At around 9:30 in the morning, the volunteers and organizers met with the Chengdu youth down in the hotel lobby and awaited for the bus to come take us on our adventure. Everyone had been paired up with two Chengdu Youths and went on the bus. In the morning we were going on a bus tour of the city with narration in Mandarin and English. While on the bus tour, I had several conversations with the two Chengdu Youths I was paired up with. I began to learn about the history of China, their lives, when they began to learn English and much more. There was even a point where they were teaching me how to say my name in their dialect! This was very amusing! We made so many jokes and were laughing till our stomaches hurt and had tears 
in our eyes. After a very educational bus tour, we ended up at Commonwealth Stadium where we got to walk around the track and soak up the rain! It amazed me though, when we all stepped outside, that majority of the Chengdu Youths were shivering and telling us that this was like winter for them! I think some thought we were crazy running around in t-shirts and shorts in 18 degree celsius weather and rain! So we all decided to huddle close to our buddies to keep them warm. However once we went inside to the gym to play basketball and soccer, the Chengdu Youths were much more happier with the temperture. It was something they were used to.
Back on the bus, we headed to the Chinese Gardens to show them our tribute to the Chinese culture. I hope they really enjoyed it and that they felt like they stepped back into China! After an extensive tour of the city and sites, we headed to the Mulitcultural center to eat lunch and play some ping pong! ( I think the twin boys were looking forward to this
the most!) I must say, lunch with the Chengdu Youths was phenomenal. I was talking to someone for a second when the lunches were being handed out, and then my buddies helped unpack my lunch for me so we could all dive in and eat at the same time. I was so touched by that! Then when we were cleaning up, someone spilt their drink, so I insisted in helping clean up and packing up all the garbage. However, once again my buddy was pushing my hands away from the mess; She insisted that she and the others help clean up the mess. Once again I was astonished with their behaviour, manners and actions.
the most!) I must say, lunch with the Chengdu Youths was phenomenal. I was talking to someone for a second when the lunches were being handed out, and then my buddies helped unpack my lunch for me so we could all dive in and eat at the same time. I was so touched by that! Then when we were cleaning up, someone spilt their drink, so I insisted in helping clean up and packing up all the garbage. However, once again my buddy was pushing my hands away from the mess; She insisted that she and the others help clean up the mess. Once again I was astonished with their behaviour, manners and actions. Following lunch, we went to the Chinese library to pick out some books to read and show them the text we have available in Edmonton. Many of the Chengdu Youths felt at home here, for they immediately began to read and go through an assortment of books. 
Leaving the Mulitcultural center, we rolled on over to the Edmonton Valley Zoo! Unfortunately, the weather was still a bit chilly and wasn't co-operating with us, but everyone was still toughing it out and enjoying the experience. We were able to cover the entire zoo; Seeing and meeting so many animals and stopping for photos along the way! I have to admit though, there was something that everyone didn't like at the zoo that took some getting use to; the smell! I think the universal sign of something stinky is placing your hand over your nose, because as soon as the smell came, all hands weren't by our sides but over our faces! After the animals and smells, to sum up our fun at the zoo, we got to go on the train for a ride! Even though it was short, it was amazing!
Leaving the Mulitcultural center, we rolled on over to the Edmonton Valley Zoo! Unfortunately, the weather was still a bit chilly and wasn't co-operating with us, but everyone was still toughing it out and enjoying the experience. We were able to cover the entire zoo; Seeing and meeting so many animals and stopping for photos along the way! I have to admit though, there was something that everyone didn't like at the zoo that took some getting use to; the smell! I think the universal sign of something stinky is placing your hand over your nose, because as soon as the smell came, all hands weren't by our sides but over our faces! After the animals and smells, to sum up our fun at the zoo, we got to go on the train for a ride! Even though it was short, it was amazing!
Stomaches rumbling and mouths drooling, we were off to our last stop; Lee Gardens! On our way there, so many people were sleeping on the bus, bushed from the voyage we had. I can't blame them though! It was a tough day to duke out! We arrived at the restaruant, and the smell of food engulfed us as soon as we entered. After everyone washed their hands, dinner was served once we sat down! Good cheer and laughter was heard everywhere. Jokes, riddles, and an assortment of conversations were flying across our table. Though, there were some who were tired, so after they ate they took a little cat nap to get re-energize! Good food, good friends, and a good nap at dinner; a wonderful combination.
Arriving back to the hotel, everyone was tired and exhausted from the epic journey we had. We parted from our Chengdu youth friends after exchanging emails, names, and a review of how the day was (in mandarin!!!). I think once we left, everyone walked off with a huge smile on their faces and some sore feet!
For the first official day of seeing the city, I think it ended up as a huge success! Everyone made new friends with the Chengdu Youths and hopefully they're long lasting friendships that last a lifetime.
Good job Jessie. Wow!!!Looks like everyone is having a great time. Way to go EDMONTON...I guess they are tired due to the time difference and off course the fun too....
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