Tiananmen Square

Tiananmen Square was another really interesting place to visit in Beijing. This plaza, which was built in 1651, is the largest city square in the world. The Tiananmen's gate was first built in 1417, but was damaged during wars. Tiananmen's literal translation in English is "Gate of Heavenly Peace." Jenni and I really enjoyed wandering through the plaza early one morning. The plaza is so large and beautiful with it's bright red flags, significant buildings, and buzzing people. Another great place to people watch.







At one point we asked a young guy to take a picture of us with my camera. It was funny because, afterwards, he asked if we could take a picture with him while his friend used his camera. Then his friend wanted a picture with us as well. After that, another group came over and wanted pictures with us. All of a sudden, we were stuck taking picture after picture with friendly strangers! They were all really cool people, but the whole situation was quite odd. Random people asking us to take pictures with them happened many times. Everyone was just so friendly and excited about meeting westerners.





More Pictures with Alice.... she is so great!


Alice and Shi Shi at the Pekking Duck Restaurant



Small figures on Alice's tea table. A few were Chinese zodiac figures: Ox= prosperity, dependable, hardworking; Pig= never go hungry, bountiful; Sheep/goat: Creative. Alice pours a little tea on these figures for luck. There was also a figure of a foot with a spider on it, which meant something like; if you feel the sensations of enjoyment around you, you will find contentment and happiness. They were really neat.


Chinese tea frog. Alice pours tea on this wooden frog for luck before giving us tea. The frog has three legs, a coin in it's mouth, and colors of the world on its back.


Ceramic cups and tea sets, from Alice's shop, were a variety of beautiful designs and colors.

Shi Shi thinking up her next cartoon story of her cat, Lucky, and her cat friends. Alice's husband, playing for us in the background. They are such a wonderful family.

Shi Shi's turtle.