IMPORTANT! Raoul Appreciation Day - Nov. 23

[Escaped Lunatic]

Thanksgiving here in the states is on November 23rd. This is the day most of us in USania express thanks that the local population didn't catch on to the long term real estate plans of our ancestors. However, for this Nov. 23rd, I suggest EVERYONE in the Saloon post to this thread their thanks to Raoul for all that he's done for the expat community for the last 3 years. What the heck, don't wait for the 23rd. Start posting now!

The Saloon has had some tough times the last few weeks, but none of us would have this incredible lifeline if it weren't for our Great Helmsman.

Raoul, you've done so much for all of us. I love you dude! (in a probably not gay way)

[kcanuck]

Thanks for this home away from home, good sir. I have no freaking idea how much energy it sucks out of you but I assume it's a fair bit. Thanks for your tireless efforts and for your superb sense of humour. Here's looking at you, sweetheart.

[kzel81]

I love this place! I'm here nearly everyday, and couldn't imagine life without it now. Your dedication and effort is much appreciated. You've created an amazing network, and hopefully you're as proud of it as the rest of us are.

[Ruth]

Ditto. This place is my daily fix of sanity. Being able to share with others who understand is really important to me. The camaraderie, excellent help and advice, and yes, the threads that make us think deeply about our beliefs all work together to make this place so special.

But - it wouldn't be the same without the leadership. Raoul, none of us can truly understand what you have put into this site or what it takes to maintain. But it is appreciated. Thank you so much for being one of the founding fathers and for the work you have done since. Your wit and wisdom contribute something truly unique to the expat community.

Hugs and a shot of tequila

[Fantomette]

I agree, and I already told Raoul I feel that way. Running a forum takes a lot of time, energy, and brains. And this place is so unique - IMO the absolute best teachers' forum AND China forum!

I'm not even living in China anymore but I still come here nearly every day because I feel like I belong in this community - so many great people, fun reading, and even - gasp - useful info!

Thank you Raoul!

[con's fly is open]

Raoul's my best friend. Don't have a higher compliment to give... a man. Rest assured, folks, we're getting him drunk tonight (he's too busy on Thursdays).

The Saloon's kept me going for the the last... God, almost 3 years now.

[nolefan]

for he's a jolly good fellow
for he's a jolly good fellow

[solongtinik]

oh! Raoul, i really appreciate all the ur efforts...but im still wondering what went wrong for the past few weeks/days...

thanks! i really love this place!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Ruth]

connell said:

Rest assured, folks, we're getting him drunk tonight.

Glad to know that you are taking care of him.

[Dragonsaver]

Raoul, love ya

You are why I am in China and why I love it here. Even if I don't see you, your personality can cross the miles with no problem.

The saloon is a great place and I have met some wonderful friends here. We need you and love you and truely truely appreciate you.

I'll buy the next round of Tequila.

CON, give him some of the books I gave you so he isn't suffering from book withdrawl!!

[AMonk]

Raoul, I don't know when/where you found the energy/time/patience to deal with all the craziness/demands we all make upon you.....but I'm awfully glad you've had it to share.

Thank you. For everything. _{Please keep it up}

[George61]

Yes, this is the addiction no-one ever told us about. I get grumpy when I have nothing to contribute to a thread, and as you all know, I am anti post-padding. The name-change is a bitter blow!!

[Vegemite]

We don't do Thanksgiving back in NZ...so ThanksforRaoul is a lot better sounding to me.

Thank you Raoul (and the other brains) for setting up this space and keeping it going for three years. Congratulations!

Thankyou for providing a spot of normalcy and sanity in my life....yes, it feels normal amongst this crowd. It feels just like sitting in a bar, or a staffroom, or a sportsclub, and chatting with who knows what or who about whatever.

I enjoy it...I only wish I'd found you earlier.

[Eagle's Nest]

Raoul, hey man, like this is your home, man - you's the leader and that is that. So, take back the name change and stand here all proud 'cause we's proud of ya, man. Ya made a difference fo me and mine and so many others. Love ya, man!

from your little buddy in ChangZhou

[Non-Dave]

What they all said and more.

[Enigma]

If it weren’t for The Duke, to a large extent, I wouldn’t be where I am today

PS IMHO, I prefer the old name – gives a more personal touch to everything you do in this here fine establishment.

[phets72]

I wouldn't have survived without this place whilst I have been in China sincerely....

Here's one or several if you want on me Raoul

Phets72

[Miss Motz]

all hail the boss, this place is awesome and you have my eternal thanks for setting it up, I'm so glad I was 'recruited' all those months ago I'm not in China and wont be for ..who nows how long but you manage to keep my interest alive (and thats no easy feat in itself) in a place that was never on my 'have to see' countries, keep it going boss, thanks fo rthe time and effort

Motzie

[Noodles]

Yeah what they all said and lots more.

I know i dont post as much as i should but that don't stop me from reading.

This place is an addiction and a godsend.

Thanks Raoul
P.S. i just had my roast turkey and ham dinner for happy Raouls' day.
It was goooood!~!!!!

Wow after 2.5years i finally made it to the big 100, sorry boss i'll try to do better.

[Dr. Gonzo]

In a totally non-gay way, you have my lurrrve.
Get your dick back on the masthead, dickhead.

[cheekygal]

Raoul

I think I said it all

[Escaped Lunatic]

And thus, the day has arrived!

Happy
Raoul
Appreciation
Day!!!



I hope everyone enjoys it.

Sadly, I have to go over to eat turkey with assorted relatives. Maybe I'll get lucky and there will be ham.

Raoul, get yer butt back in here or I'll be making a side trip to Suzhou to knock some sense back into you.


Love ya! (in a probably non-gay way)

[MyTurnNow]

Hi, guys.

I haven't been hanging out much lately and hadn't read out in the bar rooms in several days.

I can't tell you what an emotional moment it was to find this thread. The words simply fail me. Thank you...
Same goes for those who sent me e-mails lately. Seen and deeply appreciated.

I know things are weird right now and I am sorry. It's necessary. Hopefully it won't last much longer.

My most assuredly non-gay love to you all,
The Artist Formerly Known As

Oh, and Con DID manage to get me a little drunk on Thursday.
But he got drunker.

[MyTurnNow]

Oh, this might be a good place to mention that personal PMs should not be sent to me at the Admin account. E-mail preferred.

Thanks again!

[Ruth]

Hey, MyTurnNow - my post count is W-A-A-Y higher than yours!!!

Really, REALLY good to see you here.