The Great Wall

Today was another beautiful and eventful day in Beijing. We spent the day at The Great Wall and at the Ming Tombs.

The Great Wall was absolutely amazing. I cannot even begin to imagine what it took to build this hundreds of years ago. And I have to say that I feel horrible for the poor guards that had to walk to the top of the wall for their turn on duty. I think that we should all be very grateful for our jobs. Can you even imagine having to do that every day?

We took a gondola ride to the top and then Troy and I hung out while our friends climbed to the top. I did walk a little ways because you can't come all the way to China and then not climb the wall. It was breathtaking looking over the wall through the mountains.

Even now, I can't believe that I walked on The Great Wall of China. I NEVER thought in my life that I would be standing there on that wall. I mean that is something that you learn about in school or see in pictures, but to be standing there in person was wild. I have seen so many things this trip that I will never forget. What an opportunity this has been. I am loving this!





See what I mean? It is gorgeous and these pictures don't even begin to do it justice.

My daily picture of my crazy husband in his rice hat.



After a long day we went to dinner tonight at the BEST place. The shrimp, chicken and noodles were delicious, but the dumplings were my favorite of anything we have eaten so far. I ate more tonight than I have all week I think. When I get back home I am calling my sister-in-law Debbie so she can teach me how to make them. Mmmm, Mmmm. I have also learned how to use chopsticks for the first time since I have been here. I have always been chopstick challenged, but I am so proud of myself that I used them all day today without a problem. I don't need no stinkin fork. And then after I completely stuffed myself at dinner, Troy's aunt who we are staying with took us for shaved ice. I was thinking that it was going to be like a sno cone, but these things came out and they were huge and delicious! I didn't bring my camera so we may have to go back just so I can get a picture. At least that will be the excuse that I use. So are you all hungry yet? You should be.

Erik has more races tomorrow, which will be nice because I am ready to relax and watch some racing rather than climbing all over China. Talk to you tomorrow!!