It's been quite a while since I last posted, and this time it's not because there is nothing to post about.  So much has happened in the last few months that it's difficult to know where to start.  

First, I'm learning a lot-- not only about China and Chinese, but about myself.  I no longer feel like a guest in someone's house, but almost like I belong here.  It's actually the closest I've felt to actually belonging somewhere.  

So the next question I usually get is, 'Do you plan on staying in China?' The truth is, I don't know.  But it's no longer outside the realm of possibility.

There's also something liberating about living in a foreign country.  I don't feel as restricted by societal norms, and I'm more willing to try new things.  After all, I'm a foreigner; I don't know any better!  At the same time, since I look Chinese, I can blend in when I want to, and simply disappear into the backdrop of 1.5 billion people.  

Recently returned from a 2-week trip to Sichuan province.  It was one of the most memorable times of my life, not only because of the breathtaking vistas but also because of my travel companions, some of whom have become rather good friends.  I think I'll actually be sad when the semester comes to a close and everything scatters into the wind.