Hike Ho!

The physio came into my clinic Monday to invite me to join a hike to a country park in Fanling today. My first reaction was shock as I didn't expect someone that I have barely spoken two words to in the whole year is asking me out hiking... Those who know me know that exercise is not my thing. The second reaction, I am very sorry to admit was wariness. Cantoland is rife with individuals whose main source of entertainment is to muddle waters. I was quite reluctant to join was my department is not exactly BFF with their department. However, since I was invited to 'bring a friend' I decided to drag the american along to be my buffer against a Cantonese speaking crowd.

The hike was pleasant with brilliant views of mainland China in the distance. We had three gorgeous golden retreivers along with us and everyone was in dog-speak mode and failed to interact with each other. Some school kids who were (obviously arm twisted into hiking on a Saturday) walking the opposing way commented on why we were coming from China in the wrong direction. -_-

The american and I were tempted to call their bluff and warn them to beware of the smugglers! :)

The local crowd had prepared a barbecue and we had a nice time toasting butter bread with honey ( It was the only thing I could BBQ well anyways). I had a pleasant time with my own company and with 'nature' haha.. I only got minor allergic reactions on my forearms as the whole walk was paved and there was hardly any undergrowth. I did not see any tigers, lions or pandas either and was quite disappointed. Due to the economic recession, many factories in ShenZhen have closed. This has inversely allowed us to have better air quality in Cantoland and will hopefully improve skin conditions. I ended the day with a very pleasant massage and facial. Life is good!

On a lighter note, my dermatologist is wonderful! I called him to tell him I was not going to be able to attend his clinic on Wednesday, and he came to my clinic to give me a consultation! My assistant then went to pay the fee, err sit in my 'consultation', pick up my prescription and my medication. All I had to do was sit on my little bum at work. It is very touching to see people go out of their way to help you... I strive to do the same.