We Are In Countdown

After a day of rain in Beijing, we awoke to snow. So much snow that our 7:30 a.m. flight to Changsha was delayed over an hour as the plane's wings needed de-icing. A few hours later we were walking through the streets of Changsha in 60 degree weather. Very nice. For a city we had ever heard of two months ago, this is a fairly large city. Below is a picture from our hotel room at the Dolton.

We have less than four hours until we meet the reason for our trip. The things that go through your mind leading up to this is exhausting. Kinda like those dreams in college about missing tests. - Craig

Last night was the lantern festival. Traditionally it is on the last day of the spring festival, the 15th day of the first month of the (Lunar) New Year (on the first full moon). From about 6:00 PM until 8 or 9 fire works boomed steadily all over the city. Our view from the 31st floor was spectacular! There were individuals setting off sparks on the streets as well as more professional shows from one end of our view to the next. I was very tired when our guide, Rui (Ray), explained the purpose of the fireworks, but it has something to do with scaring away evil spirits - going so far as to scare little children into staying awake so they will not be influenced by the ghosts.

All our rooms also have an open window. Thankfully the wind has carried most of the smog away (at least yesterday) and the breeze was pleasant. Some of our party were even poking their heads out almost getting popped by fireworks!

Dinner last night was traditional Hunan style. It was spicy to me, but I understand Rui ordered the mildest dishes. One pork and bamboo shoot dish reminded my of Cajun etoufe, while another dish served with scallops in the shell reminded me of Italian shimp scampi. One great dish was corn and pine nuts. For dessert we were served three different kinds of "sweet" dumplings.

Mikel

7:00 AM

March 5 (gotcha day!)