Shamian Island

We went to a lovely scenic area called Shamian Island today. The architecture is European, as it was once the only Chinese port open for trade to the outside world. Chinese couples take their wedding photos here, as it is on the river and away from the massive rows of high rise buildings. A lot of American adoptive families stay on the island, so there it is the place to go souvenir shopping. I bought Yi Mei some native Chinese dresses, a tea set, a jade necklace and some squeaky shoes. She looked absolutely adorable! Kathy Aiye (aunt Kathy) got a much needed Chinese massage for $30. After hauling our stroller and suitcases everywhere, her back gave out. I may need one of those massages as well, as Yi Mei insists on being carried everywhere. Yi Mei entertained herself by pushing the stroller down the sidewalk and chasing a kitten. She loves to share her food with others and wanted to give the kitten one of her crackers.

It is typical to wait thirty minutes for a taxi here and we got caught in a downpour in the process. Yi Mei enjoyed getting wet and I was grateful for the cool down.