We're back!
We actually have somewhat of a life now. Warren still works long hours but is now getting regular days off and I see him much more. He's getting used to the way of life here and is more adjusted and happy. We've been able to explore more of Taipei together and have discovered some cool spots to hang out and eat. There are soooo many restaurants and eating establishments here, it's crazy. I say eating establishments because some places are just street vendors or a garage with a kitchen in it and a couple of tables. I wonder how they make money with so much competition.
And there's hundreds of beetle nut stands. Beetle nuts are small green nuts that have a red liquid inside and turns your mouth bloody red. It's chewed all over Taiwan and gives a mild high apparently, a bit stronger than caffeine. It's pretty gross because you must spit out the liquid so there are red stains all over the sidewalks! Warren's boss got him to try some a while back. He said you have to try it once, just to know. I have no desire to make my mouth and my teeth stained red. Since there's so much competition between stands, some of the girls selling them dress in skimpy outfits. The whole thing is just strange.
We will post some pictures later of our first party. We had a housewarming/birthday party for me. We invited our co-workers mostly and a few friends I've met at some other parties. About 20 people came and there was a good mix of taiwanese and foreigners. We got to know some really cool people and hopefullu will go out with them again soon. It was tough at times not understanding conversations though. Warren and I are finally going to start some real chinese lessons. Learning with a book/cd is not so easy to get motivated by. My friend Kara recommended her really good chinese teacher. I've heard Kara speak chinese, she's very good so we'll see if we can manage the basics at least.
Thanks everyone for sending us emails and keeping us in touch with your lives. We love hearing your stories too. Keep them coming! Talk to you later. S and W
