This morning we went to Shamian Island to the White Swan Hotel and took the traditional "red couch" pictures.  It was so cute to see our kiddos dressed in traditional Chinese clothes.  We had to snap quickly to try to get all six of them to cooperate.  Mike and I opted out of the Buddhist temple tour and decided to spend the day on the island. 
 
We bought a stroller and tucked the sling in the backpack...the best $35 dollars we've ever spent.  Mike has insisted on no more "sling" pictures.  November is a perfect time to be here.  It's about 80 degrees and the island has lots of shade and beautiful landscapes / gardens.  We probably stayed a little too long.  Bella didn't make it back to the hotel in time for a nap so daddy's shoulder was good enough.   How that plays out tonight is yet to be determined.  Last night's dinner at a traditional Cantoneserestaurant found mostly bone and gristle with a hint of actual meat.  Tonight's dinner; back to McDonald's.  Not good, but at least a 'for sure thing'.  I think we have had more McDonald's in China this week than all the previous 10 months of the year combined back in the USA.   
 
We have been blessed by the many families we have met here who are adopting; many are back for a second round.  We've been humbled to hear their stories and wish we would have more time to share with each other.  Faith has been a common thread woven through most of the adoption stories.  It was amazing how much we were both encouraged and strengthened by their stories today.  God is good!
 
December 2nd doesn't seem so far away now that we are in our final week.  We are counting the days until we can see Peyton! 
 
Blessings to you all,
Mike, Brook and Bella Bug
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