Day 3 in Beijing!

Today we went to Summer Palace and the Silk Market. Summer Palace is where the emperors lived in the summer. They spent winter in The Forbidden City. Summer Palace was beautiful and extremely crowded. It opened 2 hours late because some officials were touring it. So there were many people waiting in line. And unfortunately I have discovered that when Chinese people wait there is smoking involved. So, health wise, it was a tough morning. There is a picture of the dragon boats at the Summer Palace and another of a marble boat. Also, outside the palace I took a picture of a man on a bike with a wagon. We have seen these all over the city, even completely loaded with soft drinks for a delivery. The next picture is of some homes or apartments near the Silk Factory. It shows some poverty. The Silk Market was tons of fun. It was hard to shop because whenever we touched something we had to bargain over prices. I mean big bargaining. They would suggest 560 yuan and I would say 100 yuan. Crazy!! There is one picture of us bargaining with the owners. I bought a lot of Christmas presents. The Bennett family will have a Christmas filled with things bought from China.

Tomorrow, I meet Hamilton. I am nervous and excited. I do have a peace, though. I pray he likes me! But mostly that he bonds and has a smooth adjustment. Thomas, our guide says that he has been told about us, but what can a 3 year old really comprehend? I am also praying that we will be able to visit the orphanage. I would really like to visit and thank the nannies. I have blankets the Covenant girls made for the children. Hopefully, these will help get me a visit. It is 5:00 pm here and this time tomorrow I should have a 3 year old. Sounds amazing and unfathomable.