As you can see, Griffin couldn't stay awake long enough to enjoy his first meal in China. In fairness, it's been a long day.

We arrived in two shifts at the airport, between 4:25 and 4:40. Thanks to Jamie and Rebecca, we were able to get everything to the airport without having to leave a vehicle there. Thanks, Ladies! We had to do a little talking to convince the desk manager that 6 pediatric wheelchairs, 10 bags for the belly, and 8 carryons really was approved. We even heard him speaking to the pilot about possibly putting the plane over weight restrictions. . . a personal best for us. Everyone snoozed to Newark, downed one last bit of beef, then got on a well-eauipped, big plane for Beijing. Apparently the amenities were too inviting, because there wasn't much sleeping done over the next 14 hours.

Baggage and customs went great, no stops. All the hassle was worthwhile when we saw Robin's face as our wheelchair parade came around the corner. So, Rebecca, thanks to your hard work, and United Cerebral Palsy, thanks to your generosity, New Hope Foundation had a very good day.

Everyone except Kinsey and Chris hit the pillow for a couple of hours before our orientation dinner, and Griffin never recovered. One of the funniest differences about the food here compared to America is that you get little bitty plates and glasses. The glasses are about juice size, and the plates are between a saucer and a dessert plate. Dishes are brought out a bit at a time and put on a lazy susan. . . so you spin, pull some off onto your plate, eat it, then spin for more. We had more than enough to eat, just a little tiny bit at a time. The kids received workbooks, treasure boxes, silks for the 2 nice dinners, and panda t-shirts for the reserve.

Our eyes are bloodshot, our bodies are sore, but we are so happy to be here! Especially after reading Nanette's comment about the tornado near the airport. I hope everyone is okay in Nashville. Tomorrow is very busy, and I think we have stayed up as late as we can stand it. Enjoy getting posts from the future (it's 9:30 p.m. on Friday), and thanks for the comments!!