Where We'll Be...Part II

On Friday, December 9th, after a week in Shenyang, Rachel, Jia and I will fly four hours south to Guangzhou.  (Mike will fly home.)  It's a couple hours outside of Hong Kong and it's gorgeous this time of year.  It's still getting into the low 80's during the day, but will likely be in the mid-70's while we're there.  (Nice!) 

Guangzhou is another large city of more than 12 million.  Wow...I'm just blown away by the size of all these cities.  Yes, you hear about the tremendous population in China, but to realize that there are a couple dozen cities that are bigger than New York City...well, it kind of boggles my mind.  

But, there is a little place of peace and quiet in the midst of Guangzhou called Shamian Island.  The US Consulate used to be located on the island and it became a gathering place for adoptive parents.  There is plenty of space to walk and play with your child without dodging crowds.  And I hear there's some great shopping there too, so we will be taking full advantage of that.  :)

Its laid back, slower pace is more reminiscent of a European village rather than the hustling, bustling cities of China.  They still have a Starbucks though!

During this final week, we will have Jia's medical exams and apply for her visa.  We may venture out into the busier part of town once or twice, but honestly, I am looking forward to our time on the island to relax and bond with Jia. 

We leave this coming Friday, and we would ask for prayers for safe travel and for good health.  There have been some odd health issues that have plagued the three of us...nothing that would prevent travel, but might make travel pretty uncomfortable.  (dizzy spells, ingrown toenails, back pain, etc...)

We would also ask for prayers for Jia.  This will be a difficult time for her.  I know she has been well prepared, but she will still be leaving everything she's ever known to be with strangers.  It won't be easy and we're praying constantly for her little heart.   

Please pray for our two girls that we are leaving behind with friends.  We've never been away from them for this long.  I have no doubt they will be in good hands, but we will miss them terribly.