I thought I'd be clever with a post title. Well, that didn't quite work out- darn it. I hate it when I can't think of what to write but I know that I should write something.
A certain frustration was highlighted to me yesterday and I thought I'd mention it. So, back home I did all my shopping with my debit or credit card (don't worry, we paid our balance in full every month).
But here in China???? Most places do NOT accept international credit cards (they do take China issued credit cards or bank cards but I don't have one). What does that mean for me???? It means I have to operate on a cash-only basis. Actually, that's not a bad thing….it does help curb spending.
What am I going to spend our money on anyway???? There aren't any Michaels or Hobby Lobby stores here. That's probably a very good thing!!! Although, we did find an art supply store and I *ahem* spent a fair bit in there. ;-)
So what's the problem???? The problem is when the ATM won't give me cash!!!! Usually I've always got enough on me but today is pay day for the ayi. I pay her at the end of the month (1500 RMB). I can't not pay her!
So instead of doing something fun or productive (or going to the school assembly) this morning I have to get our driver to come pick me up and find an ATM that will dispense cash to me. And… I just *LOVE* driving in China. Ummm…wait, no I don't!
And because I hate posting without a photo- here's a random photo for your enjoyment:
This afternoon I've got my last Chinese language lesson with Lisha. She's been a great teacher and I will miss her tremendously. Here's hoping she does well at her new teaching post in Singapore (she'll be teaching Chinese). Maybe today I'll remember to take a photo of her???!!!!
ETA-