“They did not know what we can now sense as we contemplate the course of history: that change begins in the soul before it shows in our lives...” --Franz Kafka (The Great Wall of China)

Monday, June 25th -- Took a private tour up to the Mutianyu Great Wall.  The drive was about 90 minute away and we enjoyed seeing the glimpses into ordinary life as we rode along the route.

We have had the BEST tour guide this week and he has been knowledgable and open to our many questions.  In Beijing, the sun has not yet shown its face.  According to Li, it is always smoggy in the city...rarely direct sunshine.  However, about 45 minutes out of the city, we started to see hints of blue sky.  

There are many sections of the Great Wall open to the public.  This particular section was recommended to us by a William Jewell gal who spent 2+ years in China.  We arrived very early and missed the crowds which was to our immense delight.  At times, we had the hike to ourselves.  The climb was incredibly challenging; at times, I wanted to give in and not climb any higher.  However, stubbornness took hold, made it to the highest point open to tourists!  

This part of the wall was built in mid-6th century.  It includes 22 watch towers.  Hard to fathom how those soldiers were able to survive the harsh winters.

Unbeknownst to me, Marjie had brought some of Jameson's ashes to spread at the top.  As you can imagine, this was an incredibly emotional experience for us.  We had just finished the upward trek to the top of the wall and were huffing and puffing.  Then, the sun came out once we reached the top.  Of course, we decided it was meant to congratulate us on conquering our fear.  We sat in prayer and quiet reflection for a bit and wondered at the majesty of the view, as well as, the historical significance of this structure.  

The hike back down was no easy feat.  But we made it and were pumped up with knowledge of our own significant athleticism!  

From there, we stopped at a home-style meal served in a farmer's courtyard.  Excellent food and plenty of vegetable options.  Watermelon is big here.  So far, we have seen it at every meal.  

We took a brief tour of the exterior view of the Olympic venues:  The Bird's Nest and the Water Cube.  

Back to the hotel for a swim and an early night.

Tuesday:  Flying to Xi'an to visit the Terra Cotta Warriors.  A wee bit worried about finding our way but have great instructions and a terrific traveling companion.  More on this tomorrow!