City Sights

Two weeks ago, our good friend and previous house helper came from up North to visit us. Our kids had been looking forward to seeing her for a long time, and Josh and I were looking forward to some of her Chinese food to catching up after almost a year away.

We tried to be good hosts and take her to some special, local touristy spots...but since we ourselves were so new to the area, it was our first time to go too! Her visit prompted us to get out and find out more about our city.

Our first spot was this very Asian-looking building right in the heart of downtown. It was built several centuries ago when the country used a system of examinations to place people in government and other influential jobs. The city officials wanted to encourage people to study hard and work hard, so they built a beautiful place where hopeful test-takers could come to study and reflect. According to history, the plan worked and several local people tested highly on the examinations and were rewarded with prestigious positions.

I loved how the contrast between ancient and modern was so juxtaposed here.
Blue skies followed us the entire day...
Sometimes I look through my pictures at home and wonder where this sibling love is in real life? Because my days don't always feel like this!
Our friend was thrilled to see Abby and get to know her all over again. Abby, out extreme extrovert, was thrilled to get to know her again too.
Here was one of the little study areas that are set up for visitors to use...as long as you're willing to buy a pot of tea to go with the "free" room!