We're here!!

Hi Everyone,

It was a smooth day of traveling. Heidi brought us to the airport, we flew to San Francisco, then 12 hours to Beijing. The plane was not crowded at all. In fact, Car found a row of seats and took a long nap. I didn't sleep much, but am feeling fine.

Beijing has an incredible airport!! I could see my face in the floor - clean, big, and empty! I swear we must have gotten our luggage within 15 minutes of leaving the airplane. The airport was completly empty because of the Chinese New Year, so that part was really easy.

When we left the secure part of the airport, we met Charlotte, our guide. We ended up having to wait for another couple to arrive - they were coming from Chicago. Their names are Kevin and Dawn, and they are adopting a 2 1/2 year old girl. We will be together with them in Beijing, then travel to our provinces separately, then meet again in Guangzouh.

The whole gang and our luggage squeezed into a van, and drove to our hotel. We're staying at the Wangfujing Grand, a lovely hotel with an authentic Chinese feel. We're on the 12th floor, and we have a view of the Forbidden City. Pretty amazing. Right now, there are fireworks going off periodically because of the Chinese New Year celebration.

Car and I have settled into the room, and will venture out to get something to eat before crashing. I am ready to sleep now, that's for sure!

Tomorrow we are meeting Charlotte at 9:00 for a tour of TianAnMen Square, the Forbidden City, and other sights. I can't wait. This is definitely the easy part of the trip!

Good night everyone!!
:)