Kate in Beijing? Or...Kate dreaming of Beijing?

I could start this entry, my foray back into the blogging world, with the ever-popular "I've been so terrible at blogging, my apologies..." or even the "I'm so busy, I moved back from China and then life happened...", but I'll spare you the typical-bloggers excuses, because neither of those represent my true reasons for not blogging. As you may or may not have noticed, this is a blog about my Asian adventures, and since I'm no longer in Asia, I sort of feel like a poser writing blog entries about my non-existent Asian adventures.

However, there are reasons for picking up my Asian blog. I'm actually doing this off of the assumption that no one reads this blog any longer, but just in case you do (or I direct you to start reading again), I'm using this medium to keep you, my beloved dear ones, informed of my hopeful adventures back to Asia. Probably more than anything at this point, this blog serves as a medium to process my thoughts, and be held accountable to some of those thoughts with you as my witness (otherwise, if they were just thoughts...they'd be in my journal).

As you may (or may not) know, this journey towards Asia has been in my sights for quite some time. Since the first time I visited that magical place back in 2005, the crazy country has pulled on my heart strings and beckoned me to return with a persistence like nothing else I've ever pursued. I'm sure that many of you think I'm crazy (let's be honest, most of the time I feel a little crazy). There really is no logic behind it's magical lure; it's a dirty country, full of chaos and mayhem, they speak a ridiculously hard language, they don't use clothes dryers, and dairy products are really hard to find (maybe I should start channeling my inner vegan...). Anyway, long story short, China life is not easy, nor is it glamorous. If you have read my blog at any length, you will realize that it is full of many shaky-fist moments, confusion and frustration. BUT, on the other hand, it is fascinating. A country full of promise, waiting for their international "coming out", and willing and eager to take the risks needed to make their economy grow. The people are charming, genuine and more generous than you would anticipate (if they're not trying to con you out of something) Stuff is happening there, and while in the West we are all waiting with bated-breath to see their next move, the country is moving at a rapid pace in their frantic efforts to keep moving forward.

So, I guess that probably offers no more clarity or insight to my persistent draw towards Asia, but...that's all I have to offer you. Its a persistent dream that won't let me go. So, as I move forward and make steps toward returning to Asia, learning the language, and looking for ways to put my skills and passion for the people into use, I wanted to keep you updated on my progress. China is far away, and the only way I can be successful at any sort of venture into the unknown is with the support, thoughts and feedback of "my people" (meaning you). As John Donne wisely once told us, "No man is an island". I need the thoughts, support and wisdom that only you have to offer.

I also want to mention that although this vague movement in the China direction hasn't taken on much concrete form, there are some general thoughts about what next steps may look like. I would really love to talk to you about my different "wonderings", and get guidance and support on the best ways to proceed forward.

As I move forward, I'll keep ya'll updated on progress.

Phew. That was longer than I intended it to be.

Also, I guess since this blog outlines my Asian Adventures, I should mention that I DID get a quick trip to Asia over Thanksgiving. I was able to spend a week in China, with my time split between Beijing and Dalian. My fellow China-mates: if you haven't been to Dalian, you should go. It is just a quick plane ride (probably a really long train ride) from Beijing, but it is beautiful! If you haven't already, check out my facebook pictures. I'm pretty sure it would be much more enjoyable if you weren't fighting the cold and wind (so, maybe go in the spring or summer), but it is definitely a wonderful break from the smogginess of Beijing.
Overall, the trip was an excellent time to reconnect with great people (aka saying goodbye to Carmen before she returned home!), and also to re-affirm the draw that I have to being there. I'll leave it at that...you probably have already looked at pictures, so you know the gist.

Hope all is well friends, and I will give you more information as it comes.