OUR AMAZING DAY

We've had a day packed with sights from historic China. It's been awesome!

We began at Tienanmen Square, which was packed with thousands upon thousands of people. It was here that we experienced the art of pushing your way through a crowd. It was interesting to watch the Chinese people do this, and it appears that there really is an art to it. I say, bring on the Christmas shopping crowds!

We also got our group picture taken here. Then it was a quick trip across the road to the Forbidden City (or the Not-So-Forbidden City, according to Rick). This place is so huge it's beyond comprehension. The buildings are incredibly ornate and there are so many of them! It's hard to fully realize that we were walking on grounds that were once forbidden to the world. What a privilage to be there.

Then it was on to a restaurant for lunch of authentic Chinese cuisine, including the infamous Peking Duck. It was wonderful food! And, with our tummies full we headed to the Great Wall. And let me just say that the "Great" in Great Wall doesn't do it justice. And, unfortunately neither do pictures. In the words of my Mom, "Wow! I don't know what to say, but Wow!" It truly is magnificent.

Dad, this picture is for you. I know how you love to take unique and silly pictures.

And, I would like to give a BIG thumbs up to my husband who hiked to the sixth tower, which is as far as you can go in the area we were in. He's such a stud! Way to go, Babe!

We all hiked our way to the second tower, with Spencer going a little further to the third tower.

Okay, I just have to share a little sidenote about the driving in Beijing. I do believe that the little white lines that create lanes are mere suggestions to Chinese drivers. In fact, if you'd like to make your own lane, say the fourth or fifth in a three lane highway, you go right ahead. Many horns are heard as drivers warn people to get out of the way or get run over. And, I do declare that anyone who rides a bike or moped on the highways should receive medals of bravery.

NOW TO THE MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ...

We are to meet in the lobby by 5:15 am to head to the airport for our flight to Nanchang. We will meet our babies at the hotel at 3:00 pm China time. Which means, we have less than 24 hours before we meet Malia!!!! Our next post should be of our long awaited Gotcha Day!