Yesterday was Tuesday, February 26th. We basically had a free day, we needed to be back in the room to get Penelope's TB test results in the afternoon, otherwise we were open.
After breakfast we took a cab to Shamian Island.
Shamian Island is a part of Guangzhou that has a rich history in China adoption. The US consulate used to be on the island along with the White Swan hotel so all adoptive families stayed there.
As is life, things change. The consulate has a new location off the island and the White Swan hotel has been under renovation for years. adoptive families generally don't stay on the island anymore but it is still a popular place to visit and shop.
Beautiful architecture with almost a southern feel.
Weather was perfect for walking around and enjoying the day.
So about these statues. This is not an official adoption milestone, but it is. I have read blog after blog, seen picture after picture of other families at these same statutes.
Finally it was my turn. With my daughter. Another emotional, 'I can't believe we're really here' moment.
Usually you stand your baby between these last 2 kids. Um yeah, my baby can't stand yet. Still cute :).
She's found her tongue!
We had a chop made for Penelope with both her Chinese and English name. It's a hand carved stamp. Beautiful, truly a treasure.
Jason modeling a funny hat. 
This lady liked Penelope. Or more likely, she liked how much we bought from her shop. You can bargain here so Jason had fun. One last try. She didn't stand but other China mamas, this shows you how tiny she is. A head shorter than the statues.
Back to the room for a ready and to wait for the phone to ring. Our guide Jocelyn called us with the good news, Penelope's TB test was negative. One more hurdle cleared!
We ate dinner at a restaurant here in our hotel with Vern, Terry and their boys. Terry and I agree, is is kind of like summer camp. You become very close with people very quickly.
We miss the boys so much! We are almost to the point of counting down the hours!
7 comments:
Aww... Penelope & Family post:-) Too, cute! (Penelope finding her tongue)
Crying again!! Love that she is smiling and laughing and I love her tongue.
So awesome!!! Thanks again for sharing your experience. I have loved reading this and have almost felt like I was on the trip too! Safe travels. : ). Gena Bogard
I have just finished reading through all of your posts. pretty cool and amazing! I can't wait to meet her! hope you have safe travels home :) -Mandy S.
This has been amazing to follow. Cant even imaging how it was to be there! My cake wheels are turning....what can we make for a welcome home Penelope cake??
Dear Fulton family
My mother and father in law (Patricia and Stan Carpenter) told me about this blog. I'm so excited to see your new family addition and your entire family here. I've heard a lot of good things about you, and it's truly uplifting and joyful to read your story and see the love in your wonderful family thru this blog. Penelope is a lucky little girl to have such loving parents and brothers. Wish you all the very best! (and look forward to meet her some day)
Wei
She's a doll. Especially love the 1st picture of her in pink satin Qipao. She'll grow up to be a beauty queen. My daughter Caroline would love to meet her.
Wei
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