Ready to go…

Well, I think we’re all ready to move on to the next spot. It just feels that way. We’re here tomorrow and then we leave Saturday morning early for a 5 hour flight down to Guangzhou to finish up the adoption. Harbin is nice, we like it, and it is cool that is has so many similarities to Alaska – the cold, the ice carving festival, a Russian Orthodox Church. But, the cold makes it hard to spend a lot of time outside, especially carrying around a couple girls. Getting them bundled and unbundled for each appointment, lunch, and excursion; dealing with the biting wind while you’re out; and, running out of things to do in the hotel all signal it is time to go.

Our little traveling group is doing well, also, but we’ve had to work out a few issues. This morning started out with a little apology session, which helped clear the air of a few attitudes, so that was good. This morning we went to the shopping street. It wasn’t exactly what we had pictured, but we got a few items. Amanda bought a nice pair of long underwear and got to experience the Chinese dressing room! We also went for a nice family swim this afternoon. Carli did pretty well with that, but really doesn’t like water in her face. She seemed to get more used to it after a while. Other than that, we all had fun.

I’ve included a few pictures of our home for the last 6 days. As you can see, the girls have beds right next to each other, which is kind of nice for them. Jenna and Carli are doing well. However, Carli has some diarrhea which is making it hard for her. I’m sure she’s eating a bit differently with us than she did at the orphanage. Luckily, our guide is a doctor as well, so if it persists will solicit more of her advice.

Tomorrow we will spend the morning at the local science museum, probably another swim, and then packing up. We are looking forward to some warmer weather where we can walk around a bit more. And, although I love China, I am starting to feel the pull of home for many reasons. Until next time…