China Romance
All About China => Your trip to China => Topic started by: shaun on March 27, 2010, 08:03:00 am
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Hi all,
So this is the point we are all hoping to get to. As I begin to write this thread my pulse increases and my palms are a little sweaty. Anticipation is beginning to grow as I leave in 4 days and I will see Peggy face to face for the first time in 5 days.
There is so much to do I don't know if I will get it all done. Still have a lot of things to purchase.
Like almost everyone else I am starting this thread for the trip. I hope to post many happy... OK maybe 1 or 2 happy comments about my trip.
More later, Shaun 4 days!!!!!!
Woo Hoo!!!!!!
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Hi all,
Woo Hoo!!!!!!
Shaun,
I wish you great success on your trip!
Also though you may not need any sort of insight, here are a few thoughts that I have about first visits, if it is your first visit, that may help in some way:
"After we have spent much time effort and often dollars to find what we think is the right person and we setup our first visit, we may be overlooking some important points that hampers our success.
There is a specific set of protocols that more often than not should be followed that will help us steer away from trouble and achieve success. Although we may not talk about them, they are often unspoken - yet there.
Sometimes as men - we may take things for granted and cause ourselves challenges. What we may see as important might not be as important as we think to our wives, fiancées and ladies.
So early on we may overlook things because we just do not know, we may be simply very excited, or we may just not have thought about some things.
Like when we initially go and see our lady have we thought about:
- what are the most important things to her? Why?
- have we discussed these things with her?
- why are we going to see her?
- what are our expectations ?
- what are her expectations? Engagement, marriage, just meeting?
- what outcome do we seek?
- what about her parents? will we meet them? have we discussed this?
- what about gifts - do we need to bring any, if so to whom?
- how can we put our best foot forward and not in our mouths?
- what should we do - must dos? Have we discussed this with her?
- what more often than not should we not do? Have we discussed this with her?
- what are some customs and or courtesies that we might not know about but will help us navigate through the maze?
- that will help us achieve success in our quest to find that special someone."
There are many things we can add to the list and share with each other to initially cut out some of the frustration and increase our success rate.
I know there are no absolute rights or wrongs. Yet if we think about some of these things that maybe we take for granted, we can help each other be better prepared to succeed.
What do you think?
Shaun, you probably have covered most if not all. If so - simply food for thought!
Have a fantastic trip!
Alton
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Hey Shaun
Am I missing something here?
Is there something important happening in the next 7 days or so?
Like top of the list. Shave off the goatee!!!!!!!!!
Willy
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Best of luck Shaun we are all rooting for you!
I am sure you will be fine, just keep the 24 hour rule in mind at all times. The first trip this is more important than ever!
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Shaun,
Have a good trip. I hope everything works out better than you want. Have a ball. I will see you when you get back. If you need anything just holler.
Jim
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Good luck Shaun! Hope everything goes better than you hope. I'll be praying for a safe (and successful!) trip for you.
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I was going to wait till the last minute to post this but what the hell?
Wishing you best of luck on the trip, and you know we'll be here for you? But if there's a problem? Shaun who? :icon_biggrin:
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Shaun
I well remember my first visit to this magic place.....you will sure be blown away at it all...go with the flow, forget you are a Western man for a little while.....just dive in and...enjoy !!!
Privacy will be a faint memory, solitude does not exist, if you dont like people you are stuffed !!!
The sights, sound, smells and tastes will all be new and exciting....unless you allow yourself to yearn for what up to this point was a "normal life"...:icon_cheesygrin::icon_cheesygrin:
I know you will find Peggy is a unique character, with unique thoughts about life and love and a way of life that is relatively simple, but I also know she will be basically a happy person.....they all are !!
I only have one caution for you...the 24 hour rule....this may be OK when you are seperated by thousands of miles and with only the Internet between you.....you cant wait 24 hours to answer some question or query or issue......... It is not quite so easy when you are together in person to have a long "time out" to think about a response. Usually you only have a matter of minutes !!!!
I am sure you will get by in various forms of sign language, Besta, Chinglish and Chemistry...BUT, be quick to keep quiet if you dont quite understand what she wants to say...and be infinitely patient if she does not understand what you want to say !!
Lastly...sometimes a smile in Chinese is to hide an embarrassment....watch for the "pained smile".....its usually a crossed communication.....
Bon voyage........here comes the adventure of your life...nothing will ever be the same again !!!
David
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Imagine the voice of Walter Cronkite. "This just in, Shaun's mother approves of the trip and seeing Peggy. His mother told him to let his hair down and have a good time." His sister is beginning to warm up a little to the idea and wishes him well but seemed tense this evening as they discussed the matter. She is however, not real happy with mom for blessing Shaun's trip More as the story develops. Back to you Ted."
Guy's thank you for all of the wonderful comments. Alton, great advice. Yes I have discussed most with Peggy but you gave me a couple more to talk about. Willy, what can I say? The heart may be faster but the hand is to unsteady to shave right now. Mike, Ronan, Jim, Roy thanks. Vince you old scoundrel I'll remember you too when the time comes. David E if I am half as lucky as you with finding the right woman, I will be blessed.
I only have one real issue right now. I am stumped with this engagement red envelope I am to give to the mother. I am a conservative when spending. I do not want to give to much but I do not want Peggy to think she is not invaluable. Will Peggy be insulted if I give her mother 5000RMB? I think that isn't too much, I would be happy with 1000RMB but it may be more inline to give 10,000RMB. If that is the right figure we will have to wait a little while. The divorce is costing more than I imagined but to be finished by April 1 I am having to make more concessions. Someone please help, I just need a few guidelines.
Shaun
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To Be or Not to be - that is the question.
However in your case To Be(ard) or Not to Bea(ard).
For 5000 rmb I will shave your whole body!!!!!! Would you like to make an appointment Sir. I can lather you all up!!!!!!
I would have thought on this first meeting 1000 would be nearer the mark. My wife suggests no more than 3000 rmb. Then maybe a higher amount as you get to know her.
If you have doubts ask Peggy when you are there after all it may soon be both your money and not just yours!!!!!
Willy
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Willy,
Uh... Well uh... I uh... You uh... Shave??? uh... Lather??? uh... :huh::blush: Oh the images... The horror... Willy, I didn't know... :s:s
I asked Peggy and she would not answer. She didn't want to, I guess you might say jinx it. It is my decision to make.
Shaun
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Well my wife says that 3000 would be very generous on the first meeting. She also said that when you meet for the second time you will have a special place in her heart as she will have opened the envelope later in private.
Willy
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I only have one real issue right now. I am stumped with this engagement red envelope I am to give to the mother. I am a conservative when spending. I do not want to give to much but I do not want Peggy to think she is not invaluable. Will Peggy be insulted if I give her mother 5000RMB? I think that isn't too much, I would be happy with 1000RMB but it may be more inline to give 10,000RMB. If that is the right figure we will have to wait a little while. The divorce is costing more than I imagined but to be finished by April 1 I am having to make more concessions. Someone please help, I just need a few guidelines.
Shaun
Shaun
It seems like you and Peggy communicate very well. Why not ask her. Tell her your concerns about what you should do. You want everything to be right and to go well. She will give you her feelings. Then you read between the lines, and do what you think is best. But, try to get her thoughts. Then do.
I agree with all that has been said. You will be changed for life. So - go have some fun!
Have a fantastic trip.
Alton
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Shaun
Advice from Ming " Peggy has been married before.........her Mum would not expect a huge red envelope, even a very nice gift would do !!!"
But if you feel it better to give Mum some money........1000 RMB will be OK. In her typical Chinese way, Ming said that Men should not allow their families to expect more than they want to give....work that out !!!!
I think its called Chinese Logic...and I am in baby steps at the moment trying to figure it all out :icon_cheesygrin::icon_cheesygrin:
David
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Shaun , now the time is so close see if you can find a Besta electronic translator either near you or when you arrive as YOU WILL NEED ONE , unless your lady has done many years of English , many words just are not used in China and many words have 4 or 5 meanings so a conversation can be very confusing , plus talking to her friends or family who do not speak English , regards Robert
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Robert,
I asked her to look for a good deal on a Besta. Since I arrive Thursday afternoon we should go and pick it up after I check into the motel. I also asked her to find a good translator for when I meet her mother, brothers and sisters. I do not want to miss anything when I speak with them and if I am uncomfortable trying to communicate I could break into a little Spanish. Comprende? Was ist los?
Thank all of you for your months of contributions.
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Thanks Mike. I will let everyone know.
My concern is not the amount as much as it is the value. I mean I do not have tons of money but I think as long as I have been talking with Peggy I know what she is thinking concerning this subject. I think she is wondering how much value I am placing on her. I want to give enough to make her happy but not enough for the family to think I am a well full of money. I think I am seeing a few guidelines beginning to build.
This evening I will tell a story about value and which will explain more of what I am thinking. Gotta go to work.
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Shaun,
Just read your query, and everyone's answers.... Now I'll give my spin on your dilemma, ...haha!!
First off, David E's (Ming's) answer is the closest, in both money terms and the actual situation as regards to Peggy being previously married.
I will add a little something here, If you start by giving large sums of money, it will come to be expected each time there is a Red Envelope situation. It's not a derisory remark, it's just the way Chinese are. (Something along the lines that Dave's Ming was intimating in her comment.) You can tell them all that your not a wealthy man, for a month of Sunday's, but if you give a large sum of money in a Red Envelope for a relatively minor occassion, they WILL consider you Wealthy Shaun, ... Guaranteed!! ...So start as you mean to continue is my advice!! ...haha!!
David.....
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Shaun...go with what your heart says...
You know when you meet, just take it as normal date, and dont think too much...
best of luck mate...
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Shaun,
Do you plan on getting engaged with this trip? look, I had a lot of trouble with this red envelope thing. Personally I dont like it at all. Now, having said that. IT is a time honored thing so who are we to stop it. I was told that the red envelope especially with a second marriage is based on income so what both David's have said is very true. You will give a second envelope when you get married so I think a small amount now would be in order. Why not go with 2500 RMB. I think that is a very fair amount right now. Just explain to Peggy that that is what you can give right now. Then see what her reaction is. That is an indicator of how she is.
Just my 2 cents.
Jim
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Thanks all. This is good advice and helps me to hone in what I need to do. I will see how it goes once I get there. 1000RMB sounds good but I was thinking somewhere between 2000RMB - 3000RMB. Jim said it best. See what her reaction is.
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Willy and Shaun,
please let me know when you are doing the shaving event as i do not want to be
anywere near that nor do i want to see it. maybe Peggy and i will go have lunch or
dinner while you two do that :icon_cheesygrin: its a site i think neaither of us would
like to see or know about happening
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Ted I will be going with you and Peggy. Willy isn't putting shaving cream on me and I won't come near him if he has a razor. If Peggy wants it off she has to do it. :icon_cheesygrin:
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Please Shaun choose your words more carefully!!!
That last sentence was made for me to play with BUT on this occasion I will resist!!! If you are taking your laptop with you you can use it at Hong Kong airport free of charge so maybe we will get an update on the final days of the beard.
Don't worry about the razor I will not bring mine - you will be so high when you meet Peggy that you wont care if i use kitchen scissors or a plain blow torch!!!!
Hope to see you some time during your trip.
Willy
Hair today gone tomoroow
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Shaun , best of Luck and you know I'm eagerly awaiting this Trip of your's to unfold . We do need two Photo's of you of course .... " BEFORE and AFTER " of the " NEW look on your Face .:icon_confused:
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Willy,
I must apologize. I need to proof read my comments. :blush: I know what I meant to say; that wasn't it. I must be losing my mind, what little I have to lose.
Arnold, Mike I will get pictures even if there is not before and after. I am betting the beard remains.
:icon_cheesygrin:
Shaun
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How come your still showing 4 days to go with your Avitar. Are you putting off the inevitable?
Have a great trip and a good sleep- and then your nightmare begins. You will soon wake up in the same country as me!!!!!!
Willy
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Willy,
My Avitar? I am having a hard enough time simply tying my shoes right now. Thanks for keeping me on track.
Ted, I thought you had my back?
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Shaun,
i do have your back dont worry and keep in mind Willy is a little senile (hahahahahahah)
so you have to ignore him sometimes (hahahahahaha)
all kidding aside if you get the time Willy and i will take you to some very interesting places
and if you get your hair cut in a shop dont go to the one with all the young girls sitting around
the front window. Peggy will be using a razor on you if she finds out you went there lol!!!!!
that 50lbs of jerky will come in handy as i now have 9 kids here in China who look at me as
not only their teacher but also as their big brother. so i am going to give them some of it to
try out and see if they like it.
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Ted,
Be careful that jerky might go real fast with the children. If I am caught in an establishment getting a hair cut like that I will point to you and Willy and shrug my shoulders. I will tell Peggy that my eyes have been closed all of the time and my thought were only of her. :icon_cheesygrin:
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I wouldnt take you to one of those places Shaun,
but watch out for Willy he is always finding the message
ladies hahahhaha
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Shaun...I just read this post...been moving into new apartment and didn't have net hooked up...I wish you a great voyage...your coming over in a dingy right???:icon_cheesygrin: You should arrive sometime in 2012...LOL...I'm curious do you know what zhu means in Chinese? As much as I eat, I hear it a few times everyday! They don't call me "abigbutt" for nothing! Wish you the best bro!!!!!:icon_biggrin:
Jim
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Shaun, lie like the devil if your caught and try and keep a straight face while doing it. Put on that innocent look and look demuir as
if you were forced in there....haha. But we know you looked....lol
Hope your flight is good and those drugs ought to help you sleep through all those hours. When you get to Hong-Kong be sure to write
a note to someone so we know you got there safe (although the stews may have a different story)...:icon_cheesygrin: Don't forget
the flowers for her (very important). Have a great time and are you supposed to give her a red envelope when you get ingaged? or do
you give it to the parents?
let a proffesional shave you, remember razors are sharp and can cut deep.....:icon_eek: specially if you don't bring flowers. :icon_cheesygrin:
Good luck Shaun, may the luck be with you bro. have a good time...
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Have a great time and are you supposed to give her a red envelope when you get ingaged? or do
you give it to the parents?
let a proffesional shave you, remember razors are sharp and can cut deep.....:icon_eek: specially if you don't bring flowers. :icon_cheesygrin:
You give the red envelope to the man with the big sharp razor. Well you do if you know whats good for you.
Are you here yet Shuan?
Willy
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Shaun is having a great time with his lady today and for the
next few days lets all give him a few days to get settled and
then we can hammer him lol!!!!!!!!
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I am here. I left on the 31st at 1am, drove to Atlanta, couldn't sleep because the ticket counter for Air Canada was not open but I was first in line. The computer went down. Finally got on the plane to Toronto and then to China. Dang that flight is long. 15 hours from Toronto by ways of the north pole. More later about that.
I met Peggy at the Ferry stop and OMG!!!!!!!! :icon_cheesygrin: She is an absolute dream. We both recognized each other instantly. We didn't kiss which I expected but that was taken care of in short order. Dinner which was heavenly and off to bed for me. I will tell you more later and yes all hair is still intact. Don't know how long I can hold out though.
Shaun
P.S. I think I forgot to say OMG.
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Super news Shaun, keep us updated, the first visit stories are always the most exciting i think :D
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Shaun....
Well it's been a LONG time coming, but your finally on your first trip to China!!!!
Keep your eyes open and your wits about you, and ''Enjoy'' China and your lady to there full potential. Just pop on line from time to time to update us on your adventure...
All the best to you Shaun....
David....
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Great to hear you've arrived safetly shaun...:icon_cheesygrin:
Have a great trip and remember enjoy every moment with Peggy...:icon_biggrin::angel::icon_biggrin::icon_biggrin:
Say hi to her from all of us.....:icon_biggrin:
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We didn't kiss
Shaun
P.S. I think I forgot to say OMG.
I would say OMG too........
Have a great time bro! You finally arrived! Make the most of your two days here...hahahaha...it seem like a little while back there were a few of us pushing you to get your bigbutt over here! :icon_cheesygrin::icon_cheesygrin:
Jim
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The flight is horrendous. but worth it once you get there. Enjoy, enjoy, enjoy Bro. It is exciting, that first trip. Have fun and keep us updated.
Jim
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Well done Shaun, now you will start to understand what us lucky guys have been rattling on about , now you can relax and enjoy , The Middle Kingdom , regards Robert .
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congrats Shaun enjoy your trip hope we can meet see you soon
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With 50lbs of Jack Links, I think Ted will find you, don't worry...:icon_cheesygrin: Shaun, have a good time and spend every waking
moment looking and enjoying, lots and lots of pictures. She will have you shaved in no-time !! I am so glad you are enjoying it.
:icon_cheesygrin:
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'Hello Peggy Zhu with my heart. Sweet Peggy Zhu I'm so in love with you........ ' This is a variation on Ricky Nelsons song.
We will expect to hear you singing this all over Guangzhou next week Shaun with maybe a chorus or two of the Buddy Holly Classic 'I love you girl I love you Peggy Zhu ........woah my Peggy my Peggy Zhu"
Anyone think of any more appropriate songs for Shaun to serenade Peggy with. That is once he is over the jet lag.
Over the North Pole - over the moon I say!!
Willy
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How about Peggy Lee's " Is that all there is " ? That's Shaun thinking .. when he is looking for some Western Food .:icon_cheesygrin::icon_cheesygrin:
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wasnt that also a Buddy Holly song?? the first one he made famous??
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I've tried to explain Buddy Holly's Peggy Sue song to her. I will have to find a mp3 of it and play if for her.
Guy's I am in 7th heaven here. Peggy is the most incredible woman I have ever met.
Since arriving it has not been too eventful. I ate something on the airplane that didn't agree with me and paid for it for 2 days. Not sure what it was. On April 2 I developed a real bad headache that would not go away and got worse. We got a portable translator on the first day. I think it is a ibook? v6.99. Not sure because everything is in Chinese. She was not able to get it working the way she wanted so yesterday we went back to the store for more instruction. When we finish I saw a Starbucks. Me an my splitting headache went in and got coffee. Funny headache went away.
Day 1 - I arrived from the airplane and ferry ride. Words just cannot describe the vision I saw when I stepped out of immigration. My first thought was this dreamy woman cannot be Peggy but it was. We spent as much time as possible together before I check into motel. She left the motel about 1am. We are using translator even though Peggy speaks some English. When she gets nervous the English is out the window. All I can do is laugh. The translator is very good and extremely reasonable. She also lives across the hall from Peggy. If you are going to Shenzhen and need a translator we can hook you up.
Day 2 - Peggy came to my motel room and got me. We had breakfast then went shopping. Because of my stomach and head we spent the rest of the day in her house and talked. She was worried and gave me several Chinese treatments. I made a personal not to get sick a little every day. :icon_cheesygrin: The big event of the day was that I asked her to marry me and she said yes but need final approval from her mother. I tried to discuss engagement money and it did not go very well.
Day 3 - We had breakfast and ate real Chinese dumplings. I ate 17 she ate 13. My appetite is back but stomach still hurts some. We went to a clothing store and then to a sewing company to see about the business I am starting. The told me to go to GZ to find material. We all go to lunch and now my head and stomaches are gone and I am eating very well but I cannot out do 3 Chinese women who are watching my every move and laughing. Let's just say that my chopstick skills are not as good as I hoped. It started out very good and went down hill quickly but like any good thespian I played the roll to the max. We had quite a time. It was back to the sewing company and talking about stitching, material and money. Peggy is good at talking about the product, at least I think she is. :icon_cheesygrin: Then off walking in the rain sprinkles and the probing questions about my marriage and provision for Peggy. This translator is good. She makes you a friend then digs in and gets the difficult information and communicates it back very well.
We get back to Peggy's home and quickly pack for a trip to Shaoguan but we missed the bus. Peggy is flustered and frustrated. WE find a train to GZ and arrive here but nothing to Shaoguan. So Peggy decided to stay in Shaoguan for 2 days. We found a motel, talked with Ted and I asked Peggy to marry me again.
For those of you who are talking with a woman and are on the fence about coming over; get off of the fence and get your butts over here. Now I understand what American women really fear. A good Chinese woman can keep her man much happier. This is incredible.
It is 6:28am, on Day 4, Peggy is asleep and has the cutest little snore. So why am I here typing?
More later and I will get to the pictures.
Shaun
Oh yes, I almost forgot. I still have the mustache and goatee. She does not want me to shave it now.
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Guy's I am in 7th heaven here. Peggy is the most incredible woman I have ever met.
For those of you who are talking with a woman and are on the fence about coming over; get off of the fence and get your butts over here. Now I understand what American women really fear. A good Chinese woman can keep her man much happier. This is incredible.
It is 6:28am, on Day 4, Peggy is asleep and has the cutest lite snore. So why am I here typing?
dude...you invented that fence! haha...you are correct about how wonderful these ladies are here!!! That's the difference between Chinese LADIES & American WOMEN...who wants a woman when they can have a LADY...yes the snores... :icon_cheesygrin:
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Great Shaun. I am really happy for you. You will get mama's approval dont worry. Just enjoy every minute because the time goes so fast you dont realize it until it is time to leave. Dont think about that just now. Have fun and enjoy her in your arms and look at that beautiful face every morning.
Jim
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it was nice talking with you last night and Sisi enjoyed talking with Peggy,
i am sure mom will approve just give her some jerky for a bribe:icon_cheesygrin:
but Jim did say it well dont think of the time as it does go fast just enjoy your time
and the two of you make your plans for the return trip for the big day:icon_biggrin:
looking forward to dinner tonight
Ted
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Hi Shaun
Like ships that pass in the night. I will be in GZ next weekend and you will have moved on!
It sounds as if you have had a great welcome here. Have a great dinner with the Ambassador tonight. His wife is great but you will get used to him after a while. Just kidding Ted.
Two days and engaged! You could be married within the week!!! Then hairless within the month!!!!!!!!
Enjoy the time you have here and maybe will catch up with you somewhere before you go back.
Willy
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Great trip update. I enjoyed reading it. And congratulations on your engagement. Enjoy your time there and keep us posted.
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It sounds like it was worth the wait? and more better then you imagined. I'm glad it's all come together and the beard stays (for now?) Have fun.
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I was holding my breath for 3 days :icon_cheesygrin::icon_cheesygrin:, hoping that all would be to your satisfaction (and more ) !!
delighted to hear that you have found your little bit of paradise...welcome to the club
Best wishes to you both
David
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Guy's I am in 7th heaven here. Peggy is the most incredible woman I have ever met.
When we finish I saw a Starbucks. Me an my splitting headache went in and got coffee. Funny headache went away.
Shaun
Shaun
Way to go!!
You probably already know this - but I will say this anyway - just in case.
Make sure you convey your intentions to "Mother." Also let her ask you any and all questions she want.
Finally, if she cooks - I do not have to tell you to recognize her efforts and thank her many times over.
Again, congrats and keep us posted!
Alton
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The song for you is in your mail box. If you want to sing it to Peggy yourself I can always send you the backing track to sing along with!!!!!
She may show her enjoyment listening to you singing to her - but I think that could that be stretching love a bit too far:icon_cheesygrin:
Enjoy Shaoguang. Nice City, nice river running through it but the damm railway hooters kept me awake half the night (and the woman I was with kept me awake for the other half). Try and get a hotel away from the train line. They hoot approaching the station and when leaving it.
Maybe they only did that whilst I was there!!!
Willy
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Well Shaun , all I can say is ... I've been there and know what you feel at this time very well . Hope is will continue this path for the both of you and make your Dreams come true . These Women are special and we will find special way's to thank them for it .. daily and at any hour .
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Wow, a good trip report. I hope we see some photos soon :icon_cheesygrin:.
Has anyone gone to China and not got sick? Airline food is well dodgy though :dodgy:.
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I have not had any problems with the food in China. Mine was a result of the food on the airplane.
Day 4 - What a day. We woke up in GZ at a 5 star hotel and Peggy was rushing me to get going. Not something I do very well first thing in the morning. I like to drink coffee, watch news, search internet. She was saying go go go. We must get breakfast and out of hotel by 10am. I thought it was strange. We it is a good thing I went along with her plan. There was a buffet breakfast that ended at 10. The had Chinese and American food. We went back to the room and waited until noon to leave. :icon_cheesygrin:
We went to the cloth market and our communication breaks down when she is not sure of herself but Ted's wife Sisi to the rescue. She came down and helped us negotiate our way through buying cloth. We had a great time.
Later we met with Ted and Sisi for dinner and had a blast. What a great couple. Of course Peggy and I were late because we turned left instead of right. We walked for 40 minutes when I finally said this is enough. Ted called and our walk should have been less than 5 minutes. We laughed and laughed. Day 4 was a remarkable day. I am ready for day 5. We go to Embassy to begin fiance visa process.
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Shaun,
Glad to hear everythings going well for you in China. As many have already said to you, Keep enjoying yourself, your trip, and Peggy, .....because the time will just fly by, it always does when your enjoying things that much!! ...lol!! Already your halfway through your first trip, so make the rest of it count more than the first half, ....if that's possible haha!!
Best of everything to you both...
David....
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Glad to hear all is going well for you Shaun! Good luck the rest of the way on your trip.
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Shaun, hey buddy, party your ass off, because you have to come back here and deal with the rest of us....:icon_cheesygrin: I have two
questions for you, first is what are you making with the cloth ??? or are you buying ready made items to sell here?
I'm really sorry to hear that your holding up in a hotel and your sick, at least youve got a good nurse....:icon_cheesygrin:
Since you've eaten REAL chinese food, do you feel a urge to "wag your tail"...lol lol......:icon_cheesygrin: stay away from the fried
bugs or you'll be "climbing the walls"....:icon_cheesygrin:
I am so glad you and Peggy are getting along so well and that your getting engaged, be careful that wont be a visa your signing,
probably a marrage licence....ha
Take care bro and have a wonderful time, we will rake you over the coals later.......:icon_cheesygrin:
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After viewing the pictures, it does look like he shaved, their all white, you can hardly notice them...:icon_cheesygrin:
Chinese version of "just for men" -- a can of black shoe polish and a small wire brush....shaun...:icon_cheesygrin:
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Yea Don, whatever.
Day - 5 began great. Breakfast with Ted and Sisi and off to the Embassy but it turns out they are closed due to Chinese grave cleaning holiday. Rats!!!!
Peggy went back to the motel to pack and leave for Shaoguan. Peggy as we are getting out of the taxi rips out the driver. I mean up one side of the wall and down the other. I thought good greif but ignored it. We went to the bus station and headed for Shaoguan. Peggy has told me for quite a while that the trip is 1 hour. Try 3. I remember what Ted told me a dinner the night before. If they are crabby ask them if they are hungry. If they say no then tell them to take a nap. So on the bus I tell her to sleep. She did. Problem solved. Well??? Not so fast.
We walk to the hotel in Shaoguan, check in and go to eat. Before we went to eat I have a little talk about spending money. It is going out too fast and I want it to slow down. We go to the restaurant, order the food, it arrives then suddenly she is all over the waitress. Yelling and insulting. I ask Peggy to calm down. She says OK but goes right back at it. She acknowledges she is wrong but continues. I try to calm her down some. I am not sure what is wrong but we continue. She mutters through most of dinner but all smiles at me.
Later that evening she finally wants to talk about red envelope and how much money goes inside. We are far apart from each other. So I attack the big one; engagement money. I tell her I will pay 1000RMB. She enquirers USD and not RMB? The $#&% hits the fan. We argue back and forth and I learn that her brother-in-law gave her mother the equivalent of $3000.00USD of course mine was an insult. Mine is not even $200.00USD.
She goes to bed angry and does not want to talk to me. I am left dazed and confused. I began to realize her anger earlier in the evening was because she wanted everything to be perfect when meeting her family so she had been hypersensitive about everything. It is good to know but I am thinking our relationship is over. My head swims with details as I lie in bed wondering what will happen next.
I asked on the forum what would be a proper amount of money to give but I never thought of asking the brother-in-law.
Day – 6
I get up early as usual having not slept well. I am on the internet when mpo4747 Mike signs into yahoo instant messaging. We talk a little and I tell him what is going on. Then Peggy’s sister signs in just as Peggy is beginning to wake up. She still really isn’t talking much and goes to take a shower. I talk with Peggy’s sister a little then Peggy comes in. They have a long discussion. Of course I cannot understand a thing because they are speaking Chinese so I am on pins and needles.
Then Peggy tells me her sister wants to talk with me. To my amazement her sister is supporting me. She told Peggy that the amount of money was up to me so she needed to live with it. Then her sister tells me to not leave things with Peggy open ended. Always come to agreement then it avoids argument later. Finally Peggy’s sister tells me the most important thing to do right now was to get an engagement ring on her finger. This will have the most value and the first thing mom will look for when she arrives at the motel. All is well in paradise again. Way to go sister.
So off we go to find a ring and more money. So I feed Peggy pancakes at McDonalds, she loves them, we find a ring, hit a bank, I mean hit the bank and back to the hotel to find her mother, brother and family waiting. Peggy gets real nervous. As we are getting into the elevator I ask Peggy if she is going to introduce me to her family? She is embarrassed but introduces. On the elevator ride up mom notices ring and smiles. Mom brings food she made from grass, peanuts, and a few herbs. She is calling them cakes. I am thinking grass? Until I bite into one. They are incredibly good. Forget dumplings it is all about the grass cakes guys. Her brother is a farmer and brings tangerines that are vine ripened. Unbelievably good.
Peggy children and granddaughter arrive and we go to lunch. It is a huge affair. I’ve seen the pictures but didn’t realize. Peggy is disappointed that two of her sisters did not come. The other brother had to leave on a business trip but was very happy with the events of the day which of course made me very happy. Mom approves of me. Brother approves so I guess it is a done deal, I will become a grandfather very soon. Again, all is well in paradise.
Days 7 and 8 being composed. SO many pictures and so little time but will get to them.
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sometimes, I don't really understand why people "need" to compare, when talking about money, for weddings and so on...
3000.00 $ just seems to give me blinking eyes, like $$ inside my eyes... even for my own wedding, I find it a little bit "expensive", because most of us know that life is china is not "so" expensive.... and if that amount of money is not for my own marriage, I just think I would be more than confused...
I know Liyan told me, one of her friends's boyfriend had to pay more than 40.000 RMB's for his own wedding. but well, maybe that some weddings include more than 200 persons... i don't know...
(sorry for that)
but well, it seems you could solve "that problem" fast, and that things have turned on a very good way for you, Shaun, and that's good news ;)
So, what's next? ^^
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Whew!!! For a minute I thought you were on a roller coaster at Six Flags? Glad it's working out now.
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Mike,
I thought the communication was great but now I realize it is not very good. She understands much less than I thought. The tools she has on the computer work so well you really do not notice but we are working through those issues. Once I got off cloud nine and realized we were having small issues then have been working on her English.
Day 7 - was rather uneventful. We took mother to breakfast at a restaurant in the center of Shaoguan. It was packed on a Wednesday. Breakfast was extremely good and cheap. We took mother back to the motel and Peggy and I went to KFC for a cup of coffee and hot milk. :s Then we went to get bus tickets to travel back to Shenzhen. Peggy didn't want to go back to Guangzhou, she was exhausted. She slept most of the way back. I enjoyed her sleeping on my shoulder. Quite touching. Once back home Peggy asked her neighbor and told her every last detail of the trip. Lisa and I am now calling her asked me many probing questions about the trip. Peggy cooked and we had a good time.
Day - 8
I normally wake up somewhere between 5am and 6am which was the case this morning. I went out to the internet and read and typed a little. I noticed that I was still a little sleepy so I laid back down. I was awaken a little while later by a scream from Peggy. She yelled at me get up Shaun get up. We late as she ran into the bathroom to bathe. She thought we were lated to a 10:00am appointment with an owner of a sewing factory. We had plenty of time but wound up late anyway.
Peggy, Lisa and I spent 3 grueling hours in his office hammering out a deal to manufacture some clothing for me to sell in the US. All I can say is that these Chinese are some of the best bargaining people I have ever seen. We walked to the factory in the rain and back home again. We had duck for lunch and it was quite good. Came home and took a nap. When we woke up she started with this do not go, stay in China. I can tell that leaving is going to be very difficult for both of us. I will have to come back in July to finalize the clothing angle. Rats!! Gonna hate that. :icon_cheesygrin:
Today I learned more about the filing for a fiance Visa in Guangzhou. Ted listen up because I didn't realize all of this. If you want an easier time in getting the visa you need to set an appointment for the both of you to see the consulate general many weeks before you go. You will need to give the dates you will be in China and they will tell you when the appointment is. Also you need to include a copy of your fiance's visa. If you do not request a seat and send a copy of the passport he will not see her. You will need to ask as many questions as possible about the process. But here is the real reason you have the appointment. You want to get a photo with you, your fiance and the consulate general. This photo will go withe the photos you need at the interview. I am told it carries a lot of weight.
Tonight we are relaxing. Life and love is good here in paradise.
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Ahhh .. those up and down Story's of Love from China , are getting to me . Here I thought , Peggy had a bad day because you forgot to Shave :-/
More than ones ... a Family member to the rescue .
Great updates Shaun and can't wait for the Photo's .
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WOW Shaun...this has been one heck of a story. You write it our so well. I am happy to hear that things have worked out for you. In the future, can you start your posts with...everything is great, we had a minor mishap. This way, the rest of us here are not sitting on the edge of our seats reading your story. heehee
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Shaun
I was aware of that and was going to suggest you do that on your next visit. you can do that
on line when you know the next time you will be here. I had a couple of people from the states
set up their appointment before they left the states and they had the meeting. but they talked
with other officials there and one of them did meet the consulate general in the office but i dont
think he took a pic with him. I will have to ask the next time i speak with him. I just wanted you
to get the papers when we went their so that you had evrything you needed to fill out. here is a
thought for you--- when you get home go to the immigration building and tell them what your doing
and they will also give you a packet with everything you need. I have 3 freinds who did this in
sacramento calif and they had everything they needed at one shot. Also call Terrence and ask him
as he might be able to fax everything to you and possibly do everything for you he is a good guy and
will not ask for lots of money. Also give him my address and phone number should you call him. email
address also. Anyway glad to hear its working out and your right when you leave that will be very
hard for the both of you. HAPPY to HEAR that the family is on board i am sure that is a big relief for
you to get that portion out of the way. July isnt that far away my freind and its to bad Peggy didnt
live in Guangzhou as i could have helped teach her some english everyday for a couple of hours to
help you guys out. NO CHARGE of course for her. Just a few more bags of jerky when you came back
that would be my fee hahahahahaha so dont forget next visit set up your seat with the consulate
general and not just a seat to speak with an officer. maybe he will be more than helpful in helping you
as he sees that you two are a genuine relationship and the process will move along faster. keep us posted
as we are all wishing the best and send the pics of us to my email box when you get a chance upon your
return home.
sincerely
Ted & Siying
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Shaun I have a question? Did you learn your lesson well this time?That's the second or third time.The sister saved you and Peggy from yourselves.Shaun the reason I bring this up.Is because you and Peggy were about 2 steps from this thing blowing up in your face.Then where would you of done.Hung your head like a whipped dog.Wrote on here how bad a person Peggy is.Or how bad you think she is.Over a simple misunderstanding.The lose of your cool.
Do you read what is posted on this forum.Or are you caught up in your own story.And forget what has ben written here before.This sister has showed you the way.I have showed you the way.279 members have showed you the way.But you don't seem to get it.When you have a Allie like the sister.Use it to your advantage.
Peggy doesn't know anything about being with a western man.Her sister does.When this happens again.And it will happen again.Use the sister for a intervention.Use the 24 hour rule.Use the different country different custom rule.Use what ever is at your disposal.If you don't you and Peggy are going to be just another statistc.
And I will have to read your sad sack story on here.
Maxx
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Shaun,
Am i somehow missing something here, ....how can you include a copy of your fiancee visa, when that's the reason for going for the appointment/interview, ...To acquire the fiancee visa???
Or have i got the wrong end of the stick ...Again??? hahaha!!
David....
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David,
when you go to the seating you can take the copies of what you have done so far and ask
any questions you might have and they will help you along the way. take a notebook and pen
as they just advise and dont do anything for you. just tell you the further steps and papers you
will need to proceed. if you havent started they will go thru the process step by step
Ted
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Ted, I am just about as lost as David in this. I am not sure what you can show anyone until after our HomeLand security department gets done with their review. and in order to get that review, you need divorce records, birth records, passports, proof of income, established lines of communication and history of communication, pictures of couple with family and etc. So I am at a loss as to what the appointment would accomplish until after the Homeland security department is complete. And on thank you for your help with Ms. Cindy Gao. She is looking forward to your help. I owe you a couple bags of jerky when i get to that neighborhood. buzz.
David,
when you go to the seating you can take the copies of what you have done so far and ask
any questions you might have and they will help you along the way. take a notebook and pen
as they just advise and dont do anything for you. just tell you the further steps and papers you
will need to proceed. if you havent started they will go thru the process step by step
Ted
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Buzz,
what i am reffering to is that if you do have the process started obviously you have kept copies
of what you had sent in. take these copies with you and they will look at and also review what
you have done and offer info to you as to what you also will need to do in the next step.
if you havent started then they are more than willing to speak and advise you of the process
and what forms that you will need. they will not discuss STATUS OF CASE with you unless it is
advice on what step is next if your case is in the process.
Ted
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Shaun, I am so glad for you and Peggy. I pray this will work out for the both of you. I am glad you are a happy camper, however, I
am curious what Peggy was chewing out the taxi driver and the hostess for? Did you ever find out?
Isn't that nice that Peggy loves pancakes. A 5-lb bag of krustiz isn't very expensive and easy for you to make...just add water. Or are
these special orential pancakes?
Hang in there with her sister, as she sounds like she is going to help you a lot. And, I am glad mom liked the ring you picked
out. When mom smiles that is a good sign for you in your favor. What did Peggy say when you gave her the ring? Did she help
you pick it out? I'll be she was smiling.
You know we are just kidding you about the beard. Try to smile.....:icon_cheesygrin: We really don't care one way or the other
if you shave. Your a good looking funny fellow on your own without our help....
Is Peggy still pushing the marrage thing, or has she resigned to the fact your going to do it next time?
Got to see some pictures of you and Ted and the girls posted here. Peggy is pretty, better not leave her alone in China too awful long...
someone may steal her...:icon_cheesygrin: lol
If you have to return in July, what is the problem, you sound like you don't want to. Just think, you'll get to see Peggy agian in
July, so it will be a fun trip. And I am sure Peggy will look forward to it. Keep us posted here, your writing is great to read.
:icon_cheesygrin::icon_cheesygrin::icon_cheesygrin:
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Shaun,
Am i somehow missing something here, ....how can you include a copy of your fiancee visa, when that's the reason for going for the appointment/interview, ...To acquire the fiancee visa???
Or have i got the wrong end of the stick ...Again??? hahaha!!
David....
David,
Thanks for noticing. You do have the right end of the stick. I changed the word from visa to passport.
Don,
She chewed the taxi driver because she thought I gave him too much money. She saw a 100RMB note in his hand and she didn't see the 70 in mine. The waitress wasn't meeting Peggy's needs very well. All she wanted was for things to be perfect for the meeting with her children and mother.
The pancakes were America, I checked them. I make them from scratch. Yes I want to be here in July but I don't know if I will be able to financially. Finally I am kind of iffy about the beard right now. I like it, want it, and have had it for over 20 years but Peggy does not like it scratching her face. If I shave it I will wait until school is out.
Maxx,
Get off my back. The difference between you and me is that you have 20/20 hindsight. Say what you want but you are not responsible for what I do. I know you care but you are a little over the top. And no, 279 people did't give me the same advice. The only mistake I made was in not considering what the brother-in-law did. With that kind of gift sure her expectations were high. But like any other problem I have had and you have had, we worked through it. Yes I do read what is on the forum, do you? Do you spend every day reading it over and over? Do remember everything that has been written? I think not. When I ask a question, like most who do, we either never saw that the subject was covered or we do not remember what was said or we do not have the time to research it again so give up with the "do you read what is on the forum." Your input is good but your harsh criticism is not necessary.
Shaun
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Shaun, as I said the Red Envelope is a killer. But i either missed something or when did you give the envelope to Mama? From my perspective, money drives everything there. There isnt a process or deed that doesnt have it involved somehow. Especially with a foreigner involved. Take it from someone who has screwed it up a couple of times, just go along with it. I just give Gina the money and tell her to handle it. I dont care how she does it. That puts her in control and that is how she is used to doing things. I shouldnt be bothered with that sort of thing that is her job. The quicker you learn that the better off you will be. LOL. Right Dinger? Same thing with the wedding. Find your spending limit, then hand her the money, tell her thats it, I dont have any more for it. Do what you want with it., That will save you so many headaches you cant believe.
I am glad things worked out.
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Jim,
There is always so much to tell I forgot. Yes mother got a red envelope on day 8 and was very happy.
Day 9
All is well in paradise. Peggy woke up at 7:00am in an extreme hurry to get out the door. We ate and out the door to the hospital to get medication for her sister for me to take back to the states. The bus ride was extremely rough and packed with people. After about 20 minutes Peggy and I got a seat. We arrived at the hospital and went to the OBGYN department. Peggy cut past everyone and talked with the doctor while I waited in the hall. I saw names on doors that I wanted to photograph. One caused me to chuckle but I minded my business and kept my camera under wraps.
The doctor sent us to register. I stood in line while Peggy ran around from place to place asking questions. I am assuming to make sure there was not a better way to register. She slid in front of me just as I stepped up to the window. Then she set me into a chair in the main lobby and told me to wait. She must have heard my chuckle. I slept for about 1 hour. Then she came to tell me she needed to pay and get medicine. I stood in the line while she sat and slept for a few minutes. People kept running up to the front window ahead of me and the pharmacist turned them away. I got to the front and Peggy came up in front of me. Everyone must have thought I would let them in too. Wrong. I had my fill of people cutting in so I put my arm on either side of Peggy on the counter and blocked them from getting to the window. Boy were they mad and I got a lot of dirty looks. Peggy took it all in stride and smiled at me a lot.
We got the meds and left. Then we headed to pick up the clothing I had made. They looked wonderful but was way too expensive so we will look up in Guangzhou when I return for a sewing company. That is where we will buy the material anyway. We did a little shopping and back home for lunch. If forgot to mention that the translator caught up with us before the sewing factory. At Peggy's house while eating the translator told Peggy that her services for her translating would be 1200RMB. Peggy asked her to leave. We talked about it and I told Peggy I would give 400RMB and that was all. So I have that argument to look forward to.
Peggy and I rested a little while and then we went to The Mix City to meet up with Rhonald and Yan. What a delightful couple. We met at Starbucks and then headed to an Italian Restaurant. The food was good at least mine was. The conversation was good too. Ah the chance to speak English and be understood the first try. The two women had a wonderful time talking as Ron and I did. After supper we went to the theater and watched a reenactment of children stories done in lights and color gels. I thought it was interesting having done theater in the past.
All in all a good day in paradise.
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Shaun...is it me, or does Peggy like to wake up and run? Seems like everyday you are being woke up in a panic to run out the door. hehehe...better you than me. I am too slow to wake up in the morning.
Glad you were able to meet up with Rhonald and Yan. I hope to meet Yan in Canada in the near future, with Rhonald.
I am glad to hear everything is going well over there for you, and that the Red Envelope issue got settled. It does sound very reminiscent of Jim B's trip as well.
Great updates. I am really enjoying your trip updates.
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Shaun, the theater sounds great, but did they paint while talking or is it anything like american theater? I am having trouble
visulizing this, having nothing to compare by. Lights and paint, of course everything confuses me these days. Is Yan - Chen Yan
or a different Yan. Also, what was so funny on the doctors door that you wanted to take a picture...You should have, I don't think
they would have minded. But what did it say?
Cutting in line is an American sport, although the Chinese seem to be doing really well at it. It's funny when I think of people
bouncing off your arms trying to get to the window....haha No wonder Peggy was smiling, that is a funny thought, ( a kodac moment)
lol lol
Got the dining room floor done today and the sewer, it's gonna be huge, OMG will top out at 3,390 sq ft. Just in case I get a lot
of inlaws....haha
Sounds like Peggy is ready to beat off the world for you. Be careful you don't want to get on her bad side....haha be sure to check
out the emergency room facility's (just in case)...haha lol lol
Sounds like Peggy is an early riser, sounds like its going to be a race between you two when getting up early in the morning. Sleeping
in as you know it, has ceased to exist. When you get back, get some chickens and practice waking up the rooster...hahaha lol
You friend,
Don
:icon_cheesygrin::icon_cheesygrin::icon_cheesygrin:
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Don,
I the theater world they use high intensity light on stage. They color the light from very opaque colors to dark and they put the gels in front of the light to color it. It is a film or cepia like substance that allows light to pass through and the gels generally do not burn up. In this instance they use a medium where a person can shoot an image from behind and the people can see the image clearly. The gels were colored and painted to resemble people, animals and scenery. The images were quite good. It is kind of like an overhead projector but not overhead and much larger. They children loved it, we adult were not as amused and two Westerners who cannot speak Chinese were having somewhat of a difficult time.
Yan is not Chen Yan. She is Ron's wife. I will post pictures later.
Peggy is not an early riser but she knows when she needs to get up early and is a ball of fire when she does get up. I am up and had a couple cups of tea and read a few posts and some of the newspaper before she gets up. I am an early riser because of work not by choice and when I do not have to work I take my time in getting going. Even when I have to work it takes twice as long as most people.
I am reflecting on day 10, my last full day here. It has been a phenomenal day but with a lot of sadness with the two of us. I will compose my day 10 and 11 post on the airplane. The pictures will come in a couple of days. I am still editing.
More later.
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Sorry folks, I usually don't post while over here because Yan (Ziyan full 1st name) internet is slow. I also like to write once home and inspired by my day dreaming missing my wife.
I totaly enjoyed my time with Shaun and his girl. What a remarkable looking woman Shaun has. For her age and having had 3 children - she has a figure of a woman in her thirties. I was happy to see her smile because I could see her joy radiant with her affection for Shaun. I am glad Shaun kept his beard because it makes him look noble. He has the nice southernly accent that is very pleasing to the ear. I should have listened more as I tended to interupt him a bit too much - but then I was excited in meeting a fellow adventurer that I could converse with.
Shaun - take care and the best of fortune for you and Peggy too. :heart:
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Headed back to the airport in 2 hours. :icon_cry::icon_cry::icon_cry:
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overall it sounded like a good trip for you Shaun
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Shaun, The hardest thing is to leave. Told you that you would love it there. But you'll return in July which is only a few months
away. You will return to the woman you love. Perhaps this next time a marrage ??? Try to get some sleep on the plane...
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I am here at the airport missing Peggy very much. Guys she is incredible. I just do not want to be here in the airport.
Day 10 - What a day!!!!!
Peggy fixed breakfast, we laid around the house and talked and then we headed to McDonald's for coffee. We left McDonald's and got on a bus to the train station. Peggy tells me this is the best place to find souvenirs. It was incredible how many shops were there. Tons of stores and everyone grabbing your arm wanting your business. Haggling for the sale price abounds. I was looking for several gifts for friends and family. Then we found a traditional dress shop. You should see Peggy in a traditional dress. OMG!!!!!!! The dresses were 320RMB and we got them to 100RMB and bought 2. Then I bought a shirt. 150RMB down to 80RMB. Peggy is very happy. We went home, slept a little while then put on our new duds and walked about town. Everyone stopped and stared. Peggy said it was me but I saw their eyes. They were looking at how stunning she is. You will see.
We had several pictured taken around town and then went to the park where she dances quite often. What a time we had. Her friends were extremely nice. One talked with me like a long lost friend. They absolutely love her in this dancing group. It was funny because the instructor was not happy. He lost almost all of his students. That is until we took his picture then all was good.
Another man broke out his camera he just purchased and together we had it working in the dark very well. I hope to get many of his pictures. After about 1 hour Peggy and I left. We went back to the house and I began packing my bags. She helped.
Earlier in the day we had a meltdown with her neighbor friend because she wanted 1200RMB for her services. Peggy was angry. I told Peggy I would pay her and had been considering what to pay her and had decided to pat 600RMB for 3 days of translating. Now the friend Lisa is pissed. She did not want anything less than 1200RMB. She would not talk with me and left. I think this has driven a wedge between Peggy and her. I am not sure what to so. I am of the mind that it is better to have a good neighbor and pay the girl. Next time I go to Shenzhen I will know and not use her.
Day 11 A day of happiness and true sadness.
I am happy that Peggy is the woman of my dreams. She is perfect for me. Well as perfect as one can get. She fixed breakfast again. Last night and this morning shed made my time unforgettable. What a woman. I can't imagine myself with anyone else. We went to the Holiday Inn by her house to wait for my bus ride to Hong Kong. We were there for about 1 hour. I drank coffee and we talked. She asked me if we could stay there one night when I return. I said of course we can, anything for you.
When it came time to leave there was no crying from Peggy or I. There was a lot of sadness and kissing. I didn't really get upset until I arrived and went through customs at the airport. I tried to contact her through IM but she is not on her computer. She is more than likely sleeping.
This was an incredible trip. I cannot wait to come back. I need to get the papers going to get her to the US as soon as possible.
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Hi Shaun,
Great story. Lots of ups and downs and in the end, you get the girl. :angel: Very happy for you. Hopefully things will only get better for you from here on in.
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I was happy to see her smile because I could see her joy radiant with her affection for Shaun. I am glad Shaun kept his beard because it makes him look noble. He has the nice southernly accent that is very pleasing to the ear.
So much for Shaun's hat size, I can hear the hair growing on his chest....haha :icon_cheesygrin::icon_cheesygrin::icon_cheesygrin:
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Great trip Shaun i enjoed reading about it.
Good luck in your visa process.
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400RMB per day is the going rate for a translator in Guangzhou per day in my experience so 1200 for three days doesn't seem to be excessive.
Great account of your trip Shaun, delighted to hear that it was so great. Maybe I'll meet you over there one day :) I'll wear a Hawaiian shirt too to mark the occasion!
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Shuan as Mike said...Now that your home, vent with us, we been there...We know what your feeling...:icon_biggrin:
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My wifes best friend in Wuhan set us up with one for 3 days and paid her 2000 rmb, to be quite honest she wasnt worth it. When I found out how much I had a fit also. Because half the time she just talked to me and did not translate to the people.
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i would venture to say how much time was spent by the lady translating
would determine the price paid. and always negotiate before hand here in
China to eliminate these kinds of issues and hard feelings
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Just got home. Thanks for the responses. Got to get up in about 1.5 hours for work so I will post comments and pictures later. I edited all of the on the airplane.
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Shaun, bet your still sleeping off the jet lag...zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
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Hi, went to work and am back home for a while. Waiting for sleeping pills to kick in.
Here are some pictures:
Well, it is back to re-editing and will try again.
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Shaun...great trip updates. I am very happy that you had a successful trip to China.
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Yes, very happy for you. Give me a shout once you get back in your routine and we will get together.
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Thanks Guys. I had a blast and I am very happy.
Pict. 1 at Hotel in Guangzhou
2 at Hotel in Guangzhou
3 at Hotel in Guangzhou
4 Some of you may recognize this as a sign in the bathroom at the Yu Feng Hotel in Guangzhou. It is close to where our Ambassador lives.
5 Peggy and best friends in Shenzhen
6 Peggy and me in Chinese attire
7 Peggy's Family L/R - sister in law, younger brother, mother, Peggy and niece
8 Peggy's son, Peggy, granddaughter, me, daughter, and son in law
9 I guess you might say it was the engagement lunch
10 engagement lunch
11 engagement lunch
12 Peggy and me in more Chinese attire
13 Peggy in my favorite blue dress
14 Peggy in Green dress
What a trip. Hope to get back in July. It rained most of the time I was there but I really didn't care. I was more interested in getting to know Peggy.
I briefly web cammed with Peggy this morning. She was crying because she missed me. I was crying because she was crying.
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Shaun, very nice pictures and a very nice happy family. Thanks for the pictures and story. buzz
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Great pictures Shaun. Thanks for sharing.
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good pics shaun
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Nice engagement party Shaun, I knew you'd be getting married....great pictures, thanks for sharing.
by the way, no matter what you wear, you still don't look Chinese...this must be an obsession...:icon_cheesygrin::icon_cheesygrin::icon_cheesygrin:
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Don,
The shirt was to bring happiness to one. It worked. Peggy wanted me to get it. After we went home and had supper she said let's dress up and take pictures. I said OK. But then she said let's go to the park and I wanted to say NO but I heard the words OK come out of my mouth. My own mouth betrayed me. So anyway we went. Everyone was staring at me. Then I thought, what am I thinking, I am with the most beautiful woman on the street. So I relaxed and went with the flow and had a blast. If Peggy is happy then all is well in paradise.
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Well as long as you are happy in paradise, that's all that counts. By the way, who bought that "shirt ???" for you? did you bring it
home with you?
What I met by shirt is that I don't know what to call it, t-shirt, pull over, dress shirt ??? I know its got a name.
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Money bags bought the shirt as my father used to say. Peggy didn't say a word. She was wearing the dress in the picture, she walked over and looked at the shirt, help it up to her dress, looked at me, smiled, went back into the dressing room to change. I asked how much.
Someone else might know the name of it, I do not. I wanted to leave it there to keep from messing it up but Peggy insisted I bring it home and wear it for my children. It is in the closet right now where it will stay until my divorce is final, which by the way, is STILL not final but in the courthouse waiting for the judge to look at.
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Male equivalent to the cheongsam is the Changshan (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Changshan (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Changshan))
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Thank you for clearing that up. Very informative.
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laymans terms----- traditional chinese dress