Beijing~ Day 2

Today was our official first day of touring Beijing with our group. We began the day with breakfast in the lobby of our hotel. Went back to facetime the Boys...so excited to see them so happy and excited. They couldn't wait to tell us all about their Valentines day and their school activities. They are having a great time, which was so good for this worried Momma to hear.
We met our group and set out for touring. We first took a rickshaw ride through the Hutong Tour (this was a local neighborhood tour so that we could see how the local live). It was truly an eye opening experience. Humbling to say the least. We were welcomed into a local couples home, The Woos. What a sweet little old couple. They let us in, served us snacks, and offered us hot tea. They told us about their home and family. Truly a sweet thing to experience. Their house was so tiny..one room, shared a public bathroom outdoors with many other families. They have lived in this one house for over 50 years.

Next we went to the Silk Factory. Here we were shown the stages of a silkworm and how real silk is made. Impressive! We got to watch the whole process and then how the women stretch the silk to make large comforters. Well, we were sold...and so we purchased a real silk comforter for our bed back home and a real silk traditional Chinese gown for our sweet girl.

Next stop...lunch at a traditional Chinese Restaurant. Our guide took the liberty of ordering for us. He wanted us to try a little of everything....Trust me when I say it was amazing!! We just kept spinning the table around, trying more and more of everything!!

Last stop was to Tienanmen Square and The Forbidden City which was built in the 1400's.Just amazing..I'll let the pictures explain.......

Tomorrow we head out bright and early to see the Great Wall of China (Note to self...wear winter boots!!), hit the Jade Factory (Yay!!) and see an Acrobatic Show (which is similar to our Us Cirque de soliel).
We are on our own again for dinner tonight. Not sure where we will venture out to but I'm fairly certain it will consist of Chinese food....;-)..
Today we met the amazing families that will meeting their children on the same day that we will meet our Mia. It was interesting to hear all about these little ones that will soon be meeting their Forever Families. What an amazing bond that we already share. One day closer to Gotcha Day!!!

Goodnight from Beijing!!!!

Blessings,
Angie