Ian on Day 7 (Saturday, June 13th)
Well, today was very interesting. In the morning, we left Chuxiong and drove for a few hours to Dali. Although the drive was long, it was beautiful going over the Yunnan countryside. Seeing the blue skies, green fields, and majestic mountains is so beautiful. After we got to Dali, we went to the Three Pagodas. First, we went to the temple above and saw the heavily ornamented shrines and dieties. As we were walking down, the rain started to fall. We hurried under a building to wait out the shower, and as the sky cleared, a pocket of sunlight shot out at the temple in front of us. With the mountains, temple, green trees, and rays of sunlight hitting the temple, we all were overcome with absolute beauty. It was the most amazing thing I have seen in my life and I am sure none of us will ever forget it. Today was amazing and will never be forgotten.
Comments
Thanks for such a vivid description of the surroundings Ian. I am sure the images so new and different will be etched in your mind's eye for many years to come! Continue to enjoy yourself as you gain new daily experiences.
Richard Kerr (Rushell's uncle)
Posted by: Richard Kerr | June 15, 2009 2:35 PM
Hi Ian. I am so pleased that you are experiencing so many firsts on this trip, and that you are moved by the beauty of it all. I really enjoyed reading your blog. The Three Pagodas sound amazing. You'll have to tell all when you get home! Keep enjoying every minute! Love you, Mom
Posted by: Joan Tirrell | June 15, 2009 3:46 PM
Ian, It is indeed wonderful to read your report. We have been looking at the picture of the one Pagoda for a long time and by itself it is beautiful set against the mountain as a backdrop. With three Pagodas now and those rays of sunlight illuminating them with the colorful green of the trees, I am sure that is a beauty to behold. If we could only package some of that beauty for our our very own living space...my, my, our world would be magical.
Keep the comments coming.
Sonia(Rushell's Aunt)
Posted by: Sonia Kerr | June 15, 2009 5:23 PM
Can't wait to see the pictures that accompany this glorious description. Love, Auntie B
Posted by: Barbara Tirrell | June 15, 2009 6:16 PM
Hi Ian,I just got the link to this blog from your dad. Great description, I could see exactly what you where describing in my mind as I read it. It looks like your having a great time. I have been to China for work a few times but was only able to see a little of the south. I envy that your getting to tour the country. Try to eat as many different and unusual things as possible. They make the best stories when you get back! Don't forget to try fish lips. Have Fun!!
Posted by: Philip Ceccarelli | June 16, 2009 5:33 AM
Hi Ian,
>
> I loved reading about your trip through the Yunnan countryside.
> Your descriptions are clear and easy to picture.
> Your comments would make an enticing travel guide advertisement for
> anyone who was looking to visit South China! I hope that some day
> soon, Mom and I will travel to China with you, to experience
> first hand, the beauty and culture of this magnificent country.
> Please keep on writing, and taking lots of pictures. Love, Dad
Posted by: Clement Ceccarelli | June 17, 2009 5:28 PM