When we got to Detroit we met up with another family in our group who was on the same flight as us. I was so thankful to meet them, it always feels better when you know you're not the only people doing something crazy =)
We flew over the Arctic and Russia. It was amazing looking down and seeing massive mountains covered in snow, huge frozen bodies of water, and what looked like cracks in the ice that were probably massive ravines. Uninhabitable frozen wilderness, It was a true sight to behold and not one I think I'll ever forget.
Once we landed in Beijing we handed off our bag of supplies for Show Hope to one of their reps who met us at the airport. Then we met up with our agency guide, George, who is a very amiable character, with a big smile, and often jokes about his broken English which he calls "Changlish".
George got us settled in our hotel, helped us exchange some money, and pointed us in the direction of a good noodle restaurant. Our new friends Mary and Jeff joined us for dinner and we had a great time ordering way too much food, telling stories and jokes, and just getting to know each other. It felt like we had been friends for years. I've been told the families you meet on this adventure become friends you have your whole life, I can now see how that is possible.
After dinner, we then braved the local 7-11 and got some needed essentials. I also found some KinderEggs for the kids (Gus will be overjoyed). Then we headed back to our hotel room to sleep. I passed out at 8pm our time, woke at 3:30am, and then again at 6. I was glad to get so much sleep but it still did not feel very restful. Pray for us as the time change and jet lag is really hitting us hard.
