More pictures from my recent trip to China. I don’t claim to be a great photographer, but I thought I would share these anyway. The trees and flowers were just gorgeous! Especially as we have nary a leaf on a tree yet here in Chicago, I’m so glad that wasn’t the case on our April trip.
These pics are from a 1000 year old garden in Suzhou. Even though it was a little rainy that day, it was still quite beautiful.
The Chinese love their rocks. You will see them prominently displayed everywhere.
Kularb, Mike, (my brother & his wife), Pam (that’s me!) and my hubby, David.
Loved this cute umbrella that a little girl was carrying.
Outside the garden, there was a farmers’ market. The fruit was as pretty as the flowers.
Not sure I recognize these!
On the way back we stopped at a flower market in Shanghai. I’ve never seen orchids like these!
Tabletop trees made of live bamboo.
Tiny dried gourds–about 3″ long. Not sure what you would do with them, but they were cute nonetheless.
Here at home, I’m just hoping my tulips will finally bloom this week!
pamelajeannestudio 
Great pics! Those orchids are amazing!!
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You’re right. Those orchids were a sight to see!
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This is a veritable cornucopia of color and delight. Those bamboo trees are quite something. The richness of color in these photos makes me yearn for summer.
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Oh my the richness of colors, the cornucopia of abundance, and orchids that look like they can’t keep themselves form growing. So beautiful. Thanks for sharing.
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You’re welcome. You can be sure I would have brought some home with me, if possible!
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these are beautiful pictures, Pamela!!!!! was this just a vacation? would love to go there some day.
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I’m glad you enjoyed the pictures. Yes, it was just a vacation (of a lifetime!) My brother heads the US consulate in Shanghai. He planned the trip for us and he and his wife hosted us when we were in Shanghai. My brother will be leaving this post in June, so it was now or never!
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Slacker strikes again. ha ha ha read this the day you posted, but obviously forgot to comment. Thanks so much for sharing your photos with us. WOW! So gorgeous. I have always loved Oriental gardens. They truly are works of art. I have a book on them, and it is so peaceful just looking through it.
I worked at a gourd farm years ago, and these small gourds were used to make Christmas tree ornaments and small bird houses. Decorative only of course. Some artists would drill a small hole, stuff it with a bit of moss or paper, and then paint the outside.
Thanks Pam for visiting my site today. I wanted to send you this link. Carol Hopper shared it with me, and it really was fun to sit and doodle. (while waiting for the car smog check)
Give it a try, right up your alley actually! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dd0pM3ZZV8w#t=32
Enjoy your day Pam! Keep the pictures coming – such a pleasure!
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