TENGWANG PAVILLION & MORE SIGHTS FROM CHINA

Today we were blessed to have the opportunity to visit a very historical sight in Malia's province, TengWang Pavillion. This structure was massive in height, encompassing six floors, and is actually the 29th reconstruction (it has been destroyed twenty eight times).

As we climbed the stairs to the pavillion, we were able to take in this beautiful scenery.

We went to the sixth floor first to see a small show. Our guides shared what the show was about, but we couldn't hear and missed their explanation of what we would see. Nonetheless, we enjoyed the show that had singing, dancing and musical instruments.

My favorite part of the pavillion came when we ran across a photo area that is similar to the types that take Old West or Victorian-like pictures. Here is a picture of our picture. It was so much fun, but Malia was tired and not enjoying the dress up.

The middle floors of the pavillion had gift shop areas. I've wanted to purchase some special gifts for Malia that come from her birth place, and today we bought a fan that has a picture of the famous TengWang Pavillion (the box itself is beautiful), a doll, and some nesting figures (I was thinking of you, Dad).

Spencer loves dragons and found this pendant, which has his name etched onto the back by the salesperson. Only he put "SPENCES" ... woops!

This evening after supper, as a special treat, we were given the opportunity to visit a fountain show. It was rainy and cold, but the show was spectacular and included music. Rick got video of it and Spencer took pictures. Here are a couple good shots.

Here are some other sights we snapped as we were out and about today.

But, here are the most precious sights in China these days ...

Now that we have some documents back from the Notary's Office, tomorrow afternoon we proceed with adoption paperwork - filling out Malia's visa application. We'll also be venturing back to Pedestrian Road to purchase an additional suitcase. There's no way we're fitting all that porcelain into the suitcases we have. Our guide, Elsie, thinks it's funny that we need another suitcase already. But in our defense, we were packed full on the way here to China with no extra room!