PRC 66th Anniversary

The PRC (People’s Republic of China) celebrated its 66 anniversary on September 29.  Rick and I were among four teachers invited to represent the 72 foreign teachers at Shandong University.  It was likely a random selection but we were thrilled to attend the formal banquet at the Shandong Hotel.

The conference center was beautiful and every table was neatly set with three forks, knives, and goblets.  Chop sticks were also provided, of course.  The servers were elegantly dressed in long, red dresses and bowed as we entered the room. 

I will attach a few photos of our multi course dinner.  The goblets included wine, champagne, and a beverage of our choice.  There was endless toasting throughout the evening and we held our glasses for each and then replaced them at our table.  Word of the strange foreigners must have spread because guests from every table came to offer a toast.  They immediately stared as we replaced our glasses.  Imagine the private conversations that followed the event.

Our photo was taken with a few university officials and many, many strangers.  Remember, we are celebrities in Jinan.

MaryAnne, the culinary creation photos are for you!!

The appetizer was splendid and very Italian.

We enjoyed three main courses – beef, fish, and something else.  All were delicious.  There was also soup, salad and rice.  I lost count of the courses.

Dessert was almost too beautiful to eat but I did manage to devour every bite.

The dinner entertainment included Romanian Dancers (go figure – at the Chinese anniversary?) and beautiful musicians playing their unique string instruments.

Delightful evening!!