Jack the Clown

We painted on this day, and Jack used his hands as the brush, and his face as the canvas....then he ate yoghurt. Still as cute as ever!

Induldging in Chinese Traditional Medicine

While we are in China Gavin is learning about Traditional Chinese Medicine. This day he learned about cupping, and then we went for a session.  To get the cups to stick on your back they dip a cotton ball in alcohol, set it on fire, insert it in a cup, and quickly put the cup and flame quickly on your back (or legs, arms, etc.).  It is supposed to increase circulation and help your body heal the affected area.

I couldn't believe Gavin was brave enough to try it!  I love how adventurous he is....you can see Sam in the back ground.  He wanted no part of it.

Legal sword fighting

I took the boys to a place where they could try fencing. It was awesome!  We might have to do this in the United States when we get back.....or install the equipment in our basement!

Good bye to classmates

Gavin and Sam's classes gave them a special good bye - they took a lot of photos, and everyone hugged.  Gavin and Sam gave stickers to everyone.  It has been a great experience for Gavin especially.  It will feel weird to send Sam to preschool next year for 2 1/2 hours - a big change from a 10 hour day.

Making Tofu - so easy!

Gavin looks great in an apron!  He is adding rehydrated soy beans and water into the manual grinder.

Jack and Sam both got involved....although Jack mainly just moved furniture around the room.

After the bean mush comes out of the grinder you squeeze out all of the bean juice. The bean juices is what is used to make both the tofu and the soy milk.

A liquid is added to make the bean juice currdle - citric acid maybe (all instruction was in Chinese).

You laddle the curds into the square.

You squeeze everything together.

Viola!

We have never been able to get Jack to drink milk, but he will chow down on tofu (seen above) and soy milk!

Jack doing his best Besty Impersonation

Beijing Taxis

The are notorious for being picky drivers.  It is not uncommon to have one stop and decide he does not like where you are going, and refuse to give you a ride.  The reason can be as simple as it requires him to do a U turn and head in the other direction...crazy!  BUT if you dial 96103 you can schedule a taxi to pick you up....and they offer service in nearly perfect English! The taxi usually arrives within 5 minutes unless it is rush hour/raining/etc.  If it is, they probably cannot find a driver for you.