The China Journal - Day 11

"I just want to point out that I have not once felt the urge to buy anything this trip," says Laura. "I don't have any souvenirs, I haven't come across anything I've been waiting my entire life to buy, and I still have lots of room in my bag."

"I, on the other hand," pointing to my recently purchased People's Liberation Army T-Shirt, "certainly have."

"That's right," says Laura, looking self-assured and morally superior.

"However, I'd like to point out that I've only purchased essential items. I bought the shirt to clothe myself, the Chairman Mao watch to tell time, and the book of Mao Tse-Tung quotations to enrich my mind and prepare myself for the coming Revolution of the proletariat."

We then argue about the authenticity of the above conversation as recorded in this journal, with me stating artistic license of any alterations made, chiefly because Laura forgets what she said in the first place.

Today, we kick around Xi'an waiting for our overnight train to Chengdu. We check off a few more "must see" sights from our Lonely Planet, taking the time to pose for a few photos with the locals who have apparently mistaken us for famous international celebrities. Sadly, they forget to bring their autograph books.

Big Goose Pagoda



Cubic Elephant!?!



Bell Tower