And so it begins

Just a note: after realizing I could not access my blog in China, I will be sending updates to Travis who will post them for me. 

After the longest day I've ever experienced (being awake for 26 hours and traveling over 6000 miles), I am safely in our hotel in Shanghai waiting for a driver from the school to come pick us up.  I am fairly exhausted but excited to get settled in. 

I had a really difficult time sleeping last night.  The time difference is ridiculous.  I was able to talk to Travis when I woke up at 6 this morning and he was still at work on Saturday.  It was impossible to stay asleep last night with my body still on Montana time.  I also had ridiculous vertigo as well as nausea.  Oh the joys of traveling. 

This morning Frances and I woke up and took the shuttle over to the airport to get some food.  I quickly realized the language barrier is going to be hard to get over.  I had a strange oatmeal with chicken and some steam buns with pork inside.  It was pretty good but I still don't have much of an appetite.  We returned to our hotel for a little relaxation before our two hour car trip down to New Century Foreign Language School.  

I am feeling a little overwhelmed with the difference in culture.  I am ready to settle into my room and get on a set schedule.  Zai Jian for now!