In many ways this grocery store is similar to a US store, but in other ways it’s VERY different.  The produce is amazing.  Well displayed and fresh.  Most items are sold in small units to keep the price and size down.  There aren’t rows and rows of minivans & SUVs parked in front of the store – you only buy what you can carry home.  Costco would not do well in most towns in China.

While I was taking photos in the store an 18 year old fellow photographer & future design student spotted me.  After I left he followed me over to my usual table at the night BBQ and sat down and began speaking to me in nearly perfect English while I enjoyed my nightcap.  Eddy told me about his art & design career plans.  He also mentioned that he uses a Nikon D7000 camera, which is the same ($1,000+) camera that I use.  I discovered that Eddy’s equipment procurement method was quite a bit more larcenous than mine.  His photo work is nice.  Eddy is also a cyclist and we may go cycling the countryside if the weather ever clears up.  I didn’t ask how he got his bike… Eddy’s mother gave him money for his bike.