That isn't entirely bad. After all, once it is done, it's done. However, now we have a lot of time to kill while we continue to train the local staff and finish out the week before we open on Friday.
The center is absolutely beautiful with some great sculptures, lots of signs, a bar that was built just for the games, cabanas outside, bathrooms outside (also built just for the games), and the rooftop tents. It's great.
Speaking of bathrooms. I've never seen anything like this. I haven't asked yet whether this is at all normal, but the pipes in this place can't handle any paper. NONE. I think you understand. This means that next to every toilet sits a garbage can (with a motion sensor lid opener) where ALL paper must go. It's one of the more disgusting things I've ever seen in a civilized country. The upside is that there will be three employees whose only job will be to empty those garbage cans.
I'm also learning that the Chinese are a very service oriented people. So far they have been very friendly, even though we don't speak their language. Last night I was having some drama involving a bonsai tree and its placement near the front door. Not so difficult you say? Well, here's the tree:
It is way too big to put on a table, because the ceilings are rather low in the entry way. I finally found some granite stepping stones that I could stack up and make a makeshift table out of. When I went to haul them in to the center the security staff insisted on helping me. In fact, they insisted on doing the job themselves. Think about that. The security people did something besides their job. This seems to apply to everyone. 3M was in yesterday installing some items (can't tell you what for security reasons), and they were also helping us move tables, plants, all sorts of things. It is a concept that we no longer understand in the states, and I'm sure I'm just as guilty as the next guy. "Oh that? Not in my job description."
We are all very excited to open the family center. I wish I could give you more details, but there are some seriously VIPs expected to come in during the games. There was a bombing in China this week, which has a few people more than a little nervous, and we are all trusting that the security contingency plans that are in place will be enough. Because of all of these, I will not be able to share any photos of the center, nor can I tell you about any of our special guests until after they have gone. I'm most excited about the fact that Paul Hamm is still registered and because he previously won a gold medal they might still allow him full privileges at the center. I have promised to give him the full VIP treatment. ;->
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1 comment:
Two Things:
1. I think your definition of "civilized" needs to be changed. After a while you look at any trash can in a bathroom and think "should I put my toilet paper in there?" Take it from someone who know. I'd still carry a packet of Kleenex with you in case the TP runs out.
2. For the children who may happen upon this, I hope you spare us the details of your "encounter(s)" with Mr. Hamm.
I'll be looking for you at the opening ceremony.
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