I was in Shanghai a few months ago and left the hotel one night to explore the neighborhood and find dinner. A few blocks down there was a shoe store that fascinated me. It was smaller than the walk-in closet I had in my first condo. So, I went in.

I offered a shaky, "Ni hao" (hello) and the owner responded in kind. From there, the nodding and pointing began.

We worked so hard to understand one another, and eventually he pulled out the selection of shoes in my size. I came in just because of curiosity, but now it was too fun to walk away empty handed. I bought a pair. I knew full well that despite the look, they weren't leather. I didn't care. They were a bargain, considering our shared laughter and entertaining style of communication.

Fast forward a few months.

I'm wearing those shoes today. While I love the story and memory behind them, I can't sit with my leg crossed, because the shoe is too close to my nose - - the faux leather seems to give off some sort of chemical fumes.

Now, I am faced with the dilemma of enjoying my Chinese shoes or living fume free.