We originally met on Open Friends in April 2007. I don't know how it happened but we clicked right from the beginning. After chatting, writing letters, post cards, flowers, and gifts and uncountable thoughts, I left US to Shanghai, China. It was a long trip but well worth it. As I approached the exit of the airport, I heard my name and I turned to the direction where it came from and she recognized me as I did her. With a big smile and a hug, we then proceeded to downtown Shanghai. We went to a hotel that Cherry had booked for me and chatted along the way. It seem like we already knew each other. When we got to the hotel, it was late but she insisted on helping me get settled in and we chatted for another 3 hours. The next morning she returned with breakfast and ate it together in my room. From that moment on, I knew she was the one for me. We ventured out to see the sights of Shanghai and was a perfect host. We also took a trip to Chongquin, Ningbo, Hangzhou, and Qingdao. Learned alot about the Chinese culture and loved every moment of it. Cherry was very supportive and translated everything for me.
I was also introduced to the family on the second day and I came to love her parents as if they were my own. They took care of my needs and even grandma and grandpa came to see me. Her sister was very gracious and took her in as my sister. We were like one big family from the start.
On the 22nd of June, we went to downtown and asked Cherry if she could take me to a department store. We went to the jewerly department and had asked Cherry that if I were to ask her to marry me what type of ring would she like. We went shopping to 3 different department stores and she finally saw one that she liked. She tried it on her finger and it fit perfectly. As she was getting ready to take it off I had asked her to ask the sales lady how much was it, she gave a price and I told her to ring it up and got on my knees and proposed to her. She looked very shocked and smiled and said Yes. The sales lady was clapping and other people around us was clapping. Then Cherry made a call to her mama and papa to let them know that I proposed to her. They were all excited and happy with the announcement.
On the 2nd of July, 2007, we decided to get our engagement photo done professionally. We spent the whole day at the studio. I ended up leaving on the 10th of July.
We continued to chat almost everyday. Then on August 20, 2007, I returned to Shanghai and we took our travels to Beijing, Yiwu, Ghungzhou, Jiangsu, Shenzhen, and other smaller towns. This was for business and pleasure. I ended up staying for 2 months. Left on October 16, 2007
We continue to chat everyday until my arrival on December 12, 2007. Visited Jiangsu again and then to Jiangsu Xuyu and to Beijing again. This was a short visit and I mean short 14 days. I returned to US on December 22, 2007.
Now everyday, we are communicating from 2 hours to 1/2 a day. I miss her very much and wish this filing process could be shorter. I plan on a return trip in March or April depending on when her interview date would be. If she doesn't get her Visa by then, I will visit her for sure in April of 2008.
This story will be updated as we get closer to the interview.
