WOW Word-Of-the-Week #364: Wonder
July 25, 2011 by Susan Clarke · Comments Off on WOW Word-Of-the-Week #364: Wonder
Wonder – inexplicable by the laws of nature; filled with curiosity.
Are you naturally inquisitive? Are you amazed by archeological sites like the Pyramids in Egypt and wonder how they were ever built? Do you find yourself filled with curiosity about the world as you get older?
“The meaning I picked, the one that changed my life: Overcome fear, behold wonder.” ~ Richard Bach
This week’s WOW has two different definitions on purpose. I am filled with curiosity about traveling and seeing the world. In the summer of 2007, more than 90 million people cast their votes to determine which architectural marvels in the world deserved to be one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. There were a total of twenty-one landmarks vying for that title.
The Pyramiids of Giza
Of the Seven Ancient Wonders of the World, only the Great Pyramids in Giza, Egypt still stand. The pyramids were given an automatic spot after infuriated Egyptian officials said it was a disgrace to have to compete for something that had belonged to their country for so long. I agree!
It is our goal to see all twenty-one landmarks. Also, Chris and I have collectively seen a lot of the twenty-one, however, not together. So the rule is, we go back and see all of them – together! So far we have been to the Pyramids and two of the New Wonders – Chichen Itza and the Great Wall of China. As for the runner ups we have been to five of them – The Statue of Liberty, Sydney Opera House, the Acropolis, Hagia Sophia and the Eiffel Tower.
What I am really surprised about is how much I enjoy history and geography. I hated school! (Probably because they dictated what I should learn.) This week focus on what your wonders are. What subjects or hobbies are you curious about? Do you like watching the History or Discovery Channel? Do you have a desire to visit any of the Wonders of the World?
Reader Responses
“I have a goal of seeing the new 7 wonders as well. Rog and I climbed all over Chichen Itza. Were you able to climb their pyramids or was it blocked off by then? Fabulous place.” – Elaine
“I hope this finds you well. WOW is one of my favorite words. Every restaurant needs some. Cheers!” – Phyllis
In Search of the New Seven Wonders of the World: #2 The Great Wall of China
June 22, 2010 by Susan Clarke · Comments Off on In Search of the New Seven Wonders of the World: #2 The Great Wall of China
We made it to our second New Seven Wonders of the World in April, 2010. I must say we were more than a little disappointed to find the Great Wall shrouded in thick, dense fog and drizzling rain. There are very few steps and the walkway consists of flat tiles so they were extremely slippery and very hard to navigate.
The Great Wall of China literally translated means “long fortress.” With all of its branches it stretches for 5,500.3 miles.