January 31 part 1: Great Wall of China

My morning started early with Rebecca texting me at 4:15am, completely unaware of the big time difference.  I texted a bit with her, which was really neat to be able to do.  It just blew my mind that I could text with my kids from so far away!  I was able to go back to sleep for about an hour and then got up to start my day.

After a hearty breakfast, we packed our bag and hopped on our bus for the drive to the Juyongguan Pass section of the Great Wall of China.  I was pretty excited to see this and I think Kevin was, too.  It took 2 hours to get there but was so worth it!  What a sight!

Our adoption agency rep told us we had an hour and a half to explore and then we would meet up to leave.  It was cold and windy!  We were hoping to make it to the top of this area but ran out of time.  I probably should have told Kevin not to wait for me.  He could have made it, no problem.  My short legs were quite challenged by the steep, uneven steps!

Our first view of the Great Wall

Please watch your children!

 

We bought a Lock of Love for Kai.

They engraved his name on the back.

And we affixed it to the chain, here.

The stairs were uneven and, oftentimes, very steep.  We really had to pay attention to where we were stepping at all times!

Every time we made it to the top of another section, we would think we were almost there... until we looked ahead and saw ANOTHER climb!  I started peeling off layers as I worked up a sweat!

We finally decided we’d better head back down to meet our group.

The trip down was easier and faster but it felt like my legs were going to give out with each step!  I was never so glad to see that bus!