Chinese Cuisene

I got a special request to post this picture. It is a skinned chicken head on top of some noodles that the group had for one of their meals.

This is Eric, "friend" of one of the students on the trip. Since the Chinese government is making it difficult to update this blog, I have been commissioned to do so back here in the good ol' US. Here are some recent pics. I will post more as soon as I get them.

We're having a great time. Lots of pictures, but lots of blocks for uploading. We've already traveled to Beijing and saw the Great Wall, how Jade is carved and information on Jade mining in the mountains of Beijing.

Today we're in Chengde. Rode the bus for 4 hours and were able to see the countryside and then, toured the Summer resort for the last 3 emperors of China. We stayed the night last night here and just finished breakfast. We're going to see two of the most notable Buddhist temples in this area and then, back to Beijing.

We fly to Jiamusi tomorrow afternoon (12 noon, arrival at 2 pm). The big welcoming ceremony will be the day after tomorrow in the a.m.

Everyone is doing very well - keeping up the pace and no one is sick (yet). We've been careful of what to eat and to keep hands washed. There were two of the group who had a bit of car sickness winding up the road to the Great Wall. Kim, one of our nurses, was "grossed" out by the smell of the silk worms and the silk manufacturing exhibit that we went to. It was an interesting and educational program, but Kim had to lay down in the bus for a while to 'regroup'. No one is lost in China either.It's been great - we haven't ever lost anyone over here.

I wonder if its the very capable faculty travelers or the very cohesive student and faculty group (?) Time can only tell. Sorry there are no pictures. Downloading seems to be a challenge via the internet. Honestly, its worked the last two years, but right now, it isn't.

We'll keep sending messages. Our best to back home - the China travelers

We have made it to China and we are all doing fine!

Big Smiles and A Warm Welcome

The Chinese students and faculty are awaiting our arrival. (These photos are from last year. It shows how nice the weather is and the fabulous performances we saw there)

Yes, I like teeth. I'll be on the look-out for some fun photos.

We're almost ready....

Flowers just don't grow like this in my backyard.

This is a view looking out of the towers on the Great Wall of China, just outside of Beijing into the mountains.

Time flies so fast, we're about there. Remember its an early start time. Don't bring any banned substances or amounts of liquid in your carry on. I'm so excited to get started on our adventure.

On Friday, May 1, 2009, (after 2:00 pm) please stop by Dr. Walker's office to pick up your t-shirts and hats for the China trip. If we need to make other arrangements, please call (801) 626-6057.