One of the big events I have failed to share during my introduction to overtime and technology was the visit from my Biffle and her mother. I was able to finagle a day off during summer course (a nearly impossible feat, I assure you) and we were able to spend a couple of days together. We roamed, we shopped (briefly), we checked out a few tourist sights and got soaked at the Bund, we swam!, we gossiped, and just generally enjoyed being in each other's company for the first time in months. I didn't play much of a tour guide for my guests but I did take them to Shanghai Brewery for lunch. Not exactly local cuisine, but by all accounts it was one of Mrs. Plumley's favorite culinary experiences of the trip so I can't feel too guilty. I'm nothing if not a people pleaser. ("Ha ha," say all the people I've ever met.)
I may have not emphasized the tourist stuff, but it was just really wonderful to spend time with more people I love from home. The year is counting down, so if anyone else wants to visit book your trip. My Chinese is only getting better (because there's nowhere to go but up).