Visa: It's everywhere you want to be.

Hey, remember when I was going to have to return to the US in August to renew my visa, but then miracles happened and I was allowed to stay here for another two months?

Well, it's two months later. And this time, I won't be so lucky (or I'll be very lucky, as the case may be). As rules have changed in the magical bureaucratic world of visa distribution, I will have to return to Chicago for a few weeks to process a shiny new work visa.

There is no downside to this; I get an all-expenses paid trip to my favorite place on earth, I get a raise (!) and continued salary from my job while I'm in Chicago, and I get a vacation away from this awkward little home of mine.

So. Rock. The other upside to this is that I'll be away from school for 1.5 weeks immediately before this, traveling around China with my parents (itinerary pending), so I'll basically get a month-long paid vacation from my spoiled little miscreant students.

My only worry is this: how will I be able to return to China after enjoying a few weeks in Chicago? The first time I left, I was traveling towards a horizon of mystery and excitement and new experiences. This time, I'll be traveling so something I already know. It's only another 6 months, though; I don't think I'll suffer too much. After all, the first six (well, 6 by the time I leave for Chicago) have raced by like a Chinese high-speed train. Or spicy food through my digestive system. Zing!

And on that note: ta. See you on the other side, also known as the good side.