For once this phrase literally applies to me! Well, not me exactly as I will be on a fast plane to China (bypassing Typhoon Markolot hopefully), but the container with our beloved pictures, books, artwork, clothes, etc. is clearly going to be on the slow boat to China. As I said this statement out loud I became curious as to its origins. Thought I would share it with you:
Originally, this term was used in poker games. Card sharks referred to someone who lost slowly and steadily as a "slow boat to China". The implication being that a patient player could ride the victim all the way to the bottom of his pocket book. In the late 1940's a Broadway composer by the name of Frank Loesser used the slang term slightly differently. He wrong a love song which contained the phrase: I'd love to get you on a slow boat to China, all by myself alone.
Frank's song highlights the truth that a trip to China by boat is about as long and slow a trip as one can take. I suspect about the time we begin to reach the depths of homesickness and maladjustment that our shipment will arrive and we will embrace the familiarity of our belongings.
As we prepare to board the plane to Shanghai, I want to wish you all well and to thank you for your outpouring of love and support. We are truly blessed to have such amazing people in our lives. So, keep in touch and we shall all pick back up upon our return!
Have a good trip and I wish all of you the best for your start in china!!!Hugs and Kisses from Germany!!! Anne
Posted by: Anne | 08/13/2009 at 03:10 AM
Assume you have arrived in Shanghai - Love Mom
Posted by: carole | 08/13/2009 at 11:40 AM
I am guessing it is 7:30am in China AND you should be there! Let us know when you arrive safely and good luck getting your stuff.
Posted by: Kelly | 08/13/2009 at 07:31 PM
Miss you Barb - Hope you had a safe journey and I can't wait to hear more about your adventures!!
Posted by: Jocelyn Clarke | 08/14/2009 at 11:21 AM