Arrived in the UK after a 72 hour bonanza of activity in Beijing. The photos are from the raising the flag ceremony  at Tiananmen square. Hopefully the pictures can depict the emotions etc. that have and are being felt.

It started with a quick dash to the coach that was ‘patiently’ waiting for us, then a 1hr and half journey to our destination. Upon arrival we were confronted with a familiar smell and a joyous piece of music (jingle bells), which raised our festive sprits. This was all to be depleted by the 100^th time hearing it. Not only was it on loop the entire day it also skipped, a clear sign that Christmas had arrived in Beijing. It became blatantly obvious we had entered a hype reality and I hope the photos depict some of it (none of them are real :p). So please enjoy as much as I did. “happy ending is finished”

Last Sunday ( I believe, tempest fugit) i found myself within the walls of the  Forbidden City not only with a friend but with a very special guest who has brought 'freedom' to those who so desperately desire it, none other than George Bush Jr. He blessed the Chinese Christians and then told the rest of China to learn from Taiwan. He is truly a man of brilliance. Though I digress it was a lovely day and nice to leave the confines of the university campus. It was completely the opposite of what I imagined (rather refreshing as it is nice to be surprised once in awhile).

A lovely place just on the outskirts of Beijing. Again went with a fellow teacher and his friend. I suppose the most interesting part of the whole trip was watching the Chinese sightseers swarming up the mountain face. I have never seen anything quite like it. Unfortunately i do not think there are any photos illustrating this very well. any way very busy but it was a lovely day and nice to see something besides cars and building for a change.

Just a quick note: the photos added are from a trip to a city called Tianjin. Went with a fellow teacher and his friend.