Angela asked us what we wanted for breakfast, and we all agreed anything other than McDonalds again would be great. She had our driver stop at a shopping mall area but before we made it inside Aaron noticed a shop that said "bread". Well this ended up being the best little treat! We had the yummiest breakfast of all kinds of pastries and breads.
We spent the next several hours at the most beautiful, relaxing park! The Temple of Heaven is actually larger than the Forbidden City, and among other things, was the place where the emporer went to worship his "god". The architecture was amazing.
The Chinese love to get together to dance and exercise.
Chinese words being painted on the sidewalk with water.
Aaron and I are rebels. There were 3 gates that were built here and even the emporer was not allowed to enter through the middle one. We stepped right up for a picture and walked on through! Don't worry, Angela reminded us this was an ancient tradition, not current.
This was in an area called echo something? Courtyard maybe? Along this section of the wall you could stand and talk to someone who was all the way on the other side! This picture shows our group talking to Angela.
This is where the emporer worshiped. It made me want to break out in song, maybe, "Our God is greater, our God is stronger, God you are higher than any other!"
A 500 year old Juniper tree.
One of the highlights of this day was seeing how the Chinese relax and enjoy each other's company. They dance, do Tai Chi, excersise, play cards, and sing. We joined in on the fun a few times to make the most of the experience! A woman taught us how to play with a tai chi ball, and once again, my husband and sons showed me up in their athletic and hand eye coordination skills.
After another delicious Chinese lunch, we went to the train station to head to Xi'an. Being on the train was relaxing and enjoyable. Getting to the train car, well, not so much. It was an adventure for sure! The boys were such great helpers though. It is just difficult to keep up with so many people and so much luggage.
Our guide Celine met us at the train station, and as we drove to the hotel she gave us a rundown of our schedule for the week! Aaaaaaaahhhhhh!!! I have butterflies just thinking about it! We will meet her in the lobby at 1:30 tomorrow afternoon. We will get John Thomas around 2'ish and then spend an hour or so doing paperwork there. After that, Celine will take us to Walmart to get supplies for the week (waters, snacks, and the formula and cereal that will be familiar to our little guy).
So as I am here typing, my child is on an overnight train form his city to Xi'an. This will likely be very difficult on him bc he probably hasn't been out of the orphanage except to go to the Dr. for his adoption exam. Please pray for him if you are willing.
Aaron and I are anxious to meet this little boy and get to know him like we know our other children. I know we are right where God has placed us and I am thankful for this call. There will be many difficult days ahead, but the joy that adoption brings is indescribable. Thank you for coming alongside us.
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