So last night we definitely felt like VIPs… We, along with the two vice-principals, represented Chengdu International School at a National Day reception put on by the Foreign Relations office. There were close to 300 people there, mostly "lawai" (foreigners) involved with businesses, schools, or "M" businesses. At the head table were the consulate general from the US, Germany, and Korea, along with many other Chinese local government officials. I sat next to the vice principal of a large Chinese upper school. The food was great, but the highlight of the evening was re-meeting a couple I had run into at the home decorating store. They are here from England with "Friends of China." Very friendly couple, like-minded, and (hopefully) excited to keep in touch with us. They’ve been in and out of China for over 20 years, but just arrived in Chengdu a couple of weeks after we did. This coming week is a holiday! Tomorrow is China’s National Day – a celebration of the founding of the People’s Republic. School is off for the week, so Dan will be home!! We’re looking forward to taking it easy, making some day trips and exploring the city a bit more.