Sunday night ramblings

We woke early so our friends could give us a tour of the local Chinese park. It was amazing - various types of music playing, groups doing Tai Chi, couples dancing together, people practicing movements with swords (our boys would've LOVED that part), old women using ropes to stretch themselves into splits, a man playing the flute, groups of men gathered around tree stumps to play cards, people fishing in the lake, and men playing croquet. So much music and so many sights. I think the park is my favorite part of China so far.

We got our luggage! Clean clothes, gifts, diapers, and little girl accessories - just in time.

We attended our friends' church. It was packed with the back as standing room only. Many people stood for the entire 1.5 hours. Newcomers excitedly introduced themselves to the crowd as microphones were passed around. The 'privilege' of worship was mentioned. Considering that it is still illegal for this church meeting to even take place, it is absolutely true. It was a special experience to me for many reasons.

I shed an awful lot of tears today. But I laughed even more. We were SO blessed to have had this time in our daughter's city. Leaving was bittersweet and huge pieces of our hearts will always remain.

Jet lag and emotion hit hard during the two hour car ride to our next city, and we both did the head bob, jerk awake, slide down the seat sleeping thing for most of it. I had tear stained cheeks and red eyes. Our driver must have thought we'd been drugged.

Our guide was supposed to meet us today but isn't even in the city yet. She is supposed to get us 30 minutes before we meet our daughter; hopefully she'll show up!

Tonight Randy went out to get bottled water (it isn't safe to drink tap here) and he was propositioned by three girls and one man. Couldn't get back to the hotel fast enough.

Our new hotel is incredible, but we feel uncomfortable for a reason that I can't put my finger on yet. Maybe it is the air of production for this event, or that we feel "on display" already.

The chicken was tougher than nails, but the skyline is gorgeous, the pool amazing, the bed comfy. Maybe we need to try fish instead?

A tiny crib is set up at the end of our bed. We received a gift basket with baby items. There are orchids everywhere. She is coming so soon. ♥