We made it to Shanghai!

I tried to post earlier, but I've had "technical difficulties".  I'm happy to say though, that's been the only problem we've had!  We flew United, from Chicago to Shanghai.  Yes, we were cramped for 14 hours, but the flight could not have been any more perfect.  I knew our trip would go well, when I saw a large, Spartan logo (Michigan State University) on the billboard where we were waiting to board.  Joe had an aisle seat, while I was seated next to a young man from Hangzhou (Malia's province)!  We talked on and off throughout the trip and he told me he wanted to give me a silk tapestry of West Lake (Xi Hu), for Malia to have some day.  It was in his checked baggage and he gave it to us before we went through customs.  We didn't have many extra gifts and because it is customary to exchange gifts, Joe gave the young man one of his favorite University of Michigan hats.  If you knew Joe, you'd know what a great gesture this was!  haha! seriously!  Our flight attendants were very friendly and one the women was a Chinese woman, who grew up in San Francisco.  She had just been to Hangzhou 2 weeks ago!  She shared pictures from her i-pad.  She stopped in the middle of food and drink service, several times, to hear more about our journey.  When we got off, she gave me a hug.  So many sweet people put in our path!  Joe and I hung out in the back of the plane for 2 hours, standing in the galley area, chatting with various businessmen, traveling families, and flirting with babies.  The flight attendants didn't seem to mind this.  They had snacks and drinks back there and we could just help ourselves.  We flew up through Canada, over Alaska, and through Japan, to get to Shanghai.  About the time we were over part of Alaska, I was thinking it was a long ride.  We were about half way!  Our meals on the plane were better than any plane food we've ever had.  Chinese noodles and rice, with vegetables, for both of the meals.  Very good!  I have to say, we had no complaints with United and I actually think we a wonderful, 14 hour flight.  I only hope that our flight back is as good!