The first was a mountain village north of Guangzhou. It was lovely with fresh air, clean water in the lake and irrigation streams,
mountain vistas, bamboo groves and fruit orchards. It looked like a prosperous village. The orchards were just finishing the season
for small oranges, some mandarin and some decorative, and the plum trees were starting to blossom. Don commented that he
could live there and be very content. There were local handicrafts made out of bamboo: cups, ladles, vases, etc. We had an interesting
morning wandering around the village and the fields. We could see the red lanterns and the red banners on either side of the doors, that
are usual Spring Festival (Chinese New Year's) decorations. There was a happy, festive atmosphere and women were choosing
live chickens and duck for their festive meals. As usual in China, we saw the mix of modernity and traditional. Most vehicles were
very modern and then we came across dried meat hanging and for sale. The smoked or dried duck seemed natural, but the hanging
cluster of dried rats was unusual, to say the least. How would that be used in cooking? Someone let me know.
Lily bought some slingshots (they must be universal ) and Debby was saved from a duck attack by an elderly gentleman grabbing
the duck by the neck. All in all, it was memorable.
John Chan of Lethbridge had told Matt to be sure to leave the city and see some rural life. His advice was perfect. We had a great day. By the way,
John was born in Guangzhou, according to Matt's information.
Elaine Lin, our Relief Society president gave me the information on this village and helped contact a tour agency. We rented a car and driver and took
our student volunteers (Michael and Vicky) so we could communicate with the driver. It was a great day. We ended the day with a formal
"spinner" dinner at the campus hotel restaurant. Thanks Grandpa Wood for paying for this birthday dinner. (I think that I have already
posted this information. Sorry! I cannot access my blog and so you will have to hear about the great dinner twice.)
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