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China Day 5

Our last day in China was supposed to be pretty low-key, basically involving packing and heading to the airport for our departure. However, the days before were so filled that we ended up moving a few things around so life would be a little more manageable. Our first stop was Tiananamen Square. This was such a huge area. It was rather amazing to think such protests could take place on the ground which we were walking. It was calm, fairly empty and music filled the air. They also had an incredible panoramic screen sharing all that China had to offer.

My Mom in Tiananmen Square.

Us in Tiananmen Square.


Monument to the soldiers who lost their lives.

Guard in front of Tiananmen Square.

A monument representing the People's Republic of China.




Horsing around in the square.

More chasing and entertaining our kiddos.

And even more fun.
Our final stop was The Temple of Heaven. This place was 3 times larger than the Forbidden City. It was very, very large. The grounds around the Temple were filled with people dancing, exercising, playing games like Badminton, and Hackey Sack. It was neat seeing adults participating in all these different activities. The Temple itself was beautifully painted--ornate as many of the buildings throughout Asia. We did the picture thing then boarded the bus once again.
Dancing fun outside the Temple of Heaven.




Senior Citizens gathered along the porticos outside the Temple of Heaven--playing card games, knitting.



Shadow fun--this is a dog courtesy of Chris.

Claire and her friend, Madison outside the Temple of Heaven.


Thai Chi--many go to the Temple of Heaven for morning exercise.

Many were gathered playing badminton, hackey sack or other forms of activity. 

The Temple of Heaven.

My Mom outside the Temple of Heaven.

Claire.




Our attempt to have a photo of Chris and I, but as you can see, it didn't go well. Claire and Mya joined in.


Where are the Boynton's? We are on the upper terrace. My Mom is chiming in to say this photo gives an idea of the size of the Temple. I think it is similar to a "Where's Waldo" photo.


Blurred knitting.

Playing cards.

Dominoes or Mahjong.
Our final stop was The Last Lunch. I was never so happy to know that I wouldn't have to look at Chinese food for quite some time. I have had my fill.
Our LAST Chinese meal. Amen!

We boarded the bus one last time and made our way to the airport. The return trip was quick and easy. We were delayed leaving China about an hour, but the kids did well. It was a smooth flight. We were all excited to step foot on Korean soil once again. Our trip to China was amazing. We had a wonderful time and I am so happy that my Mom was able to join us. It was nice spending time together and we loved having her with us.
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Comments

ND NIC said…
Looks like you had a great time -- What an awesome experience for you guys. I sent you a Christmas card, so I hope you get it.....Take care!
Hugs,
Nicole
December 12, 2011 at 11:18 PM
Erin said…
It looks like it was very cold in China!
December 13, 2011 at 12:44 AM
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