We’re still not quite right with our sleep cycles, but it’s getting better. Judy has faculty meetings till lunch, then everyone rides the train over to Houhai Lake for some faculty bonding. They split into teams and go on a treasure hunt through the many unique stores and shops in the area. Along the lake are lots of restaurants with rooftop seating. After lunch, Judy’s group does a little searching through the shops, followed by more relaxing on the rooftops. Late in the afternoon, Shannon and Judy head over to Lily Nails for some pampering. They take Lori, the wife of the new HS principal with them, trying to give her a proper Beijing introduction.

I decided to head out to the neighborhood park to meet up with the local table tennis group. I had a good time. My knees are better, and the lowered pain level allowed me to play better. They welcomed me back in. In a few days I’ll go to the table tennis club where I’ll, no doubt, get pounded.

Judy, Shannon, and Lori meet Dom (Shannon’s husband), and I at QMex, near Sanlitun, to sample some Beijing Tex Mex. It’s not bad. Lori and her husband are American, but have been in Estonia for the last 12 years.  After our visit to Tallin, Estonia on the cruise this summer, it was fun hearing more about the country and the people.