I'm here!

Luggage!

Travel is what a person makes of it. For me, it is always fun. Every twist and turn (like a flight delay, etc.) is an experience to be cherished. So, optimism serves me well.

Start of Trip (Thursday, May 15th)

Since the flight was in the afternoon, we got to sleep in a little bit. And we had finished packing the night before, so the morning was not at all rushed. The fact that I was traveling halfway around hadn't really hit me. I was just excited about the airplane food (which I like for many reasons).

SFO Pictures!

During the flight:

Overall, it was a good experience, although service left something to be desired. First of all, the Air China flight attendants should really work on their English, as well as, their courtesy. My guess is that the Chinese language does not have words for "please" (which is the case in Mongolian). However, I got to eat airplane food, so it's all good.

Our plane posing with my brother.
Beijing

The Beijing airport is an very clean, big place. The preparations that that place is making for an upcoming sporting event are tremendous! The airport is humongous, and there are people for almost everything. For instance, they had these girls, who were in yellow satin suits with large red sashes draped across their shoulders, placed in various posts around the airport just to answer questions and direct passengers. And lots of security guards who had their own unique uniform as well. Oh! The uniforms. What is it with communists and uniforms? I guess the whole thing about everyone being in the same class. Anyhow, while we were admiring the size and efficiency of the Beijing airport, there was a mishap with our flight being delayed for 12+ hours and us being transported to a hotel. The only thing we did at the airport was sleep. Again, all part of the adventure. The one feeling that I feel that I must remark on is during my whole stay in Beijing, I felt so much pity for all the people who worked at the airport. For example, being a bathroom attendant is not a pleasant job, but I bet that that post had many many applicants, and the person who got the job must have been quite happy. It's hard to comprehend how fortunate I am to be living in America.

Look at Beijing's Awesome Airport:

On a funny side note:

Some of the literal English translations are hilarious!

I don't remember some of the really funny ones, but from the top of my head:

"Being careful not to loses one balance, please!" - very polite.

The immigration line that I went through was called "foreigners" -Not at all the politically correct American "visitors"

Another funny thing was the marching. All the immigration officers marched together through the airport, looking quite full of themselves. They looked slightly ridiculous to my eyes, but the other airport employees looked at the marchers with such awe.

Arrival in Mongolia was at 2 am on Sunday. My mom, my brother, and I were greeted by many family members: grandma and several uncles and aunts. Oh happy day! Glory be!

Now it is May 19th. I am in my Grandmother's apartment, which is very nicely furnished. My little tiny grandmother gave me yogurt and is sleeping now.