11 days after Arrival

I can already feel myself changing. The atmosphere, other than the smog, is different but then again, it is very similar to what i'm familiar with. Beijing is a city that is constantly moving but the pace it at a more leisured pace compared to NYC. Statistics say that Beijing house 18 million residents, and that's excluding the tourists and foreign visiters. Beijing is a huge city which is broken up into sections due to the 5 ring of highways that circle it. The subway system is amazing! The subway is clean, new, fast, and efficient. Along with the subway system, public transportation, specifically referring to buses, is also very sufficient. Both forms of transportation carry televisions. But although many things are very modern, many things are also ancient. Beijing is definitely a place that preserves its history. For that I respect the city. I also found out that the government controls the weather...to a certain extent. Due to the lack of rain during the summer months, these chemical pellets are dispersed in the air, towards the clouds and with hours it begins to rain. It's fascinating. If nature doesn't make it rain, the government somehow forces it to rain anyway, so like clockwork, it rains every week. I have to leave, but there are many other interesting things that i have neglected to talk about, but will address that in my next blog. bye for now.

One Week Left Before Departure

Hello everyone, I have about a week left until departure. I am very excited! I also found out that in certain parts of China, they have reestablished the use of facebook...hopefully they reestablished it where i will be residing. :) I have tons of packing, and preparing for the trip. This week will be havoc. As to the fundraising of the $800 left, so far $20 has been donated. I appreciate those who donated. But because of this i have resolved to work literally up until the day before i leave. But on the flipside, i am thrilled and can't wait to arrive in China, although i am dreading the 19 hour flight ugh! Hopefully i will be able to blog when i get to China. Toodles folks, and thanks again for your support and kind words.