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Thursday, December 11, 2008

First Day in Beijing

After sitting on a plane for more than 24 hours, today we decided to walk. We walked, and walked, and walked some more. My rear end still hurts from all the sitting, and now my feet from all the walking. We meet the other couples with our travel group tomorrow. After talking to our guide and the hearing the list of sites we will hit in the next two days, I don't think my feet are going to get a break. I am surprised how much Beijing reminds me of other big cities we have visited. Everywhere we turn there are familiar brand names, stores, and restaurants-- McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nike, there is even a Sizzler on the corner. This isn't to say there aren't remarkable differences. My first trip to the bathroom was the first reminder I was not in America.
I have enjoyed the food more than I expected, and no we have not eaten any fast food. We cheated a little and had breakfast at the hotel, but even that was largely Chinese fare. We had lunch at a steamed bun restaurant which was excellent. David swore he would try scorpion on a stick, but when given the opportunity to eat these goodies, he declined.
We both really enjoyed our first day. David is remembering more Chinese. He really enjoyed browsing a Chinese bookstore. I enjoyed looking in many of the little shops and strolling through the park with David. It has been a while since we have had so much time to talk.

3 comments:

Unknown said...

I wasn't sure if you'd be blogging from China! I can't wait for the next post! Lots of prayers coming your way!

Kim H. said...

I'm so incredibly happy for the two of you. How wonderful to get to enjoy this time together before your life changes AGAIN! :)

Love, prayers and cyber hugs coming your way.

Can't believe you are all the way across the world - technology is AMAZING - and like Therese, I am waiting, on pins and needles, for your next post!

Love you both!

jkt said...

Hi Guys! Shocked & Amazed! A post from China?! And pictures. I would eat the scorpion. Is it fried? Just pull off the tip of the stinger (toss) and chew… all the while thinking about “death by chocolate” cake. And the starfish on a stick… yummy! I’ll bet that tastes like a dried shrimp… salty fish crackers or something! It will go good with snakehead beer… Mmmmm! Say a prayer for us. I went out job hunting today. A heartfelt Rosary being said for you guys as I press the submit button.