Monday July 6 - Last Day in Beijing

Today is our last day in Beijing. Tomorrow we meet at 6:15 am to board the train for the first part of our 21 day journey to St. Petersburg. I am not sure if I will have an opportunity to update the blog before arriving home on the 29th July, but will obviously do my best. We met at 8 am after a typical Chinese/American breakfast and went off to see the Temple of Heaven. This is where the emperors went to pray to the God of Good Harvest..for a good harvest.. and to the Heaven God. As usual, the structures were outstanding, and it was really interesting walking around and learning the various processes of paying homage to these Gods. Next we went back to Tian'Anmen Square, this time having a proper walk around. Then Jon left us to go and see the Forbidden City and Chris took us to a supermarket to stock up on snacks for our train journey and lunch at a neat cafe. The Internet in the cafe is free, and I am quickly catching up on my blog before hitting the Trans Mongolian train tomorrow. This evening we are going to a Kongfu performance.....haven't a clue what to expect....then it will be to bed early to be ready to leave tomorrow. Ray and I have loved Beijing. Its a calm city, but fun and exciting. Safe to travel around, fantastic subway system, and very friendly and helpful people. It has totally changed our opinions about China, Chinese people, and the future. Keep checking for further updates.....in the meantime, we are really looking forward to getting back home and seeing Alanna, Chloe and all our friends.....and putting some pictures up on the blog!!