Yes, Really

The Chinese state media recently released five "surprising benefits" of smog:

1. It unifies the Chinese people. 
2. It makes China more equal. 
3. It raises citizen awareness of the cost of China’s economic development. 
4. It makes people funnier. 
5. It makes people more knowledgeable (of things like meteorology and the English word haze). 

(Credit: Time Inc.; read more.) 

I suppose they get points for looking on the bright side (pun intended).  

Zhoumo kuaile!

I know I've complained about the air quality before, but it's really, really bad today ("beyond index"!).

This time, I can really feel it in my chest and I've had a nasty cough for few days now. If only Shima knew how to use a toilet, I wouldn't have to go outside. But she hasn't acquired that skill yet, which means I've given in and will be sporting one of these accessories on our walk this afternoon.

Only one more week 'til I see the blue skies of California! My lungs and I can't wait. 

P.S. More on the current "airpocalypse". And some think artificial rain may help.  

Gross