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Yao Ming's Online Journal - November 8, 2002

In what will be a regular feature at rockets.com this season, Yao Ming checks in with the first installment of his online journal, giving you insights into the Rockets rookie's first season in the NBA. Throughout the season Yao Ming will discuss his progress both on and off the court, including how he's adjusting to his new teammates, the city of Houston and a whole new culture.

(Translation by Eric Lee)

Hello everyone. I’m still getting adjusted with a new culture and way of life here in Houston. It’s been a little hectic so far. Everywhere I go I get asked a lot of questions and a lot of people want to take my picture.

Having my parents here has helped me make the transition easier. My father will be leaving soon to go back to China. He’ll come back later but my mother will stay here with me through the winter season.

I don't feel like I have rested in a while, and I feel somewhat fatigued. I feel I need more rest. My free time has been limited so far. What little time I have had, I've spent at home playing some games, listening to music or talking to friends. All my friends are in China, and I don't really know anyone here. I wish I had a swimming pool in my backyard, so I can just soak and relax. But since it's winter now, maybe I'll get a pool in the summer. I also wish to drive, but I don't have a license. I will be getting one soon though.

Since I’ve been really, really busy every day since I’ve been here, I haven’t had a chance to go to Houston’s Chinatown, but I would like to go soon when I can. Once I have a day when I don’t have practice or anything to do, I want to explore the rest of the city with Colin Pine, my translator.

My spirits are high and it helps to have such great teammates. They all help me a lot and we all work hard together. Everyone please know that I’m working hard on getting better and learning the NBA, so hopefully you’ll see the results soon. It’s been fun. I’ll talk to you next time.

Yao Ming