I am not going to go into particulars about our visit but it was well worth the long drive. It was also exceptionally hard on Katrine seeing not only another orphanage but one that was decidedly different from her own. That is why tomorrow will be all about shopping and having fun. She is super excited that we plan to go and see the musical fountains in August 1st square. I mean, you can’t come to the province where the Long March began and communism was born without seeing a communist landmark now can you?
Okay, I can tell you that the scenery between Nanchang and Shangrao is beautiful. Fields of rice, vegetables and even fresh water pearl farms. Rolling hills and some mountains in the distance. Both deciduous and confierous trees which is not what you would expect of a province with the 4th hottest city in all of China now is it? I will let Glenn tell you the stories about driving because he is much better at it. However, I can tell you that we learned that they do have rest stops on highways in China. They come complete with gas stations, restaurants, little stores and squat toilets. I must say, I am getting much better at them on this visit. I am also learning not to think about what my shoes might be stepping in when there is fluid surrounding the squat. It is just easier to think that some nice worker has just finished cleaning that stall.
Our guide, Tina, arranged for a tailor to visit our rooms tonight and we ordered a set of clothes for our arrival in Canada and Elspeth’s christening. What is really cool is that they will be made to fit and are still pretty cheap. Does that mean that they will be of superior quality? Well, one can hope. I got a red dress, Glenn a red tie and then two red dresses for the girls for the christening. Won’t we look smart? I won’t tell you about their home coming outfits because Katrine would be angry that I ruined the surprise. She was given the privilege of chosing the material for each item and it helped to end the day on a high note for her. The tailor was really sweet. She brought a small gift form each of the girls; a necklace with a squeeky sack on the bottom. Supposedly there is some symbolism attached to the item’s decorations (great mom that I am I can’t tell you what it is). I do know that it is meant to bring good luck.