Inconsistent Ramblings

April 7, 2005
Hangzhou (still) 6:32pm China time (4:32am MDT)

We had another fun yet busy day. We started out on a boat ride on
West Lake, the "Pearl of Hangzhou." It was beautiful. We saw
pagodas, the Hangzhou skyline and the surrounding mountains. Then we
walked around the gardens - the peach trees are in bloom and the
garden smelled terrific. A group of 20something Chinese girls mobbed
us and wanted photos with us and TA - the movie star. He smiled
and waved at all of them.

We saw ponds of koi and pagodas and peacocks. Then we went to a tea
plantation. This was amazing. They were picking the new leaves to
make Dragon Well green tea. This is the best tea of the year - they
pick every season except winter. We also had a tea ceremony and
learned the many uses of the green tea. The country side was filled
with tea trees and the workers wearing straw hats picking leaves.

Lunch was incredible. We had Beggars Chicken - cooked in a bag.
Very tasty. The fish was wonderful as well - they brought it out for
us to see prior to cooking it - and I don't know if I will get used
to eating fish with the head attached. TA liked everything except
the scallions and peas in the rice. He loved the lotus root stuffed
with rice.

He is still smiling and laughing a lot. Took another nap in the
sling, and really enjoys playing with the girls - especially XC since they understand each other. He will smile and wave at
everyone and folks are always staring at us - TA with his white
hair and M with his two Chinese girls. We make quite a scene.
It is rather fun.

XC and Rebecca were singing Chinese kids songs and TA was
listening and clapping. He likes music and XC sings
beautifully. She is also quite the little gymnast. The E's are
going to have their hands full with her, just as we are with our
little guy.

I will write tomorrow - Mom's birthday.

love and prayers to all
C