handsful

Today was very busy, and jet lag is hitting full force…but, I’m gonna blog at least some of our trip now because I know my audience is waiting. heh. Truthfully, my “gotta blog the trip” mentality won’t let me NOT blog. So…

This was our quick self-portrait as our flight left Atlanta for Seoul, Korea. See how happy we were?

Here we are after arriving in Beijing. Still happy, just worn out from ~ 18 hours of flying!

Today was our first day of touring in Beijing. We went to to the local Hutong neighborhood and met a couple who live in a large courtyard home. We learned that the wife was born there, and the house had originally been owned by her grandparents. Her daughter, son-in-law, and grandson also live with them. The property is worth 3 million american dollars. They have indoor plumbing and own a car. By China’s standards, they are doing well.

Our CCAI guide, George, translates for her as she tells us about her history and then answers our questions. She was very sweet and gracious.

The husband’s hobby is raising racing pigeons. Yep, you read that right. He’s won trophies and everything…here he is, trying to keep them off the roof. Most of the others were in cages.

The wife used to be a biology teacher and is now retired. Her ancestors were calligraphers, so she and her son-in-law continue the practice. We purchased one of the son’s works.

Okay, I’m stopping here and will pick up where I left off tomorrow! We’ll be at the Great Wall, Jade Factory, visit the Olympic games buildings, and then the acrobatic show. With all that coming up, I’ve gotta get some sleep! Night :)