Saturday, June 21, 2008

We had another day of sightseeing in China. First, we visited the Great Wall of China. It is as spectacular as we thought it would be. Construction of this wall began during the 5th century B.C. The wall eventually stretched to over 4,000 miles long. Janet made it up to beyond the first tower before seeking out a cooler place to wait while Kevin climbed to the fourth tower. He said he climbed it for his boys.

Next we toured the grounds of the Summer Palace. This is the largest and best preserved garden in China. The Summer Palace was a summer retreat for China’s imperial rulers. We also take a ride on a Dragon Boat. It was very peaceful walking along the water’s edge in the gardens.

Our tour guide took us by the Olympic Stadium. The Chinese call it the “Bird’s Nest” because it really does look like a gigantic steel bird’s nest. It is quite impressive.

We stopped and ate an authentic Chinese lunch at the cloisonné factory. The dishes were varied and very tasty. We have found the Chinese people to be lovely, very helpful, polite, and gentle. There is kindness in their faces, and they warm our hearts.

Our travel group is made up of wonderful people. We have enjoyed touring with all of them and wish them well as they travel to receive their children. Most of our group leaves tomorrow to meet their new sons and daughters. We have one more day before receiving Philip. We will probably rest tomorrow for the big event on Monday. We received an information sheet on Philip today. It says that his nickname is Bao Bao. He likes cars, books, cooking utensils, and riding small bikes! Ted, how about that last one! It also says he becomes upset when you do not give him food or his caretaker leaves. He is afraid of thunder and firecrackers, and he is cheerful and likes to laugh!

Every so often today we would be seeing something amazing and then think about why we were here in the first place. It truly is awe-inspiring to see such wonders as the Great Wall and the imperial palaces, but the most awe-inspiring moment is just a day away. Our touring is over and the real reason we came half way around the world is about to begin!

Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.