Six Banyan Tree Temple

This morning we did a bit more siteseeing. We went to the famous Six Banyan Tree Temple (Buddist). We received a blessing on our family, performed by a Buddist Monk, who was wearing a Nike ski cap. He was very sweet with our group. When we went with Quinn, 2+ years ago, we went on a holy day or festival day and it was very crowed so that you could barely move or breath for all of the incense buring. Today, I guess was a more normal day at the temple, not crowded but certainly not empty or quiet. The Lucky numbers in China are 3, 8 and 9 - so we bow 3 times after our blessing, and when we lit insense we lit 3 sticks and made a wish or prayer and bowed 3 times before placing it in the burning incense cart. After the temple we went to a government run shopping center where they ensure the quality. They do have a lot of very nice things. We bought a little and looked a lot. Indigo enjoyed the outing and then enjoyed a good nap in the room this afternoon. While she slept I started packing - just wanting to make sure I can fit everything in - we may have to buy another small piece of luggage -we'll see. This evening they took us on a River boat dinner cruise. I can't say much for the food - I had a protein bar back in the room later. But the boat ride itself and seeing all the lights was wonderful - chilly - but wonderful.
Indigo, continues to show us more of her personality everyday. She loves to laugh and has a very funny little giggle. She is also coming up with new sounds everyday. She makes a very good piglet sound and this evening started making a very good snake sound. She continues to babble a lot and likes singing - both listening to others and trying it herself. Maybe she and Quinn can have a band some day.

Quinn, we are so excited that you are getting everything ready for Indigo's birthday party. The hats look perfect! Are we going to make a ladybug cake like the one you had? We're also glad you are enjoying your basket of surprises for the countdown until we get home. There can't be too much left in that basket now. And just so you know, we also like to look back over all the pictures everytime we look at the blog. We love you, and miss you and we are so excited to come home to you. We are so very very proud of you - you really are a very big girl and a terrific big sister, Jie Jie. We're sending more hugs and kisses. And waving at you.