Prince Gong's Castle-Beijing Site
Built during the Qing Dynasty, about 1777 as the private residence of Heshan who had an extremely rapid rise up the Civil Service ladder. He had acquired great wealth, as well as many enemies. When the Qing Emperor Qianlong (1736 – 1796) died his successor Jiaqing (1796-1820) had Heshan executed. The residence passed along to other hands and during the reign of Emperor Xianfeng (1851-1862) ownership was transferred to Prince Gong.
Studying Chinese in Beijing
“Stretch your body : Expand your mind.” It is the tag. It is my mantra. Keep improving, physically and mentally.
First order on arrival in China are Chinese Lessons with Margaret at Mandarin Zone, her school near the Tuanjiehu station on line 10 in Beijing. It has been more than two years since my first lesson with her. Now about six years of study. What I do not have in intellect I compensate with stubbornness and determination. Can’t say it’s been an easy process, but fortunately people like Margaret and my first teacher Xin, have stuck with me.
On to Beijing - 2019
At LAXearly. Not going to duplicateyesterday’s error.
The flight is nearly full, the nearly, fortunately, was the seat adjacent to me.
I quickly realized the effect of the time of departure on my sleep habit on the long flight. Leaving at 6 AM or so from Boston requires early wake up. Sleeping aboard is easy. Leaving after midnight, as I did recently to Hong Kong is a natural time to sleep. At 10 AM departure, I am well rested and alert and not disposed to nap. Well, lots of reading.