Where are you work VISA?

So, the latest update is the wait for my work VISA from China. I applied for it Friday, December 11th. The problem? I was flagged by the Consulate, because I currently work for American media. I've been told the Press Office in Beijing will do a background check, which might take a week or two, but shouldn't be an issue. Another problem? I'm supposed to fly to Beijing on January 13, but Xinhua won't buy my ticket until my VISA is officially processed! So, we wait. We pray. We gain patience. We prepare. I have changed my address, convinced AT&T to suspend my service (so I don't lose my number and don't have to pay for a phone I'm not using), scheduled electricity/cable shut-off, began preparing my taxes --- and there's more to do :-) But, enjoying every second of knowing I'm about to have the most amazing adventure ever!!!! Such a blessing! Keep me in your prayers!!!! I'll keep you posted :-) PS: My work peeps at WTKR got me a Flip Cam as my goodbye gift! SO GRATEFUL! Now, I'll be able to video tape my adventures and post them to the blog. Sorry, but you're gonna be seein' a lot of my life on the other side of the pond!!!

The move, departure and start date and life on an air mattress!

So, I'm writing this post while sitting on an air mattress in the middle of my living room floor in Norfolk. The reason? My sister and buddy Zack helped move everything I own on Saturday. I'm left with the air mattress, my computer, a tv, some clothes and good ol' Cheerio (she's the cat :-) I will be here until the end of the month then move back to Broadway, VA until I depart for Beijing. Speaking of the departure, I just got an email from Xinhua saying they're flying me to China on Wednesday, January 13th. I won't get to Beijing until late Thursday or Friday, because of 12 hour time difference and long-ass flight! I start work on Monday, January 18th. So, everything is coming together! Well, I don't have an apartment in Beijing yet, but a realtor is looking for me. She's supposed to send me some options soon. I hope she hurries up. Can you imagine Crider homeless in China?? HA HA! Anyway, this entire process is unreal. It still hasn't fully hit me that I'm about to spend a year in China. I don't think it really will until the goodbye's happen and I'm officially living there. So, if I seem out of it or crazy for the next few weeks --- be patient with me! I'll keep ya posted!!!!

Welcome!!!

Can you believe I'm moving to Beijing? I CAN'T!!! HA HA! It should be interesting, so follow me here to keep up with my life on the other side of the world!!!

First Look!

My new job! Xinhua News Agency!