New Years Day

Wee Willow got her picture taken today at the police station (not sure why it is at the station?), for her Visa (a whole bunch of us were at the station together, which is fun ... to see all the children who are being adopted). Of course, Willow is the sweetest (only kidding ... sort of). Anyway, that was actually the last item of the day. Before, our guide Sara (pictured with me, below) took "us", i.e., Chris, shopping to several enormous bookstores (and yes, we bought some beautiful books on China and some amazingly-illustrated childrens books). We saw some archeological sites (ancient gates, i.e., entryways, to villages for several time-periods dating back to several hundred years BC). We had lunch at Starbucks (see, the individually hand-colored coffee cups stacked like a Holiday tree). We have also included a photo of the front of our hotel.

Willow is getting more comfortable with us; and, she is crying now and again (especially when we switch-off, to take turns holding her). She is so precious; it is hard to describe. She started out sleeping on a board in a crib (no mattress), but look at her below (especially last few pictures). She's a darling button. It makes us remember how darling the boys were--Jeremy, Matthew, and Gregory (well, they still are!). Willow is an auntie to Jeremy's two young sons, Nicholas and Tyler. We hope you and yours have a blessed new year (all 365 days).