Beard Papa's

I FINALLY got some clean laundry this morning. phew. It was pretty
cheap here, dry cleaning all of my undergarments, two dresses, and
seven shirts cost 155 quai, or $ .

After picking up my laundry and lunch, we were introduced to Chris
Berry. He will be leading our discussions and lectures for the next
week, and I think that he is one of my favorite lecturers yet. He is
discussing the Chinese documentary movement with us. Some of his
lecture is definitely review, such as discussing the difference
between cinema verite and direct cinema, but I think that he listens
to when the students speak and doesn't take up too much time rambling
on by himself. He has facilitated more of a discussion atmosphere
rather than just lecturing all day. He also discussed Fred Wiseman at
length, which was great because Wiseman is a filmmaker who I admire
and enjoy discussing.

Once we were done with class for the day, Di, Tara, and I headed over
to Spice Spirit in Wudaokao. We THOUGHT we had coupons there but when
we got there it turned out that the coupons were for lunch, not
dinner. Oh well. We had a good dinner, and I really like the Kung Pao
shrimp they serve there.

It took three weeks for it to happen but it happened--I accidentally
ate some meat. It was a tiny, TINY cube of pork. I'm feeling kind of
queasy now, I hope I don't get sick. We went to Happy Lemon and Tara
ordered me a refreshing Lemon drink, then we headed over to the Lotus
supermarket so I could get some crackers in case I get sick later. I
ended up buying lots of Pocky (surprise surprise) and some unusual
snacks for friends at home. I wish I could bring you guys back some of
the chicken feet that they sell here.... but I don't think customs
would like that.

On our way out of the supermarket I found a Beard Papa's and got a
cream puff. yummmmmm

Tomorrow we're going to the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square. We're
calling tonight an early one so that we can get up early to go there
and beat the crowds. Then tomorrow we're going back to Sanlitun for
dinner and bar hopping. Seriously, I cannot believe I only have one
week left here. I'm tempted to stay!