Tuesday, December 4, 2001

From: Meg Thomsen meginchina@yahoo.com
Subject: Rolling Down the Capitol Steps

Hey Folks,

The proverbial wrench has been thrown into life here in Sichuan. I'm coming back to America tomorrow, on Medevac. I could scarcely believe it when I got the phone call this morning! "Pack your passport and get on a bus to Chengdu". Things are awry in Dengguan: 700 students to teach, final examinations to give, a teach-in at the elementary school next week, a scheduled performance of "Rocky Top" at the talent show- all of these things are on hold, until I come back.

Here's the deal: I went to the hospital in Chengdu so that they could look at the patch on my skin, They said, "Well, that's just going to have to come off!" Now, we're talking about a fairly large patch of skin here, so Kandice (our Peace Corps Medical Officer) decided that I'm going back home for further evaluation. I expect to be home for two-three weeks, and REALLY hope that I can squeeze in a quick trip to Boston in the interim. I mean, how can I be so close to the ocean and to the Atomic Cafe without going there, right?

I'm a bit worried about this visit. As excited as I am to eat with a fork, take a hot shower and see people, I feel like I'm just getting used to living here. Not to mention that the skin patch is freaking me out a little. But it will be good to see a doctor. China will wait for a couple of weeks. And that's the beauty of things. When life demands it, you can always stop. Things will always work out until you can start again.

So, tomorrow morning, I'll fly to DC. I'd love to talk to you folks on the telephone, or see anyone who's in the area.

I'll be staying at the Virginian Suites in Arlington, VA. The phone number there is (703) 522-9600. Get in touch, I'd love to hear from you!

Love and kisses,
Meg