Today we took an hourlong bus ride to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, which was originally built around 550, then rebuilt during the Ming Dynasty. The Mutianyu Great Wall connects Juyongguan Pass and Gubeikou Great Wall.
We took a cable car up from the parking area to the entrance to the wall, then we separated from our tour group to take the more challenging, steeper route up to the summit of the intact portion of the wall. It wasn't that tough until the final, steep, long set of stone stairs, which made even the walk back to the entrance tougher. Good cardio -- but our knees and shins may pay the price tomorrow!
Afterwards, our group enjoyed a family-style lunch at a restaurant attached to a Cloisonne enamelware factory, then toured the factory and met the artisans.
Tomorrow morning is our orientation meeting with Holt staff and other adopting families. The Holt staffer on the tour bus with us said the agency has received updated information about most of the children, so we may have a Lillian update tomorrow. Of course, we will meet her in person the day after that, when secondhand reports will no longer be necessary.
5 comments:
Wow! What a wonder! We can't believe the amount of work that went into that wall. The photos are amazing! You guys look so happy. We hope that you have "happy feet and shins tomorrow." Can't wait for the update on Lily and hopefully a photo but we can be patient. Love, Mom and Dad
Wow!! I'm glad you two haven't heard of "jet-lag!" What energy. . . what happiness. . . and what an experience!
Thanx for sharing it with all of us back here. Is this the coldest climate you'll encounter? How chilly is it?
Kansas will be mid-fifties for the next few days. Bye-bye snow and ice! Yeah!!!
Love, Aunt De & Uncle Meredith
I stumbled upon your blog and am so happy for you. My wife and I adopted a little girl from China 2 years ago. Your time in China will be magical and wonderful. Congratulations.
Oh, and buy lots of clothes from the stores on Shamian Island and the Friendship Store. Buy all sizes. Then buy a cheap suitcase for the clothes. The Cow and Bridge Restaurant on the Island has great food.
I agree! You guys look so happy to be there. Not a bit tired! What an adventure you two are on. And all your feet and shin pain will vanish once you get to actually hold Lily in your arms. I can't wait to hear the updates on her. Much love from the Kyankas!
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