MALIA'S MEDICAL - I THINK SHE PASSED!

Today was the medical exam for all the babies.

The exam is not extensive by any means. There are three stations and each takes about a minute. We began in the surgical station where Malia's head was measured, her lungs were listened to and then - the event that sent her into hysterics because she had to be sat down on a table and have her clothing removed - the doctor checked over her body. The doctor was very gentle, but you'd never have guessed. This child does not enjoy dressing or undressing. So, the screaming ensued throughout the remainder of the exam.

Here she is getting her temperature taken. At this station she also got her height and weight measured. The only piece of information offered to me - over her screaming - was that she weighed 17.5 pounds.

Then it was on to the final station to check her ears, nose and throat. Notice her thumb in her mouth and the other hand fidgeting with her hair.

I think we were the first family finished, so lucky us got more time to shop on Sheiman Island! The area is beautiful and has shops everywhere. If we'd had stayed at the White Swan or Victory Hotel, we'd be able to just walk out of the hotel lobbies and begin shopping. But the China Hotel is not on this little island, so when we go back we'll have to take taxis.

The atmosphere on Sheiman Island is just wonderful. There are beautiful trees and greenery, and many wedding couples can be seen getting their pictures taken. Our guide, Elsie, told us that Chinese people get their wedding pictures taken before or after their wedding day, not on their wedding day. It's no wonder this is a popular place for pictures. There are several statues in this area as well ...

Here is Spencer sporting his new shirt ...


Here's Mom enjoying the beauty of the island ...

And, here is Cindy guarding the extra suitcase we purchased to take home all our loot. Let me just say Rick bought a monster for $20.

Love the lanterns in the trees! Just beautiful!

We had our farewell supper tonight, even though most of us still have several more days here in Guangzhou. Some people will be leaving earlier, though. After being traumatized at the clinic and then being carried around in a carrier for a few hours, Miss Malia was in a slightly cranky mood. But, considering all this, she did a fantastic job today. Once we got to the restaurant we let her stretch her legs and walk around. She's really improving. Her balance is getting better. And sometimes she doesn't lean forward too much and is standing upright while she walks. Several times she has brushed off my left hand, only wanting me to help her with one hand. However, she leans and tends to go in circles when this happens. It's too funny. We're guessing, though, that it won't be long and she'll be taking off on her own. Already, my baby girl is growing up way too fast! Here she is walking down the hall at our hotel sporting her new hoodie ...

We've been waiting to find something with a hood!


Please keep Rick in your prayers, he hasn't been feeling well today.