“Then the time came when the risk it took
To remain tight in a bud was more painful
Than the risk it took to blossom.”
- Anais Nin
Sitting here on a lovely fall day in Grove City, it’s difficult to imagine that in about a month I will be half a world away! Every sound, aroma and sensation is familiar right now. I love watching autumn leaves swirling in the air. I love pumpkin pie, warm sweaters and hot apple cider. I stopped at an outdoor market this afternoon and chatted with the owner about his apple crop, like I do every year at this time. Every reason why I love the fall is rushing at me with all its might. I can’t get enough of it.
But at the same time, I am so anxious and excited to experience China. Soon, everything will be new and unfamiliar. When will those sounds and aromas start feeling comfortable to me? When will China begin to feel like home?
On this day, I am snuggled into the comfort of all I love about living in Pennsylvania…but with the excitement of knowing that very soon I’ll be adjusting to a new and different life.
Thanks for joining me!
who what when where why how??????!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
LOVE the Nin quote! How perfectly does that describe your choices as you contemplated this whole adventure!
I love this blog set-up. I look forward to much more reading of your blog!
I agree, I expect many great koopman stories to appear here soon…
Caroline, thanks for the beautiful site. Looking forward to the coming words and images!
Happily, you already sampled some pumpkin delicacies on your visit to China; I’ve heard they grow lots of apples there, too! So, maybe there’ll be some familiar aromas to help your transition. Shuffle through the leaves while you can.