Our guide, Veronica, was wonderful and helped us learn some key Chinese words/phrases, the people have been incredibly helpful and friendly, the smog is horrible, and the food, Wendy's little bit of heaven on earth. We also had the opportunity to hear from Hope's orphanage director (through our translator) and learned that she's doing quite well. Only two days until we meet her!
Here are some pictures to give you a little taste of our day:
Mao's picture on the tourist's entryway to the Forbidden City (picture taken while standing in Tian An Men Square)
The Forbidden City goes on and on and on--we thought it was incredible. This picture is one of the outer courtyards, looking at where the Emperors were coronated.
A waterway within the Forbidden City
Dave Hector will be glad to know that even in 1406 they were serious about fire prevention. There are over 300 of these pots that were filled with water in case the city (built primarily of wood) ever caught fire.
The "hill" inside the Forbidden City that was used on a special festival day. On that day, elderly throughout China were to climb mountains to show their fitness and improve their chance for longevity. The Emperor had this "hill" created inside the Forbidden City and then he was carried up the stairs (built around the outside of the rock formation) for his annual "climb".
We climbed 1591 steps up the Great Wall today, plus numerous walkways. It was a sweat-inducing, rewarding hike.
Now we're off to grab some dinner and then we'll be heading to bed so we're ready to leave the Hotel at 5:30 tomorrow morning for our flight to Hunan. Thanks for your prayers!"
For now (and again for Mom and Dad),
Casey
Maybe they have the BMI requirement so adoptive parents will be able to hike the Great Wall! :D I can't believe the smog...thanks for taking us along on your trip!
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