I don't miss traveling in the US

Air travel is inconvenient already (relative to rail, which I LOVE).  But the insane security, queues, crappy airport food, rude staff and countless delays makes me really hate traveling to the US (sorry to my American friends).

I am in Chicago after spending 5 days on a business trip to Austin.  The stay was fine due to sunny 85F weather, 'gas station' Texas BBQ restaurant, great PHO and good sleep.  Getting there via Houston was another insane headache and now on way back to Toronto - drizzling rain and 3 hours delay. ARGH!

I really miss Stephen and being in Asia.  Been gone for about 1.5 weeks and itching to get back home. He was lucky to have gone to Phuket and Bangkok with his cousin (although I still haven't seen his photos... hmm.).

Have a great rainy weekend everyone!

Qing ming holiday, Beautiful weather; but snowy Toronto

Tuesday is tomb sweeping holiday ('qing ming').  We only get Tuesday off, which is wierd because I had a bunch of meetings on Monday. Anyway China and Taiwan get Mon-Tues which makes more sense for a long weekend.

This past weekend we had perfect weather.  On Friday I spent a gorgeous day in Taipei, taking a 30 mins break for a coffee in private in a patio in Beitou. 24C and sunny. On Saturday woke up VERY early for erg trials on a rowing machine then dragon boat practice in Tai Tam Tuk. Thereafter a group of us headed to Lamma Island for the 'family hike' (about an hour past a few nice beaches, some hilly sections) then seafood before the ferry home. It was a great day!

On the flip side its snowing again in Toronto... heading there this Wednesday and to the U.S. for some meetings.

Can't wait for a day off tomorrow in town.  Stephen is off to Phuket. so jealous!

See everyone soon!