In Chengdu - 7/25/06; 11:45 AM

We were able to get an earlier flight than was scheduled and have arrived in Chengdu and at at our hotel. We have intenet in the room and I am so glad I brought the laptop. I should be able to keep people at home up to date.

Today we are going to find our way around -- Starbucks is across the street. Tonight we are going to dinner and the Chengdu Opera. We decided that it would be best to do that WITHOUT the baby with us.

Our guide was not able to meet us at the earlier time so they sent another guide -- Marina -- she is charming and told us all kinds of things about Chengdu. It is a fascinating place. We are perched high up and the city is bustling. I guess there are about 10 million people here -- FAR larger than Portland, huh?

Jacob and James will post a bit later and label them. Right now they are in AWE of the place, the people, the experience.

Please... Aine, Mom, San, Rob -- Take care of Joy for me. I miss her.... Give her kisses and tell her that I love her!

Jack