Joy and Pain

The new year has started at a fast pace. The rest of the week at Brown Sugar was just plain ole' fun...okay? I played the 'big girl' and hung out thru Saturday night. It was Sarah's 26th birthday and it was not to be missed. Brannen planned a surprise shindig at the club and invited all the folks we had met along the way during our stay. She was indeed surprised. From the chocolate cake to the last song...was memorable.

Wink, the sax player, invited us all to dinner on Sunday at his place. We woke up to a rainy, gray day, but nonetheless, we made our way. Wink's wife, Apple, is Chinese and was excited about the menu she had planned. They have a 13-month old, cuter than cute, baby girl named Vastyne. I've never seen cheeks as rosey. The food was delicious...ribs, macaroni -n- cheese, and salad...to live for. LOL. Miles had the golden opportunity to get his 'mack' on with Vastyne. They were made for each other...believe me. Wink and Apple have a beautiful apartment...one that we would consider if Shanghai was to become a place to call home.

Time is drawing nigh for our return to the States. There's so much to do with so few hours, it seems. It's Monday already. We need to get back to the fabric mart to pick up Dwayne's outfit. We do. It's exactly what he wanted. Wow! We make our way to a few more places before heading home for a nap before he goes to work. I've gotta start making to-do lists. Ya'll know how I am...need I say more?

Dwayne described this week as his 'best'. He has swooned every person who entered the doors of that club with his bass playing, cheek solos, percussion and singing. One night unsuspectedly, Dwayne moved over to the drum kit with bass in hand and brought the house down. There was chatter in Madarin like I'd never heard. He caused quite a stir...and I loved every minute!! The thought of us leaving is unsettling. Oh well...who knows? Shanghai may not have seen the last of D-Madness. Only time will tell.

I have the task of packing...you know I brought our entire closet and bathroom. LOL...LOL...Hell, I wanted to be prepared!!

Having the opportunity to come to this country was a blessing in itself. Meeting and sharing with all the wonderful people upped the ante. If it's in God's plan, we may return at some point in time. We are ever so grateful...for the joy of the experience and the pain of having to leave it behind.

We love and miss you all. See you soon...smooches...