Smells

Okay, so girlfriend over here is totally allergic to three things... at least that's all that remains of the previous 200 from my childhood. However, they are so slight that Tim never knew of them before we stepped foot on this sacred land that we love.

Smell #1: When you walk into many Marriots nationwide you can see a small sign most of you non-allergen friends would over-look: "Marriots are now non-smoking facilities" , but in much more fancy words of course. Just something I noticed in the hotel lobby in Vegas last fall.

They held to their word, even over seas here in China. Music to my nose. In the grocery stores, restaurants, and even elevators it's just common place to see people light up.

Don't get me wrong. Many of my friends and even some family members have had this habit now and again. However, I am totally, and embarrassingly allergic. I quickly tear up, start coughing from my scratchy throat. I turn into a big mess. It could almost be humorous.

Smell #2: The other allergy is feather pillows, or more recently discovered, the dust that accompanies them. Here at the fancy-schmancy "Marriot Executive Suite Apartments" (or so it reads on the napkin), they have feathers on every part of the bed. Feather pillows. Feather comforters. Feather Beds.

No wonder I haven't seen any feathered Friends since we've arrived.

Needless to say at this rate, I'm practically teary eyed daily. That's okay, it lends for the perfect excuse to hide the emotion in my heart. Tim and I are still waking up daily so overwhelmed with gratitude and love for this peaceful land. How is it that an area with the population so dense can be so docile and practically crime free?

I say because they too get to wake up in China. LOL!! Don't get me wrong, I am a total stars and stripes kind of gal. But I can also appreciate the balance of diversity this country offers. We love it here!!