Show us what the weekend has in store for you.
Last weekend I got all the kitchen appliances: blender, food processor, toaster and convection oven. Ovens aren't standard in Chinese apartments, but I can't live without one so sacrificing the counter space is worth it. Now I'm mustering up the energy to hit Ikea for mixing bowls and the like. Let me tell you, you have to be a dedicated cook to brave Ikea. It's a favorite after
work and weekend hangout for locals. It's especially fun for those fresh from the countryside (some of whom have never seen a foreigner close up, which makes yours truly more interesting than whatever doodad they're holding and trying to guess what it's used for). The place is PACKED. ALL. THE. TIME. Folks meander, ooh, ahh, fondle every item in the store, konk out on the sofas and rehash their life stories with old friends in the living room showrooms...and then leave empty-handed. Unfortunately, it's pretty much the best place to get western cooking utensils, so I will sharpen my elbows and fortify myself with an enormous cup of caffeine to prepare for
pushing wading through the mass of humanity that is Ikea in Beijing.
Afterwards (if I survive), I'll put together this fun little thing I picked up at the MOMA, which will grace the coffee table.
Comments
Funny enough, they export all the good appliances. I spent a small fortune investing in Braun and DiLonghi appliances imported to China! Next up are the German knives -- once you've had 'em, you just can't cook without 'em!
Have a great visit with Susan. Hope she'll post some photos.
Oh, and I added you to my neighborhood so you can see more of my posts.
Take care!
Kim