settling in shenzhen, part two: a room of one's own

For weeks we CTLC teachers have been living out of our suitcases. Washing our clothes in the hotel sink and drying them on hangers placed decoratively about the room. It goes without saying that the thought of moving into our own place, complete with a washing machine and a refrigerator was infinitely more appealing. The 23rd became a day that we all held as momentous. August 23rd, the day we would move into a room of our own.

Well, August 23rd came and went for me. Jane informed me that my room was not ready yet. She kindly told me that I could stay with her. And so, I moved in with my temporary host family that afternoon and have been living there ever since. I am still very ready to settle into my own place, but I do believe that this has been a blessing in disguise. I have had the chance to get to know her and her family.

Jane is an adorable woman. She has an engaging smile and an easy laugh. She is such a happy person it is impossible not to like her and my days with her have been great. Yes, I am still ready to unpack after a month of vagabonding, but I am so glad to have had the chance to get to know my contact teacher. Not only because she will be a great help to me in my working environment, but because she will be a great friend.