I don't think she'll be too upset by me posting this snippet, so stay tuned for any repercussions... This is what she had to say...

I'm still feeling a bit detached from the whole moving-to-China thing. It hasn't really sunk in yet. I kind of realised that when I was reading your blog today. Every so often I'll get these little micro-flashes of realisation, but they never last long enough for me to hang onto them. The other day I was walking along near some shops and was thinking how easy and familiar it all was, and I got this yawning sensation as I realised it will be a long time until I'll get that feeling regularly again.

We've talked about the realisation of our move, and I'm sure we have both underestimated the enormity of our decision to move to Shanghai. I've been experiencing the same flashes of realisation as my [gf]. Whether its time spent at the local shops picking up a few things, engaging in some small-talk with the guy at the video store, or setting an order at your favourite eatery, my sub-conscious has been screaming to such an extent that a little voice can be heard saying 'It won't be this easy in China... you better savour every last minute of this ease and familiarity'.

I'm certainly going to miss my afternoon drink & chat sessions with my Da & DannyJ, morning chats with my Ma, and any type of niggle I have with my sister. I'm sure my [gf] is going to miss the stinky Brunswick St. Mall people who ask her for ciggies/dollars/her number while she has lunch. And I'm going to miss lunch with J & BBH. Small things, but sometimes they mean the world.