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