Our first date was on Sunday, September 22nd. Honestly, between you and me, it was a really good first date. In the afternoon we decided to go for a walk around town. I got picked up and swept away to experience a new culture, chase a cute puppy, ride a fake camel, be alarmed by suspiciously quiet sheep, make up how to play a traditional game and roam around in a park filled with pretty flowers. It was a fairly small town, so we were able to stroll up and down the streets, which was pretty cool. I even did cartwheels and attempted to be a b-girl…it was a really good afternoon. *insert sigh*
Then he decided to take me on a bus ride into the heart of the country. (This is where the date took a bit of a turn…okay maybe more than a bit.)
It really was all fine and dandy as we hung out on the bus and watched a tv show…but then I gave into the exhaustion and fell asleep. It was late, and I didn’t realize the bus was going to be as long as it was. I was surprised to be awoken multiple times to the sounds of someone yelling at us. I was also told to get off the bus at strange locations numerous times, and even once I was shoved into a building. I wondered why my date would take me somewhere that wasn’t very welcoming or charming. It really wasn’t the best first impression, but I convinced myself that he couldn’t be held accountable for all of the unknowns. I think he was trying very hard, and plus, first dates are often awkward and rough. I told myself that I wouldn’t write him off just yet.
Once we arrived to the city, I tried to brush off the night’s events. For the most part, the date had still been more than anything I could’ve hope for. It was fun and adventurous and playful. But the city changed a lot for me. It was almost like we started speaking two different languages. I stepped off the bus without knowing any sort of plan. I assumed this first date would probably be similar to my last, and we’d figure this whole thing out relatively easily. Oh, how wrong I was.
My date had me walk the streets carrying a large amount of who knows what to get to who knows where, and by the end of the date I was sick to my stomach. I had to unload the “precious cargo” and curl up in a ball to keep from throwing up. I wasn’t sure if it was what I had eaten the night before, the lack of sleep, the smell of the meat markets nearby or maybe even just the atmosphere. I felt bad that I was of no use in helping him figure out where we needed to go, but I had to focus on breathing through the nausea. I know…great first impression on my behalf.
I really tried to show that I wanted to help as I went to pick up our stuff, but my knees buckled under the weight. We laughed it off as I struggled my way back on my feet, and then we headed our way. I could feel our date coming to an end right around 8:00am. I made the decision then that even with all of the hiccups, I would give it another shot. Sure, the date didn’t go as planned…well, I guess I never really even knew the plan…but it’s still a relationship I think may be worth pursuing.
So yeah, China, I’m saying yes to a second date.
Hahaha I hope you enjoyed my little personification of my first experiences in/with China. What a journey it truly. has. been. So, here’s to all the dates. I’ll make sure to keep y’all updated 😉
Much love! -B
