Last day in China

China is an amazing country and I'm proud to have adopted a daughter from there. I can think of no other country which is so rich in culture and the people are wonderful.

They are beautiful, both inside and out. I haven't had the time and energy to share much detail but here are two particular experiences which I will remember.

My dad and I each bought Chinese scrolls, which are beautiful hand-painted tapestries that hang from the wall. These are unique in that orphans painted them! Kenny sells them and has a shop close to the White Swan hotel. He provides education to the orphans and sells their art to provide support for the orphans. My dad bought a beautiful one that was actually painted by an orphan with one arm! Here is Kenny's Web site: http://www.echoinchina.org/index.html

He's a great example of a man of courage who is fighting injustice and caring for the least of these. He is known by the government and not afraid of that. He was imprisoned for one week, along with others in his Christian group that he meets with.

One of the families in our group adopted a child with a cleft lip and palate, which hasn't been repaired yet. The husband encountered a woman who was so surprised that they wanted a child like that who she actually called ugly. The woman told them that a girl with that condition could get no education b/c of her looks and as a girl she would have trouble helping/supporting her aged parents (a huge responsibility and focus in China especially)

This woman had no idea that this wonderful little girl could be helped and was amazed that anyone would take her into their family. What a blessing to have a free press and free flow of information in the USA! My prayer is that China would do the same and compassion would arise from the information so more Chinese families would take care of these orphans as well.

Pictures on the Riverboat tour in Guangzhou



More red couch photos




It was a moving and amazing experience to have 40 families give the oath today at the U.S. consulate, sealing the adoption of their Chinese daughters and sons. My dad and I celebrated simply, having Papa John's pizza in the hotel room tonight. (We've had many Chinese meals so we needed a break)

I'm looking so forward to introducing Amanda to her mom and brothers! Skype has worked Ok for us a few nights but it sure doesn't compare to being there!
It's been difficult and tiring (since Amanda and I have both been sick - some of the diarrhea is back for her] but also so fulfilling to finally bond with Amanda. She's a sweet and fun girl who pulls you in with her adorable nature. She's quite the people person. One person in our group says she talks almost as much as her dad and grandpa. :)

We leave early Friday morning (Thur night in the States) for Tokyo and then on to LA and then home. I'd love to fast forward the next day. :)

Thank you for all your encouragement and prayers! I'm in awe of what God is doing. I look forward to showing her off to everyone.