Confucius Temple

On Tuesday, March 3, our province coordinator "Denise" took us to a very large local marketplace called Confucius Temple. It was a rather cold afternoon and there were loads of people there - doing what people do at a marketplace. Well, almost. Dan and I got such a kick out of how much "to-do" the locals made out of a woman carrying a baby in a Snugli. You would have thought I was president of the world the way they would gather around and talk - all at once, mind you - about the newest Stumbaugh. Denise would talk away (in Chinese, of course) to them - smiling the whole time. We often heard how we were "great" and that Johnny's eyes were so wonderful. Let me tell you, when I say they gathered, I really mean they GATHERED. It was absolutely hysterical! I don't think I will ever forget it! We didn't get a picture of it this day, but we'll post one tomorrow if it happens again. I'm absolutely SURE it will. "Get out the camera!!!"

Madison and Abby - they sell 'nesting dolls' here! Hmmm...maybe you'll see a set of your own soon!!! Adam, we're still on the hunt for something really fun for you, too!

Oh yes, Stumbaugh family tradition begged for Mr. Jiahong to be photographed while Momma gave him his first bath. Unlike his older sisters and brother, however, HIS picture is going to be sent across everywheresville. Oh well - apologies later, Johnny. Until then, let me just make all of you smile looking at this little experience of the intimate kind. What a sweetie! If you look near his bellybutton, you'll see a well healed scar. When John was born, he had an abdominal opening which required immediate surgery. We're going to teach him to be proud of that awesome battle wound. An angel must have been watching over him to have come through that ordeal so well.

Well, we'll definitely post again. Being in China is a whole lot of fun, but this makes it so much nicer to be able to share our journey with all of you.

Madison, Abby and Adam - you are more precious to us than life itself. And, we love you up to the moon and back more times than any number can describe. We are told you are being such good children - and we are so incredibly proud of you. It won't be long now - you're half way there! "We can make this happen, guys!"