First things first, I have to wish my big brother a big Happy Birthday! Don't know if he actually is reading our blog but, want him to know I'm thinking of him even though I am so far away! I had a coke in your honor! (no diet coke here yet!) I think you are one amazing man and I am so proud of you in all that you do! You are great to our family and I love you!
Today we had our first tour of Nanjing. Our guide is full of knowledge, it is amazing! The Chinese have many symbols and I can't keep them all straight. First we went to the "miniature wall" built in Nanjing to keep enemies away. It was interesting because our guide explained the emperor had each brick layer sign their name and if it wasn't good enough quality, they would be put to death. Our guide said it was the first "quality control" in China. It was still decorated for Chinese New Year and each decoration had quite a bit of symoblism. Even one decoration showed the China town in the U.S. The best way I can describe it is miniature floats-they light up at night, I bet it is beautiful. It was cold with a lot of wind and we didn't stay that long because of EmmaLi. The Chinese way of things is to layer clothes on their babies and I haven't dared not do it since the Nanny spoke to us about it but, still I think EmmaLi has got a cold. I feel so bad. I have kept her so bundled she is sweating and except for today we are all hot. (I know Dad we live in a meat locker!) Today the temperature has cooled down and we even got chilled a couple of times but, it was wonderful to us! Anyway after the wall we went to a memorial for those killed in a war, our guide said it is Nanjing's version of Tianemon square or Red Square. There were beautiful grounds and many schools were there with children who were anxious to greet us and photograph us as well. The last stop we had was at a Jade store where they educated us on the quality of jade and the meaning of many symbols. I find the Chinese in general very information driven people and education is very important to them. We are trying to learn it all but, I find myself lacking in remembering and understanding it all. I want to try to know as much as I can to teach EmmaLi of where she came from. When at the memorial today our guide said it was very important to the children of China to learn from their past (speaking of the statue) and to never forget. I believe that is the same as well for all of us never forget and always remember.
1 comment:
I love the picture with the noodles. The women in China are very particular about how babies are dressed outside. Even in summer they'd be all over you about bundling her up.
Keep having fun. 2 more weeks still! We miss you and love you.
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