It's A Blessing!

Let me finally introduce you to our traveling group. There are only three families in our group. This was actually perfect. We really got to know each other, and Paul and I really enjoy being with them. First, we have the McIntyre family. Doug and Nancy are here for their second daughter, Lily. They came to China with their first daughter, Rose (7 1/2 yrs) and Nancy's sister, Marion. It is really nice to be here with someone who has gone through this process before. It has really been a gift. The second family is Debra Sholl. Debra is here to get her first baby, Sophie. She came to China with her sister, Lisa. We have been on all the tours together and we got our babies together. The longer we are here, the more connected I feel to them.

Yesterday, we went to a Buddhist Temple to get the babies blessed. It was a beautiful site and even though it was raining, the value was not diminished. Definitely worthwhile. Then we went to a government store, where we bought a porcelain tea set from Jianxi province (Willa's province), a beautiful Jade bangle, and stamp with Willa's Chinese name (a Chop). We went back to Shamian Island where the White Swan Hotel is, and did some more shopping. All in all, a pretty great day!

Even though Paul was completely tired of shopping, today was a bit of the same. We went to a Pearl Market. It was incredible. It was a huge mall, all dedicated to jewelry (every store). Then we went to a whole sale shop. It was crazy! Everything was sooo inexpensive. I wish I had more money. I could have gotten gifts for everyone. It was another great day out.