Today was a BUSY but fun day of sightseeing. It also happens to be a National Holiday in China, similar to our Labor Day which meant busy crowds at all the major tourist attractions our group visited.
We started out at Tiananmen Square. Tiananmen Square is the largest public square in the world today. More recently, it was the place of the terrible 1989 pro-democracy demonstration where many young people lost their lives. It has also witnessed the founding of the People’s Republic of China (in 1949 under the Ming-dynasty) and is surrounded by important national institutions and is filled daily with visitors and kite flyers.
The Forbidden City is a Palace Museum and honors the 24 emperors who ruled for a period over about 500 years. It is the symbolic center of the Chinese universe. It was finished in 1420 and was used as the domain of the imperial court until the last emperor was forced to abdicate at the beginning of the 20th century. In 1949 the modern world was first admitted through the palace gates.
The Summer Palace was a seasonal imperial retreat from the stifling confines of the Forbidden City. I guess it would be the equivalent to Camp David for our Presidents. The Summer Palace has many beautiful towers, gardens, and parks. We took a boat ride across the lake and had time to walk around for just a bit.
We also went to a Pearl Market today and learned how pearls are made and cultivated inside the oyster. We learned how to tell real pearls from fake pearls and then had some time to shop. They were beautiful and I did buy a strand of pink pearls for me and white pearls for Molly when she is older.
Today we are about to leave for church, the Great Wall, and the Jade Factory. Should be an exciting day!!!
10 comments:
I am so excited!! Molly! the anticipation kills me.
...still praying and thinking about you! :D
So fun to imagine those pearls around the neck of the child you are going to meet very, very soon! Can't wait to see those first pictures!
Kelly
I'm with Celeste...the anticipation is driving me bonkers! I am sure you feel the same!
Your pearls are gorgeous!!!
Do you know what ime you get Molly? I haven't been able to get your prayer list to come up...boo!
Looks like you are having so much fun! We are praying for your journey day and night!
1 more sleep until MOLLY!!!!
I love the pearls! I wore mine the other weekend and love them. I also got Maggie some for when she is older. I looks like you and Eddie are doing well - you look great and not sleep deprived - YET!!! I cannot wait until Molly time! Prayers comeing your way!
Amy,
Obviously our form didn't get done and we aren't traveling with you; sorry to have missed Jiangxi Province with you. Just wondering if you might be able to find out if our babies are in cribs or beds. Our Anna will be 17 months when we get her and I didn't know what the arrangements are in the orphanages for that age. Our youngest was in a toddler bed pretty early so just wondering. Praying for you and eager to see pics of you with your Molly. It is 10:41pm here in SC so I am assuming you are on your way to Jiangxi and probably filled with much anticipation! I'm so excited for you!!! Enjoy every minute of today!!!!!! Blessings, Jennifer Danford
Praying for you as you navigate your first day as a Mommy. Can't wait to see her in your arms.
I think you are probably in Jiangxi by now. Getting settled into the hotel. I cried when I opened the hotel room door and there was Maggie's crib! LOL Enjoy all the emotions you are feeling, write them down and get ready for the incredible ride of your life! You are going to be an incredible mom - you already are! Have fun and I cannot wait for the posts. Love ya
Tricia
I am really enjoying your China trip vicariously. Molly is beautiful and adorable. I am so happy for both of you.
I love you. I can't wait to see you again and meet Molly.
Tell Eddie that I think he is one terrific brother.
Ms. Maze I am so happy for you and Molly. The pictures are great to look at. I went by your home and everything looks good. Take care and welcome to Motherhood!!!!
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