Journey to Joy: Day #11 and #12

     Well, Tuesday wasn't much to write home about. So I did us all a favor and combined it with Wednesday's happenings...which also weren't much. At this point in our trip, I have hit my capacity for China. I miss our kiddos so much and wish my kisses and hugs reached through FaceTime computer screens. But, alas, they do not.
     On Tuesday, we did some sightseeing at a temple and then visited the Chen Clan Academy and Folk Art Museum...which we saw last trip too. The temple was obviously not our cup of tea due to religious differences...but the architecture and landscape were beautiful.

     The Chen Clan Academy replaced their little shops with other art, a small tourist gift shop, and a cafe. I was really bummed because we bought quite a few gifts here last time. The architecture and craftsmanship within the academy is amazing. It really is...but since we had been there before, it was more just something to keep us out of the hotel. Aliza tolerates the stroller, but would much rather be OUT of it. The problem arises, out of the stroller, when she doesn't want to move or walk with you. She'd rather just sit... outside of the stroller...on the ground.

     Tuesday's dinner was Outback at the fancy mall across the street. And it was SO good! Bloomin' onion and Alice Springs Chicken. Yum. Aliza had spaghetti because she is a noodle lover. She's already gained 3 lbs. since we've been together! Ha! 

     On Wednesday, we slept in and ate a late breakfast. This was Eric's goal at least once this trip. And today was the day! We pretty much laid around and played in the hotel most of the morning. Nothing exciting. Aliza figured out that using a hotel pen in her empty pom pom sorter makes a really good sound. She stirred and stirred and stirred!

     At 2:00 p.m., we traveled to Shamian Island one more time to pick up a few more gifts. Visiting the shop owners is such a treat so I was excited to do this again. We packed our empty carry-on FULL to the brim! Aliza enjoyed a snack on the way and a nap on the ride back.

     Tonight, in our true hermit fashion of the last two days, we had the buffet at the hotel. Not sure what we paid for it...but just put it on our tab. Ha! Aliza enjoyed her rice and noodles so that's all that matters. Next up is bath time and PACKING!

     This will be my last blog post from China and it's sort of bittersweet. Our plane leaves at 10:00 a m. tomorrow morning, but we depart from our  hotel at 6:45 a.m. Wel land in Beijing for a short layover and then head to Detroit with an estimated arrival of Thursday evening at 5:45 p.m. YAY! We have appreciated everyone's thoughts and prayers while we've been away. They have been felt in many ways during our stay. The next time I blog... we'll be in the U.S. of A.!