Shanghai Farewell Tour-The “Mule” Hits The Market

On October 27, 2014October 27, 2014 By Travels with MelindaIn adventure, China, Fashion, Shanghai, Shopping, Travel3 Comments

“Take Thom as collateral”. Please. I offered my hubster earnestly to the scarf lady who wanted 100 RMB to ensure we would stay and wait for her to retrieve our requested 200+ scarves I wanted to buy. As Fiona interpreted, she shook her head fiercely in protest, indicating that the crazy Laowai was not a good trade–we settled on 20 RMB which tells you what Thom is really worth. Just saying, sweetie–Chinese perspective. Nothing personal.

With rolling suitcase and multiple Ikea blue bags in tow, we journeyed to the South Bund Fabric Market to bargain the day away. Now, I’ve been known to be called the “Mule” at the markets and today was no exception. No comment, those of you who know me. Note–I have also been called a “bulldog” at work but that’s another story. Funny, I never get compared to the quiet, beautiful animals like a swan or cuddly ones like the panda. Hmmm…

I started with Thom’s favorite Tibetan lady (gal in the red in the pic) with her jewelry spread out on several blankets outside the market–you get a better price if the vendor isn’t paying for stall rent. Having previously bought a few pieces, I knew the price and pieces I was looking for–no more than 25 RMB ($4 US) and lower is better. Unfortunately the Tibetan lady didn’t stock quantity in any items so on to the next blanket. The word spread fast that I was a “buyer” and the vendors put two and two together with Thom watching over our large suitcase…. this Laowai had some RMB to lay down! Let the stampede begin.

Let the negotiating (and screaming) begin!

They started rushing me with similar necklaces to the one I had picked up to check out. I finally found one gal who had some multiple units of what I was looking to buy for our accessory business that Thom/James will run in the US online plus I was buying for my friend Patti to start her own business back in the wilds of Indiana. God Bless Fiona who just laid into it with her as the bargaining began and quickly became heated. As the Mule with the RMB, I kept shaking my head and using my best Mandarin bargaining phrases that always come in handy. A couple watching it all go down (guy in blue shirt) wanted Fiona to help them too but she waved them off–she is our bulldog negotiator. I did share with the nice folks what they should be paying so they didn’t get ripped off. I’m nice like that–sharing the “Mule” tips to the world.

We got what we wanted and a few stink eye glares from the vendor (white/black check shirt gal) who still took my RMB. I was disappointed not to get all I wanted but I'[l go back to the AP market, where I have found it’s easier to find 10/20 units of the same necklace, which fits our online store concept model better. Thom’s so excited-more shopping and carrying bags. Oh Joy!

Then, it was off to the back local street to gather up 200+ scarves for 8 RMB ($1.33) each for really nice prints on large cotton-like scarves. At first overwhelmed at picking out 25 or so patterns, I quickly starting using my print radar to pick out the best on the cart. Fiona told me later that the local women were watching my selection process and, drawing a crowd, immediately started buying whatever I was choosing–the crazy Laowai lady must know her stuff, right??? Thom swears his very presence attracted the ladies but we all know better.

After refusing Thom as collateral, off the vendor went to her home to get the stock we needed–back in 30 minutes she promised. A hour and a half later, she finally showed up with LOTS of scarves in tow. While we waited for her, the vendor’s mom told us we needed to straighten the scarf display as we had messed it up with our selection frenzy. Sure, no problem, I got this. I have many, many years of retail experience. After just a few folds, the lady told Fiona to tell me to STOP! It seems that I may need some scarf display lessons as she suggested to Fiona that NO ONE WOULD BUY the scarves I was rolling up to stack on the table. Okay, message received. After I had paid for my many scarves, though, everyone was all smiles. Good day at the market for all!

Shanghai Farewell Tour-Designing Clothes and Shoes Oh My!

On October 4, 2014 By Travels with MelindaIn adventure, China, expat, Fashion, Seattle, Shanghai, Shopping, TravelLeave a comment

When in China, right? I had been here a whole year and never gotten custom tailored clothes but with less than 10 days left for me here, I threw caution (and a few hundred RMB) to the wind and decided I would always regret not doing it so off to the South Bund Fabric Market we went! HOT DAMN AND HOLD ME BACK-It’s time to design some fashion to remember my stay in China!

Planning ahead with my favorite shirt in tow as a sample, we hit the market after negotiating for yet more jewelry from the street vendors. 10 RMB ($1.50US) for earrings! Thom made a new friend with the sales lady from Tibet and I got some cool Christmas presents. The market here is three floors consisting mostly of tailors hawking Chinese dresses, suits, outerwear, dresses, etc. so it can be very overwhelming with aggressive hawkers, “LADY, YOU NEED A SUIT???” We had gotten some tailor recommendations from our expat group but, of course, forgot the info so we wandered around. Before you start selecting fabrics and start to negotiate for “best and final friend price”, decide what you are willing to spend and then let the fun begin.

I originally went to just get a French cuff business shirt and a knock off of my favorite knit shirt from Kenneth Cole. We got all the way to the third floor before I found a knit vendor and a friendly merchant named May. She and I picked out fabrics, colors and went over the design to replicate my sample shirt with long sleeves instead of short. For only 150 RMB, I’ll be getting two knit shirts custom tailored to my specs and designed by me in the colors and fabric I picked out. I’m thinking these will quickly become my most flattering and favorite shirts-pics to come.

Thrilled to be designing again (back in the day I was a clothing buyer), I asked her to guide me to a vendor to create my cotton French cuff shirt next, knowing she would get guanxi (good will) from this referral. The next tailor was not so conversant but together we managed to design a special shirt with a different pattern for the inner collar and cuffs to spice up the classic white shirt. Picking out the collar design and the cuff style, we were done and I parted with 120 RMB($20 US) for my shirt that hopefully will fit better than any I can get off the rack at Zara.

I redesigned this dress in dark grey with long sleeves, lower neckline and longer length.

By then, Patti had gotten the designing fever and decided she just had to join in and started trying on coats with my new tailor friend, May. Opting for a classic car coat style in brown with a lining to be picked out by May, who by know we trusted explicitly, I started to try on dresses. I had been a dress buyer a long, long time ago and designed lines myself of dresses so I had a great time picking out fabrics and taking one of their sample dress as a template to lengthen, change the sleeve length, lower the neckline in a dark grey heavy knit fabric. The fact that I could shimmy my way into their sample size dress at all was a minor miracle. Can’t wait to see the finished dress!

Thom's getting a new leather coat for Christmas — Thom’s getting a new leather coat for Christmas

Now it was Thom’s turn to get the cool biker leather jacket he has been dreaming of with zipped gusset sleeves and soft leather that was the “good stuff”, which meant more RMB. While I shopped for dragon cuff links to go with my new shirt, he was measured by two tailors who appreciated that he was one of the few expats able to actually fit into their samples, being the tall thin dude that he is. Let’s face it, most expats here have drank a few too many steins of beer and are carrying 50+ extra pounds. Not my fit and trim hubby-he loves fashion and isn’t afraid of some style in his wardrobe. As you can see by the picture, he also isn’t afraid to make a fashion statement, rocking his Hong Kong shirt in support of the protestors.

Thom will be styling’ in Seattle with his custom made boots and custom tailored leather jacket. We went for his initial boot fitting last week and the ombre grey side stitched boots with red trim will be done before we head home. Yes, the boot model for his first fitting is pink but the final result will be a work of art, designed from several styles to incorporate an inner zipper, side accent laces (red) with toe stitching in red as well. We love our shoes and will also fondly remember our adventures in China as we stroll the streets of Seattle sipping our Americano’s from Stumptown.

Thom's custom boot model is pink but the final product will be ombre grey — Thom’s custom boot model is pink but the final product will be ombre grey

Thom is thrilled with the boot he designed

Ikea Gone Crazy Shanghai Style

On September 14, 2014 By Travels with MelindaIn adventure, China, Shanghai, Shopping, Travel, UncategorizedLeave a comment

Thom and I have crossed the normal threshold of courage on a totally superficial level–we went shopping at Ikea Shanghai on a Sunday. HOLY. HELL. We’ve been before so it wasn’t so shocking to see the wall to wall people using Ikea as their personal living room/bedroom/dining room but it never fails to amuse. Not a lot of buying but lots of socializing going on!

Taking a nap at Ikea is very popular and comfy

The Ikea staff was very absent, probably hiding in the back and wishing for it all to be over with so they could clean up the debris. There wasn’t any attempt made to keep it looking presentable–it was all out chaos and they must live it every day but especially on Sundays when families are off work and looking to spend quality time together enjoying the fine furnishings, numerous outlets to charge their electronics and plentiful beds to rest at Ikea. Every bed was completely destroyed, having been slept in by multiple people by the time we arrived around noon. One toddler slept amidst the noise with his mother browsing on her smart phone and protecting him so he could get a quality nap. He looked very comfy and peaceful.

I was tempted to join the family who had commandeered a dining set to enjoy their packed picnic-what’s for lunch??? Once we got to the Ikea snack bar, you could immediately tell the most popular item(s) in the store–CHEAP FOOD! We kept right on motoring with our list at hand-hangers, picture frames, napkins, etc. which you can score at normal Ikea prices not boosted with import taxes. We packed it all in our Ikea bags and luckily found a taxi right outside–never again we keep telling ourselves but the lure of cheap home furnishings and ample photo opportunities to share always lures us back.

Family time--Enjoying picnic in dining room section at Ikea — Family time–Enjoying picnic in dining room section at Ikea

The Shoes are Here, The Shoes are Here!

On September 13, 2014 By Travels with MelindaIn adventure, China, Fashion, Shanghai, Shopping, TravelLeave a comment

WP_20140913_008 — Red laces and tan leather with wood heels

Red leather accent piece added to the back to "pop" the rear view — Red leather accent piece added to the back to “pop” the rear view

Carved wood soles...a work of art! — Carved wood soles…a work of art!

My handmade shoes finally arrived four weeks after the initial fitting and design and a mid-project fitting of the initial mold. I was able to take the features of several of the showroom models and design a totally unique lace up, side zip oxford boot in dark tan leather with red laces and red leather back panels and wood soles and heels. I am in awe of these shoes. Not only do I love the look but they fit like a dream. I may never take them off–bury me in these babies!!! Yan Ye Shoes on Fuxing Road and Mr. Zhao, the manager are the lovely folks responsible for hand crafting these boots for me. Now, Thom has serious shoe envy so I am sure he will hot foot it over there and design his own soles of heaven soon. Now excuse me while I take these puppies out for a stroll…

AFTER PICTURE–Handmade and one of a kind-designed by ME!

BEFORE PICTURE-This is the mold they made for the first fitting.

Fashion Forward in Saigon

On September 8, 2014September 8, 2014 By Travels with MelindaIn China, Fashion, Shanghai, Shopping, Travel, Trips outside Shanghai, VietnamLeave a comment

Silk dress Marilyn Monroe style with fan flowing out skirt on display

When you peel back the layers of fashion in Vietnam, you discover that besides the Vietnam traditional outfit for ladies which consists of a flowing tunic with pants, the fashion here varies widely with trendy boutiques offering truly fashion forward choices for shoppers in Saigon. Of course, you’ll pay to be unique so you better load up at the ATM with millions of Dong ’cause you are going to need it to take home one of these outfits. Hot Damn, let’s do some shopping!!! Not only are the stores decorated with trendy touches from statement art to industrial chic with stained concrete floors, steel lighting plus the visual displays make you want to touch and buy their products. One chic store had everything from b/w Vietnam portraits screenprinted on iPad covers to brightly colored recycled vinyl bags and sandals to handmade necklaces. Hold me back–my luggage is already too heavy! Lured in by the outfits in the window featuring men’s pants with a studded fly (for dudes who want some attention I’m guessing), this gallery of fashion finds featured garments that were works of arts accented by the dragonfly wire hangers they were hung from. Very expensive and probably too nice to actually wear in my lifestyle, I admired the artist’s embroidered shirts and wraps as well as her one of a kind necklaces. Thom shot off some photos for me while I tried to distract the shop girls because I knew they wouldn’t allow it–sure enough, they shut him down quickly but not before I got a few to share.

Studded fly for the man who wants a little attention

Classic Lambretta scooter on display with fashion art

At yet another gorgeous showroom, the beautiful silk prints in heavy brocade fabrics draped just right were set off with huge statement necklaces. I wouldn’t dare buy silk because I would almost surely dribble coffee on it or, God forbid, sweat while wearing it. Still, I appreciate the gorgeous styles that are too expensive for most folks here in Vietnam. I was surprised to see as many luxury retailers here with the large showpiece stores-LV, Chanel, Hermes, etc. all are represented here in Saigon by our hotel. Our last day is today so I’m off to pick up a few more items to remember our great stay in Saigon.

Statement necklace aceents silk print top — Statement necklace accents silk print top

Bargaining Should Be An Olympic Sport

On September 2, 2014 By Travels with MelindaIn adventure, China, Shanghai, Shopping, UncategorizedLeave a comment

Today we ventured out to the AP “fake” market in Shanghai under the #2 subway line in Pudong. We have been there many times to buy pearls, sports jerseys, Rolex watches, LV bags, etc. I see bargaining for the lowest possible price as a sport. I just wish it was an Olympic sport because I would totally own a Gold Medal.

Our mission was hunting for stylish yet waterproof rain boots for me. With my commute of 1.3 miles each way to/from work and no taxis in sight when it rains, I am tired of stepping in the lakes that form quickly in the streets resulting from the city planners–shocker ahead–obviously not realizing that it rains heavily in Shanghai many months of the year. Where the hell did they imagine all that water was going to go???

Thom checking out local shirts to get custom made at the AP market

Anyway, we went straight to our “shoe lady” who has sold us many a Converse-like shoe in the past. She gives us the local price not the laowai inflated price and she has a nice smile. Today, James found some nice leather sneaks but, after trying on hideous Croc-like rubber boats to keep my feet dry, we had to keep looking. The popular Hunter boots were everywhere but I’ve had those (Hannah now looks splendid in them) and they’re just too hot and heavy for Shanghai. Unfortunately, nothing else really else presented itself except a leopard plastic boot that I just couldn’t bring myself to like. So, after heavy negotiating I got a short version of the Hunter mock lizard which will make my feet sweat like a bitch but perhaps will be waterproof–with the fakes, you never know what quality you’re getting until you wear/wash them. They may last and they may not. I told the guy I lived in Shanghai and would be back in his face if my feet got wet wearing his boots that I got for 160RMB. He just smiled and waved goodbye. He has no idea what’s in his future if my feet aren’t happy in the next monsoon. Watch out mister!

Hunter rain boots and turquoise necklace-my bargains from AP market

Since my birthday was this past week and I ended up sick instead of celebrating, I decided to treat myself and give Sarah’s Pearls a visit because I just know they miss my bargaining like a mule which makes Thom cringe. After seeing a long turquoise(like) and silver necklace, I knew it would look super with a simple black dress so into the lovely sequin bag it went for only 100 RMB–she started at 280 RMB. Like a mule I am!

After negotiating for a brightly patterned pillow cover–I do have a serious pillow fetish for our boring beige couches–we started looking at custom made trench coats to accompany my new rain boots. I’ll have to do some research on styles but I shopped for pricing and found I could get one for about 600 RMB (down from 2400) custom made in a few days. SOLD! Can’t wait to go back and order when my friend Patti visits. I’m sure she’ll want some custom clothes too and I can get a better deal if we buy multiple items. I truly do deserve a Gold Medal in bargaining because I save so much money that I can just keep on shopping, shopping, shopping!

Styled by Hannah

On July 21, 2014 By Travels with MelindaIn adventure, China, Fashion, Shopping, Uncategorized2 Comments

I was lucky enough to spend time with my family this week in South Bend, Indiana. Clean air and blue skies! Even better, my gorgeous daughter Hannah and Baby Mia accompanied me to spend quality time with my sister, Mom and best friend Patti. What a great time we had!

My beautiful daughter and stylist Hannah

When it proved to be too hot for a Zoo visit on Saturday, we hit the mall instead. Yes, it cost me more than the Zoo but we so rarely get quality shopping time together so Hannah took advantage of the opportunity to style an outfit for me. I also had to procure a statement necklace for her so that she would give me back the one she is wearing in the picture–I love it and just am not willing to give it to her–yet! No worries- we found a beautiful substitute at the mall.

It was fun visiting the University Park Mall where I worked as the Assistant Store Manager many, many years ago at L.S.Ayres when Hannah was only 2 and James was a baby. That’s a story for another time but, desperate to leave my job that I held while pregnant with James, I interviewed for my new job that would take me to the UP Mall only 7 days after giving birth. Several week later, we loaded up the car and moved to South Bend, Indiana. We were, and are, truly crazy but enough reminiscing and back to my new outfit.

After finding Baby Mia the perfect dress to accompany her parents to a friend’s wedding in Coeur d’Alene next week, we had some time to shop for ourselves and we made the most of it. Finding fashion bargains is truly one of Hannah’s skills. She can go to a thrift store and come out with a stunning outfit originally from Anthro for less than $20 and looking spectacular.

I love the quality of Banana Republic and know what size I wear without needing to try anything on-a time saver! Hannah combined the trendy polka dot cotton shirt with basic chinos from there but made it POP with the new statement necklace and my zebra belt. My new nerd glasses from Warby Parker, bought on our last NYC trip, give the hipster edge to the look while the Cole Haan wedges, which are actually comfy to walk in, give me a needed lift since I am severely height challenged. Thank you, Hannah darling, for making your Momma look stylish for her meetings! Watch out Hotlanta-here I come!

Warby Parker Fillmore Glasses: https://www.warbyparker.com/eyeglasses/men/fillmore/tennessee-whiskey

Francesca’s statement necklace and earrings: http://www.francescas.com/category/jewelry/necklaces/statement.do

Banana Republic polka dot shirt, zebra belt and chinos: http://bananarepublic.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=84171&pid=970435&scid=970435002

Cole Haan wedges-picked up at Nordstrom Rack (my fav!) two years ago in Atlanta–classic and comfy!

Lazy Afternoon in Shanghai

On June 30, 2014 By Travels with MelindaIn adventure, China, Shanghai, Shopping, TravelLeave a comment

Happiest discovery of the day was that “my” subway line, the #9, goes right to Tianzifang Alley, my fav place to shop. How did I not know this before?? It’s the little things that make me happy. Pathetic. If you come to Shanghai, you absolutely must shop there. Quaint and photogenic, the crowded alleyways are lined with interesting stuff. One place even had Cronuts, the croissant/donut that is so hot in NYC right now. Trendy!

Tianzifang Alley-always fun to visit and right on the Subway Line #9

Yes, the prices are higher than at the AP “fake” market but there is a nice mix of stores and bars/restaurants to spend the day wandering and enjoying.

My favorite stores include the t-shirt shop with all original designs where you can get a really cool T for just 99 RMB ($16 US). Not saying who I bought that awesome t-shirt for but he arrives later this week on his school break. Luckily, he never reads his Mom’s blog so my secret is safe. Now, I can’t say what gift I got my Mom because she is a loyal blog supporter so we’ll just say that it’s pretty enough to wear to dinner. I had to visit the paper store too where beautiful and witty postcards share space with ObamaMao notebooks and paper picture frames to hang from twine with adorable clothespins. The resident shop cat was missing–hope she was just in the back and not someone’s lunch.

After a short subway ride home, I saw all kinds of interesting sights on the short walk home. Sundays are a busy day as most people only have this day off from work. The shoe cobbler was very busy as were the fruit ladies.

Watermelons are plentiful right now! Wished I liked them.

I guess it is now officially watermelon season as they were piled everywhere along the street. Too bad I’m not a fan of this fruit. Lychee are also hot right now. I’ve tried them-kind of slimy so no go. Yes, I’m a picky eater. SO. SUE. ME. I’m an apple, pineapple and banana kind of girl with a kiwi now and then to spice things up.

The DVD store was busy too-tried to buy the new XMen movie but my guy there clued me in that it was a “bad” copy (he only does this for the regulars–the tourists go back to their home country with crap DVD’s) so I opted for the first two seasons of Orange is the New Black, which I hear is very good. I predict the family will have a movie marathon on a rainy day soon. Off to Beijing tomorrow–never a dull moment!

Sundays are laundry day and clothes are hung randomly all over the sidewalks to dry.

Umbrella anyone? Locals use for shade from the sun.

Hot Damn….Hong Kong Heaven

On June 1, 2014June 1, 2014 By Travels with MelindaIn adventure, Beijing, China, Hong Kong, Shopping, TravelLeave a comment

I LOVE HONG KONG! Seriously, it is clean, civilized and gorgeous. I was lucky to stay on the outskirts in Cyperport at the Le Meridien Hotel. Infinity pool. CHECK. Crazy bean bag lounge overlooking gorgeous water view. CHECK. Walking distance to mall and park on the water where dogs, really big ones, roam free. CHECK. International grocery that sells bagels and People magazine plus cheap wine. CHECK, CHECK AND DOUBLE CHECK. Hot Damn Hong Kong Heaven! A Westerner’s paradise in Asia, Hong Kong is visually stunning with high rise luxury apartments seemingly everywhere and drivers actually following the rules of the road. What, what…what, what?? That’s crazy talk. No bikes/scooters and the buses are all charming double deckers whizzing around the curvy hilly roads. One safety reminder-they have British heritage so they drive on the wrong (at least to me) side of the road. Remember to look both ways or die when crossing the street. They actually have painted reminders on the pavement to remind folks like me to look both ways first. How thoughtful!

We took a cab to The Peak for dinner. About 90 Hong Kong $’s which is about $15 US. Our driver would definitely feel at home behind the wheel of a Porsche in a Grand Prix race. He took those steep curves with confidence and precision as we wound our way upward into the clouds. Though there were some guardrails, in general, it was frightening to look over the edge of the mountain as we raced by the steep and stunning vista’s below. Oh well, it did get the blood flowing as my heart pounded and I occasionally had to just shut my eyes in terror. I figure he knew what he was doing and, if he didn’t, there wasn’t a damn thing I could do about it so I just had to pray, hard, and trust.

Once at The Peak, there is a very western shopping mall with McD’s, Burger King, Starbucks, etc. but we ate at a lovely Thai restaurant with outside deck, enjoying shrimp, salad, spring rolls, etc. I am getting much better with the chopstick control and managed to eat quite well with them without launching food at my fellow diners. We literally were in the clouds and the wispy puffs were on the move with a strong breeze making the hot weather very lovely. The deck on the mall has an outstanding view of the Victoria Harbor. You can take the Tram down the mountain or cab it. The Tram does have a long line so be prepared to wait quite awhile for this scenic ride. At 9 p.m., one of the largest skyscrapers has a light show on the outside of the building. Quite beautiful so time dinner right and you get a show afterward for free.

Bean Bag Lounge at Le Meridien in Hong Kong...easy to get into and harder to get up, especially after a drink or two! — Bean Bag Lounge at Le Meridien in Hong Kong…easy to get into and harder to get up, especially after a drink or two!

Surrounded on one side by lush green mountains and water on the other side, I’ve so enjoyed watching the boats in the busy harbor. I’ve decided to be happy and content, I must live near both water and mountains. When we lived in Seattle, we were right on the water and loved seeing the ferries and cruise ships with mountains in the background. Now, in Shanghai, it’s a different experience watching the coal boats shoot up the Huangpu River but still, while not so scenic, it does provide an interesting and always different view.

So, back to Beijing and then on to Shanghai to enjoy a long Chinese Dragonboat Festival weekend. I do love all the Chinese holidays. I’ll be watching for the dragons and boats on local waterways-the ferries should have fun dodging those as they cross the river. It will be so good to get home and enjoy a respite from living in a Beijing hotel. I’ll be looking forward to another trip to Hong Kong this summer to share it’s excitement with Thom and James and do more exploring of this beautiful city. Bean Bag Lounge, here I come!

Shanghai Spring!

On April 13, 2014April 13, 2014 By Travels with MelindaIn adventure, Beijing, Fashion, Shanghai, ShoppingLeave a comment

Spring has sprung in Shanghai! And about time thank you very much. While we didn’t get any snow, it’s been a long, dark winter. I’m tired of trudging through the gloomy cold to work and looking forward to some sun and longer daylight hours to enjoy exploring all that China has to offer. We’ll be in Beijing alot so looking forward to getting to know that city quite well.

Trying to name the "captains" pictured-got Captain Crunch right! — Trying to name the “captains” pictured-got Captain Crunch right!

We had a blast at Trivia Night at The Bookworm in Sanlitun this week and will definitely go back. We killed in many categories but the music was a bit too international for our brains. We hadn’t even heard many of the songs or artists featured. Of course, Thom was overly generous when he gave one team credit for naming Bruno Mars’ song, Gorilla, when he put down “f*&k the monkey”, a loose interpretation of the lyrics of that crazy tune. Trivia Nights are all the rage in China for Expat’s–this one was even smoke-free!

Rain + Spring = GREEN! The newly revived grass and trees were a welcome sight amidst the grey polluted skies today in Shanghai. Oh what I wouldn’t give for a blue sky day!!! I worked the past week in Beijing, where it was 200+ AQI every day and so depressing. You could tell Michelle Obama and the girls had gone–fire up the furnaces and let the pollutants loose ’cause the liberals have left the building!

Enjoying my new patio chairs from Ikea on our balcony.

No matter, even though there are very few days to enjoy the outside air, we braved the crowds at Ikea to grab some patio chairs for our balcony. While we can’t leave them out every day because they would just get filthy, we are ever hopeful that we will have a few fine days to sip coffee and enjoy a rare day where you can breathe in without coughing. Look, they’re still white!

If you want to enjoy a clusterf&*k of epic proportions, visit Ikea on a weekend in Shanghai. HOLY. HELL. Get those elbows out and jump into the fray. There is a steady parade that you just have to join in as people take pictures, nap, use the somewhat clean bathrooms, socialize, eat and do everything BUT buy anything. Thom and I are veteran Ikea shoppers so we just took off cutting through departments and grabbing what was on the list as quick as possible. No browsing for us and who could nap with all that noise! Obviously someone could because the beds were almost all taken-there being no trespass laws here in China.

We also visited the AP market and haggled for some Converse-like sneakers for me. Nothing says SPRING like some new shoes. They take their fashion very seriously here and my casual look is very counter to the ruffles, bows, and frilly look favored by many of the females here. To each their own!

Spring fashion includes lots of prints and ruffles.

Window shopping at the IFC mall, the many boutiques featured beautiful outfits from shoes to hat. Of course, they are all in size 0-4 so I can look but not buy. The largest size even in the US Brands like Gap is a small version of a 8. No more carbs for me! Some day I would like to buy some local fashion so I’ll just have to get out the duct tape and starve for a few weeks!

We leave in a week to visit the US to work and then get to be with Hannah and Mike as Mia arrives in May. From her current antics inside, she is already enjoying being active and will no doubt keep her parents very busy from the get go. Put on your track shoes, Hannah and Mike! We love little Mia already and look forward to her getting to know her Nai Nai, While I wish we could live closer, the day will come when we are all together. Until then, Mia will get lots of cute outfits as we plan to spoil her rotten.

Look out blue skies and clean air, here we come!

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