We're actually packing up to leave Simao - not the December frenzy of not knowing whether we were returning or not. This time we're clearing out, bar a few herbs, spices and boxes of matches for the following volunteers. The problem at the moment is not knowing where we're actually going. We have a few ideas but are awaiting news on a job in Malaysia. I have been offered the position, but it doesn't quite exist yet. It's a long story.
There are, nevertheless, a few certainties. Firstly, our visas expire on September 10th, so we should really try to leave China by then. in order to avoid prison. Secondly, we hope to go to New Zealand for November - spend some of my hard-earned end-of-service grant on a one-month campervan holiday and to visit friends. Thirdly, we'd like to return to the UK at some point in the near future, finances allowing. Given finances, this may have to wait until after New Zealand. Fourthly, I have just enrolled for a Diploma in English language teaching, which means I want to give myself some study time over the next few months. I will have to find some teachers (to observe) and students (to teach) for a short period, which may lead us in a particular geographical direction.
Meantime, we are sorting our material possessions into "keeping - UK", "keeping - travel", "giving", "posting - next job", "throwing out" and "leave by bins" - for any random passer by to claim. We are trying to keep the stress levels low, which is hard given that we haven't a clue where we're going, what we'll do and whether we can find a suitable job. I guess we came down this road and there's no going back now....
There are, nevertheless, a few certainties. Firstly, our visas expire on September 10th, so we should really try to leave China by then. in order to avoid prison. Secondly, we hope to go to New Zealand for November - spend some of my hard-earned end-of-service grant on a one-month campervan holiday and to visit friends. Thirdly, we'd like to return to the UK at some point in the near future, finances allowing. Given finances, this may have to wait until after New Zealand. Fourthly, I have just enrolled for a Diploma in English language teaching, which means I want to give myself some study time over the next few months. I will have to find some teachers (to observe) and students (to teach) for a short period, which may lead us in a particular geographical direction.
Meantime, we are sorting our material possessions into "keeping - UK", "keeping - travel", "giving", "posting - next job", "throwing out" and "leave by bins" - for any random passer by to claim. We are trying to keep the stress levels low, which is hard given that we haven't a clue where we're going, what we'll do and whether we can find a suitable job. I guess we came down this road and there's no going back now....
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