More in Xi'an

I noticed a couple comments on the blog... Just so everyone knows, they cannot see, or respond to, comments until they get back.  Social media networks are blocked in China, which is why they're not posting themselves.  Having said that, keep commenting as they're anxious to hear what everyone has to say :)  I believe they are separating sometime this week, but Karen and Robbin will still be sending photos for the blog.

Jackie & Ying

"We visited the city wall in Xi'an.  After climbing up to the top, some of us took a ride around the city on the wall.  Ying Ying and Jackie Rode a tandem.  They worked together to keep the bike going in the 110 degree weather.  They enjoyed an ice cold popsicle when they got back." -Robbin 

Karen

Tian & Zee

"Well, the boys had a little trouble getting their balance.  Interesting how people have to work hard with one another to get balanced.  They have a little more work to do in that area....but they're getting there." -Robbin

"We had a fun visit to the Xi'an art gallery.  Our guide Angela showed us all kinds of Chinese art.  After the tour, we had a chance to try calligraphy.  The kids LOVED this part.  They wrote their names and other characters, as well..the kids could have stayed there for hours, but we had to go. Maybe they will continue brush painting at home." -Robbin

"We ended the night in Xi'an with a show.  The Tang Dynasty  show was beautiful.  The costumes, dancing, singing and instrumentals were something to see.  We started off with a dinner, in the theater, too.  We had a kids table and a grown up table, so that was fun. We were all very tired after a long day in the 110 degree heat, but we made it to the end." -Robbin

Sleepbox - Their flight was delayed two hours.  They were tempted to rent it!

View atop the Xian Wall - the Old and New

Statue atop the Xian Wall

Karen getting her ear waxed

Honey lollipops at park - 5 yuan ($0.80)

Jack got a lucky spin and got a large dragon lollipop

Wangjang Bamboo Park in Chengdu

Over 90 different species of bamboo in park

Jack & Ying at Sichuan Brocade Factory

Giant tile picture fountain at Yinde Dynasty Hotel in Chengdu

Tian, Jack, Zee, Ying, Angela and Isabella at Brocade Factory

"Jackie and Angelina are going as high as the trees. Tian and Isabella are on the other end.  Zee and Ying played it safe and sat in the middle." -Robbin

Team effort for weaving; ancient artform

Very small shoes for women who bound their feet.  Some women bound for years down to 3".