Yesterday, we spent a little time at a Buddhist temple and a museum. We even did a little shopping at a neighborhood grocery store. It rained. We walked through things quickly. Mostly, we wanted to get back to nap. We are wearing out. It’s not jet lag. It’s just flat out tired. When I’m napping, that tells you something. I’m sure it’s as much the stress of the entire process wearing us down as it is the getting up early for meetings and paperwork. Christian is taking it in stride. He even took some time to enjoy some jasmine tea with the ladies at the arts and crafts store. It was tea time, after all. We were told it was a great honor to be asked to sit with them during this time. Glad he had the experience and took them up on it. Monica and I were talking today about how we are so glad he is the age he is so he can soak up the culture and the experience and enjoy it for a long time. It’s something not many kids will ever get to experience even as adults. And he’s been such an awesome big brother (gu gu) and a big help to us in the entire process.
He even took some time to learn a new instrument at the museum we visited. It’s called a calabash. It’s named after the fruit that it is built from. It reminds me of a small gourde. The musician who was demonstrating it taught him Auld Ang Syne on it. He almost pulled the trigger and bought himself one, but he held off. I think he has Shaimon Island in mind. That’s the place where everyone goes to wheel and deal. It’s become his new hobby: negotiations. We would have not enjoyed this trip as much without him with us, nor would we have maintained our sanity as well. He has kept us laughing, spent time checking on each of us to make sure we are doing well physically, and even grabs the stroller every time we walk out the door. He’s been a God send to us throughout. Alexis is so lucky to have him leading the way for her. Monica and I are so lucky she has that, too.
Scott, Monica, and Christian —
I love the photos of all of you. Love how Alexis is hugging on you, Scott, in one of the photos, and how cozy you all four look together. I’m sure you are exhausted–you have taken in so many things the last few weeks! The photos of the riverboat ride were beautiful. Where was that? And where was the temple? I love the photos of Christian and Alexis too–so sweet!
What a life changing adventure for you all. Continued thoughts for a safe journey back. We are holding down the “Texas” fort –where it is getting warm–supposed to be 99 on Sunday! Take it easy as much as you can! — Carolyn and Gregg
I can not express my thanks to you all for sharing this important time in your family journey with the world. God speed and continued safe travels. You are all in my prayers.
We were on the Pearl River on the river cruise. Beautiful 2 hours on the river. The temple was here in Guangzhou about 30 minutes from the hotel. It is the oldest in this province. Roughly 1800 years old.
Thanks for the comments. They keep me going on this blog. It’s nice to know people are reading and looking.
Try to drop the temps a little bit. We will be back this weekend, the good Lord willing. See you and Gregg soon.
And we cannot thank you enough for the prayers you and Diane have sent up for us. We know it’s a major part of why our paperwork processes have gone so smoothly so far and why Alexis has adjusted to us so quickly. Almost done. Hang in there with us a few more days. Love you both!
Each day, I anxiously await to see the new photos that have been added. It brings tears to my eyes to see how God has created such a wonderful family. Alexis has such a joy beaming from her face! Comparing the photos from the first couple of days with the photos from the last two days, it is evident that you are now a family. I realize that the four of you have so many challenges to face, but God will give all of you the strength to overcome all challenges. Please remember that your family is covered by prayers from so many people and we are already in love with your precious daughter!
Thank you, Mary. Your support throughout this journey has been very special to us. Can’t wait to introduce you to Alexis personally.