July 1

5:00 PM  (Note: Time is still Beijing time.)

            We are now flying from Beijing to L.A.  The flight is supposed to take 11 hours and 25 minutes.  Currently we have been flying for 2 hours and 32 minutes.

            I have spent the past month on a fantastic and intriguing journey throughout China.  I have walked hundreds of miles and undoubtedly flown, trained, and bused thousands more.  I have seen hot, dry deserts and lush, cool mountain paradises.  I have met Hans, Uygurs, and Tibetans.  I have learned a bit of the language, and made a few friends.  I have come to know a great fondness for this country and her people.  While I am happy to be heading home, it is not without sorrow that I leave.

            But I will be back.