Some more updates

This morning we visited Tian An Men Square. It was pretty amazing... a strange mix of leftover Olympic and Para-Olympic decorations with a strong communist nationalism (exemplified in the very, very long line of people waiting to walk past the body of Chairman Mao).

Close by was the Forbidden City. What an interesting clash in political ideology. Next to Tian An Men, the symbol of socialism and economic equality, was the Forbidden City, the sprawling palace that was once reserved strictly for the emperor and his family (now crammed with masses of people ironically enough). It certainly provides a visual reminder (propaganda?) of the extreme excesses of this kind of empire over against the teachings of communism.

We arrived in Nanjing tonight and are hoping for a good nights sleep. It's funny... driving through Nanjiing (and walking around the hotel a little), it reminds me much more of the China I experienced 11 years ago (looks and smells). I noticed several roadside vendors selling meat on a stick, people coming up to you to try to sell you stuff (a la "Hello Banana Lady"), and I even had myself a Magnum bar for good measure. Shawn is probably the only one who'll read this and know what in the world I'm talking about :)

By the way, don't forget you can see our travel itinerary (with links for more info) here.

Well, just a reminder... tomorrow is the big day! In about 13 hours (Sunday night for you), we will meet our daughter. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers. We hope to post some great pictures and videos soon!