Shamian Island

Yesterday we went to visit Shamian Island, a beautiful and peaceful place with a rich history.  (You can read about it here and see my post from our last trip here!)  We were planning to take the subway or two taxis, but ended up going with our regular driver and guide, Judy.  We bought several souveniers and gifts that were made locally.  

Last time we were here Caylie did not like the statues, but this time she was more than happy to take pictures with them!

And, of course, Justin always is, too.  

Some of the beautiful trees and buildings on the island.

I had to take a few shots of this, since Caylie would not line up with the children on our last trip to the island!  This time Samuel didn't want to, either, but you can see him in the third one.  (I had to be sneaky!)

There is no trumpet-playing on Shamian Island.  Sorry, Keelan.

People playing badminton.

And a game that looks like ping pong, but with bigger paddles and without a table.

Our guide Judy with Samuel.

Keelan with some new friends.

There is also lots of exercise equipment.  Samuel wanted to try this one.

One of the churches on the island.  

Lucy's is an restaurant on the island featuring American food.  We haven't eaten there yet, but many adoptive families do.

This is the White Swan hotel, where many adoptive families used to stay in the early days of Chinese adoptions.  It's been closed for renovations for several years, but it looks like it will open again soon.

These trees are so cool.

When we got back to the hotel, we went to Samuel's favorite place!