We went for a walk around our block yesterday morning while we waited for the Beijing "Walmart" to open. It was really pretty. There are a lot of trees and green around the streets and one street was completely lined with trees that overhung the street. There are people walking and riding bikes everywhere. We passed a little park and in the park people were exercising in a group, and using metal equipment around the park. It was all adults, no children.
Another thing that is interesting is how many employees a place may have. . . it is usually 3 times what we think they need. For example, at the Beijing "WalMart" there were workers everywhere--maybe as many as people shopping. For dinner last night we had about 6 people waiting on us.
We went for a walk last night on the street around our hotel and found that the people really gather in the streets. We saw old ladies playing mahjong, kids playing in the dirt around trees, fruit stands, and people just walking and biking everywhere. That isn't to say there aren't cars though. It is an interesting view from our window. The cars, walkers and bikers all converge on an intersection and there doesn't seem to be much order. However, we haven't seen on accident yet so they must have something figured out.
Today we are going to the old Beijing for a tour. We will have lunch at a real Chinese restaurant, visit a home and ride in a 2 person rickshaw. Should be fun and adventuresome. I had to hold Craig back a bit from the adventure of eating in the streets yesterday. He is itching to get out there and engage people and immerse himself in the culture. Since it was a rest day yesterday and we had this to look forward to today it wasn't too hard but I am imagining he will love the next few days of touring and seeing "real" Beijing.
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2 comments:
Thank you so much for your blog letters. It is so fun to read and keep up with your adventure. No worries your house is in good shape. We get the pleasure of feeding your doggies on Monday and Tuesday. Just for the afternoon. The weather here has been windy! However, God has blessed us with some sun today! PTL!! I am so happy with the sun! Can't wait for more.
Be safe and we are praying every day!!! The Smith's
Boy do your stories bring back memories! What Tricia and I were taught about the "rules of the road" in China is that the cars are responsible for missing the people, unless a person makes eye contact with the vehicle. Once you look at the oncoming vehicle, you have effectively accepted responsibility for your own safety, and the car is not liable if you get hit. Still, I could never really bring myself to step out in a busy street without at least casting a glance at the oncoming traffic.
Wish I could be there with you. Thanks for keeping the blog updated.
-Chris & Tricia G.
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