Random Pics from Beijing

Nicole and Scottie at the moat on the northwest corner of the Forbidden City. We paused here during a great bicycle ride through the North Capitol.
Scott gets silly with a magnifying gadget while dad is trying to strike a deal at the Pearl Market in Beijing.
Take a close look at her shirt. It says "Falling in love with my boyfriend". Hyrum claims he was sitting there first.
Scottie makes a friend on Tiananmen Square.
How many people can cram under an umbrella?

Another "Spectacular Scottie the Blond Baby" show in Tiananmen Square. I think Nicole is about to say, "This reminds me of that 'The Office' episode..."

The Great Wall at Simatai

Hyrum was a bit skeptical of the Great Wall since it's *the* tourist attraction in China; we're more into discovery than tours. But we LOVED the Great Wall at Simatai. A little further out than the most visited locations, a truly spectacular setting...a mix of history tour and hiking with spectacular views.

After some really uncomfortable heat the day before, we were pleased with some cool weather for our trip to the Great Wall. It started out as misty and foggy, then turned to a light drizzle--perfect weather for a rather steep climb. Scottie made the trip from Tower #1 to Tower #12 (and back) on Dad's back; and even fell asleep for some of the hike.

We're usually a non-umbrella family...too much hassle; we'd rather get drenched. However, on the way back, we stopped for some noodles about halfway down, and were invited our of the rain into the little tin shack of the woman selling us food to get out of the rain for a spell.

The Forbidden City

Construction began on the palace complex in the early 15th century...85 years before Columbus sailed the ocean blue. Unfortunately, today was extremely hot and muggy, and we only spent a few hours at a site that really deserves a day. Scottie didn't spend so much time relishing the history...but was fascinated by apparently ancient pebbles and brick pieces among the old tiles of the gigantic brick paved square.

You might not notice at first glance, but the third picture (with Hyrum and Scottie) features two trees that have grown together as one. Two individual trunks with one branch system. A perfect marriage...

Choo Choo!

What an adventure! We just got back from the overnight train from Beijing to Shanghai. How exciting for Scottie to not only ride on his favorite "choo choo" but to sleep on one too! What fun.