OK brothers time for an update....I can not believe that it has been about a week since I last posted something. Boy the time goes so fast here and seemed to drag on for ever waiting to come here. As mentioned previously I have extended my trip but I still think that it is still not enough. I love the place and to be here with such a wonderful, beautiful girl is just a bonus. I have posted some more pictures to accompany this update.
Xia and I have spent a couple of days looking for an engagement ring. How different she is to a girl in the Western world. I do not want to spend so much money she says on just a ring when we can put it towards building our house. But a girl in Australia would look at it like if you do not spend the entire GDP on a ring you do not love me. Yesterday she finally decided on the one she liked the best so we went and bought it. The smile that it brought to her face is something that will live with me forever. Then I explained that when we get married in February she will get another ring which did confuse her, but after some explaining she know understands. That is all the private information I am going to share with you, but lets say if Xia is smiling my smile is bigger.
On the tourist front we have not done a great deal. If you are thinking of coming to Shenzhen then think only of shopping and a few sight seeing things. We did go to China Folk Culture Villages (think of the Polynesian Cultural Village in Hawaii for those that have been there) and spent about six hours walking around and watching the various displays from the different ethnic groups that make up China. I thought that the mock horse battle was the highlight of the day. The entry ticket also enables you to visit Splendid China which is full of miniature displays of all of the famous buildings and landmarks.
On the social front I have met every member of Xia's family that lives in or near Shenzhen. I have been treated to some of the best Chinese food I have ever tasted and from all reports all of Xia's family speak highly of me and are all supportive of our relationship and upcoming wedding. We spent a delightful couple of days with her cousin and then met her uncle and aunty before taking them all out for dinner. We are going back to visit her mum before I return to Australia in about two weeks time.
The dragon says hello to everyone and to know that she is happy that I have some people to talk to about this whole adventure and who understand about a long distance relationship (this did open my eyes to how the other half copes with no one to really support them) and more importantly for both of us people who have been there before us and are willing to help others with their experiences in bringing our wives to other countries.
Take care, that's all for now another update soon.
