I was thinking of writing a witty dissertation on the origins of the universe, but I figured that I would get flamed faster than a SSM thread poster in the Christian Travel forum. So...just the facts.

My real name is Ernie, and as many know, I am currently living in China. I got here by annoying the wrong people back at my company's corporate headquarters in Broomfield, CO which is also where my home is. My wife and I, and all our children were born in San Diego, but we relocated to Denver area in November 2000. Actually, I'm working on what is the largest petrochemical project currently underway in the world as a project controls manager, looking after cost and schedule. I figured, "What the hey...get some international experience, do a little travel, eat some fish heads and I'm all the better in a year and a half." After spending a few months in Shanghai, we moved to Aotou, about 40km up the coast from Shenzhen/Hong Kong. To get to the airport for us is similar to going from Ensenada to LAX, including the border crossing.

I came here with Mrs. Redbeard and little Miss Redbeard, who are leaving when LMR is finished with school in July. I had travelled with work to Europe and Latin America but my wife and youngest daughter haven't. I've been 1K for now in my third year, and they both made Premier last year. We were fortunate enough to see parts of China, including Hong Kong and Macau. We also were able to see Australia, Thailand and Singapore. They both filled the standard issue US passport in their year here. We also have three grown children, who have been the subject of a few threads here on FT. My oldest daugter is a model in NYC, the middle daughter is getting married in September, and my son did a poor job of watching our house while we were in China. He also has just graduated HS and is working at DIA.

The best part of our experience has been the experience of the wide range of cultures as a part of this project. We have Chinese, English, Dutch, Singaporean...true diversity. It's strange to go home and nobody has an accent. (Coloradans don't have accents )

I can't remember how I found FT, but started posting while working on a proposal in Romania. We had a good internet connection in the hotel, and nothing to do at night. I've met many people online, and a few in person. I'm looking forward to meeting more at dos and by displaying the magic yellow tag. Thanks to all in FT for being a fun place to hang out.

Thanks for reading. Cheers.