I love that we live 15 minutes away from this part of the Great Wall, it was originally built by the Ming Dynasty (1367-1644) and is known by locals as ‘Tiger Mountain’. So when friends visit, the weather is good or we want a little quiet this is where we head.

Last week we had friends come and go. Mike and Rachel joined us on Sunday (despite the extra snow!!) for the end of the New Year festivities. It was awesome to hear those Northern Irish accents again, needless to say lots of Nambarrie tea was drunk and good times had. We also had a visit from a lovely boy named James and welcomed Lu Lu to the family…will explain later!

This week also seen a rise in temperature. YAY! Northern China has all four seasons and they arrive with a vengeance. Summer and winter temperatures can reach extremes of over 40 degrees celsius and -20 degrees celsius. I am patiently waiting for Spring to arrive and those Cherry blossoms to bloom.

Friday morning, however, was beautifully clear and crisp; a perfect day for walking the Wall.

Some seriously amazing views over the border and chatting going on from the boys…;)