Today, we traveled to a jade carving factory in Beijing and were able to observe true artisans at work. We never knew that so many varieties of jade exist - who knew that it also comes in white, black, pink and purple !! After touring the carving work-shop we toured the government-run jade store. Here, we were the recipients of the old soft, hard-sell. We left that store minus a few yuans, but the proud owners of some very nice jade.
Later, we visited a small portion of the Great Wall of China. What a spectacular feat of engineering !! Paul, the adventurous one in this duo, bravely scaled the wall. I, on the other hand stayed close to the bottom with Maya asleep on my chest. I commented to Paul that it is amazing to think that each stone was carved by hand, and carried to its final resting place in this wall which spans thousands of miles. Paul's response was simple - "slave labour" - unfortunately, he was right.
My head cold has decided that it likes its host, and may stay for the duration. So far, Paul and Maya have been spared, but many members of our group haven't been so lucky.
Tomorrow we are off to the International Health Clinic in Beijing to have Maya examined. We have been told to expect a very cursory examination which may last all of three minutes. We are expecting to hear something along the line of "yes, mam that's definitely a baby - please pay your $90 US at the door ". Not to worry, we'll have Miss Maya properly checked-over when we return to Canada. So far OUR diagnosis is unanimous, she's one great kid !!!
9 comments:
The Falcao Family looks really "Great" on that Wall.It's nice to see you playing tourist in that fascinating country.
Beth & Glenn
She sure is one great kid...I love the close up of her face...how precious! Hope you are feeling better soon...it must be awful to be feeling sick so far from home.
Liz
Paul, Angela and Maya,
What a great expedition. Definitely worthy of an entry to National Geographic. Thank you so much for the lovely valentine! Don't know how you did it, but it just arrived and we were really touched. Paul, do they have a Rock Climbing Wall on the Great Wall? Bet you would have tried it if they did. I still want to know all the details about the day you spent with Maya when Angela went to HengFeng. Can't wait. We love your family pics and can't get enough. It seems like you may be getting more sleep? Hope all goes well at the International clinic, and Angela's cold clears up. The clock is ticking down the hours for your safe return home so continue to enjoy the beauty that surrounds you.
Love,
Susan
Mum sends lots of love to all and hugs and kisses to Maya!
Oma says : "
Hello From Canada,
where you will have to return in only 4 more sleeps.:( Can't wait for your return!!! And it's great to see a pic of all three, and very happy you look!. That wall looks fasinating can't wait to see the pic's . WOW!!! Miss you and see you soon.
Taia
You guys are settling into parenthood very nicely - if the wide smiles are any indicator.
Angie, your account of the trip to HengFeng SWI was very graphic - we sort of felt like we were right there with you through it all - and yes, we were a bit "misty" as we read it. Only 4 more days to go until touch-down in Toronto and we are eagerly looking forward to it.
Try to keep well until then, and we'll gladly baby-sit while you get a few hours of that scarce commodity...sleeeep!
Love & Hugs
Mom & Dad
First, welcome to Maya. You are a beautiful child, and we thank God for bringing you into our family. Paul & Angela, thank you for sharing your journey with us via this blog. With all of the wonder and exhaustion of new parenthood, thank you for taking the time to share your journey instead of getting a few hours of precious sleep. Your smiling eyes are those of parents falling in love with their new baby. Congratulations again!
Rosemary, David, & Catherine
P.S. Catherine LOVES the pictures of Maya and can't wait to play with her.
Congratulations to both of you, Paul and Angela...Maya is one lucky child, and you both are fortunate to have such a sweet daughter! I do hope you are feeling better, Angela, and Paul that was a great shot of you on the Great Wall! Hope you all have a safe flight back, and I hope we will be able to see Maya when we visit Toronto!
Lynn and Tony in San Diego!
Angela, Paul and Maya,
Thanks for sharing your experiences with us. What an awesome and memorable trip. Little Miss Maya looks like she's enjoying her adventures.
Love from all the family in San Diego.
Karen
Hi Paul and Angela and Maya, It is fascinating to read your blog and see the gorgeous photos of Maya and China. She looks so cute and very comfortable with you both already. I can't believe how much you are doing while you are there. Just wanted to reassure you that everything went fine with Sam's hand-over to Kelly. He was very excited to be home and I am sure he will be even more excited when you get home! I leave on Thursday but I am looking forward to meeting Maya when I get back. Have a safe journey home.
Sue
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