It was a long day

New pictures are posted: http://picasaweb.google.com/troyernet/ChinaTrip6

It was a long day of walking the halls and taking care of Michael.   It was a down day with no appointments or sightseeing so we were able to focus on getting Michael the rest he needed.   His fever seems to be staying down longer so we are hoping we have turned a corner.   Some of you asked if he could possibly be getting teeth. It could be, he is drooling a lot but I cannot feel any teeth yet.   He also continues to pull at his ear so we are glad that we brought the antibiotic with us.    Thanks for praying us through the day.  It is difficult having a sick child when you have yet to figure out what brings comfort etc. to the baby.

We focused on doing some things Mandy has wanted to do today.   Her and Alex, her friend, went bowling on the 6th floor of the hotel.   That was a highlight for Mandy that we didn't even need to leave the building.   When we get  home, I am sure you will hear a lot about our hotels.  She has quickly gotten accustomed to the 5 star hotel idea.  She will probably be expecting play rooms and all of the other extras anytime we stay at a hotel.   She was able to get in a lot of time just being Mandy which included singing and drawing.   She really is missing her craft supplies :)

Even though Michael was not feeling well today we did begin to see more of his personality coming through.   He laughed more today and we did discover that he would sit and play in the stroller that we bought at Walmart.  It was nice to  have a break periodically from holding him and just playing with him instead.

Mandy was able to skype her Kindergarten class and was excited.   She had to overcome some initial disappointment because their video was not working so she could not see them but they could see her.   She enjoyed telling them all about her experiences and hearing about what they are doing.  I think we possibly will try it again next week.

We went with our group to dinner tonight at a local chinese restaurant.   The food was very good minus the tofu and sweet potato noodles which were not my favorites at all!  For one meal earlier we ordered Pizza Hut pizza which was good, but not quite like the US.  We have also gotten carry out from a restaurant close to the hotel and have enjoyed the spicy food that is their speciality in the area.

Ways to pray for us - 

-Michael's health

-Sheila's developed a sore throat

-rest for all of us

-continued bonding with Michael and Mandy's adjustment

The weather has turned cold and rainy here but we are looking forward to a dry day in the 60s.  We continue to wait for the Visa approval and today we plan to visit a silk and embroidery factory and a museum.  Tonight is our last night in Changsha and we fly to Guangzhou on Friday evening.

Thanks again for your support and love for us.   We appreciate each one of you.   Sheila