Lights Out!

See You In Vancouver!

Love,

Olympic Kate!

Closing Out Beijing

Travis Sherwin/Orlando

This being my last post, I’m leaving you with what I’ll remember from the Beijing Olympics.

Of course, I’ll remember meeting America’s medal-winning athletes and their events, but I’ll also remember the incredible people, places and tastes of China.

Starting with what will forever be the image of the Beijing Games:

The Bird's Nest at night

The image I’ve always associated with China:

The Forbidden City

Then, there’s the wonderful Summer Palace. I never knew it existed, let alone that it is so beautiful.

Steps at the Summer Palace

I’ll never forget the food. Including the signature dish of Beijing:

Peking Duck

And, there’s also what I call the Chinese version of fondue:

Hot Pot

I’ll always be fascinated with the way they get around here.

A popular way to travel

Finally, there are the friendships. Like the new one I made with our translator, Mady.

Mady at the Summer Palace

And, the lifelong bonds I’ve made with our team.

The HATV Olympic Team

It’s time to pack and take a much-needed break. See you in Vancouver!

Xie Xie, Zai Jian,

-Travis

Team Phelps Hits The Wall

The not so subtle differences in China…

Travis Sherwin/Orlando

There are a few subtle differences that really stand out after you spend a few weeks in China.

Let’s start with food. The Chinese really love corn. It’s everywhere. You see people eating it on street corners. You see them eating it while they ride their bicycles. You see it on their vegetarian pizza.

Corn on pizza

Another Chinese favorite – potatoes. Dominos Pizza delivers tater tots; traditional Chinese restaurants have multiple dishes featuring potatoes; and the meals at our workspace always include spuds.

I’ve had baby potatoes, roasted potatoes, sauteed potatoes with leeks, mashed potatoes, potato wedges, potato cakes, baked potatoes, and today’s selection, scalloped potatoes.

Scalloped potatoes

Finally, there’s a subtle difference in the bathrooms here. No paper towels. They use tissues instead. Ever notice how little water is absorbed by a tissue? If you haven’t, try it. The fewest I can get by with per wash is three. Plus, they stick to your hands.

Tissues to dry your hands

Alone, these small items are minor issues. But, day after day, they start making their impact. It will be a long time before I have another potato. I’m off corn for a while, too. And as for tissues, I’m not planning on catching a cold any time soon!

-Travis

One of these things is not like the other…

…and that’s what we love!  Check out the look this gal is rockin’ — 2008 cell phone headset + traditional chinese clothing!

A combo that is clearly less jarring than plaid sundress + 3 credentials + thumbdrive necklace.

How we prefer to “Hurry Up and Wait”

…take pictures in which we look ridiculous.

United States Of Charisma

On Right, Olympic Gold Medalist, Aaron Peirsol.

On Left, Solo Member of US Olympic Reading Team

More Phelps Phans!

We know you can’t get enough of Tyler, Colin and Brendan!