Beijing Airport

Thanks for sending the article about their new airport. It must be spectacular. In 1991 I landed at that same airport and it was basically a barracks type building with few lights. I remember the entire area surrounding as being dark and dim with no street lights anywhere. This country has really made some big changes. I liked Hank’s essay about the trip. It sounds like it was similar to ours and we too liked the visit in the local family’s home. Twenty of us crowded into their small home for a wonderful lunch though Betty and I used the edge of their bed for seating and later toured the hostess’ modern kitchen that was in a long hallway outside the main home.

It took a few days to get back to normal after our trip. I went to Cyd’s the day after I got home and then spent last week mostly trying to establish a sleep pattern. I think it is more difficult to ride a bus and a plane for a trip than it is to walk and be more active. I guess that’s why you prefer Earthwatch expeditions.

I just went to visit my mom and this 80 year old man visiting his wife asked me if I’d go on rides and to dinner with him occasionally as he misses the companionship of a woman. What am I supposed to say? I didn’t answer directly but I gave him my phone number as he whipped out his paper and pencil and now I’ll have to screen my calls and be mean when I don’t want to at all. Maybe I’ll just always be busy. I am sure I won’t be riding to see an old mine or a lake yet. I have lots of books to read right here while I wait for James Spader.

So there is little to say about Memorial Day. I think Nancy and Leslie will be coming through with some big, fun plans. So far all I know is that almost everyone is arriving late and leaving early. You and I will be there no matter what so maybe that’s what drives the others away. Brett and family are arriving Friday and leaving Sunday and Cyd has not committed yet. I think it depends on how her Boot Camp program is working for her. Send your itinerary so I can make sure you aren’t leaving on Sunday!