An Incredible Day

Today was really incredible. We began the day by visiting a Living Hope Orphanage Training Center for unadoptable children. They are unable to be adopted because they are either too old or have a known living relative. In China even if the relative is unable to take care of a child, that child is still unadoptable because there is a known family member. At the orphanage the children are given an education and then supported in making the transition to adulthood whether it be on to college or vocational training. I was so glad Bayley had the chance to see this place. It was a great lesson in being appreciative of all that we have compared to so many others, and this was the case even though this was probably a much higher standard orphanage than most in China. The headmaster and employees of the school were very welcoming to us, and the kids were even more excited to have us tour their school. Above are some pictures of Bayley sitting in a classroom, one of her in the older girls' dorm, and a group photo in front of the school.

After the orphanage we were able to experience something words cannot truly describe. The Great Wall. It was difficult climbing to say it mildly. I was huffing and puffing and sweating and thinking wow, I am feeling old. Bayley was sprinting. I could only make it up to one tower and then half way to the second. Passing out looked very probable at one point today. Fortunately the husband of the family we are touring with, continued on with Bayley, and they went to tower three. When they descended, both Bayley and Todd, were shaking and trembling, as it really does a number on the knees and legs.

While Bayley was still trying to conquer the Great Wall, I tried my skills elsewhere -at the Squatty Potty. These toilets are holes in the floor, and one must strategically stand over them to urinate and just hope for the best in regards to dry undies, pants, and shoes when finished. Surely in another week I will be successful at least once.

This evening we were treated to an amazing acrobatic show. Our Chinese guide, Sam, has really done a terrific job selecting the sights and the delicious restaurants. Once again, it is making the wait to finally meet Adeline a bit easier. We are so happy to hear that Elizabeth and David made it home safely with Abigail. We were able to use Skype and speak with Tommy and Ron and Jo-Jo. This was a treat. Thank you to everyone checking in on them. It makes our homesickness and worries a wee bit less.

Tomorrow morning we fly out to Nan Chang. There was a glitch in our paperwork which had indicated we would be heading to Nanning. Luckily our guide caught this, as it was a full 1000km difference in where we needed to be to meet Addie.

We're getting closer to Gotcha Day, as the day is known in adoption circles.