A Chinese Wedding

This evening we attended a wedding dinner for one of the women at Andy's company. I think that it is such an interesting cultural experience to see what traditions a wedding entails. Apparently, a couple goes through several wedding ceremonies and dinners. This was the couple's 3rd ceremony/dinner! One in each of their hometowns and then this one was for close friends and co-workers. These don't even include the procedure to get the official license! Yikes, doesn't that sound overwhelming (at least I would be exhausted as the bride)?! We had a great time hanging out with people from the company. The kids even tried some crazy foods.

The official cutting of the cake - with chopsticks. But what I found REALLY interesting is that we didn't get to actually eat any cake. They cut it and then it was whisked away. Hmmm, I feel like I missed something (literally).

Pouring champagne. Again we didn't drink any, it was more decorative. But I was amused because the groom intentionally shook it up trying to get it to spray everywhere. Then the couple poured it together.

Trying some crazy food..... Tori was quite worried about the hairy crabs. And, yes, the crabs are really and truly hairy! But I must confess that I side with Tori on this one, knowing how you are "supposed" to eat it, I am a little apprehensive as well! I won't go into the particulars because it is unappetizing. But they are a Suzhou delicacy and a must at a wedding.

Any guesses as to what Becca is about to eat? I will give you a clue, it is meat. I know that doesn't exactly narrow it down since the Chinese waste nothing of an animal. Okay, one last clue - it is pork. (look below for the answer)

Pig's ear. I kid you not! And Becca is having her second helping in this picture. Josh liked it as well and ate a couple. If you get past what it is, it tastes good and is quite tender.