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April 2, 2009

Spring Fever

Posted by Kelly

In the last 12 hours I have seen the aftermath of two accidents, both in the same location! Yesterday the accident involved two cars and today it was with a bus and car. (I think the bus won.) I’m surprised that there’s not more accidents in China. The driving rules are merely a suggestion; I’ve seen cars driving on sidewalks, merging into oncoming traffic, running red lights…any possible driving regulation is usually disregarded. But yet somehow I rarely see accidents, until recently. That’s why I think it’s spring fever! Today feels like spring. The temperature is warmer, only a slight breeze, and the sun is shining. I think everyone is ready to shed the winter parkas & snow boats, and dust off their spring jackets & sandals.

Another reason why I know Spring is in the air—weddings! This morning in the parking lot of my apartment building there was a limo decorated with the traditional wedding look--a big flower arrangement on the front and singles flowers placed along side the vehicle. The family and friends ride in black Lincolns behind the couple. Again, the cars are decorated with the lucky color red and strategically placed flowers. This is the first time I’ve seen the couple in the limo, usually it’s just another black Lincoln. This must be a fancy wedding! Unfortunately I had to get to work so I didn’t get to see the lovely couple in their wedding attire. I did see something odd—in the parking lot small areas were covered by square pieces of red paper/fabric. Evian explained to me that the couple doesn’t want any bad luck on their wedding day so they cover the wells or sewer drains with red paper or fabric. This wards off any evil that might be lurking around. Also it’s tradition to put a mirror in the window of the bride or groom’s home. This will make it impossible for evil spirits or bad luck to come into the home. The mirror deflects any bad fortune. When the groom goes to the apartment to get his bride, he then has to carry her to the car. Imagine carrying someone down the stairs if she lived on the 15th floor! I bet every guy gives special thanks for elevators!!

Recently at work I have been keeping busy with proofreading some official documents. It’s interesting to see how the material is written and I’ve even come across some words I’ve never seen before! (Adding more vocabulary to my 60,000+ words I know.)
Other than that I’m excited—I found out I get Monday off for the National Holiday—Tomb Sweeping Day. It is very similar to Memorial Day. And Monday is suppose to be 60 and sunny! Perfect vacation day!

Evian and I are planning to venture to the UFO Sightseeing Tower. It’s a tower in Dalian Development Zone that looks like a UFO, hence the name. It’s a great way to see all of the city and ocean. Perfect photo-op!

Sadly, China doesn’t celebrate Easter and Good Friday. But since I am here I will introduce my coworkers to some traditions! I’m planning on making my coworkers Easter Baskets filled with goodies. I’ll have to improvise with the baskets, but I’m sure I’ll come up with something good!