Weekend update

The new Jade Factory

Walking with the masses

Great Wall 2008

Here we are again!

wall to wall people

The great climb



Birds Nest

Olympic Torch building

Smiles playing with a water bottle

Yes, I'm a day behind the posting, but hard to keep up. Saturday, I don't have any photos, so easy to catch up to today. Sat, we met up with all families at breakfast, then had to do some citizenship paperwork. Then most of us were off to the weekend market again. Got a few different things than last time. Had lunch at a Szechuan restaurant, where Aurora showed us some of her true spirit and strength, threw a plate on the floor. Actually, I think she is just frustrated we don't always understand each other, and it is coming out at times; good for her! Being strong willed is not a bad quality! The staff didn't seem to care; there seemed to be plates breaking all around us, and they wished us good luck on the way out! Lots of adoption families pass through Beijing, so we must all stand out, no matter if your first time or not!
We then went next door to McDonalds, for ice cream, and a bit of playing.
In the evening, we had to get Aurora's visa photo done, and then, just like before, a tailor came to one of our rooms for fitting of Chinese outfits. I think they were the same guys.
Back in our room, Aurora is smiling more, and walking around by herself, and playing/giggling with us. So great to see her settling in. She hasn't let me pick her up again yet, but she smiles alot at me, and I haven't pushed it.
So, today was Sunday, big day of touring. Off to the Great Wall! But first, a stop at the new Jade Factory! Funny, three of the four families have had the same tours with our first adoption, so fun to share stories. Well, it seems you can never have enough jade, but I managed to be in more control of myself and wallet this time. Next, on to the Wall! Man, it was crazy! Now I know where the saying "wall to wall people" must come from, hee hee. This weekend is a national holiday, Autumn Moon Festival, and I guess this was a good place to spend the day for nearly all Beijingese! It was a different section of the wall than where we were last time, a little further down the highway. This section was sooo busy, because it was an easier grade to walk up, no steps, whereas last time, steep and steps. That area was practically empty today as well. But it was fun to see, and the weather was awesome. On the drive back, we went past the Olympic Village for a few shots from the bus...
Enjoy! Tomorrow is the medical check, and Canadian Immigration meeting.
cheers
Norma
Norma