Beijing day one
As someone who loves cities in general, I’m having a wonderful time playing in Beijing. The Forbidden City yesterday was overwhelming and so incredibly gorgeous at the same time. I tried to focus on details so I could have some chance of absorbing the experience. I’m not even sure what to say about it other than the intense privelege I felt just to set foot in there. And let’s get this out on the table: we went to Starbucks.
We did manage to get ourselves into some minor trouble yesterday (I’ll let Shane tell the story), so today we’re breaking down and going out with our group. The plan is the zoo and the Summer Palace. Friday we’re planning to go it alone again… pearl market and Temple of Heaven. We’ll definitely be more wary of folks that want to “practice their English” with us. But I don’t feel bad about the fact that I have a weakness for college students who appear eager to learn. The teacher in me is always present. (Just not paranoid, that’s all).
We’ve transitioned to the time zone successfully, which I’m happy about.
And… I want my baby. I am starting to feel that weighing on me, while I’m making a huge effort to be in the moment and falling in love with her birth country. I just want her. Now.
We’re off to breakfast, and then to tour around with a few other families. Last night we all had a fun and delicious dinner together, complete with locally brewed beer. I’m looking forward to spending the day with them.
November 9th, 2005 at 18:10
Oh my goodness, thank you so much for all of the wonderful photos and details. I can’t even tell you what it feels like to see those pictures of you and Shane and know that is where you are RIGHT NOW. Know that you are on my mind just about every minute of every day.
Just days away from your baby girl. i love you, tuttie
by the way, nice crocs!
November 10th, 2005 at 08:00
Steph, if this isn’t putting the practice of yoga into place, I don’t know what is. It must feel like Sunday is an eternity away, even though you are so close. The photos and regular updates are wonderful. Thanks for taking the time and sharing, it makes the waiting on this end a little easier. Okay, deep breath in, hold, hold, hold, and slowly exhale….Love to you and Shane.