We're sad to leave Emma so soon, but a park from Wild China calls our name. Her husband Dan speaks more English than we realize. Maybe he thinks we're okay since we tried to pay at his dumpling shop despite his insistence.

Though we spent little time with their son, both busy with activities, we write to thank him for letting us use his room (with rock hard bed) and to describe Canada. Hopefully, they'll visit. I get out good Canada swag for them: maple syrup, fudge, pencils, and a candle. Emma's eyes light up. A lovely stay and family.

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Thanks for reading and for all the support so far. There's more China and Asia adventures to come, just wanted to give a bit of background on the couchsurfing experience. Although hosts don't get any monetary compensation, guests are encouraged to show their appreciation in different ways. Ours were gifts at the time (since our cooking would have been a punishment!), but taking them out to a meal or teaching a skill would also be ways to show appreciation.

I've also decided to enter Travel Drabbles in the Wattys for fun because it's been a bit of a weird and wild ride. You can support it by voting, commenting and/or adding it to a public reading list if you haven't already (though I know many of you do :) Thanks a bunch!