Friday, March 8, 2013

Escape from Our Normal





Well, it's literally been a year since I've posted to this blog. We've certainly settled into life in China now. While we're blessed with some unique and amazing experiences, it no longer feels like we're on an episode of the the Amazing Race each day. It's just living. For those who are saying "What?! Just living?...In China?!", I can acknowledge that what is routine for us now would be quite an adventure for others...crossing 6 lanes of traffic in a culture where pedestrians NEVER have the right-a-way, buying fresh chicken with the head and feet still in tact, dodging an unrelenting barrage of fireworks during Chinese New Year.

That's our normal.

Well, this Chinese New Year we escaped to the beautiful beaches of Phuket, Thailand. The weather was gorgeous, the beach was crystal clear, and the people were the most accommodating people I've ever met. It was a perfect retreat.

We aimed for simple on this trip. For the most part we enjoyed sleeping-in and relaxing by the beach or pool. However, everyone (that is everyone in the China expat community who take trips to Thailand like folks in the states drive down to Florida) knows that you can't go to Thailand without riding an elephant! Of course Morgan and I were not leaving without doing it, and we dragged the boys along. It was quite an experience. I thank God for such incredibly unique opportunities!

Take a look at a few of the pictures from our exotic escape from the norm.










Morgan and I decided to have a tropical fish pedicure.
I love my adventurous girl!

The fish feeding on the dead skin on our feet. I'm much too ticklish for this!

My adventure-partner-in-crime and I couldn't wait to try these
coconut drinks we saw everyone walking around with. It was a
disgusting disappointment.

Even Christian gave it a try. Then off to the nearest trash can.




Lazy day at the beach. 



She thought it was so much fun to bury her shoes
...until it was time to find them.
(Farell and I  laughed hysterically!!)

Found them!












So long Thailand...
We will miss your 80 degree days, clear beaches, and smog-free skies.