The Forbidden Palace, Tiananmen Square

Yesterday we were up bright and early and on the bus to see the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square. They are both huge. The forbidden city is outrageous, palace after palace all for the emperor. This palace is where he changes into his ceremonial outfits, this palace is where he entertains his bride for the first 3 days after marriage, this palace is where he plays  x box, this palace is where he watches the real housewives of Beverly hills. Sally liked seeing it all and is taking tons of pictures for her class, but did end up getting a little 'palaced out'. She did say she was happy we didn't live there because I'd always be redecorating. And believe me, I've got some ideas.
In the afternoon there was a calligraphy class and a tea ceremony that my mom and I decided to skip in lieu of some shopping. You know how it is when a girl's got a couple hundred yuan burning a hole in her pocket. We went to district 798 which is the Soho of Beijing. It was cool and I saw a painting I loved for a mere 25,000 yuan(4000 dollars). Did I buy it? I'll keep you all guessing!!!!

My mom and I had an adventure in the cab where the fastidious cab driver yelled at me and swatted at my feet when I crossed my legs. Apparently in his cab the rule is both feet firmly on the ground lest dirt fall off your foot onto his sparkling white seat cover.

Later at dinner we had an opportunity to meet Madame Wang who was the director of Sally's orphanage until last year. She walked right up to Sally and said "Fu Xin pei" Sally's Chinese name. It was pretty cool. She gave each girl a silk scarf.

Today we head to Fuling for the rest of our trip. This is the part we've most been looking forward to, seeing Sally's orphanage and the area she's from.

Sally's holding up well although the trip itself is hard. Being on a tour, keeping a group schedule, not much down time. Sally's held up better than I have to be honest. Having my parents here has been a godsend. They are easy going and up for trying everything.

The other families are from all over the world- US, Brussels, Ireland, Beijing. Sally is the most beautiful, in case you were wondering. And NO I did not spend 4000 dollars on a painting, and shame on those of you who thought I had. I'm not that out of control. Plus they didn't take credit cards.

Here are a few pictures (more later):

Sally and Tony at Forbidden City

Sally at Imperial Palace