FASHION OF THE MIND

Nostalgia was the overriding theme on this very hot and smoggy day in Guangzhou. 

This morning we returned to Apartment 0330 at Oakwood Gold Arch Residence for a visit - the place I called “home home” for 8 years. We were aware that our old apartment was undergoing major structural renovations so you can imagine our surprise and delight when we discovered the front door to be unlocked and gaping open. I never expected the apartment unit to be safe to enter with the construction so it was a very special treat for me to able to step inside and explore. 

What I saw was utter destruction. Bricks and bags of cement were piled up in corners, disconnected cables and wiring drooped from the ceilings, rusty plumbing pipes were fully exposed, walls were knocked down, and the dusty air saturated with the smell of fresh concrete and sweat…

My room was smaller than I remembered it to be. My bookshelf was still there though, apparently the workers found it of use. I was ecstatic to discover that the workers haven’t yet ripped out the doorframe and paint off the wall where we marked our height auxology. To me, those dashes and dates are what epitomizes a true home. It was a touching moment for me. I may never see it again. So long, 0330. 

Living room no longer as comfortable anymore.

Thinking about my previous lifestyle standing where my bed used to be. 

Only two of my marks remain. Breton’s marks were recorded quite frequently.

Appreciating the view outside my window. 

I also picked up my box of teenage memorabilia and school yearbooks from the basement storeroom before heading back to our new home. Much of the afternoon was dedicated towards flipping through pictures of an awkward younger me and reading glitter ink comments on the insides of covers.

Utahloy International School followed by the American International School of Guangzhou. 

And now, back to modern times.

The open wine bar tonight was quite excellent. Approximately $47 for all you can drink wine and beer plus finger food at a quality hotel restaurant with sofa lounging is not a bad deal. Another good management decision by Dad. The wine bar is open every Friday evening. I’ll know where I’ll be most Fridays.