Arrival!

We're in China -- Beijing to be precise -- with the kids now. So far so good! The whole trip here travel-wise seemed uneventful; of course my sleeping for about 7 hours on the plane helped me in more than one way. I also bought almonds and dried fruit in the Chicago airport and so had something to snack on when we got here -- also a good thing for me.

Yafei and I are getting along well with one another in general which is great. There is a whole story about that side of this trip to be told, which will emerge at some point as it continues to unfold I think.

As I travel more and more internationally, I learn alot about how to take care of myself so I can just go along with what is going on here. This is huge. When I came to China last time,my life was in a different place and so was I. This seems easier.

The hotel is full of white international tourists -- but we seem to be the only Americans. It is "fine". The rooms seem fairly upgraded, but the breakfast, however ample and diverse was of OK quality. Totally fine, though, really. I think I have been spoiled by the little places Ruthie and I have stayed in Europe.

The trip to the market -- a huge sort of flea market indoors -- was an interesting walk through typical Beijing street -- nothing fancy or for tourists-- and it was great to see the kids in public and seeming comfortable enough. No bargaining in there. I bought a knapsack from the "Little Sheep" brand and it has a cheerful saying in Chinglish on it. That and the price plus the fact that it will suit my needs nicely sold me, but in the end I think it was the Little Sheep thing that got me to purchase that one.

Today's Tao Te Ching selection, chosen by me opening the book at random:

Starts out: "That which will be shrunk must first be stretched./That which will be weakened, must first be strengthened...../That which will be taken must first be given/...

That is subtle illumination"

There is more, but that's enough for here. Let's see if this is manifest in today's activities to come. I think maybe it will have to do with "subtle illumination." mine or others'.

"Haven't you left for China yet, Beebs?"

Every day for at least a week, I have been getting this from my next door neighbor at work. No. Not yet. Day after tomorrow. Tonight, said bye to my mom, more laundry and loading up the Mp3 player -- I am sure they won't have Brahms in China or something. Or the Doors. I have no idea why I picked some of this music or if I will listen to it. We'll see.