First day in Beijing

We got into Beijing last night at about 9:00 and had a full day of touring today. The flight was long and brutal, just as we remembered from the last trip. It was cool to see people doing Tai Chi in the back of the plane, then emerging from the tiny airplane bathroom in a 3 piece suit looking totally refreshed. I'm beginning to think there is really something to that Tai Chi stuff. I am again reminded of how in the Asian culture, people are so adaptable, efficient and non-complaining. It is very cold here. Even in my hat and arctic-rated jacked, I was still freezing! First we took a rickshaw and visited the Houtong district. We got to look inside one of the homes and meet the owner...a very nice lady. Her sons and their wives and families live in this historic little cluster of homes. The son races pigeons (yes, this is a real thing) and also is an artist. We purchased one of his paintings. Then visited Tienneman square and the Forbidden city. Also had a fantastic lunch. I really like authentic Chinese food, at least for the first week or so! Tomorrow we get to climb the great wall. As much as I love taking in this amazing culture, I am wishing the we could pick up Ethan already. Day after tomorrow we fly to his province!