken in, she developed some bad blisters. When we arrived at the border I only had to fill out one flu form compared to 3 times in 50 yards on my last trip in May. The border agent held up my passport and pointed at the date :s I nodded and said I know - I was to arrive sooner but had problems coming from San Fransico. By her expression I think she knew about the delays, and thus she stamped my passport and I was in :icon_cheesygrin:
Sunday was spent meeting with some of her friends that helped plan the wedding as the pictures show. Monday my wife took me to the Hotel I was to spend the night with my friend Guang Han that had been our translator from the agency. The picture shows the room with the see into the bathroom window(sorry my wife asked for the removale of her pic, she complained she didn't lookgood). The room cost $30 Cdn. We also went shopping for our wedding rings, and since I was the groom - my wife took me for some grooming.
[ Thats all for today. My next post here will be of the wedding day and the Hunt For the Red October Shoes - did I get them? or did I get the Boot?
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Rhonald,
I do hope hats were involved!!!
:icon_cheesygrin:
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great reading!
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Yes great reading, keep it coming!
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Rhonald,
Good to hear from a fellow Canadian about his adventure in China, and that he's enjoying himself. I look forward to reading more of your updates.
Best of luck to you!!
PS. It'll be my turn in December. I can't wait :icon_cheesygrin:!!
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Lights....Camera....Action:
October 20th morning and I dawn my red outfit. Game day and I ask if I can forgo the little beanie hat. I rather leave the Hat tricks for that English Striker Paul. ( as consulation Paul - I have uploaded a picture of the hat that came with my outfit - all it is missing is a propeller)
I still do not have any wedding photos from the photographer except a couple the he emailed me that I showed on here. All the pictures from the wedding day I have so far is just me in front of the Hotel before I depart on my mad quest.
I was told that my Chariot would arrive to collect me at 10:00 am. Once downstairs in the lobby with my best man Guang Han, we meet up with the Camera man and photographer. Outside were 3 cars and the drivers. I was given a boquet of flowers and given instructions for my opening scene. I was quite apprehensive of my health so I inquired if a stunt double would be provided for the dangerous scenes - maybe Jackie Chan. This released some of the serious expressions I saw on my director as he realised in turn that I was not nervous at all. Hopefully once I recieve the edited movie from my wedding day, I can post here for all to see the fun full day I had - and also - lots of beautifull Chinese Girls.
After a slow walk out the doors to the cars, we drove of to Yan's apartment. I sorted my ammo with Guang Han for the upcoming battle: A bandolier of 8 red envelopes containg 10's and 2 of 100 rmbs to get past the sentries of my girl's palace doors. An other slow gracefull walk into the apartment to the 3rd floor and I was confronted with the first portal denying me access. The door was open but the grate door closed. The girl there asked who I was and for whom I came calling. After my reply she asked for some token. The first red evelope was fired. She checked the denomination, opened the grate door and procceded to slam the main door. Through the closed door I was asked for more gifts. For this door I had to slide another evelope under the door. With another 10 spent, they claimed they wanted more. A third ten was handed over and we could hear them complaing that 10's were not enough. Suddenly my game plan needed changing. I was going to need more bigger calibers then just 2 red envelopes of 100 rmbs. We quickly pulled out some tens and replaced with hundreds. The next evelope was slipped under and the 100 note was the magic that greased open the front door. Into the main room and I was confronted by 3 vixens. They lead me to the bedroom door that was, of course magicaly sealed. I was asked again who I was here to see and who did I love. I also needed to slip another 100 under the door. I thought this last portal would open but I was told some magic would be needed. ..Maybe a Magic tune. "Wo Ai Ne, Wo Ai Ne Chin Ai da, Wo Ai Ne Ziyan" - Or was it open sesame seeds:huh: - anyways my magical lyrics opened the last portal and I was confronted by a vision of loveliness decked in red upon her bed.
Since I sang out of tune I will end for today....But please....Stay tuned for part 2 of the wedding day and the Hunt for Red October Shoes.
I wonder if I can get a rebate from this Master Hotel - that would be a MASTER reBATE :icon_cheesygrin:
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You should have worn the beanie! Will you wear it next time we go for wings in Calgary?
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Looking realy sharp there Rhonald.I did the red envelopes to and then the singing.I didn't have to where the kung fui outfit though.congradulations and best wishes
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You should have worn the beanie! Will you wear it next time we go for wings in Calgary?
Your on :fi_lone_ranger: and I will end the night with its beanie slice.
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Now that sounds like a standard chinese wedding ceremony. :) At least all they were asking for was money. I have heard of some of the trials that the younger ones (uh-oh...I'm one of those) facing like drinking nasty tasting liquids or piggyback rides around the block... and those are the harmless ones. :) At least you're enjoying this one. Good for you! Keep up with the stories.
In-Jaul
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Rhonald , as the Master leaves the Master Hotel ... the Journey begin's to find the one that this Flower Bouquet belongs too ?
Love the step by step ... explaination of your Wedding Story and to think there is MORE to come .
Shaun , my Man ... where is the Popcorn you promised ?
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Ming Zhi says ????????????????:heart:
Yes looking sharp there Rhonald, but I thing my reputation for the silliest hat is still intact! :icon_biggrin:
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I love to read your post. Thanks for sharing with us.
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Rhonald , as the Master leaves the Master Hotel ... the Journey being's to find the one that this Flower Bouquet belongs too ?
Love the step by step ... explaination of your Wedding Story and to think there is MORE to come .
Shaun , my Man ... where is the Popcorn you promised ?
Silly me. I should have posted it. It is at www.mypopcorn.com/Rhonald
Shaun
Great post, Ron. And the suspense is driving them wild. :icon_cheesygrin::icon_cheesygrin:
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I'm waiting to read the rest of the story. I have a question about one of the photos. The one where your woman is peeking out the door. I wondered why she was doing this? Then I realized, the peepholes on the doors are to high up for her (and maybe much of the population?) is this so?
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I'm waiting to read the rest of the story. I have a question about one of the photos. The one where your woman is peeking out the door. I wondered why she was doing this? Then I realized, the peepholes on the doors are to high up for her (and maybe much of the population?) is this so?
She is 5'6" so tall enough for the peep hole. Now what happened is that I went out into the hallway to take the pictures of the pool. With the door closed I knocked on it for her to open the door. I tried to take the picture by surprise as she opened the door for me. My timing was off as I took it to soon.
Thanks also to the rest of the guys for your compliments. I realised I made a slight mistake about the telling of the final red envelope. I was tired last night so my next post will correct my omission.
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The Game is Afoot:
I had forgotten to mention that after my song and another 100 rmb red evelope, that the gate keeper was still not impressed. I had a special envelope to give to Yan's son (as the head male of the family). But instead, I used this special hand gernade thick envelope to finally pass the last door. The evelope consisted of 9 100s, 9 10s, and 9 1s = 999. Apperently I am told this amount sounds like everlasting in Mandarin and was a lucky number. Since I had to part with this special evelope I decided to make my door nemesis work for it. She squealed with delight when she saw the thickness of the red evelope that was slid under the door. But as she tried to take it from her side, I pressed down on the end on myside. After some wiggiling to pry it loose, I released the treasure to her inorder to gain entrance to my own treasure.
She moved forward to the end of the bed and before standing, she showed her bare feet. :blush: With all the evelope exchanges, I had become shell shocked and had forgotten that a new challenge was awaiting me. Also at this time I was told not one, but two pairs of shoes were hidden for me to find. I started briefly searching in her bedroom, even starting to check a handbag hanging from the door hook, but thought the shoes would be scattered further afield. Into the living room I proceeded and my trusty assistant Guang Han aided my noble quest. He seemed to have better instincts as he found one slipper in the washing machine. After a few minutes he found a heeled shoe by the piano. We carried on searching in the kitchen and the other bedroom but no other shoes were found:huh: Guang Han told me that we might need to bribe Yan's guardians with some evelopes to get some clues. A 100 rmb red evelope allowed me to find a red heeled shoe in a big closet in the son's bedroom, and my last 100 rmb evelope led me back to the handbag hanging from Yan's bedroom door were the last red slipper was found. Darn....so close. Guang Han 2 ; Groom 1 (1/2 point score per shoe because of clues). Guang Han won this game...but at least I get the prize :icon_cheesygrin:
Never instructed, but remembering another member's post about kissing the shoes, I proceeded to kiss each slipper and my wife's foot before as-cinderella style-slipping on the classy slipper. At last my lady was adorned and we were ready to head to the ceremony. I had one last feat of strength to perform as I craddled my princesses into my arms and carried her out the door into her new life as my dear Chinese wife.
[I will end this posting and hint at an unplanned incident leading up to the wedding reception with the next installment....The Rings of Despair!!!
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Excellent pictures, nice beanie hat, but after looking at the first pictures of the food, I am wondering if you would mind pointing out the names of the food on the table, they look wonderful and I'm starved.
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Glad to see that your having a lot of fun Rhonald!!
My lady said that she is planning some surprises for me for our wedding. Perhaps these are some things I have to look forward to lol.
RC
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I am really enjoying your story. You are a good story teller.
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Excellent pictures, nice beanie hat, but after looking at the first pictures of the food, I am wondering if you would mind pointing out the names of the food on the table, they look wonderful and I'm starved.
Sure I can oblige... they are called Chinese food :icon_biggrin:
Sorry I was never good at remembering names of the food. I remember having a couple plates of different chicken, some beef and vegetables. Shrimp balls, egg plant(love that) and for this meal... no dumplings :s I heard that they are stocking up on dumplings in anticipation of Martin's arrival.
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Sure I can oblige... they are called Chinese food :icon_biggrin:
Sorry I was never good at remembering names of the food. I remember having a couple plates of different chicken, some beef and vegetables. Shrimp balls, egg plant(love that) and for this meal... no dumplings :s I heard that they are stocking up on dumplings in anticipation of Martin's arrival.
Rhonald ... Did you order the No. 2 for 4 ... no MSG & free fortune cookie ??? :icon_cool:
I'm enjoying reading your trip even if you're teasing us with chapters.
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Excellent pictures, nice beanie hat, but after looking at the first pictures of the food, I am wondering if you would mind pointing out the names of the food on the table, they look wonderful and I'm starved.
I could recognise some of those things...the dish with the overwhelming melon/squash like things looks like a chayote stir-fry of some sort. There was also some sort of (most likely roasted) rooster. Couldn't make out the rest clearly.
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The Rings of Despair:
With my wife craddled in my arms I would like to say I carried her down the 3 flights of stairs, but having no flights of fantasy, we took the elevator down and I had her standing whilst alone in the elevator. Once the door opened I again lifted her in my arms and carried her out the building - oops she is on line - I will post this so far and ammended later.
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WOW...talk about keeping everyone in suspense.
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Now I had enough ! Rhonald , if you are not posting from now on a regular bases ... you'll be wearing that Pipa as a Hat .:@:icon_cheesygrin::icon_cheesygrin:
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Down boys - now down boys, or you will end up as rover did in the picture I posted in the section You know your in China when...
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Greeting Brothers,
Fantastic story Rhonald, very witty and yet detailed as well. Love the red outfit. Hope the rest of the story is as great as the beginning.
I also hope Zhen doesnt read this and get ideas for our wedding, find the shoes might not be bad but if she comes up with other stuff from her wicked little mind I could be in serious trouble.
Glad you are having a great time and I sure am happy I didnt have the trip from hell that you had this time. I went from Vancouver to Beijing so a lot less cross border grief.
Have fun and keep the updates and pics coming.
Zhen and Brian
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The Rings of Despair:
With my wife craddled in my arms I would like to say I carried her down the 3 flights of stairs, but having no flights of fantasy, we took the elevator down and I had her standing whilst alone in the elevator. Once the door opened I again lifted her in my arms and carried her out the building - oops she is on line - I will post this so far and ammended later.
Okay back from my commercial break: Oh and Yan says hello to all the gents here :heart:
By the time I carried her out the building, my arms were faitiguing so I placed her down with the premise of her using her new class slippers to walk to the horse powered Carriage. We headed to the reception hall directly in a drawn out, round about route that made the 15 minute commute last 1 hour. I dawned on a new realization that since the horn is used so often in China, contrasted to our North American tradition for weddings, they do not toot the horns for celebration of marriage. During the trip the one car carring Cecil B Demille kept creeping in front and drifting behind as the camera man filimed us in our car waving to his cue. This is how the Queen must feel when out and about being viewed by the Commoners - Yes....Indeed. Say..What?
During the prolong Car trip Yan asked, " The Rings you have?' .........................................................................................................................long period of silence.............................................! :huh:
FLASH BACK to day before, just before leaving for the Hotel for my one night of being a Bachelor.
Ron you have the Rings?
Yes Yan the pair are here in my carry on bag in the jewerly box
.. as I open my travel bag showing the small jewerly box containg my wedding ring and her's - One Ring to wed me, One Ring to find me,
One Ring to bring me all and in the lightness bind me
In the Land of Cathay where my new life lie.
( my token acknowledgement to J.R.R.)
I was feeling very relaxed on my wedding day. To relaxed...thus I was not being frantic about the day's proceedings. So inturn I was not so worried that I forgot to double check my readiness for today's events. I told her that the rings were still in the hotel room in my travelling bag. We were to head for an informal luncheon at 1:00pm for all the wedding planners, Car drivers, Photographer, and camera man before the main ceremony at 5:00pm. The council of elders decided that Gandalf...oops Guan Han could go back to the Hotel and gather the rings while Yan and I hoisted the luncheon.
At the luncheon I was introduced to a long time friend of Yan's. Her friend (I forgot her name) and Yan had never met in person but had a friendship from QQ. Her friend was on vacation with an American that the two had just meet online a month before. Kevin was his name and he came over for a week to meet her. It seems that, even though not through Chnlove, I had a fellow bretheren attracted by the siren call of the Orient. They were in town just to meet us and be at the luncheon before catching a plane to Guilin. We told them that we planned on travelling to Guilin a day later. He was curious about China and we spent part of the afternoon exchanging stories. From being total strangers, I felt quit honored that he gave us a Red Evelope as a wedding gift :angel:
At 3:00 pm Guan Han phoned from the Hotel :s "Okay I have your bag, where in the bag is the rings?
Now my travel bag is regular carry on size. The rings were in a small box. It should have been easily found in the bag. But he could not find them. I had switched rooms from a double bed room to a new Kingsize bed room for our wedding night. I was sure that I never left anything in the 1st hotel room. It must be in my travel bag but Guan Han said he could not find it. I franticaly thought back all of yesterday and this morning. Since that time before leaving Yan's apartment when I double checked for the ring box, I never recalled seeing, or feeling the box in my travel bag. I tried to remember if either her or I went back into my bag before leaving the apartment. My gut instinct said that it was in her apartment at 301B.
The new plan was for us to split up the fellowship with Guan Han and I to travel back to Moria...oops 301B and search for the rings. By the time he got back to the reception hall from the hotel, it was 3:15pm. He actually brought back my travel bag with him for me to confirm his search. Yan phoned the Hotel front desk to enquire if anything was found in my last night hotel room and Guan Han and I dashed back to 301B. We had a little over an hour and a half to find the rings and return before the 5:00 celebration :huh:
As all good cliff hangers...I will end this episode with some new pictures
Stay Tuned for the next Installment entitled Judgment Day
or Terminator - which will happen to me if I don't find the rings:huh: am I Sara Conners?
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And Saur... I mean the director and planners didn't double check with or remind you about anything? That sounds a little strange...They're usually paranoid about forgetting things.
Can't wait for the next exciting episode when you tell us about the treants.... :icon_cheesygrin:
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And Saur... I mean the director and planners didn't double check with or remind you about anything?
I hope I never get knighted because then I would become Sauron...Sir Ron :s the antagonist. I want to be a Hero http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ByQuyKxRrOw&feature=related
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And Saur... I mean the director and planners didn't double check with or remind you about anything?
I hope I never get knighted because then I would become Sauron...Sir Ron :s the antagonist. I want to be a Hero http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ByQuyKxRrOw&feature=related
Don't you mean...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e9Q3orQhEcA :)
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Great stuff Rhonald , that's the way to tell a Storybook Wedding . Love the Photo's .
But ... if you don't find the Ring's soon , you might be wearing that Pipa after all .:icon_cheesygrin::icon_cheesygrin:
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You wanted to be the hero? WTF! You're not going to be around long enough to be a hero if you don't get on with the story! hehehe
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Reneging on the story? Now put this beanie on and go sit in the corner....
[attachment=947]
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You wanted to be the hero? WTF! You're not going to be around long enough to be a hero if you don't get on with the story! hehehe
ROFLMAO
Congrats mate, loving the story and pictures....:icon_biggrin:
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Sorry for the delay - writers strike in Hollywood - and I had no fresh scabs to pick. Actually feeling a little under the weather so I went to bed early yesterday. No, I am not suffering from past tense - pork in flight.
With a little more then a 100 minutes left, Guan Han and I dashed back to Yan's apartment to see if we could locate the missing rings for the Mrs's. My earlier care free attitude hit a bump of turbulence as I started fretting about my miscue. Guan Han also expressed blame on himself for forgetting about the rings, but I new that I was the primary culprit. The traffic creeped with every intersection greeting us with red. What should have taken 15 minutes took us 20. Now we had an hour to locate and return the missing treasure.
Into the apartment we scampered. Guan Han and I split up with each taking a room. Our search was not methodological but frantic and hurried. We scurried and searched in cupboards, dressers, and boxes. A sinking feeling started in my stomach. I realized we were searching where just a few hours before, we had been hunting for the Red October Shoes. Twice we searched the apartments 4 rooms, and after a half hour I decided that we should stop. Maybe, I thought, we could quickly buy some replacement rings. But with the missed plane and major delay in San Fransico, and now the missing rings, I felt that a bad omen was being cast my way.
A final wishful glance around the apartment that had me staring at my wife's bed and at the bed's headboard, and with Guan Han walking to the front door, I felt a tingling in my heart. The Headboard has a storage compartment that can be accessed by pulling it down. I never once checked it when searching for the shoes. Nether of us searched there before. It beckoned me with hope so I told Guan Han to wait a moment. I remembering drawing in my breath as I pulled the headboard down. And there snuggled so dearly I saw the jewelry store bag. Grabbing and opening the bag I saw inside the pink jewelry box that contained the rings....my Precious...Wees miss our Precious......... Now I am Lord of the Rings. Elation coursed through my veins as my heart shouted in joy. The curse had been lifted, the black despair dispelled. Maybe Guan Han was master in finding the shoes, but I came through when it counted and by me saying that - well... it had a ring of truth. Only in Middle Earth...ahem...I mean the Middle Kingdom could we have such a grand tale. I had the treasured tokens in hand as we departed back to the reception.
I never liked the proverbial "it was in the last place I looked" situation, so I countered that by just checking One More Place. Nope....the rings aren't there. My humour was back. Guan Han and I breathed a sense of relief and the trip back seemed of shorter duration.
Once back my wife asked where we had found the rings. When I told her where I found them, she asked me why I had put them there yesterday. :huh: I am positive that it was not I that took the rings out of my travel bag. I tried to remember if maybe, my wife had a friend come over before we departed for the hotel and that she wished to show her friend the rings. I can not be certain who took the box out of the bag. I am sure it was not me.....but maybe at the end of the day, and for the sake of the story, we can say that Gollum made an apperance.
.......stay tuned for the next installment......Food, Song, Speech, Bung Gay, oops - hiccup - Gung Bay....and Belly Dancing
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Rhonald where did you get that picture of 'Rockycoon', he has been looking for it everywhere???
ROFLMAO:angel::angel:
Great story mate, looking forward to the next installment...Beautiful looking bride you have there.:icon_biggrin:
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Ahhhh , the Smiles arrived at the Wedding Reception .. so did the Ring's and luckely the Pipa stayed at Home under the Bed .
Now Rhonald , I thought you had a Dress Code for your Reception .. NO tie - No entry !
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Wow, the drama, the suspense... It must be on TBS. Somewhere in all of this I lost the idea that Gollum was the best man? But Ron did find the rings; I tolken you so.
Smeagol happy.
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Ron,
Since you made the references. Here is one for you and your bride.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xIvQXiMVf-Q
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Ron
I dont know what you do to earn a crust....but if you dont take up a career as a writer you aint using your talents !!!
Your story has it all...and so well told...what a pleasure
Congratulations
DavidE
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?say precious for wife ??????????????????????????????????
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Ron,
What a wonderful story. You are both charming people and I wish many years of joy for you both.
Shaun
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Once I was back at the reception it was time to change from my red Chinese outfit to the tuxedo shirt and bow tie. Yan also changed into our traditional western white dress. Sometime after 5:00 pm the guest started to arrive. We had 6 tables set for 12 diners each. The room had a big banner displaying one of our wedding pictures from my February trip when we registered our marriage. Displayed on two TV sets was our wedding album from the same photo session accompained to music. Yan and I were set by the entrance into the dining room to greet our guests. Just about everyone who arrived got pictures taken with us. I was always being prompted by my wife to greet the girls "Ni How" followed by "Ni zhen Piao liang". I kept wishing for our Western tradition where I could in turn kiss all the girls that passed by the wedding line. But instead I had to console myself at admiring their beauty whilst knowing that I had the most beautiful girl as my wife.
It was getting difficult to have a natural smile upon one's face after many pictures being taken. But I tried to remain relaxed and keep up a lively banter with each new arrival. Sometime after 6:30 the guests had arrived and the tables were filled, signify the start of our service. At her apartment with the red envelopes the theme was - here comes the bribe, but here now was the traditional - here comes the bride. Yan and I strolled down the aisle followed behind by Guan Han and my wife's bride maid.
The MC for our wedding had a clear loud voice and his discourse gave food for thought to the guests. Most of his speach was beyond my level of understanding as I waited for my cue. On the ride back to the reception Guan Han asked if I had a speach prepared for my wife :huh: Something else I had not the forthought for. As you guys can attest to, I can usually drum up a witty reply and soon I had an inkling(who says I need a pen) of an idea for what I would say. I had been given some instructions on how the evening would proceed so once given my cue, I was prepared.
I had been surprised when I had to find two pairs of shoes instead of the logical one pair. I used this to my advantage as the bell rang for the beginning of my round. First a couple of quick jabs to soften my audience, "Ni How Chung guo rian". I turned to my wife and carried on with " Yan - Wo Ai Nee, Wo Ai Ne Chin Ai Da". Now the right cross followed by the uppercut. "Today I had a test to pass. I had to find two pairs of shoes. Two pairs of shoes! I thought lucky me - two pairs of shoes must mean that I get to marry two Chineses wives." I recieved laughter from the audience after that translation. Now that I had them on the ropes, I launched my knockout blow. " But no, I understand my mistake now, two pairs of shoes because a Chinese woman is two times better then any other woman in the whole wide world." The round of applause that greated that translation made me think of running for election.
I believe next Yan's boss came on the stage to give a speech. He had a girl do the translation for him. She spoke very good english. She has told me that she has a Canadian boyfriend that is teaching English in a Shenzhen school. Apparently he has played 6 years professional North American football. I was asked how long the distance for love between Canada and China was. Since I had no idea and didn't want to hazard a guess I answered by another yard stick. "The distance can be measured by 6 months of Love letters written every day." A few more questions were asked of me and then it was the turn of the owners from the agency that Yan used to give his speech. I had no idea that he was going to speak. His speech was a little long winded as I think he tried to plug his agency with some free airtime. But we thanked him anyways.
Then we got to the main event of the evening. Instead of our traditional question, " Do you take this".... with the reply "I do", we just had to reply with a Yes. My YES was loud and distinct, while my wife answered yes - Me Too. I miss the standard answer "I Do" because it has great potential for a joke. When ever asked about your wedding you can reply, "I meant to say Do I? but was confused and said I Do! and know I am trapped."
Finally the time came for the mischievous rings to part and claim their rightful place each adorned upon a fingers. Da pair have now become one, symbolising our union as man and wife. It had been a grand adventure(more like 5 grand, but who's counting) to reach this part. The harder the struggle then has made greater the Joy. I am husband to a remarkable lady. I have been blessed and with the lifting of her veil a beautiful world of possibility sparkled in her eyes. First hesitantly, then eagerly we kissed to seal our pack. Both of us had been hurt before in Love. But on this day Cupid truimphed as he gave us each a second chance.
Next came the cutting of the cheese...oops bathroom break....potty humour - the cake. The champagne bottle followed and I watched the one row of people pull back as I edged the cork open. POP - the sound was echoed by the bursting open of a party favour that showered coloured paper upon the wedding cake, while the champagne bottle sprayed its own frothy campaign of salutation. We poured the contents onto a champagne glass fountain to be used in hearty rounded cheers of "Gung Bay" around the 6 dinner tables.
The food was now served to nourish our joy as we partook of feast and fame. From Yan's Art school where she teaches the enchanting zither, two co-workers graced us with their talents. First up was a slender, gracefull lady that hearlded a lovely voice that soon had me not regretting Barry White's apperance(this for U to Shaun). After her song was the dance teacher from the school. She came in wearing Persian type garments and procedeed to give a lively belly dancing, male eye opening dance.
After a few plates graced out table, Yan and I left the room to once again change into red outfits. She wore a new red dress and I clothed myself in my original garment. We re-enetered into the dining room to a smattering of applause and then made the circuit of tables Guang Baying every glass. After a little more food we once again made the court circut where I judged another round of Guang Baying. Small pleasantries were made and soon the evening drifted by. Guests started to leave as we bid them farewell. My mind was drifting towards the hotel bed. I noticed the wedding cake and realised that although I had my cake, I never got to eat it too. I didn't mind because my thoughts were on a finer sweet dessert that soon would be mine :blush:
????????????????????????????VCD ????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????? ??????????????????????????????????????????????????
?say precious for wife ??????????????????????????????????
?????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????
????>>
I am sure my wife posted these Chinese characters. I guess she went to the website from her laptop where I have automatic sign in. Maybe I will suggest she start her own account here.
Stay Tuned for the next episode called ..... Arest in a Shenzhen Police Station
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Greetings Brothers,
Congratulations Rhonald and Yan, a fantastic story and a beautiful wedding. Heres hoping that day is the worst day you ever encounter.
So happy to see another brother wed and heading towards the training soon to begin. Good luck with that Rhon and keep us informed. Also great pictures.
Congrats again,
Zhen and Brian
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Such a wonderful story by a wonderful couple. The pictures are great.
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Rhonald , great Wedding ... where I truely can say ... it's only surpassed by my Own .
The Author of the Story , shall receive my Compliment's of a Story well told .
Thank you Rhonald , and may your Future be just as wonderful .
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Congratulations Rhonald,
you have had an experience to treasure for a lifetime. It has been etched on your brain, recorded on camera, and thanks to your colourful descriptions, preserved in our minds too. The mark of a good writer is the ability to create a world and let the reader feel they were there with you, and you have.
Which leads me to thinking about a book. I'm sure we could all write a novel or two about our adventures, but I think it would be a good idea to have a book comprising about twelve of our stories, representing the good and the bad, the happy and the tragic. Each story would be of short story length, representing a cross-section of the kinds of stories that crop up between us. Some people write better than others, some people have stories that cry out to be heard, but overall the stories would be a positive and fascinating eye-opener for those who know nothing of our adventures, especially if they think we are just sex tourists or completely mad for embarking on this adventure.
I have my own ideas about whose stories I would include, and we do have an embarassment of riches, and I would be happy to edit it, as long as those people gave me permission to send it off to a publisher, and as long as people didn't feel aggrieved if their stories weren't included in what could be the first in a series.
I am thinking that a Sylvain-type adventure could mix with an Arnold-type success story. There could be room for dumplings, zithers, spoilt daughters, scam agencies, Viagra, red envelopes, translator misunderstandings, etc., etc.
I know that people are writing their own books, but I think this would have a broad appeal for anyone interested in East/West relationships. In Rhonald's case, it could be a simple matter of providing a little background story and then focussing on his description of the wedding.
Shoot me down if you disagree
Alex
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Rhonald wrote ...
"We had 6 tables set for 12 diners each".
We'll have the same amount of people at our wedding dinner in December. My mother said to have an "even" number of tables according to Chinese tradition to signify good luck. Was that your case also to have "6" tables of 12 ??? How much did the dinner cost and how many main dishes was served ???
Thanks for sharing your witty humour and great pictures. We're all waiting for the 'Belly Dancing' story ... and more pictures.
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alex I think that is a great idea...!!!!:icon_biggrin:
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Rhonald , great Wedding ... where I truely can say ... it's only surpassed by my Own .
Arnold with Hindsight, I wished I remembered to kneel down at the wedding reception and ask her hand as you did. I had remembered your pictures and thought it such a noble idea. Oh well - I hope there is not a next time.
As for you wedding - I don't mind if you had more syrup passed around for your pancakes. Canadian syrup makes up for it in quality. :icon_cheesygrin:
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Rhonald wrote ...
"We had 6 tables set for 12 diners each".
We'll have the same amount of people at our wedding dinner in December. My mother said to have an "even" number of tables according to Chinese tradition to signify good luck. Was that your case also to have "6" tables of 12 ??? How much did the dinner cost and how many main dishes was served ???
Thanks for sharing your witty humour and great pictures. We're all waiting for the 'Belly Dancing' story ... and more pictures.
My wife 1st planned on 60 guests but soon invited 10 more. Only 6 tables fit okay in the room so she just increased by adding 2 more chairs per table. I remember the bill quite well since we were planning on paying the difference with red envelopes we recieved as gifts. The price came to $11,550.00 rmb. I can not remember how many dishes since I had to vacate the room for a dress change and as well do the circuit court judge role of Guan Baying. I never filled myself and I had to wait for dessert later that night :sleepy:
The XXX Wedding Night
with posted link to the movie http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vVoxCJxyYPc&feature=related :fi_lone_ranger:
It would make no sense to post an uncensored movie. Lets just say that the night ended well - but that is another tail tale. This is one experience the brotherhood needs to share in each their own privacy when dealing with their privates - Viagra enhanced or al Natural
Now stand to attention foot soldiers!! if you wish to measure up.
The next morning we went out for brunch with an older couple that came from Meizhou, the city Yan was born in. The restaurant we went to is one I have been to on each trip to Shenzhen. It is about 50 floors up and the restaurant rotates giving you a 360 degree view of the city. I have uploaded some pictures showing the view and also showing China's National sport. NO! not Table Tennis - But Jay Walking :icon_biggrin:
The afternoon was spent at the knock of mall Luohu Commerical City. "Featuring over 700 shops over 5 floors, Commercial City is likely to be the most intense shopping experience you’ve ever experienced, with hundreds of salesmen and hustlers all jostling for your attention." (http://gohongkong.about.com/od/traveltochina/a/shopping_shenzhen.htm)
Just before entering a tunnel leading to the mall I purchased a portable, rechargeable speaker for my Microsoft Zune player. It cost 150 rmb but my wife bartered it down to 130 rmb.
[
The evening lead into an aresting developement in a Chinese Police Station
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Okay, I will not keep you guys in suspenders.
It was my cute way to cause concern because I never did get arrested, but I did take a rest in the police station :fi_lone_ranger: But my brief stay there did enlighten me.
Yan and I planned on going to Guilin for a short honeymoon. But during the day of our wedding she recieved a phone call from the Meizhou Police station regarding her POLICE CERTIFICATE AND CLEARANCE for her visa application. The next morning the Shenzhen Police station phoned her to come in for an interview. Now when we submitted our visa application for her back in May, I had a POLICE CERTIFICATES AND CLEARANCES notarized document from the Meizhou Police station. So I was confused why the interview :huh:. I had never heard on any other internet blogs any lady ever having the police give an interview. Hong Kong had recieved our package on June 18th and the average processing time for 80% of the applications are 13 months from Hong Kong. So I figured we would not hear anything for another 5 to 8 months. My lady was excited thinking that maybe in a month or 2 we could have her visa. Since she needed to attend the interview we cancelled our plan on going to Guilin.
We arrived at the Police station before 7:00pm. The main room had a counter with one bored police officer reclined in a chair behind it. Just next to the counter there was a stairwell leading upstairs with glass sliding security door guarding the stairs. At right angels flanking the stairwell 2 hallways led off from the common room. The non to helpfull officer asked Yan what we were there for, and her reply about the interview and the interviewing officer's name, left confusion on his part. Obvious to me that the upstairs did not co-ordinate events with the downstairs. After a confused searching of the itinerary, phoning upstairs, discussions with a secretary we found out that the interviewing police officers were out eating supper. We were told to wait at the benches on the other side of the room.
About 10 minutes later, 2 distinguishing looking gentlemen came into the building. We found out that they were here to conduct the interview. We were lead up stairs into a waiting room. I sure hope this does not turn into a bad cop good cop routine. The one man started setting up his laptop while my lady dumped some red wrapped wedding candies onto the table. Dam..I should have brought some donuts! The one officer asked who I was and Yan explained that by luck and coincidence I was in China for our wedding. The three of them aggreed that it was a lucky occurence. Neither officer spoke English and soon I was instructed that this would be a private interview and I was told to wait downstairs. Ya right, I know this Police tactic - split the suspects and break them down - the classic Prisoner Dilemma. What game next - Go Fish?
On the hard wire bench I waited and I rested. Doing Time at the slammer gives a man much to reflect and ponder. It changes a man. Hardens him - dam it - that is why I got married - to relieve that part. Freedom yes Freedom from this 4 walled cell :dodgy:
After an hour of doing Hard Time on the bench an other officer aproached me and asked me (who the what knows) I couldn't speak Chinese and he did not speak English. The original officer behind the counter was gone and his replacement was asked about me and he did not know why I was there either. Soon a confusion of 3 officers were trying to decide what to do with this Kwailo and I was feeling the need to do a Prison Break. Where was my Yan :huh: One officer phoned up stairs and I was waved to the phone. They pulled out a stool for me the pigeon to sit on. The man at the other end of the line spoke English. He asked me why I was there and soon I felt like I was in a comedy reel of misunderstanding.
'I came here with my wife, she is upstairs being interviewed for her visa.'
'Did you lose your visa?"
'No, my wife is Chinese and she is upstairs being interviewd by 2 police officers for her visa to come to live in Canada.'
'Why you come here?'
'We were told to come here by the Shenzhen Police Station.'
'Are you in trouble, do you need help?'
'No I am alright, I am just waiting for my wife.'
'Does your wife need help?'
'No she is upstairs talking to 2 police officers. They have some questions about her visa.'
'why are they questioning her?'
'It was the Police station that asked her to come here for the interview. When we applied for my wife to come to Canada she needed to send a POLICE CERTIFICATE of CLEARANCE. I think the interview is about this document. If you need to you can talk with the 2 police officers giving the interview'
'So everything is okay'
'Yes'
I guess my last long winded sentences finally got the result I needed. I don't think by clearing the air but by causing my interogater to feel inadequate in comprehending me. The 1st officer was put on the line and after a brief heated discussion the 1st officer smilled at me and pointed back to the slammer..ahem the hard wired bench for more rest time. He brought me a bottle of water for doing good time and being a model prisioner. After another 30 minutes my wife descended the stairs to my rescue. I guess her plea bargining worked as we left the station hand on handcuff.
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Hey Rhonald,
Loving your story. Hopefully when I go to China in December, I don't get put in the "slammer". Nothing like being the only laowai, and probably the only English speaking person where I'm going. I'd probably be in there forever lol.
By the way, what kind of visa did you apply for, before you were married? A spousal visa, or a visitors visa?
Anyway, continue enjoying yourself, and soaking up the culture, the great food, and of course the love of your beautiful wife.
RC
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Hey Rhonald,
By the way, what kind of visa did you apply for, before you were married? A spousal visa, or a visitors visa?
Thanks for your remarks. We applied for the family class spousal visa since I hear the visitor visa is just a shot in the dark. I hope your trip is filled with fun frolicking festivities.
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Arnold with Hindsight, I wished I remembered to kneel down at the wedding reception and ask her hand as you did. I had remembered your pictures and thought it such a noble idea.
Rhonald , believe me ... there will be many times ... your going to need to go down on your Knee in front of Yan and ask for her forgiveness . Us Men , we alway's manage to screw some things up ... since we are only almost Perfect .:blush:
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Ron,
Good story but you are hopeless. I thought I could spin a good yarn but I humbly bow to your greatness. :icon_wink::icon_wink::icon_wink:
Shaun
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Yeah, this is the best story I've ever read. You have got to get this published Rhonald.
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You are an excellent articulate story teller. I am really enjoying your trip log.
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Ron,
Good story but you are hopeless. I thought I could spin a good yarn but I humbly bow to your greatness. :icon_wink::icon_wink::icon_wink:
Shaun
Thanks Shaun,
Coming from you, a very articulate person, I will treasure the compliment.
A good story, like a comfortable sweater fits best when knitted with love.
The thread does count, and don't worry as I won't fleece anyone here by pulling the wool over their eyes.
Reflections from an Ex-convict:
The fresh evening air felt good after spending time in a dark, dank cell. The Police station was close to the hotel we were staying at so Yan decided for us to stretch our legs. Instead of a story for this episoide I have decided to share some observations I had made while being locked in the slammer; or is that slammed in the lockup :huh:
I was surprised at how few police officers were at the main reception. From the main lobby the only locked door was the glass security door leading to the upstairs. While sitting on the wired mesh bench I saw the frequent coming and goings of many young healthy looking males. None were in uniform and I thought they were maybe arriving for a shift change. A few procedeed up the left hallway but most went to the right hallway. Sometimes some would punch in a key code at the glass sliding door and proceed upstairs. But rarely any uniformed police officers would leave. All the men hand small tote carry bags slung off their shoulders. Since the ones I saw come in also left the building in street clothes, I soon realised that this police station had the majority of officers as undercover agents. And the tote bags probably carried their personal affects.
My hunch was justified when I would at times see an athletic young man, with tote bag, escorting people down the right hallway,steering them from behind with one hand on the back of their neck. Once I saw a young pretty girl being lead away and I could see concern itched in her eyes. There was much bantering going on between the many young men and the few uniformed officers. I also realised that if I wished, I could have very easily seen the code needed to accesses the glass security door leading up to the, I figure, administration area. Just before my interrogation I finally saw my first person being lead in handcuffed. I was also surprised, not my first viewing, but that he was distinctly non Chinese but Muslim. A short time later an elder muslim man came in with a little boy of about 8. Over the next half hour I would see the two muslims in discussion with the police officers. The hancuffed man would be led away, only to return to have a cigarette outside while under escort. When brought back inside, he fell to his knees and I could see great sorrow on his face. They led him down the right hallway one more time. I could hear the sound of metal doors echo from that direction so I knew where the cells were.
I was surprised at how lackadaisical security was at the police station. Compared to Canada and its more secure front end police stations, I guess the Chinese bureaucracy, and cultural mindset never thinks of an organised resistance assualting the precient.
On the trip back to the hotel I also noticed the most concentration of non Chinese residence for about a 4 block radius around the police station. They were heavily of a Muslim, Turkish or Pakastanian features. I also heard the familiar music I have heard before back in Canada. I live in a predomintly Siik / Muslim neighborhood. I thought to myself that wouldn't be ironic for me the gwi lou, to be caught starring at the foreigners.
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I think you visited the Secret Police Headquarters... but you doesn't know this because it is a secret :icon_cool:
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I think you visited the Secret Police Headquarters... but you doesn't know this because it is a secret :icon_cool:
lol :icon_biggrin::icon_biggrin::icon_biggrin:
That's funny Peter!!
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Ron,
I think Peter just 1 uped you. :icon_cheesygrin:
Too funny,
Shaun
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Yes I guess the best place to hide a secret Police station is right inside an ordinary Police station - who would have thunk it? But then Peter being an IKEA 007, he would be the man to figure it out.
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1 - 1
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Scratch off Guilin & a return to Meizhou:
Having the police interview done my wife thinks that soon her visa could come, maybe by next month. She had use up her last visa entrance into Hong Kong to pick me up from the airport. Since she wants to be ready to go to Hong Kong incase of a required interview from the Canadian embassy, she decided for us to go to Meizhou so that she can apply for a new Hong Kong entrance visa.
I had originally been in Meizhou in February when we had to travel there to register our marriage. Even though it has about 1 million people, it feels like a rural town to me. It is in the mountains and the air is clear and fresh. My first visit we did not get to see some of the sites. For this visit we would stay a couple of nights. The plan was first for Yan to settle some business, then after to take a day bus trip to see some sites. The cost for the bus ticket was 100 rmb per person. We travelled back with a lady from Meizhou that Yan calls big sister, even though she is just a good family friend. The trip took about 4 hours and during the ride, I could feel my throat getting the itch that signified to me that I was starting to come down with something.
We arrived mid evening and settled in our hotel. For the first night we had to settle on 2 double beds, but was promised a queen size bed for the next 2 nights. The hotel is the same we stayed in February, and after the 1st night, the next room was next door to our wedding night room. Cost was 180 rmb per night. Before retiring for the evening Yan was howling to try one of the local dishes that Meizhou is known for. When offered to try it, I declined because the thought of the meat gnawed at me. She wolfed down the meat telling me how delicious it was. I just settled for a common bowl of beef and noodles thank you.
The next morning we headed for the government building responsible for passports and visa, but first we stopped at the local back lane market to break our fast (the pictures I have uploaded). While sitting at the government office as Yan filled out the application, I noticed again how much louder the general conversation is in China. The rooms I also notice tend to echo from all the talking. City life in China is loud, whether in Shenzhen, Sanya, or Meizhou. It is not just the traffiic with the horns blaring, but in street conversation and in shop haggiling.
After the government building we headed for the newspaper office so that Yan could put an ad in the paper to sell her property there. Once sold, she will use this money to help her with her relocation to Canada. On the trip to the newspaper office we took a ricksaw for transportation. It was at this time and later that evening I wished that I had taken my camera. After our breakfast I had left the camera at the hotel. From the newspaper office we headed just outside of Meizhou to the country side. Now Yan had been raised from the age of 4 by foster parents. Outside of meizhou was the house that her natural father had lived in before retiring to Hong Kong. Her father was a rice farmer and his original house was in a very enchanting location.
The sun that evening hung suspended as a glowing orb in the red evening dusk. There was a stillness in the air barely disturbed by a chours of crickets chirping in delight. I saw farmers in the near distance working the land. Tranquil and peaceful huts collected along side rice paddy fields. This is the scene that we think of when we imagine China. And I can only recall in memory that which I wish I could have sharred in pictures. I would have needed more than a thousand words to paint the picture I saw that evening and still I would fall short.
That evening we ate at the same place where Yan enjoyed her man's best friend dish once again. We picked up some medicine from a pharmacy for the now sore throat and minor cough I had. I wished I new what products she bought for me, but I was instructed to take 4 pills each from the 2 boxes we purchased. I am sure she was overdosing me on medications. I remember others, like Ed (the sock) mentioning when they got sick and the kitchen sink method the Chinese girls used in order to cure us. Later that night once we had gone to bed, I woke up slightly coughing again. My wife told me to take some more medicine. I asked where they were. She rummaged through her hand bag and gave me one of the boxes. I poped a couple of pills from the blister pack and swallowed them down with some water. As I returned the medicine to her hand bag I caught in the darken room a glimpse of the picture on the box. This was not the medicine we bought today! I went to the washroom with the box and turned on the light. Sure enough this was different medicine. Once again, I am not sure what this medicine was for - But I have a distinct feeling that I won't be suffering from any menstrual cramps this month :s
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Stay tuned for the next installment intitled Day Trip and 3 times a trip with no Squat toilet but forth time not the Charm?
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But I have a distinct feeling that I won't be suffering from any menstrual cramps this month :s
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Hopefully, Ron, there is a fair chance you wont get pregnant either :icon_cheesygrin::icon_cheesygrin:
Great story again....almost felt I was there myself.....!!!
DavidE
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Great update Ron. I take it that it is just a formality for our ladies to get Hong Kong visas? I've heard they're expensive though. I want to meet my lady in HK next year so I can gently ease her into Western civilisation (she's not left the motherland before).
And please don't tell me that guy in the middle photo is washing and/or preparing his vegetables in the street :dodgy:!
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And please don't tell me that guy in the middle photo is washing and/or preparing his vegetables in the street :dodgy:!
Oh yes , and he is in perfect FORM of the Asian Squat too .:icon_cheesygrin::icon_cheesygrin:
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Great update Ron. I take it that it is just a formality for our ladies to get Hong Kong visas? I've heard they're expensive though. I want to meet my lady in HK next year so I can gently ease her into Western civilisation (she's not left the motherland before).
And please don't tell me that guy in the middle photo is washing and/or preparing his vegetables in the street :dodgy:!
Nope, he did that in the sewer before he got there. :icon_cheesygrin:
Shaun
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guys you need to stick to the thread.Posting about road kill.Is not even close to the subject matter
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And please don't tell me that guy in the middle photo is washing and/or preparing his vegetables in the street :dodgy:!
It was about 9:30 in the morning and the guy was just setting up to sell vegetables for the day. When we returned to the same street in the evening, the whole lane had vendors selling fruits, vegetables, and crafts. My wife has a cute English word she uses for vegetables. She calls them "rubbage". I think she gets confused and thinks of the word cabage to say vegetables, unless in mandarin rubage is how they say vegetables.
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And please don't tell me that guy in the middle photo is washing and/or preparing his vegetables in the street :dodgy:!
It was about 9:30 in the morning and the guy was just setting up to sell vegetables for the day. When we returned to the same street in the evening, the whole lane had vendors selling fruits, vegetables, and crafts. My wife has a cute English word she uses for vegetables. She calls them "rubbage". I think she gets confused and thinks of the word cabage to say vegetables, unless in mandarin rubage is how they say vegetables.
Probably stating the obvious, but vegetable is (in general) cai (?) usually with some sort of leading word. That said, I think your wife could be saying cabbage or possibly ruffage. :) Cabbage is used extensively in a lot of chinese dishes.
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I recall hearing certain leafed vegi's ruffage? Sounds like roughage. Maybe that's what she's saying?
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Sorry for the delay in postings from my October trip. With work being busy I did not have the luxury to allow the bard free reign. I also have felt the loss of continuation but will try my best to carry on with my thoughts.
Day trip Bus Tour:
The day before we booked tickets for a bus tour. It cost 98 rmb per person and included a lunch with 3 tourist stops. The bus was to leave at 9:00 am and we arrived just on time. Once on board we spotted only a couple of single seats left. Yan asked an older lady and man if they would sit with each other to allow us to seat together. They declined but a younger couple kindly split up and offered us their seats so I had the company of my Yan beside me. :icon_biggrin:
After an hour trip into the sunny mountains we arrived at or first stop. A museum had been created at the former residency of the famous General Ye Jianying. Inside the museum was posted signs of not taking pictures. Since I did not wish to risk my parole, I obliged. But when I saw the handsome carving of the huge drift wood, I asked for permission and as my 1st pics can attest, I got an agreeable answer. Outside the main museum building the former residency the General stayed in during the Mao years was maintained showing a typical housing unit and private rooms.
Next stop was a Buddist temple where most of the pictures are from. It was here where we also had lunch. A short lunch time magic and stunt routine entertained the guests. The temple had well manicured gardens and beautiful scenery. All the shops along the pathway sold incense to us wandering pilgrams that wondered how to best communicate with our past ancesters. What was that? Did I hear Eddy Murphy? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rts7bQCvWkc&feature=related
I did spy a butterfly but never a grasshopper, which I guess reside only at Shaolin temples :s
After lunch we climbed back on board and headed to a famous tea plantation where my trouble became unplugged.
During my time in the army and from many camping trips, I have a tendency to become a little plugged up when in the field. I find this an advantage as not having to brave inclimatic weather with the urge, suits me fine. Now I had been in China for more than a week with no significant movement. Lets just say that when the bus arrived at the tea shop, I started to have severe stomach cramps. I remember being at the temple and seeing some facilities that were the typical squatting variety. Three times to China and never a squat was needed as I had no problems waiting to arrive at the hotel. But this time I knew I was ...excuse my language....shit out of luck. I quickly walked to the end of the tea shop trying to find the relief station. Across the road I saw a possible building and headed there. A man proceeded in front of me and he took a stall. The only other stall was also occupied. At this time my pain was so intense that I started groaning in pain. Rubbing my stomach I tried to ease the aggravation. Man how long does it take for those people to be done. I must have waited for 5 minutes with no sound of either man finishing his business. I was contemplating on heading into the bushes outside when finally the man who had just entered before me left the stall.
Finally...I didn't care anymore, I would take off my pants if need be....but my Butt was finally going to squat. I swung open the door to the stall and Low and behold....a porcelain throne beckoned me :icon_cheesygrin: With no time to count my blessing, I adopted that most famous Auguste Rodin's pose any Frenchman can recognise as ....The sTinker
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Sorry for the delay in postings from my October trip.
Okay Rhonald , just don't do it again . :icon_cheesygrin:
Ahhh ... running to the World's Courtroom ( WC ) to do important Business . One does come out very enlightened most of the time .
Love the Photo's , very lovely Lady Butterfly . Glad you brought your Net to catch that one .
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Love the Photo's , very lovely Lady Butterfly . Glad you brought your Net to catch that one .
Thanks Arnold :icon_biggrin: And what is it with the insect references - Bees and Butterflies - Oh I get it :idea: Once we have our very own Chinese insects....we are insex :sleepy:
And am I hearing right........ Is that the buzzzziiiing of your very own Honey Bee alighting in L.A. today? May the two of you share sweet nectar :heart:
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Great update Rhonald... Very nice pictures...:icon_biggrin:
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this is my first reading of this post and it was quite enjoyable
and the pics were great