Nihao from China,

Sorry for the delay but our travels have been very very busy since returning to chengdu from Beijing. We went on a 2 day tour to Emei Shan about 130 km away from the city into a mountainous region and world heritage national park region, very famous for temples and large Buddha statues carved into the rock. Lots and lots of walking up some very steep mountainsides and many many steps through thick forest opening onto glorious temples high on the mountains. Had 2 chinese men carry me in a sling at one point - I had just had enough at one point as the heat and humidity also make walking hard work.

On our return to Chengdu there has been a steady stream of family arriving from all over China and I have been working hard to remember all their Chinese names and their connection within the family. Preparations for the wedding were extremely hectic. Wedding was held yesterday and was absolutely amazing. It was a traditional Sichuan Chinese wedding and I have no idea what was happening most of the time, but the parents were certainly in a position of great honour and an integral part of the ceremony. Many symbolic elements as part of the ceremony as well as entertainment, games and quite a lot of very very strong Chinese wine.

Access to the internet has been very limited. So I will have much more to share with me on my return. I will be very glad to have a clean european toilet and a piece of toast again, but I will really miss this wonderful family.

Love to you all, Debbie