Living in China... permanently?

No, I am not doing that. But it occurred to me recently that a long-term gig here would be very do-able... for the right person under the right circumstances.   My colleagues here have made it very easy for me with the language issue. A person staying would definitely have to pick up Chinese, though, which I think would not be a simple proposition. I am getting to understand the rhythms of the language and can understand a fair amount through context and body language, but I stumble over the Pinying combinations of letters. They are not natural or easy for me, even with names which I am generally very good at remembering.   Getting around and getting what we need has been fairly straightforward. Dealing with things like the electric company, etc., would be trickier without Chinese language skills.   Living in our own place would mean that we could make it ours and therefore more comfortable on a daily basis. Simple things...a more functional kitchen, bathroom with shelves, a bath mat, lamps in the living room. These are not necessities by any means, but are what my mom would call "creature comforts."   The one thing I miss the most right now: being able to walk barefoot around the house at the end of the day!