Prayers for Joy

Today we are heading out for another tour. However, after skying with my mother this morning, I would like to ask for all to pray for Joy. Her back is draining again and her wound has gotten bigger. My mother had to take her back to the surgeon once again. We are very concerned as we are approaching 1 month after surgery and the wound is not improving and still open to infection. Please lift her up to our Heavenly Father, that he would put his healing touch upon her and heal her completely.

"Heal me O LORD, and I shall be healed; Save me and I shall be saved, for You are my praise."
Jeremiah 17:14

Sunday- Tour to Chen Family Temple

No the haziness in all the pictures is not our camera. It is the air. No blue skies in China! Pollution is choking this country!

Hi All,

Today we enjoyed a great breakfast and then headed for a tour of a local landmark, the Chen Family Temple. We were able to see some wonderful handiwork and antique furniture, not to mention, the unique architecture. We ended the evening with pizza from Papa John's. Joshua is doing wonderfully and enjoys being outside and riding in his stroller. He is always up for an adventure.

Saturday-Medical Exam

We arrived in Guangzhou late last night and all fell fast asleep. We awoke this morning and all rushed to breakfast. It was such a treat to have so much to choose from! Joshua enjoyed his favorite watermelon and a steamed egg (hard boiled). He is not much of a breakfast eater, but makes up for it at dinner. We then set out for our visa medical appointment. I can't stress enough how comical this process is. They weigh each child, squeak a toy in their ear, listen to their heart, and give a PPD test. Joshua was given a clean bill of health, however we have to wait on the TB test he was given. Please pray it is a non reactive result! We will have it read on Monday. Now, we are off to check out the local scene here in Guangzhou. Yes, we already hit Starbucks this morning!!

Bullet Train, Baby!

After some haggling, begging and pleading, our adoption agency went out of their way to help us book the bullet train. I am extremely glad that we did! It was worth fighting for. The train was fast, comfortable, clean and affordable! My only complaint is that we only had about an hour of daylight left when we boarded. All in all, it was a great experience!

Did I say fast? (207 mph!!!)

Did I say comfortable? (zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz)

Clean! (as a whistle)

Who is more excited, man or boy?

Train Station

Yellow Crane Tower

Yellow Crane Tower
Top Floor

Garden

We had the pleasure of touring the yellow crane tower in Wuhan. This tower sits on top of a hill and provides a 360 degree view of the city of Wuhan. The tower, although new, was built to look like a traditional Chinese tower. The tower gets its name from a local legend about a woman, monk and a magical drawing.

East Lake

Pizza Hut

Notice Joshua's version of thumbs up

All 2 year old boy!

The Ivey family( -2) We miss you Joy and Andrew!!!!!!

They are both doing well with Grandma and Aunt Lisa. Joy's back is healing slowly, but making progress. She will return to the doctor the week after we return. Andrew has been doing a great job in soccer and is eagering awaiting the arrival of his little brother. Please continue to pray for the family at home.

Our visit to East Lake. Joshua loved running along the walkway and was ready to jump in the water. I think we have another FISH on our hands. All the Iveys kids love to swim!

You can't catch me!

Can we get in?

What a sweet face!

Thursday- Visit to Aunt Jessica

Today we had the wonderful opportunity to visit with my sister Jessica and tour her school here in Wuhan. After meeting her staff and friends we headed for her apartment for some family time and dinner. It was so wonderful to be able to share some laughs as Joshua put on his charm. He is a hoot! We are all feeling well and looking forward to heading to our next destination tomorrow-Guangzhou.