Being a Parent

     As the time for us to leave gets closer I feel myself becoming increasingly more excited, but also more nervous as the prospect of raising Echo in China, even if it is for only nine months.  I've found that information is not necessarily scarce but buried among lots of articles. Specific questions are hard to find answers to.  I have found that although articles are great, the best way to get information is through blogs and networking with individuals that already live over there.  Program advisers can often get you in contact with people like that.  Some people also leave emails on their blogs so that you may contact them.  One of the most helpful people I've come into contact with was a lady who is in the same program as us, but has also lived in China the past year.  She is very helpful and we email back and forth.  The other person I got into contact with by commenting on their blog.  Both have been very helpful in answering questions about child-rearing in China. (Split-pants anyone?)

Edit: Yes, we did see these in Chengdu!  I think they are awesome!

      So, I'll continue to browse, and probably still get a heavy dose of culture shock.  But, I think I'm ready for it (Yikes!). -Mom