site seeing

New pictures posted at http://picasaweb.google.com/troyernet/ChinaTrip7 

It was a full day of site seeing and Michael's fever stayed down all day!   We were excited that we are seeing more and more of Michael's personality now that he is feeling better and getting more comfortable with us.

We went to the Martyr's Park this morning and the best way to explain it is that it is similar to Central Park (sort of) in the middle of the city.  The park was built in honor of those that died in the revolution.  The most interesting thing (if you can call it that), is when we entered the park there were a bunch of students and they immediately swarmed around Mandy.   We knew that that this sometimes happens when older children with nonAsian parents return to China. Mandy handled it fairly well but definitely withdrew some until the worst part was over.   The park is a combination of a relaxation park including fishing and lake along with an amusement park.  The amusement park side was set up to pay individually and Mandy was thrilled that she got to go on the carousel and a blow up bouncer.   It was a long walk through the park but the weather was beautiful and it was great to be outside of the hotel.   

We also went to the Embroidery Factory and Museum.  It was fascinating watching the ladies work.   Interesting side note - Our guide told us that Steven Curtis Chapman ordered a custom embroidery piece of his asian daughter that died.  It took 2 ladies 1 year to finish the piece and the cost was $6,000 US dollars.    

The biggest highlight of the day was swimming.  Michael absolutely loved the water and was not afraid at all.  He splashed around and even put is head under at one point.  He laughed and laughed.    However, the best thing for me was when I walked into the pool area later than everyone else and Michael saw me and he reached his arms out and was so excited to see me!  My heart melted and I thanked God for his wonderful gift. 

After swimming us and Alex's family headed for McDonalds.   Both girls were excited and the parents were tolerable of the experience.  No they did not have diet coke - I had to go with Coke Light with no ice.  

Tomorrow we will finish our time here in Changsha and fly to Guangzhou at 8:00 pm tomorrow night.   I previously had said we were waiting for Michael's Visa but actually we are waiting on his passport.   His Visa will be processed in Guangzhou.   The flight will only be around 1 hour and I am hoping that Michael sleeps through it since it will be past his bedtime. 

I love seeing him get more comfortable with us and to relax.  This  morning when he sat on the bed and played for a few minutes I was ecstatic!  I keep reminding myself that we need to take one step at a time.   We are making progress and that is the most important thing.  

Ways to pray for us - 

-smooth flight tomorrow night

-Mandy is homesick and misses her friends at school

-continued bonding

-good health

Tomorrow we head to warmer weather - 80 degrees - HEY!

Until later, Sheila