Don't panic

Last week we had our most-embarrassing-moment-in-China so far. Luckily it happened in the privacy of our own home and didn't attract a crowd, just one confused security guard.

Pictured above is the doorbell/video intercom/security unit for our apartment (and my new orchid). We didn't know it had an alarm function until one evening, after returning from our nightly walk around the pond, Tim tried to change the doorbell tone. He was only trying to be helpful since I had complained about the loud doorbell. He pushed the top button on the left hand side which, we now know, is the emergency alarm button that alerts the guard station. We tried pushing all the buttons but nothing would stop the loud alarm and recorded message probably telling us to remain calm, help is on the way.

Sure enough, when Tim went out on the front steps of our building to flag someone down to help us turn it off, a guard was already on his way. He was able to turn the alarm off, but the red light above the alarm button required him to use his special emergency key somewhere in the house to reset the system. I immediately thought of the two red buttons, one in each bedroom, that I had been eying nervously and trying not to bring to Milan's attention ever since we moved in. Sure enough, the key fit onto each button and we were safe once again. These buttons are at Milan-eye-level, and probably have the same alarm effect when pushed. So far, he hasn't noticed them. And despite all the alarms and activity that night, he went to bed as usual.

Tim had his first experience teaching elementary school last week when he was a substitute for the 5th grade teacher who was in a training all day (Tim had the training the following day while a parent was the sub for his classes). He says he survived the day with only 2 "kick me" signs on his back and a healthy respect for the non-stop day of the elementary teachers.

We had another busy weekend of shopping. I am happy to report that we are now the proud owners of new bikes, one with a smart new bike seat for Milan. I'll post pictures later this week. Unfortunately I spent my first day of bike freedom sitting around the house waiting for furniture to be delivered.

Hope you are all enjoying the 3-day weekend!