Olympic Gardens

Hello again!

I received an email a few days ago with some pictures of the Chinese gardens. Quite a show! I am looking forward to seeing these in person!

I am continuing to study up on my gymnastics information. There is so much to know in addition to preparing for an international experience! I'm currently reading China Road by Rob Gifford, an NPR correspondent. He talks about how far China has come in such a short period of time especially in Shanghai.

I've been asked a lot whether people will see us (Journalism students) on camera. While this would be an incredible opportunity (not to mention high stress and a gold piece for the resume tape), you will probably never see us. I tell people if the camera pans the arena (I'll be at the gymnastics venue!) you may catch one of us doing our job (or looking completely confused). Either way, it will probably be like looking for a needle in a haystack with so many people, but you never know!

Ted

6.8.08 - Two Months Away

Hey Everyone,

I find myself thinking what I'll be doing two months from tonight. Beijing's Olympic Stadium, called the "Bird's Nest", (right) will be the center of attention for people all around the world. I've sifted through a bunch of articles these past few weeks. Because the infrastructure in Beijing is not used to accommodating an Olympic-sized crowd, gridlock is a real possibility. The country is expanding their subway and highway systems. I am looking forward to seeing how Beijing will accommodate the crowds in a country already home to 20% of the world's population!

My passport and visa arrived this week! Our group is well on the way!

Ted