Re-entry.

Well, I've been home for several days now. I got off the plane in a confused daze, and that feeling had persisted until about yesterday. At first I wasn't sure whether I was happy to be home or not... or if I really even like China. But what it boils down to for me is that it's still my life - just a different place. And I like my life, very much. Travel is one of the most fulfilling things I've had the opportunity to do, and I've been able to live with very few regrets. Though I intend to return to China to pursue Mandarin, it's not where I plan to settle permanently. But this trip has given me hope - more than that, really, assurance - that one day I will find a place on this Earth (and in time) that is meant just for me. I couldn't be more happy.

(If I was, I would be manic.)

 

Beijing photos.

Better late than never. The most important things I did while in Beijing? I saw Mao Zedong's body, which I've wanted to do for years now (in addition to many other oddly preserved people); I visited Tiananmen Square and  the Forbidden City; I ate a snake kabob; I haggled my ass off in malls and antique markets. From here, the photos can speak for me.

First hostel I stayed in (and hated).

Where Mao's body is. The first time I tried to go in, I got turned away for not having on closed-toe shoes ("No slippers!")

Tiananmen.

Every light post looked like this... and you had to go through scanners/metal detectors to go in.

Looks just like DC!

Sexy car.

In the Forbidden City.

At the rear gate. 

I freaked out when I saw this! 

I wanted to snatch this duck so badly. :) 

Outside of an "antique" shop... wtf?

At the airport. Beautiful. 

I had to take a train to my terminal. Bad-ass.