New Part of China

The day began early, very early, with a two hour plane ride from Beijing to Changsha. Changsha is the capitol of the Hunan Provence, the birthplace of chairman Mao, and, most famously, the temporary residence of Cainan. Changsha is a rural city of "only" 5 to 6 million people (Baltimore has a population of about 600,000). The flight to Changsha was interesting. It was our first experience with a Chinese airline and they definitely have a much more relaxed outlook on aviation than we do. While the plane was taxiing to the runway, people were still milling about the plane and going to the bathroom. They only returned to their seats long enough for the plane to take off. As soon as we left ground, people were out of their seats and climbing the plane against its steep ascent to get back to the bathroom. When it came time to land, the stewardess ran through all the usual safety warnings including the reminder to stay buckled in your seats until we reach the terminal. As soon as the wheels of the plane hit the ground clicks were heard across the plane as everyone prepared to disembark while the plane was still breaking.

Of course some experiences of air travel don't change, no matter what country you are in. When the baggage claim carousel came to a stop, we found ourselves one bag short. After some awkward back and forth with the airport rep, we found out that my suitcase had not left Beijing. The people of the airport were very helpful and patient despite our inability to completely understand each other. We ended up pulling away from the airport with the promise that they would deliver my suitcase to the hotel as soon as it arrived in Changsha.

Our tour guide here is Hu (or Sam for us lazy Americans). He, like Ray, spoke with great respect and deference towards Chairman Mao during our ride into the city. There was also a great deal of pride that Chairman Mao was from Hunan. In the airport, a Chinese businessman set down next to Aunt Betty. When we found out that we were headed from Changsha, he asked Aunt Betty if she knew that Mao originated from here. When she said no, he responded, "You are American, aren't you?"

The hotel we are staying at is top notch (5-star). We are on the thirtieth floor of the hotel which seems to be their designated floor for adoptive parents. We have a crib in our rooms and a baby tub in the bathroom. But even more unique is a playroom right outside the elevators. It has a number of toys, child walkers, and stuffed dolls. A good place to entertain the kids. The surroundings help make the reality of tomorrow's events take hold. There will be a new member of the family starting tomorrow.

There is not much planned for the remainder of today. We have already taken a walk up and down the street. Stopped in a quaint bakery and browsed the aisles of a local bookstore. Bought some kid's books and later a couple of bootleg DVDs from a roadside stand. But that is about it. We might try to find a good Chinese restaurant for dinner. Unless we find an Indian place instead. Some Naan would really hit the spot.