World Expo-sure

And here it is, part two of my little series on my time in China. Below you will find a listing of the fabulous things that I will miss about China. Enjoy!!!

• A complete meal cooked right before my eyes for an unbelievably reasonable 5 RMB


• Complete strangers requesting pictures with me – I mean, I’m kind of a big deal at home, but it’s not the same


• The metro – You can go anywhere you want in Shanghai at rapid speed for 4 RMB


• The interesting walks – because there’s always something exciting waiting just around the corner!!!


• Random DVD vendors – from suspense to drama to a host of television series, if you want it, they’ve got it!


• Haibo – Ah, the famed mascot of the World Expo. This blue guy is everywhere, and he’s dressed up in all kinds of random costumes!


• Mango smoothies for 5 RMB


• The vibrant colored lights that are always popping at night – I feel like a little kid being taunted by a shiny object!


• Some of the best freshly popped kettle corn I have ever put in my mouth!


• Fireworks – Why? Because they are always being set off by older men in their pajamas for absolutely no reason other than good times!


• The fruit stands – AMAZING!!!


• The fresh vegetables that are used in everything that you eat


• Body scrubs and massages - Enough said!


• Mani/pedi’s – I have never had someone pay such close attention to my cuticles! LOVE IT!!!


• Remote-controlled air conditioners – We should definitely look into manufacturing these in the U.S.!!!

Trenia’s Finale:
This one’s going to be short and sweet because it’s almost time for me to get ready to head to the airport. I just want to say that I have learned so much this summer about everything from business to marriage to my personal strengths and weaknesses, but there is one thing that sticks out the most. I have learned that while it is very true that every action causes a reaction, we have the power to control our actions and/or reactions. For most of us, we typically have great control over our actions because we want to do what’s right and treat people fairly. However, I think it’s safe to say that all of us are guilty of reacting negatively when we are prompted by the negative actions of others. Now usually we feel justified in our reactions because we tell ourselves that “they started it!” Well, here’s my lesson for the summer: I must always take responsibility for my reactions, no matter the situation or circumstance. It might seem simple enough, but it’s one of the hardest lessons I’ve had to learn in a very long time.

Welcome to my world…expo-sure!!!