Medical Exam

Feeding the koi in the garden.

Yesterday  we started out our day to a wonderful buffet breakfast.  Among the many Chinese dishes I found good old American waffles and syrup.  Next to the restaurant was the garden which included a koi pond where ChunMing loved feeding them leftover bread.  I tried taking photos, but my camera was instantly affected by the humidity and fogged up.  It is extremely humid here.  The moment you step outside you can taste the difference in the air.  My skin is constantly moist.


ChunMing found his traditional Mongolian outfit in my suitcase and insisted on wearing it.  When we went out to eat for lunch, many of the waiters and waitresses asked if they could take his picture.  He is very proud of it.

Following breakfast was ChunMing's medical exam.  Each child must be examined prior to leaving for the states, which includes a TB test for those that are 2 years of age and older.  There were around 25 or more adopting families there.  It was like a cattle call.  We even met 2 others from the Seattle area, but most of the families we met were staying at a different hotel.

ChunMing was a trooper through most of the experience, until they called a specialist to see him due to his special need.  He and another doctor were having ChunMing do some physical movements and then talked to each other for a little time.  While they were talking, ChunMing's eyes teared up and he started to cry.  I quickly ran for our guide to interpret what was happening and it was all we could do to not grab ChunMing and run out the door.  By the time the guide was found, the doctors were finished and ChunMing was excused.

We have found that the Chinese culture is different than the American culture in regards to discrepancy with children.  Nothing has been private, whereas in America we are more cautious as to what we say in front of our children.  Due to past experience we had no doubt whatever the doctors were saying was what was upsetting ChunMing.  It was nice to see once again that David's touch and voice could bring him comfort.

After the medical exam we went to lunch with our guide and another lovely family from Oregon.  They brought along their 13 year old daughter to China with them and adopted another 13 year old girl.  We enjoyed getting to know them and look forward to going to the animal park with them today.

After taking care of some paperwork we went to dinner with a sweet couple from Pennsylvania.  He had previously lived in China for a short time and knew some Mandarin, so we gave him liberty to order.  He did a great job and we enjoyed all new dishes.  My favorite was the chrysanthemum's in garlic and butter. yum!

Our new friends from Pennsylvania and their new little one

David's arms were aching so the guide talked ChunMing into
 riding in a stroller from the hotel.  It's been a lifesaver.

Night Night!

I have to include this photo our oldest son sent to us from his phone.  It is a photo of our girls skyping us at Dad's office.  I am so proud of our kids.

The girls talking to Mom, Dad, and their new brother in China