SHAMELESS SOLICITATION

I have been collecting items to take to China for the kids and the Aunties at Clara and Lu's orphanages. It started out with an email to Eucerin requesting samples to take to Xi'an, where the kids have especially dry skin. They sent a big packet of small size lotions. Next, I hit up the dentist for toothbrushes which resulted in a case of 480. Knowing the cost of pharmaceuticals in China, and also knowing how premium brand cosmetics are coveted, I worked my way through the cosmetic and fragrance counters throughout our local department stores, collecting mini assortments of Estee Lauder, Elizabeth Arden, Chanel and Dior samples to give the Aunties. Did I feel a bit embarrassed to ask those ultra-attractive ladies with perfect skin for a hand-out? No way Jose! After all the love and care those Aunties in China give our kids, I can surely endure a little humiliation in return. Although anyone who knows me, knows that I requested these samples dressed in my standard issue bib overalls, with the only make-up on my face being a smidgen of chapstick (that counts as make-up right?). Those ladies were more than happy to set me up with some beautifying materials!

On a side note — today our Visa applications, along with the most valuable documents we own, all got sent next day UPS for delivery to the Chinese consulate in Chicago. This is a huge weight off my shoulders and I trust the guys in brown (since my brother is among them) will deliver them back to me, safe and sound, all stamped and approved, in plenty of time for our trip. No worries right, Scott?