Hello Friends and Family,

Yesterday we took a trip to a place called the Silk Market. It is a Flea Market (a bit upscale). They believe in bargaining. This was so exasperating to me. I purchased a pair of leather gloves. It took forever. We've been told to never pay the first price at these places. He started out with 290 yuan and we worked down to 100 yuan. That's about $20.00 U. S. Who knows if it is a bargain. The gloves are nice.

We have 2 free days on our own before the planned tours will begin. Today is another free day for us. We've been warned about cab drivers and wandering too far.

My roommate is great. I feel lucky. Lora knew her and because Lora is such a good judge of people, she has pulled it off again. Go Lora.

I wanted to put a pic of my roommate and me in this time, but I did not take one with my Ipsd.

Pat