It seems like it was so long ago that we started planning but the day has finally arrived for us to leave for China. I was so excited to get to the airport and have everyone together for the first time. Once everyone arrived we checked in our luggage, went through security and headed for our gate. After what seemed like an eternity we were on the plane and ready to go…. EXCEPT the wind was blowing too hard so the airport had to shut down two runways. Everyone was taking off and landing on the other two. Once we pulled away from the gate we got excited again but that was shorted lived. The planes were backed up and it took us 25 minutes to get in line to taxi into position for take off.
Once we were in the air we found out we would be flying north along the coasts of the United States and Canada, just under Alaska and over Russia. Most of us were in middle rows so we couldn’t see anything but while over Alaska I passed my camera to the lady sitting next to the window and she took a couple pictures for me. We all enjoyed lots of food (lunch, two snacks and breakfast), four movies and a little bit of sleep. It was a long flight but we all survived it.
After a rough landing (lots of wind) we were amazed with how quick we de-boarded the plane, especially since the entire plane had to remain seated while four “Special Chinese Guests” were escorted off the plane by Chinese police officers. We don’t know why but they didn’t look very happy. Surprisingly everyone remained seated until they were all off. Once we were off the plane we went through inspections, boarder security and picked up our luggage in record time. Amanda, our Tour Director, was waiting for us just outside baggage pick up. The group from Ohio was already on the bus when we got there. It was really nice to finally meet Cheryl in person.
It took about an hour to get to our hotel. All I can say is that I am very glad I wasn’t driving! It was CRAZY!! Cars, buses, trucks, bikes and scooters going every which way. Amanda said no one really follows the lights or lanes. They are “only suggestions”. After checking into the hotel we hopped back on the bus and went to dinner. It was pretty good but we weren’t all that hungry because of all the food on the plane. 
We went to a little park on a lake after dinner to stretch our legs and take some pictures, then headed back to the bus to go back to the hotel. 
I think we were all ready for a good night sleep to help us adjust to the time changes. It didn’t take me long once my head hit the pillow.
Through the Eyes of a Girl 