Beijing Highlights in 30 seconds or less....

First stop this am was Tiannamen Square. We then headed underground (via a tunnel) to the Forbidden City. It was amazing, the grandiosity of the property. We walked in very cold temperatures for what seemed like forever, but in actuality was about 1-2 hours. I was sad to see how dilapidated the structures were. One building, the Emperor's office had been restored, and it was stunning. We got back on the tour bus and headed to the friendship store where we learned how cloisonné is made. I had no idea how intricate the process is. Then we ate in the back of the restaurant. I was surprised that 1.) the food was so good, and 2.) the meal was included in our travel package. We then were off to the Great Wall. I was so impressed by the magnitude of this amazing landmark. We went to the Bodaling section- it was far from packed. Out of four towers, I walked to tower two. I received my "Hero" card. In fact, we all did. As many of you know I am not so fond of heights, so the down part worried me. I really wanted to go to the third tower, but fear grounded me.
On the bus ride back, I was reminded of our real purpose.....Flora! (As a side note: When I have followed the blogs for the last few years, I have always wondered how in the world the parents made it through the "sightseeing days" when the reality is you simply want to hold your child. I found out that really, it is not a big deal at all. I have truly enjoyed seeing the sights and meeting the people of China). So, our guide, Michelle, gave us the run down on the next few days, but she focused on gotcha day and the babies, and we received some more paperwork.
We did drive by the Birdsnest and the water cube. The Birdsnest was truly one of the coolest buildings I have ever seen. The cube was difficult to see. I think it may have more pizazz at night or at least on a sunnier day!
We leave Beijing tomorrow at 7:40 am! We have to be ready to depart at 5:00 am! Our bags must be packed and sitting outside our door by 9:30 pm. Whew another crazy day ahead......
I'll check in tomorrow!