4:04pm
Update from Mr. Hughes
Day 2 Pingyao.....
So after a long day yesterday and a calm first night's sleep, the morning started relatively early (very early for some who were clearly still on cloud nine after yesterday's activities). Who needs an alarm clock when you have 71 children to get you up.... That said, the smiles were still present and even on the teachers faces as well!!!!!
Before breakfast the children washed, showered and put on fresh clothes. There was even time for a quick room inspection with various children winning a prize for their cleanliness. It must be said that there were even some boys rooms in the top 5, parents it can be done !!! Don't let them fool you in the future.
Breakfast was another feast. Dish after dish came out from the kitchen and minute by minute the food disappeared. Well fed, the children were energised and raring to go. The faint groans of 'I've eaten too much' slowly faded into the distance as the children got themselves organised for the morning tour.
First up, a tour of one of Pingyao's ancient government buildings. Rich with history the children were led around various temples and structures learning all about Pingyao's old law system. A highlight was definitely the ancient prison, dark, damp and desolate. The children were then quickly taken to a courtyard where many had the opportunity to hold some traditional and authentic weaponry. With the sun blazing down and some weary legs and faces it was time for some lunch...
After another tummy bursting lunch the children had some free time to relax and unwind in their rooms. The teachers had a (much needed) coffee. Shortly after the children were back into the hotel courtyard ready for an afternoon of arts, crafts and dumpling making. Over the course of the session, all children had practiced traditional Chinese calligraphy, drawn an opera mask and taken part in various paper cutting challenges. The afternoon ended with a successful lesson in dumpling making. Yum !!! All eyes will be on the dinner table this evening when the dumplings will be served to everyone.
Tonight the children will visit the night market to haggle and barter for some of Pingyao's bargains. I'm sure you all eagerly await the gifts the children will bring back for you. Based on what I have seen so far, you are all in for a treat.....
Over the last day and a half I have taken many photos, I have added them (and will continue to add them) to a Dropbox folder that everyone can access. You will need a VPN but there are some lovely photos that I'm sure you would all like to see. I have tried my best to snap all the children at some point.
Here’s a link to “Mr Hughes Photos Pingyao” in my Dropbox:
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/oyh4kppwjmvwta9/AAC4wi7jlbkNyNDdvakN4pL3a?dl=0
The children are having a great time.
Have a lovely evening.
Best regards,
Mr Hughes