Top Ten Things I have Learned in the Process of Moving to Taiwan

10).  Learning Mandarin is hard.  We have been practicing the language for 6 months now and still only know the basics.  At one point, a student asked me what I can say and I said that hello in Mandarin was "Yihow" instead of "Nihow"- I guess I will be bringing a bit of the "yeehaw" west to the east. 

9).  People's preconceived notions of a country are interesting.  Based on what I have heard about Taiwan, I am expecting the people to be incredibly warm and friendly, I am expecting to arrive to the hottest humidity hell I can imagine, and I am expecting to be noticeably turned off by the pollution.  But by far the most interesting Taiwan tale goes to our dental hygienist, who had a interesting story about living in Taiwan and she had to train her dog to not eat poisonous meatballs that intruders would try to feed the dog. 

8).  Right now, is really not a good time to sell anything.  Myron and I know as we have tried to sell just about everything.

7). Moving equals one big headache.

6). I don't have tuberculosis, which I discovered as a result of getting a resident visa, which is an extremely long and drawn out process.  As the consulate woman informed me, "Ma'am, that is why we request that you apply with a whole month to spare, so that you have time to do all of these extra tasks".  Oh, I see.  

5).  I am drawn to feeling comfortable.  It is wonderful to have family and friends close by, to have your favorite restaurants and your favorite places to eat, to have your favorite summer things to do.  Feeling comfortable should not be underestimated.  However, it is always when you step out of your comfort zone that you grow the most as a person. 

4).  Saying goodbye is awful!  Even when you know that you will be saying hello again, it is just gut-wrenching horribly, awfully sad.  I hate it! 

3).  I love Colorado!  And I mean, I really, really, really, really love Colorado!  This summer I fell in love with Colorado all over again- Lake City, Crested Butte, Evergreen, Estes Park, Denver- I love this state- and the people in it!

2). I love my husband!  Not just a little bit, but a big huge gigantic amount. If you want to know if you have a strong relationship, try moving halfway around the world together-  This man is my rock and I am so glad that we are moving abroad together. 

1). Material possessions really don't matter.  We sold, gave away, or stored almost all of our possessions and after all was said and done, I really could not tell you what ended up where for the most part.  
What does matter- what has always mattered most- is your memories and your loved ones.  And Myron and I have been blessed with such wonderful family and friends- we will miss you!  We love you! Come visit!