Saturday, 5:15 pm

We'll call this post Lovely Afternoon.

We found Starbucks, and sat outside with our steamed milk. I may become a coffee drinker in China, because Starbucks definitely feels like home. McDonalds feels like Asia, but Starbucks feels like America. I've been twice this week, possibly matching the number of times I've been in America, ever.

Sheila and two of her daughters met us there, and took us inside the mall. A lot like malls at home, the shops were more affordable and displayed items I would consider buying. The food court came highly recommended, and ordering cafeteria style - no language necessary! From the mall, we moved on to Pudong via the metro. With a 9- and a 13-year-old by my side, it was a bit less intimidating. They were not afraid. But they do each carry cell phones, because it is too easy to become separated. And the 9-year-old was holding someone's hand most of the time.

Once in Pudong, we walked back to the Yanlord Gardens. This gave us an idea of the walk to the metro stop, and the shops outside the complex. We stopped in the local grocery (cheap!) and took some pictures on the grounds. From there, it was a short walk over wide, smooth sidewalks to the promenade. This is a strip of restaurants, coffee shops and ice-cream vendors along the river. Outdoor seating watches the boats go by and faces The Bund. Very comfortable during the day, it must be lovely at night. After lunch, we checked out City Shop and then walked just a bit further to one of the many malls within walking distance of the complex. This one had Toys R Us and a bookstore. The bookstore had good stuff, but very little of it. Toys R Us had anything we would need - we will not be stocking up on gear before we go. But City Shop set my mind at ease. Here they sell big bags of whole wheat floor, boneless skinless chicken breast, oregano, bug spray, and loads of other imports. There are still a few things we'll bring from home or have shipped, but this grocery will make pizza and chili possibilities in our kitchen.

From there we took a taxi to Hongqiao. Did some bargain shopping, took the girls for milk shakes, and caught a taxi home.

Sheila was wonderful and her girls were loads of fun. Having people with us who know the ins and outs of China, and feel totally comfortable made a world of difference. Being directed where to go, and following someone's example about what makes them uncomfortable is dramatic. Knowing people will be key to being happy here. I can't thank Sheila and her girls enough for being our guides and our friends today.

We hope to check out Nanjing Road and The Bund, two of the main tourist areas in Shanghai, from here. We may post one more time tonight, but we leave first thing in the morning. No doubt this has been a productive trip - very much so. I have a good idea of what our home will be like, and what type of food we will have as well as what we will have to do without. I know better what will be more expensive than home, and what will be plenty cheaper. I know that car seats will be a waste. I know that we will be okay.