Birthday

A day or so ago, I asked my mom:

“Did you ever think that 22 years ago, almost to the day (I think it was the 9th), that you’d be talking to your son and wishing him a happy birthday while he was in China?”

She naturally replied no. However, it has put in perspective for me the journey I’ve undertaken. I have recently passed the two month mark. Prior to this experience, I’d been out of the country on multiple occasions for two weeks at a time. By the time I leave, I’ll have been here for five months. Honestly, I’ve toyed with the idea of traveling a bit after the program. However, I have a feeling it’ll be time to return home. And, although I could get more money, funds are always on the mind.

So, on my 22nd birthday, I am in China. Today is also Teacher’s Day in China, so we gave our Chinese teacher some presents. When I came back from lunch with a few friends, most everyone was already back and they sang me happy birthday in Chinese and had gotten me a small cake that was deposited at my desk. After class, I got an IP Card (a super cheap international phone card. The internet connection here is inconsistent, so Skype is touch and go) and called my folks, albeit late for them. Then, the guys (that’s 4 of us total, minus our RA/TA) went out to a Xi’an restaurant that I enjoy. I the way back I bought myself to CDs, the Chinese epic song Liang Zhu (Google or Wikipedia it. It’s the most famous song in China and is considered a Romeo and Juliet of China) and a CD of Yoyo Ma playing Ennio Morricone pieces. Ennio is a fantastic composer that has done some awarded work on many films.

I bought myself birthday presents.

It couldn’t have been much better of a birthday. Only could’ve been better if I were with family and friends, but this was great. I’ve only been with these folks for two weeks, but it made me happy to get a few happy birthdays, a song, and a cake with a tomato on it. Simple, easy, not a lot. That’s what I like.

Just now, someone was running to the store.

I’m getting ice cream. Heck yes.

A good, simple day.