In Review: 2011

2011 has been filled with good memories. Many unexpected, good things. To catch-up, the fall has been filled with some nice adventures.

Mongolia trekking:

Trains, where learned about Mongolian card games, awkwardly made friends, and had some really great sleeps.

Mongolian ladies stylin'

In the Mongolia-Russian border town, this is the market corner where we waited for a bus...

Your standard, "I lived in a Mongolian ger!" picture

Muron, Mongolia

Khoisgvol Lake, gorgeous night sky follows

Led by Baya, our fearless leader

Get off at a random train stop in the Gobi at 2 AM? Join a Mongolian pilgrimage  at 5 AM.

The camels are coming!

A 60 year old camel herder, my hero.

Jackson Hole:

I finally got connected with my American roots and went to Jackson Hole to get my inner cowgirl on. Howdy! Or more like, 你 号dy 马

I joined a friend on a research assignment to Jackson Hole...in Hebei, China. For more insight, check her article out!

Jiangxi, Round II

I went back to Jiangxi province for another trip. But this time, went with friends and headed to Lushan Mountain instead. Given the chilly weather (ice and snow everywhere), the mountain was beautiful and empty--rare combination in China.

Locks for lovers, as on every Chinese mountain

First time seeing ice on trees! First snowfall in Beijing right before we left.

Keep tea leaves warm in the winter

Final 2011 week of final exams, grades, and celebrations--2012, see you very soon!