Temple Visit and Playtime

Although today was a full day, it was one of those that isn't really exciting on the "meter-o-fun"~but I guess most days are like that in life. We met our group and went to the Six Banyan Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in the province of Guangdong. There were many people there, lighting their three incense sticks and leaving offerings of apples, oranges, peanuts, flowers and soda. Yes, soda. Anyway, it was a beautiful, albeit warm, morning to walk around the gardens. A monk asked the children to come up for a special blessing and said some prayers of happiness and health for the children and their families.

A quick stop at the government run shops and then home to the hotel. We actually stayed out and went to lunch where we got to watch the older people (in age and wisdom, not so much older by body type though!) do their Tai Chi and play a hackey sack game with a shuttlecock on a spring. It makes my knees hurt just remembering how they flicked their legs up and over, kicking this birdie in the air. It is neat to see them play and enjoy their park time, especially since I was able to sit by a fan and drink my Perrier while watching!

Little Man has proven to be a rough and tumble boy today in all areas but eating. He loves to wrestle and run and just had a ball with Wade and Andrew. Eating is still a favorite past time for him though and his manners are close to impeccable. Anyone want to wager when they will wane? I am thoroughly enjoying them now, just in case it is soon.

There is a nice playroom in the hotel where there is carpeted open space, lots of toys and balls and room for the parents to visit. Tonight we went there before dinner and met some wonderful families~and the beautiful part is watching how well all the children play together. Having missed two years of Liam's life, we watch and wonder if that is how he "used" to play at the orphanage. It is nice to see him enjoy others' company and how none of the children see any handicaps or disabilities...they just are more ingenious with their play. Would you believe the mom (whose son kept going to Wade to play with him tonight) is from Springfield, VA? Just right up the beltway! Playtime tonight was a nice insight into a little of Liam's past.

Tomorrow is a "rest" day, although we are scheduled to go shopping in the afternoon with our guide. We will be busy doing homework in the morning and hopefully a trip to the park and lunch before we hit the markets. Today's pictures are of the 6 Banyan Temple (named after the Banyan trees there) and the playroom. Like I said, not too exciting but it fills our hearts and blessings overflow. Happy Sunday! mct