Well, I've been in Ohio for exactly one week. It is so good to see family and friends, but as many goodbyes that were said and tears that were shed, it doesn't seem like I actually live here now. I'm wondering if it will 'hit' more in August when I would normally hop the 13 hour flight back to Beijing.
Moving back is an odd feeling. I'm excited to be home and enjoy being around people that I rarely get a chance to see. However, a part of me misses my friends, who are like family when you live overseas, and the lifestyle I became accustomed to the last 4 years. Moving from a city of 16 million to Columbus, Ohio will take some patience and a shift in what is 'normal'.
Things that shock me when I returned to The United States:
1. Grocery Stores- they are so freakin' big and have way too many choices
2. Cell Phones- there are so many options and plans. The whole system should be pay as you go- it works for the rest of the world and then you don't have extra charges at the end of the month.
3. Traffic Laws- people here actually follow traffic signals and look before they change lanes
4. Lack of Pollution- I know that if it appears 'foggy' outside in Ohio, it is actually foggy. I can see the houses across the street. I don't have pollution headaches!
Things I already miss about China:
1. Social life- the social life of an expat in Beijing is one of the best. You can always find someone who will share your interests and meet up for a pint or go to a temple.
2. Cheap Massages- after a 13 hour flight, there is nothing better than dropping off the suitcases and heading out for a foot massage at Bodhi. They are only $14 for 80 minutes.
I will try to update this weekly or as things occur to throw me back into culture shock.
