We’re back in the swing of things here in Beijing, and so far it’s been a surprisingly smooth ride.  We’ve moved into a fantastic apartment in a lively part of town, we’ve got great views over the city and best of all we no longer eat supper sitting on the end of the bed.

Not wanting to tempt fate, but it’s been a remarkable easy couple of weeks.  Before Christmas on average I’d have one or two ‘bad china days’ a week – where something pissed me off – be it a bureaucratic process for a trivial means, or just general the rudeness and lack of manners of Beijing’s masses.  Somehow, however the city feels different now we’re back.  The air is clear and crisp, the sun is shining and I’m pretty sure – but don’t quote me on this – that the lady in the police station even smiled when we registered our papers.  We got our internet connection installed today and the engineer was 15 minutes early.  What’s going on China?  You’ve changed.

Perhaps the upbeat mood in the city is because it’s Chinese New Year this weekend (imagine Christmas 10 times over).  As I peer out over Beijing this evening I can see the sparkle of fireworks all over the city as our fellow city dwellers practice ahead of the main event on Saturday.  Jeannie and I will be heading to Houhai – a huge lake in the city surrounded by narrow Hutongs and open-air beer houses.  We’ll be filling our bellies with dumplings and watching the fireworks over Beijing’s ancient drum and bell towers as we welcome in the Tiger Year.

Our Zodiac looks promising for 2010 – we’ve been told to “express our talents” and in return a “long-awaited opportunity will knock on your door”.  The prediction also gave us permission to party.  Lots.  Next on the list: find a talent to express whilst partying…