Thank you from Hong Kong

Today I am choking through record levels of pollution and as I write this my eyes are literally burning so bad I can barely type through the tears. I know that it seems like I have been missing in action, and it is likely that this will be one of my lasts post from Hong Kong. It is sad that my last days here will be spent in death smog, but even through the haze of pollution (which is by anyone’s account is dangerous and disgusting) I can see my goal clearly, and my mission is to get my butt home!

Read more about pollution in Hong Kong

But despite the toxic air, and the myriad of unpleasant smells, I am still smiling (on the inside only, because I don’t want the chunks in the air to break my ‘teefs out). So, it is  getting time to say goodbye to the American Somnambulist, but, before I leave this wacky place let me show some gratitude and say thank you! Just in case I can't get the time or energy to post one last time - let me get the important stuff out there!

First of all, I have to say a huge THANK YOU to my friends and family that traveled many miles (and in coach class no less) to hang with me in Hong Kong. To all of you who came to my crazy apartment, ate strange things and had to boil your drinking water - I can't tell you how much that means to me!  For all the new friends, my incredible co-workers and  all the others I have met along the way --I also owe a debt of thanks to you for making me laugh, getting me through the rough patches and giving me some fantastic stories (great, like I need more of those)!

Jeffrey: You are the coolest cat in Kowloon, (cue the Little Boots) -

and tell those pushy jerks you don't need a $#*!@ tailored suit or a damn copy watch! 

 Harajuku Haley: Hanging with the hair clique kids in Tokyo - you rock!

Everything you ever told me about Japan was totally true!

Brennan and Ann: Great travelers, brave eaters, and discriminating shoppers,

we must be related! Thanks to the McEwan clan for spending

Thanksgiving with Autie Monkey.

Michael: New Year's Eve in Hong Kong - what was up (or not up) with those fireworks?!

I have thrown up more exciting stuff - doesn't matter. "Cool Breeze", you always make

my world a colorful and happy place!

Alex: Who "IS NOT CHINESE" already!!! - Thanks for the wine, the pasta and laughs-

sorry for the Nip Tuck addiction! Glad you enjoyed some down time in HK

Caitlin and Rob - OMG -I am grateful  for your spirit of adventure

 excellent sense of humor and endless hospitality

Keep on 'Smugglin' -see you soon!

Crystal: You are way more adventurous then anyone

gives you credit for - you make me proud!

Bob: Enjoy it all - take care of my little corner of the word for me!

Yumiko-san: You are the lovliest person and the best hostess
on earth! Thank you for all your wonderful company and showing
amazing Japan!

Suchael, Amy, Deborah, Yumiko-san, and So-Sum: Thanks

for teaching me so much! I couldn't have done it without you!

 And saving the best for last!!!!

Mike: To my most supportive husband, sorry you had to

eat so much frozen pizza. I love you like crazy and

missed you like hell!  I can't wait to be home again!

Gumbo: I promise I didn't buy you anymore stupid

outfits at the market. I hate that I have to wait a few more

days to rub your belly!