Thursday, November 29, 2007
Today after arriving in Xian, we were met at the platform by
our new guide “Sally.” She is a very vivacious and warm person.
She took us to our hotel to eat breakfast and clean up. After
that we went to lunch and then to the Wild Goose Pagoda. The
pagoda held the Buddhist books that a very famous monk brought
back from India after walking there (it took him two years). He
stayed in India for 11 years and then returned to China and the
emperor built him the pagoda. It was very lovely and had a jade
carving that depicted the life of Buddha and took 3 complete
walls. It was amazing. Unfortunately, you cannot take any
pictures.
Next we went to the city wall which is 600 years old and still
complete. You can walk on it or take a rickshaw ride. We also
visited the South Gate to see how the city was protected from
outsiders. Xian was the capital for the first emperor of China
so its history is 3000 years old. It is much more calm and
people seem more laid back. We are definitely relaxing a little
bit more.
Finally we went to the bell tower and saw the ancient art of
bell ringing. There was a demonstration of the bells and then we
climbed to the top and looked at the city. It was a wonderful
day. Our guide asked if we wanted to go shopping but we are
pretty tired and opted to come and relax at our hotel (which is
much nicer than the one in Beijing). We also have a busy day
tomorrow seeing the Terracotta Warriors and then the cultural
show in the evening.
Everything is going wonderfully. We miss our children but know
they are doing great. Every time we see a baby or child, we feel
a tingle of excitement of the thought of being united with Macy
so soon. We cannot wait to hold her close, feel her warmth, and
tell her of our love and excitement to make her a part of our
family. We have grown closer to her homeland and look forward to
growing closer to her. Please pray that she accepts us easily
and that the transition is not too difficult.
All our love,
Kathleen and Jeff
A Special Note to
Kayleigh and Brayden
Do not be sad that we are gone. The most wonderful thing
about being family is that we are united throughout all
times even when we are physically separated. We tell
everyone here of our special girl and boy at home and of
all the ways we are proud of you both. Be happy and have
fun and remember soon we will be celebrating Christmas and
then skiing as a family. We love you more than you know.
Mom and Dad |
|
Jeff and Kathleen with an older gentleman who
insisted on having his picture taken with Jeff
(at the Wild
Goose Pagoda)
Kathleen and Sally at Wild Goose Pagoda
Jeff and Sally at one of the outer buildings
at Wild Goose
Pagoda
Traditional bell ceremony demonstration
|
