Monday, November 26, 2007
We had another wonderful day touring Beijing today. After our
hotel breakfast (which is very good), we drove out to a jade
factory and on our way saw the Beijing site for the 2008
Olympics. It was neat to see the “Bird’s Nest” arena that we see
being built on television. It is also amazing to see the
construction in that area. Beijing must be growing by leaps and
bounds.
After that we went to a jade factory. Their work was beautiful
and amazing. The guide was telling us that the craftsmen pass
their trade onto their children and families work together. We
bought a few items and Jeff negotiated. Of course, he feels he
got a wonderful deal but who knows? They may be laughing all the
way to the bank. It will be neat to give Macy a piece of jade
from her homeland when she gets older.
Next we went to the Great Wall and attempted to climb it. We
opted for the “easier route.” It was by no means easy. In some
areas, the steps were up to Kathleen’s upper thighs and she
needed to use her hands to help climb. (There is a lovely
picture of this that Jeff wants to attach but Kathleen refuses).
It was very cold and windy at the top so we left pretty quickly.
Climbing down looked treacherous and we witnessed a Chinese
woman who we believe cussed her husband out for trying to get
her to go down more quickly (some human emotions are universal).
After that we went to a Chinese electronics mall. In some cases,
the prices were higher than in the US which we found shocking.
We finally went to a dumpling lunch with our guide and driver.
The food was really wonderful but Kathleen was too intimidated
to use her chopsticks. Luckily, they graciously provided us with
forks.
Now we are resting back in the room. We are still pretty tired
(jet lag or caffeine-withdrawal we are not sure?). We look
forward to another day tomorrow. Keep your emails coming; we
love hearing from you.
Kathleen and Jeff
A Special Note
To Kayleigh and Brayden
We are missing you. We have gotten you some neat presents.
The Great Wall was hard to climb but you guys are so tough
you could have done it. Mommy’s legs were shaking
afterward. We heard Nana stayed with you last night. Have
fun and be good! Email us or have Grandpa call us. We love
you!
Mom and Dad |
|
Olympic Building Site
One Part of Great Wall (The "Easier Route")
Kathleen (obviously behind Jeff) climbing the
Great Wall
Jeff at the top (or as high as we climbed).
It
was cold and windy up there.
Kathleen on the way down. |
