Free Time

After 4 days of family-packed, food-filled days, Kamla and I finally had a day off to ourselves in the new years. Last night was nice, as we spent the time at Aqua City shopping. I could tell that everyone was pretty much suffering from cabin fever, going insane from being suck in one place all day and all night, that practically half the city was out shopping with us. It was nice though to be around people again. I think Nanjing is too creepy without all the hustle and bustle of people. The city feels dead without that usual boisterousness of the locals, so it was definitely nice to be around some of that familiar bustle again.

We had a simple dinner, which was such a relief from all the oily, excessive dinners we had. I had my first margarita, and while better than the daquiri, I must say that I have decided that alcohol is not the beverage for me. I would much prefer my juices and smoothies. I have decided I want to eat much healthier from now on, and invested in a Japanese-styled lunchbox for much more than I probably should have, but it was worth it. I'll think of it as investing in my health. Less oils, less sugars, less salt.

We watched a movie in the Aqua City theaters, 《大兵小将》. Minus the B.O.-smelling theater, the movie was simply wonderful! By far one of the more entertaining of the movies I've watched as of late, I had a good laugh and enjoyed the chemistry between the lead roles, Wang Leehom and Jackie Chan.

Today, we spent our afternoon at 陶陶巷. I had another QQ 鸡蛋仔, which is always relaxing for Kamla and I; ah the solace that food provides, a remedy for the weary soul. Anyhow, we were shopping and none of the clothing appealed to me this time. I think I grow tired of this "cheap" clothing that is of poor quality, so I focused on little trinkets that I really couldn't get elsewhere. I got 2 stamps, some stickers that will be useful as cards, portable chopsticks (for work, practical purposes), and a stuffed animal massager. It's in the shape of a "tofu," and is actually rather cute, but it vibrates and targets your lower back and calves. My lower back has been aching terribly of late, and is always stiff, so this is a good temporary remedy. I am considering acupuncture if this continues. My back just *really* hurts, and cracking it only will further aggravate the problem. I ought to get it treated.

Anyhow I digress, we had a lovely dinner at 京都 the hot pot place, which was a nice 清淡 dinner for a change. I think the lack of oils did my stomach a LOT of good. We then traveled to a DVD store, where I bought "Julia and Julie," which was a delightfully entertaining movie. It was lighthearted, and Meryl Streep really shone in her role. I enjoyed it and it was light enough for me. I think I've had enough of dark movies as of late, so it was good to get a nice laugh. This movie though has re-inspired me to cook once again, so I think we're going all out tomorrow~

Ah, cooking, how you inspire me! Perhaps I will begin on some bento box plans~ More keran mari, tamagoyaki, and whatever else I can muster up. I should fry up some pumpkin and dip it in honey!!! Hee hee. Healthy, healthy healthy! Must get back into shape.