In Place and Back to Work

Yesterday, I completed my first job here in Shanghai as the MC for a special Brooks Brothers exhibit at Citic Plaza in Shanghai.  Even though as I quite stressed out to make a good impression hosting in both English and Mandarin, I was also relieved to have this first project under  my belt.  Fortunately, the media event went smoothly with no major hiccups or casualties!  ;-P

Even though I’ve always been a bit daunted to host in Chinese, this is exactly the reason I decided to take a giant leap of faith and spend more time in China.  Sure, there are many English-speaking hosts and there are also many Chinese-speaking hosts, but I’ve always believed there’s a dearth of bilingual hosts and actors here in China so that will be a major focal point for me as we slowly understand the China market better for other opportunities.

Even though we are all completely moved and settled, I must say that the transition hasn’t been easy.  Finding a new place to live and securing the children in schools was a huge undertaking, but I am happy to say that everything is working and in place…for now.  Surprisingly, it’s been more and more refreshing to literally “displace” oneself and soak up the new surroundings.  We’ve been slowly making our way around this stunning city, and one night we were invited to attend Sir Richard Branson’s private party at Bar Rouge on The Bund…

As much as we would like to go out more often and meet more people in town, it’s been difficult finding an “Ayi” (domestic help) to watch the kids.  Fortunately, we think we’ve got one we like so hope that could essentially be the final piece of our transitional puzzle, and here she’s hard at work taking a casual family photo for us…

Now that life is more or less “stable,” it’s time to continue on this new adventure and see just how far our dreams can take us.  I’ve always envisioned  myself living in China so just being here with my family is already an achievement.  While we spend time exploring this city mecca, we are enjoying the cool Autumn weather coupled with the diverse array of Chinese and Western cuisine and cultures.

Of course, there’s always the inevitable question of whether something is legit and the “real deal” because essentially anything can be copied here…

…so I’m still wondering whether I can really get my hands on a bonafide Double Double?  Guess we’ll all find out sometime soon this Fall 2011!  ;-)