I was going to title this entry "Leaving on a Jet Plane" but then I realized that I think I've used this before. Regardless it still applies. Tomorrow (my Thursday morning) I will be boarding a plane headed to Chicago via Tokyo and Minneapolis.
I will be spending one week in Chicago and then will head to North Dakota for meetings. During the meetings I'll find out what my next role will be in Bobcat. Whatever it is I will be relocating to ND, likely after the start of the new year. Anyone have a house for sale in ND?! Talking about this though is getting ahead of myself.
I'm most excited about my week of vacation. I plan to hit the gym, walk the lake, shop, eat the food I miss, drink some cocktails all while catching up with family and friends. Plus I'll get to spend some time snuggled up in my bed watching all of the TV shows that Rick recorded for me on DVR.
I'll also be making a quick pit stop during this two weeks in MN and will be able to see my immediate family. I can't wait to spoil my niece and nephew!!
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Monday, October 27, 2008
Try, Try and Try Again
This weekend the goal was to not spend money – or more specifically not to wind up at the fabric market. Things started off great with an early morning run with my neighbor and one of his coworkers (5 miles for me, 6 miles for the two guys) followed by pancakes for breakfast. YUM!
After getting ready for the day the three of us headed out to the ferry terminal. We were going to attempt to head to Hengsha Island (a.k.a. the Quiet Island). I had heard that it is the most scenic place in Shanghai as there is no industrial/manufacturing allowed on the island. I think another reason why it is so quiet is because it is impossible for foreigners to get to it.
I’m sure some of the locals are able to make it back and forth between the islands very easily. Unfortunately, my small group of expats was unable to figure it out. We went into 5 different buildings trying to buy tickets. The staff at each building kept pointing us to the next building and the next and the next. We tried and tried and tried again but were unsuccessful in figuring out the system and how to buy tickets.
So after our multiple attempts we opted to scrap the original agenda and move onto plan B.
We headed to Nanjing Lu where we re-fueled with Starbucks. It was only 11:00am but after a run at 6am we were already starting to fade. The caffeine had the desired effect so we headed out to the Bund. This area of Shanghai is known for its interesting architecture. There is a river walk that runs parallel to the buildings of interest so I was able to get some great pictures. We didn’t give up though on a boat trip. We signed up for an hour long river cruise. The weather was a bit overcast and the smog/haze was thick in the sky but it was still a nice way to pass some time.
By 3pm we were heading back to the Hongqiao area (where my apartment is located) . A quick detour was made to City Shop. This is a grocery store that clearly caters to expats. Josh had yet to be introduced to this grocery store so we felt that it would be worthwhile to detour. I was especially happy as next door to City Shop is a frozen yogurt store – oh so Yummy.
Check out pictures from Saturday’s adventure using this link:
http://picasaweb.google.com/esjohnson80/BoatTrip#
After getting ready for the day the three of us headed out to the ferry terminal. We were going to attempt to head to Hengsha Island (a.k.a. the Quiet Island). I had heard that it is the most scenic place in Shanghai as there is no industrial/manufacturing allowed on the island. I think another reason why it is so quiet is because it is impossible for foreigners to get to it.
I’m sure some of the locals are able to make it back and forth between the islands very easily. Unfortunately, my small group of expats was unable to figure it out. We went into 5 different buildings trying to buy tickets. The staff at each building kept pointing us to the next building and the next and the next. We tried and tried and tried again but were unsuccessful in figuring out the system and how to buy tickets.
So after our multiple attempts we opted to scrap the original agenda and move onto plan B.
We headed to Nanjing Lu where we re-fueled with Starbucks. It was only 11:00am but after a run at 6am we were already starting to fade. The caffeine had the desired effect so we headed out to the Bund. This area of Shanghai is known for its interesting architecture. There is a river walk that runs parallel to the buildings of interest so I was able to get some great pictures. We didn’t give up though on a boat trip. We signed up for an hour long river cruise. The weather was a bit overcast and the smog/haze was thick in the sky but it was still a nice way to pass some time.
By 3pm we were heading back to the Hongqiao area (where my apartment is located) . A quick detour was made to City Shop. This is a grocery store that clearly caters to expats. Josh had yet to be introduced to this grocery store so we felt that it would be worthwhile to detour. I was especially happy as next door to City Shop is a frozen yogurt store – oh so Yummy.
Check out pictures from Saturday’s adventure using this link:
http://picasaweb.google.com/esjohnson80/BoatTrip#
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
A Kodak Challenge
“A picture is worth a thousand words,” proclaims many a person (and I think a Kodak ad campaign). I fully agree that images are extremely powerful. Unfortunately, there are many images that are hard to capture on film; Shanghai is no exception. While I haven’t given up on capturing some of the fleeting images that have captured my attention I want to share them in words in case I am never successful.
Pigs on a scooter: I’ve already described my running route and its many smells. It also has some unique scenery. One day, while running along I realized I need to take a quick step backward in order to avoid a collision with a scooter. While my heart beat out of my chest due to the near miss, my eyes couldn’t believe what was strapped to the back of the scooter – three butchered pigs. With their bellies slit open these pigs were truly a spectacle to see. I thought perhaps this sighting would be a onetime occurrence. Unfortunately I was wrong; I’ve seen many a scooter with pigs strapped to the back
Double Takes: I’d love to capture on film some of the looks I get when walking down the street. At times some people have just barely avoided having an accident due to looking over their shoulders and doing a double take while riding a bike. I get a lot of these looks when I am working out but even manage to get a few just during the course of normal activities (i.e. walking home from work).
Butt Cheeks: Pampers and Huggies diapers are available in China but I have to report that I don’t think they have gained wide spread acceptance. Instead, it appears that it is more popular to put your children in pants that have a split between the legs. Thus, the little ones can squat down anywhere and do their business. I can appreciate the cuteness of babies butt cheeks and even how this is a very “green” practice BUT, it is still odd to see a toddler squatting down in the middle of a sidewalk.
Darth Vader: When riding scooters many people here wear a dark sun visor and a second shirt. The shirt reminds me a bit of a painting smock. I think its worn either to prevent their clothes from getting dirty or sunburn. As these scooters speed by me on the side walk I often find myself humming the Star Wars theme song. I’m sure my nephew Cooper would love this look.
Pallet Harness: One morning while sitting outside my hotel, cooling down after a run, I saw a very strange sight. A man walking down the road, in the bike lane, had harnessed himself to a pallet on wheels. The pallet moved slowly along behind the man. I couldn’t figure out what was on the pallet – it was a mix of boxes. Immediately I had to question how this means of transport could possibly be cost effective (and efficient).
Pigs on a scooter: I’ve already described my running route and its many smells. It also has some unique scenery. One day, while running along I realized I need to take a quick step backward in order to avoid a collision with a scooter. While my heart beat out of my chest due to the near miss, my eyes couldn’t believe what was strapped to the back of the scooter – three butchered pigs. With their bellies slit open these pigs were truly a spectacle to see. I thought perhaps this sighting would be a onetime occurrence. Unfortunately I was wrong; I’ve seen many a scooter with pigs strapped to the back
Double Takes: I’d love to capture on film some of the looks I get when walking down the street. At times some people have just barely avoided having an accident due to looking over their shoulders and doing a double take while riding a bike. I get a lot of these looks when I am working out but even manage to get a few just during the course of normal activities (i.e. walking home from work).
Butt Cheeks: Pampers and Huggies diapers are available in China but I have to report that I don’t think they have gained wide spread acceptance. Instead, it appears that it is more popular to put your children in pants that have a split between the legs. Thus, the little ones can squat down anywhere and do their business. I can appreciate the cuteness of babies butt cheeks and even how this is a very “green” practice BUT, it is still odd to see a toddler squatting down in the middle of a sidewalk.
Darth Vader: When riding scooters many people here wear a dark sun visor and a second shirt. The shirt reminds me a bit of a painting smock. I think its worn either to prevent their clothes from getting dirty or sunburn. As these scooters speed by me on the side walk I often find myself humming the Star Wars theme song. I’m sure my nephew Cooper would love this look.
Pallet Harness: One morning while sitting outside my hotel, cooling down after a run, I saw a very strange sight. A man walking down the road, in the bike lane, had harnessed himself to a pallet on wheels. The pallet moved slowly along behind the man. I couldn’t figure out what was on the pallet – it was a mix of boxes. Immediately I had to question how this means of transport could possibly be cost effective (and efficient).
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Cold Weather
I have been patiently waiting for some cooler weather in Shanghai. My patience is growing thinner and thinner as the days go on. The seasons back home are changing so I assumed they must follow suit here in China. Perhaps my assumption was incorrect.
Just yesterday it was 80 degrees at 11 in the morning. Today, at 6am it was 72 degress. As I dressed for my morning run I looked longingly at my cold weather workout gear. Don't get me wrong, I don't want extreme cold just enough so that I can enjoy wearing jeans and a long sleeve t-shirt.
Just yesterday it was 80 degrees at 11 in the morning. Today, at 6am it was 72 degress. As I dressed for my morning run I looked longingly at my cold weather workout gear. Don't get me wrong, I don't want extreme cold just enough so that I can enjoy wearing jeans and a long sleeve t-shirt.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Introducing....The Underwires!
Despite your initial reaction you can rest assured that The Underwires are not a psychadillic rock band. Although, my brother likes that image and it may get played up by The Underwires in the future.
....So are you confused yet....
The Underwires is the team that was formed for the Breast Cancer 3 Day - 2009. As of now we have seven team members and one more on the fence. Without further ado let me introduce the team:
Kris Roberts -- my big sister
Tim Johnson -- my big brother (yes, after a few guilt trips I got him to join)
Leann Johnson -- Friend of Kris' and one of the 12 pack (kris' college roommates)
Rick Wolowicz -- my guy
Katie Flinn -- friend, college roommate and fellow AKPsi fraternity alum
Angela Lim -- friend, fellow AKPsi fraternity alum
Pat Ward-- friend, my neighbor here in China
Karen Johanning -- she's on the fence as she needs to have foot surgery. I'm keeping my hopes up that she will be able to join us.
If you want to check out more information about the three day visit the following site:
http://www.the3day.org/site/TR/Walk/TwinCitiesEvent?px=1182312&pg=personal&fr_id=1302&et=IDFpAoeGKGqQ4f60WkFVNw..&s_tafId=85059
....So are you confused yet....
The Underwires is the team that was formed for the Breast Cancer 3 Day - 2009. As of now we have seven team members and one more on the fence. Without further ado let me introduce the team:
Kris Roberts -- my big sister
Tim Johnson -- my big brother (yes, after a few guilt trips I got him to join)
Leann Johnson -- Friend of Kris' and one of the 12 pack (kris' college roommates)
Rick Wolowicz -- my guy
Katie Flinn -- friend, college roommate and fellow AKPsi fraternity alum
Angela Lim -- friend, fellow AKPsi fraternity alum
Pat Ward-- friend, my neighbor here in China
Karen Johanning -- she's on the fence as she needs to have foot surgery. I'm keeping my hopes up that she will be able to join us.
If you want to check out more information about the three day visit the following site:
http://www.the3day.org/site/TR/Walk/TwinCitiesEvent?px=1182312&pg=personal&fr_id=1302&et=IDFpAoeGKGqQ4f60WkFVNw..&s_tafId=85059
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Run – Pat – Run!!!
I have to send some good wishes out to my neighbor Pat today. During his whole time here he has been devotedly training for a marathon. I don’t think he’s missed a day of training.
Today Pat will be running his race; he is running the Chicago Marathon. His goal is to be able to finish with a time that qualifies him for Boston.
I know that temperature wise it is a bit warm in Chicago. Despite the less than ideal conditions I hope he runs like the wind!
The marathon just started about 30 minutes ago. I know he is in coral 7 so he should be on the course by now. Unfortunately, I’m heading to bed soon and won’t be able to see the results of the race until the morning – can’t wait to see his time.
Today Pat will be running his race; he is running the Chicago Marathon. His goal is to be able to finish with a time that qualifies him for Boston.
I know that temperature wise it is a bit warm in Chicago. Despite the less than ideal conditions I hope he runs like the wind!
The marathon just started about 30 minutes ago. I know he is in coral 7 so he should be on the course by now. Unfortunately, I’m heading to bed soon and won’t be able to see the results of the race until the morning – can’t wait to see his time.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
A+B=C
Two boats leave North America headed for Asia Pacific loaded with Bobcat machines. One leaves on Wednesday and one two days later. It takes them 10 days to make the trip. The boats port in Sydney Australia. During that time the Aussie dollar value slips in value, at the start of the journey it was .85 to the US dollar, now it is at .72. What is the value of the inventory if you have no demand? Would the purchaser’s cash flow have been impacted differently if they had paid for the inventory when the Aussie dollar was valued higher?
Questions similar to this one have been plaguing a group of us at work for the last week. I feel like I am having a crash course, or at least a refresher in algebra, macroeconomics and operations. AHHH!
Despite the stress and worry I am actually amazed at what a slowdown in the economy is allowing (or forcing) me to learn. Don’t get me wrong, I’d rather see double digit growth for my company and others around the world. However, since that isn’t happening I’m trying to find the silver lining in the work I am doing and the times we are all living in.
Questions similar to this one have been plaguing a group of us at work for the last week. I feel like I am having a crash course, or at least a refresher in algebra, macroeconomics and operations. AHHH!
Despite the stress and worry I am actually amazed at what a slowdown in the economy is allowing (or forcing) me to learn. Don’t get me wrong, I’d rather see double digit growth for my company and others around the world. However, since that isn’t happening I’m trying to find the silver lining in the work I am doing and the times we are all living in.
Sunday, October 5, 2008
My Local Cafe
This week I feel in love with Waga’s a café that is about 2.5 blocks from my apartment. It’s an odd mix of a place. It is part Coffee shop/internet café/smoothie bar/restaurant.
I think I’ve spent 10 hrs there in the past week. It’s a good place to sit and hangout with a book, a stack of magazines or your laptop. I was especially happy to find that it has free Wi-Fi and that I can get on to my bank’s website.
During the week I’ve tried their pasta (yummy good) carrot cake (good) and powerhouse smoothie (great). I especially like the smoothie as they add whey protein powder to it and it has a bunch of fruit. All of which are good things for someone who is trying to lose a few pounds and train for a marathon.
They also have take away available. Today I grabbed a smoothie from them as I headed off to the fabric market.
I had another unique experience at the market. I had previously brought the tailor a pair of pants and said “copy.” They understood that I needed to have the waist made smaller; however they did not make the needed adjustments throughout the rest of the pants. They didn’t make any adjustments to the butt or the hips. I looked like I was wearing MC Hammer pants. The same tailor made a pair from scratch for me. These also were a bit comical as I could barely get them up over my quadriceps. The tailor actually laughed when I came out of the changing area.
Oh well, I’ll head back in a few weeks to pick up the adjusted pants – hopefully they are better.
(Special Note to my China neighbor: The tailor asked about you, I reminded them that you are in “Mei Guo” – USA. Thought you’d like to know they didn’t forget you.)
I think I’ve spent 10 hrs there in the past week. It’s a good place to sit and hangout with a book, a stack of magazines or your laptop. I was especially happy to find that it has free Wi-Fi and that I can get on to my bank’s website.
During the week I’ve tried their pasta (yummy good) carrot cake (good) and powerhouse smoothie (great). I especially like the smoothie as they add whey protein powder to it and it has a bunch of fruit. All of which are good things for someone who is trying to lose a few pounds and train for a marathon.
They also have take away available. Today I grabbed a smoothie from them as I headed off to the fabric market.
I had another unique experience at the market. I had previously brought the tailor a pair of pants and said “copy.” They understood that I needed to have the waist made smaller; however they did not make the needed adjustments throughout the rest of the pants. They didn’t make any adjustments to the butt or the hips. I looked like I was wearing MC Hammer pants. The same tailor made a pair from scratch for me. These also were a bit comical as I could barely get them up over my quadriceps. The tailor actually laughed when I came out of the changing area.
Oh well, I’ll head back in a few weeks to pick up the adjusted pants – hopefully they are better.
(Special Note to my China neighbor: The tailor asked about you, I reminded them that you are in “Mei Guo” – USA. Thought you’d like to know they didn’t forget you.)
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