Too Big

 Living in China as a foreigner has its challenges… but as two able-bodied adults, Gary and I didn’t think we’d have as many physical challenges as we do. At 5’3”, I’m on the short side of average, but there are more than just a few women here who I seem to tower over. I wear a 7.5 shoe, which might be the most common shoe size in America… but in China, I count myself lucky if I find one straggly pair of shoes in the back in my size. 

But, if it sounds like I have it tough… imagine life in midget-land for Gary. At 6’4,  he is always, always the tallest person in any room, and usually for as far as he can see (which is pretty far over most people’s heads).

He’s hit his head on a doorway more than once and has to duck down to enter the subway cars. But don’t feel too sorry for him… he gets asks for photos like he’s some kind of rock star. Chinese people love to get their photo taken with a foreigner, so the thought of getting one with a foreign GIANT is even more appealing.

Day to day things can be funny, like having to use household items built for people who are at least a foot shorter. The ironing board is near his knees, as is the kitchen counter and the stove top.

And you have to laugh at the new boxers he bought yesterday… clearly made for the oversized foreigners who might be wandering around China in search of underwear. They are “Fat Men Briefs” in a 6XL. And he said they fit just fine.