We got into Guangzhou late and had to work on paperwork before the kids medical exams in the morning. Then, since we had not eaten since breakfast, we went out for a late dinner. That, on top of the fact that VPN at the Garden is being finicky tonight, means that this will be a quick update with hopefully more tomorrow.
I will say that we were again very blessed upon our arrival to The Garden Hotel. I am hesitant to post how well this adoption trip is going because I would hate for someone who has never done this before to think that everything is gum drops and roses. This has, however, been our easiest and most enjoyable trip to date. The one concern that Kelly and I did have was staying at The Garden. We had a junior suite last time, which worked, but it only had one bathroom and we used a couple of air mattresses in the “living room” to fit everyone in. It wasn’t perfect, but survivable. One bathroom WAS a little challenging, especially with all those girls.
Upon arriving at The Garden, we were told by our temporary guide, Grace (love, love love Grace. We had her before three years ago and while she will not be our full time guide during this trip, it was wonderful to see her again this evening) that we had been upgraded to an apartment in the older tower. I had heard about these things but had never seen one. It is, to be honest, amazing! If I can get things working I will give you a little video tour. But it is two floors, with a living area upstairs including a large front room, dining room, and full kitchen with a refrigerator and washer and dryer. The lower level has three bedrooms and two bathrooms. We are living large! It is a little dated and could use renovation, but we are certainly not complaining. We will take this as a blessing and be thankful. The three girls are sleeping on a king bed, while Kelly and I are in one bedroom and the boys are in the other.
Tomorrow we leave early for medical exams for the three kiddos. Not our favorite part of the trip, but one more step closer to home.
We will check in with you tomorrow sometime!
Cameron