NINGHAI

I had the opportunity to travel again the past few days! It felt SO good to get out of the city and see blue skies! Andrew has a few old students that live in Ninghai and arranged for them to show me around. Getting there alone was a bit interesting but once I arrived I was very well taken care of. "James" (Andrews student) is the most generous person I have ever met. He paid for me to stay at a REALLY nice western styled hotel with a gorgeous view. Andrew explained to me that it is chinese culture to take very good care of guests but I was not expecting a free vacation! After I was checked in to the hotel we hiked a few small mountains to different ancient buildings. It was hot but I was just so happy to see the blue sky I didnt mind! Next James took me to his gallery where he does all his art work. He studied ancient chinese calligraphy at the China Academy of Art and his work is beautiful. Next he showed me more of the city while we were being pulled in a little cart by a man on an old rusty bike! The next day a few of us headed to the beach, where we were met by James' sister. The weather was great but there was hardly anyone there! I forgot my swim suit so I bought one for cheap and we hit the waves! There was a man giving short rides on a wave runner and I forced James and his friend to go for a spin. They were SO scared, it was so funny! Then after MUCH convincing and about 200 yuan, James talked the man into letting me take it out by myself. It felt amazing to go out for a ride with such beautiful scenery! I loved Ninghai and Im so thankful I got the opportunity to go! But the trip home was the biggest adventure! When it was time to head back James insisted that his friend take the company car we had been using and drive me all the way back to Hangzhou instead of letting me take the shuttle. I thought it would be nice to have a car for the trip back instead of a crowded bus so I agreed...but the car ride wasnt relaxing at all..they had no idea how to get back to Hangzhou! I stayed wide awake and nervous because the driver was going so fast and had to keep slamming on his brakes to avoid accidents. SO...five hours, two tickets, and one fender bender later and I finally made it home! Im happy to be back home in Hangzhou but it was a great couple of days!

The view from my room

One of the artists at the gallery and his painting.

James and his work which he gave to me as a present.

The building you can see from my hotel.

Dont know what that is but we hiked to it!

Yay for sun!

James & I and his sis in the back ground.

After my fun ride! Thats James friend and sister.

Beautiful.