I’m pretty much stranded here in my room right now, clearly not working on my paper. Caritas Bianchi Lodge, the ugly step-sister of an American Super 8 Motel that we’re calling home here in HK finally got their act together so I can get on the internet again. We’re stranded because Typhoon Koppu is bearing down hardcore on Hong Kong, rising to a level 8 typhoon, similar to a weaker level hurricane. It’s sort of a dream though, because I love sever weather. I always say there’s nothing better than a Twin Cities blizzard or thunderstorm. Actually, I never say that.
Three days ago, my cousin Nikki and her husband Keven celebrated the birthday of their daughter Elyce. She would have been three years old. I wish I could have been there to celebrate with them. Nikki is one of the funniest people I’ve ever met in my entire life, and I’ve met a shit ton of people. She is so courageous and when she’s not causing my mom to snort from laughter, she is an equally intelligent and greatly appreciated friend. She is lucky in one respect to have found someone so rock solid as Keven, who keeps her grounded. Literally. I mean like sit-ups grounded. He’s always got a smirk, but a great head on his shoulders nonetheless. What they endured was an unspeakable tragedy, but if nothing else, it makes us an even tighter family unit and it makes me happy knowing I can look forward to Christmas with the Dorans and Clevelands (and Ose’s) and that next summer the “cottage” will be waiting for us. I air quote cottage in my mind (Cause its a cabin) but I actually wrote it here for mom and Jody’s sake.
Avoiding the inevitable pun about a rain cloud over my head, I found out with mixed glee and disappointment that I wont be able to intern for Citigroup whilst here in Hong Kong. I love the word whilst. It’s so…British. Unfortunately Citi has decided not to accept or initiate any new interns for the entire Asia/Pacific region, including from our program. It was a disappointment because it was really the only internship I wanted that was offered through our program. However, it was also a small moment of happiness, finally knowing what I will be doing from November 16 to December 16: traveling. Barring me securing an internship with a company that I get on my own, I will be doing the “Independent Study” option of our program. I will have to do a research paper, but I am already looking into places in China, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand (again), and Malaysia that I want to visit. Travel is exciting! Paper writing isn’t!
I feel like I should learn how to transition between paragraphs here. Another time, another place I suppose.
Hong Kong's Waterfront during storm
I thought I told you to hunker down and stay away from the water front.
Boys will be Boys.
Keep writing! I’m really enjoying hearing about your adventures. I hope your mom survives.
BE CAREFUL!!! Evan…every time you remain calm and take a deep breath and just are generally okay with frightening weather someone in the States is having a panic attack on your behalf….that someone is me. Please stay safe. Like…wear protective gear or something. A bodysuit. A huge onesie bodysuit. Alright? Good.