Until Next Time, Hangzhou

(Patty)

Today was the last day of our last weekend with our host families, and so three of the four bears (plus Mifield) (Brandon was busy tea shopping) met up to go ice skating. I, for one was excited to get back on the ice and really enjoyed teaching some of the other kids how to skate (which also provided some comic relief). Afterwards, we got Korean BBQ and went to go see the new Oz Movie, which was.. Interesting. In the evening, I ate a final meal with the Ye family, and packed all my stuff for Beijing.

And because this is our last full day of Hangzhou, and my last blog of the trip, a few words of reflection:

Like any journey, this one had its difficulties; getting lost in Beijing, Ms. Moy and Deanna losing their luggage, Brandon taking a trip to the hospital, Ms. Moy and I falling victim to food poisoning. However, all these moments were made almost insignificant by the incredible ones that followed them; helping a 5th grader become confident in English, standing on top of mountains and exploring secret places underground, and most importantly creating strong bonds with the incredible people at Hanggao. Both of my host families were incredibly welcoming and accommodating, all the students friendly and enthusiastic, and the teachers knowledgable and eager to show us as much as they could about China. At our farewell banquet Friday night, I think all of the Bears realized how in such a short time, all these people have become so important to us, and that we will miss our new, huge family. It doesn't feel as if I've crossed another place to visit off my list, it feels like I've created a new home that I am eager to return to.

With sadness (and excitement to return home) I sign off my final post, see you next time, Hangzhou.