Chengdu, I Have Arrived

It has been quite the emotional day so far. After leaving my parents at the airport in Newark, I was on my own and found my way to my gate…no problem, it was still in the US. I met a young banker from New York, originally from Mongolia who was traveling to Beijing on my flight. We talked briefly in line waiting to board, I was grateful to have made a potential contact who would help me when I got to Beijing. I was also blessed to have 2 middle aged women sit next to me on the plane – we all kinda bonded because we were all traveling alone. The lady in the middle lived in China for 4 years and was going back to visit.

The flight seemed like it would never end. I was ready to turn around and come home after hour 7, I had almost 7 hours left to go. We landed in Beijing and I made it by myself through the health check point – didn’t get quarantined, thank goodness! I saw my banker friend and we ended up next to each other on the train to the other part of the airport to get our bags. I was again thankful to have met him but was careful not to give out any personal information. We chatted some more while waiting to get our luggage. His came first and we went our separate ways. Well, so I thought. Since mine came so shortly after his arrived, I saw him again in the huge lobby. I must have looked confused because he asked if I knew where I was going, I said “sort of”. He told me where to go. This was his 3rd trip to Beijing in 2 months! I would not want to make this trip that often.

After I left my new friend for the final time, I had to find my way around the check-in area. That was another emotional experience and I felt very alone, I didn’t even know how to ask for help. I finally found my way and arrived at my destination where I was welcomed by my 2 roommates, my co-operating teacher and another lady from the school. It felt so good to see some friendly faces again.

I went to school today and stayed all day. It was hard, but I'm trying to not let myself give in to jet lag. I'll write more about school later, this has been long enough.

All is well, I'm here safe and sound.
-kait and kung fu