Orientation was not a big deal since we already knew that we would not be getting any new information or photos of Alyson. It was just some general info and paperwork reminders. After that we went to lunch at another very westernized chinese restaurant. This one didn't even try to seem authentic, you could tell by the fact that there was silverware already on the table instead of chopsticks. The restuarant looked like it might be a tourist spot at lunchtime but a strip club by night. It was really funny. Here is a picture of the sinks in the restroom:
After lunch we went to Tianemen square. It was just like it looks like on TV. No way to describe it really. Andrew was like a rock star. Several people wanted to take their picture with him. He's being really nice about it and giving people his big cheesy grin for their pictures. Everyone is very nice but it's hard to get used to the way they have no concept of personal space.
This is a big olympic countdown clock. It's very obvious that the people of China are so proud to be hosting the olympics. 
This used to be the city gate in between the Forbidden city and the Imperial City. I think. It's hard to keep track of all the history. It's all amazing. We didn't actually go to the Forbidden city, there wasn't enough time. We really needed at least 1 more day in Beijing to see it all.
Next stop was the Temple of Heaven. It was built in 1420 so the Emperor could have a place to worship heaven for a good harvest. It was renovated in 05-06 so the colors are really bright and impressive.
Our last stop today was the Pearl Market. What a crazy place that was! I could spend all day in there haggling for good prices on stuff. They have everything in there. On the 4th floor you could get anywhere from really cheap to really fancy expensive pearls. I think I did well and got 3 strands of middle range quality pearls. Kathy, I got a strand for you and a strand for Alyson that are identical then a pinkish strand for myself. We might find something we like even better in Guangzhou but I'm really happy with the one's we got. The ladies in the store were really nice and liked that we were in China to adopt. They gave us a little freshwater pearl bracelet for Alyson for free. We picked the pearls and they strung them and tied a double knot in between each pearl in 5 minutes. I chose claps that have the Chinese symbol for happiness on them.
Well, that's it for today. In the morning we fly to Kunming then we get Alyson at 3:30. Stay tuned...The good stuff is just beginning!!! :-) :-)
No comments:
Post a Comment