Anshan --> Beijing

Today was my last day with the family, which made me a little sad, but everything was so normal that the bittersweet was diminished. My aunt took me to a Chinese gym in the morning because she knew I was itching for a good work-out, as well as some driving American music. I really appreciated her thoughtfulness. Two things I learned about Chinese gyms today: (1) No one works out hard enough to break into a sweat and (2) no one wears tank tops, not even the men. Needless to say, my sweaty, sports-bra clad self drew a lot of puzzled looks today.

In the afternoon, we went to a neighborhood swimming pool, which was actually Olympic in size and relatively crowded. Even 4 years ago, the ability to do anything more than doggy paddle was regarded with absolute amazement in China, and I distinctly remember Lisa and I drawing small crowds as we dove into the pool. No more. Though most Chinese still don't swim well, it's becoming an increasingly popular sport. My aunt says it's because diabetes and hypertension are on the rise in China, and swimming is recognized as healthful and able to be performed all year long due to the fact that 99% of Chinese swimming pools are indoor.

Had dumplings for dinner, which is a Chinese custom before any long journey. It seems that the word for dumplings is similar to a word for luck (personally, I've always thought it was because it also sounded like the word for feet, and well, feet = journey). My favorite was the pork and sauerkraut dumpling, which, I know, sounds disgusting, but is terrifically juicy and aromatic. In another 4-5 years, I'd like to come back and treat THEM to the fantastic dinners they've been treating me. My family is so good to me.

Got to the train station just in time to board, even though we were there an hour early. My digs is a 4-person soft sleeper cabin, which I find comfortable enough and very sleep-inducing with the rhythmic movements of the train. My cabinmates seem nice, but don't speak any English, so I'm glad this is an overnight ride. Excited to meet up with Lydia and Dorelan tomorrow!

**Shot above of the ferris wheel in the park by my grandparent's house, a site of much joy when I was a child.