Today upon entering the hotel elevator we were scolded by an elderly Chinese woman for not having the baby's arms covered. Oops. We have heard this may happen. And we've had long sleeves on her every day except today, as it's a bit humid.
She spoke no English, but we got the hint easily with sign language. They bundle the babies here in lots of layers. I have to say that Phoebe Li is such a wiggle worm in my arms that we are both sweating all the time...so there's no chance she'll get chilly I promise.
We took the bus to the Six Banyan Buddhist Temple this morning. We were welcomed in to the courtyard to light incense and to make a wish. Except... we were warned by Dr Wen before departing for China, "if you go to the temple, best not to make a wish". He said if you make a wish, and it comes true, then you must return to the temple within one year to thank the Buddha. If you do not return, then some bad luck may occur. We don't want that.
Hmmmm...what to do?
Since all our wishes have clearly come true already, Dr Wen you'll be happy to know we did not make a wish. So Instead we gave thanks. Then our group entered the Grand Hall and the monk chanted, rang the gong, and gave all the babies a blessing. We were asked to bow in prayer 3 times.
Earlier when I was sitting with Phoebe Li in the temple courtyard an older Chinese woman approached me. She said hello to the baby and smiled. She gave me the thumbs up sign over and over, and nodded yes. And then she held her hands in prayer and bowed to me saying "Xie Xie, xie xie" (thank you, thank you). I thanked her back.
Oh it's been an emotional day.
Afterward we shopped at the Jade market and saw beautiful Jade jewelry and artwork. And since Memere is going to have a big birthday this year we bought her a little something. (See you soon Memere!)
The hotel has left a gift in our room..."Going Home Barbie". It's a blond malibu Barbie with blue eyes and a mini dress, and she is holding a Chinese baby. I had heard they do this, but was expecting a Chinese/Asian Barbie for Phoebe Li.
I guess this one's for me.
This afternoon I found a Starbuck's a couple of blocks away...you just can't escape it even in China. Though I'm having fun eating local foods while here, that latte tasted great I must say. And on the way back I stopped into a store called Jennifer's and bought Phoebe Li a silk Chinese traditional outfit for 50 yuan (about $7). The store clerk lent me a brand new stroller and said we could use it until we leave. No charge.
Phoebe Li is very happy today and still squealing and screeching on the bus. She giggles out loud when Dan runs around with her. And she babbles to herself alot dadadadadaaaaa. Today she steadied herself between the two beds in the hotel room and took two steps toward me. It's funny to see her standing and taking steps since she's so tiny.
When I'm holding her she waves at Dan, even though he's six inches away. So sweet...
We're having the time of our lives with our precious girl.
