tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44914765405923177702024-02-22T08:08:53.345-08:00The Drissell DrivewayFind out what's happening in our little part of the world!Tracy Parentin Drissellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747129170116070099noreply@blogger.comBlogger54125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491476540592317770.post-70293805705395606762011-03-29T13:25:00.001-07:002011-03-29T13:25:34.639-07:00Thinking about the kids in Hengyang today!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="295" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/1zraLtFhpYc?fs=1" width="480"></iframe></div>Tracy Parentin Drissellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747129170116070099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491476540592317770.post-36352731979085691722011-01-11T12:14:00.000-08:002011-01-11T12:14:05.320-08:00One Year!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We are amazed that one year has passed since we met Lexi in Changsha, China! Take a look at the difference one year makes. Last January 11th...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKQe_0dEnf7_n9SjzKyfOioIjL30-PgyFExvaGzqIKjCsxaJh45u2GZPL9WnHXO6yiI7aJb3l3kJAQZQGrHN4vvJU0Ulz0o4sCWexXI1iN_MbnpvnUw2qux5BvkhWbM3wLds6hA_E8XqTA/s1600/Copy+of+1.10.10+014-736356.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKQe_0dEnf7_n9SjzKyfOioIjL30-PgyFExvaGzqIKjCsxaJh45u2GZPL9WnHXO6yiI7aJb3l3kJAQZQGrHN4vvJU0Ulz0o4sCWexXI1iN_MbnpvnUw2qux5BvkhWbM3wLds6hA_E8XqTA/s320/Copy+of+1.10.10+014-736356.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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</div>Tracy Parentin Drissellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747129170116070099noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491476540592317770.post-85412168446183604692010-09-29T11:52:00.000-07:002010-09-29T11:52:43.922-07:00Walk the Wall 2010We "Walked the Wall " last Saturday to raise funds for ICC International China Concern. Without this group of caring volunteers we would not have been able to adopt Lexi! In 2008, they were responsible for getting her the medical attention needed for her to survive. Last year, Lexi "Walked the Wall" in Hengyang, China with her caretakers. She had just started walking.... and she toddled her way along. This year, she RAN! Thank you everyone at ICC!<br />
If you would like more info on "Walk the Wall" here is their link.<br />
<a href="http://www.walkthewall.org/">http://www.walkthewall.org/</a><br />
This is why we walked this year.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0AP9aoTThI-lnf5jCxOt9fxAkb8lf7qjY2u3vZuUFQbsaYsgkQLH8QuoFKTRpHfYxosYsXm_V6IELO7NahItqerACcv5i3B7UbxmoY0RnLFpuTmsfOGpvK7BuRY_F8YIKjaKEd_CTbWTc/s1600/lexipooped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0AP9aoTThI-lnf5jCxOt9fxAkb8lf7qjY2u3vZuUFQbsaYsgkQLH8QuoFKTRpHfYxosYsXm_V6IELO7NahItqerACcv5i3B7UbxmoY0RnLFpuTmsfOGpvK7BuRY_F8YIKjaKEd_CTbWTc/s320/lexipooped.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Tracy Parentin Drissellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747129170116070099noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491476540592317770.post-63464867021412223392010-09-15T13:11:00.000-07:002010-09-15T13:11:37.928-07:00Happy Birthday little Rainbow!Here are some pics from the 2nd birthday.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6CcTgVjcuckHDs7B50CYXC9PPOy3DCwsVjsdWFanXBTDmFZj5ynGHIS7JLt3pTj3WU9zE3mgQAXkbB0WcVysiALXhhf67Y5LQl52CRjh_LzZU2OUPEJZQTbi3OSug9g2vsM1PDh3gVFP3/s320/DSC_0030.JPG" /></a>Tracy Parentin Drissellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747129170116070099noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491476540592317770.post-87982251237522311322010-09-15T12:07:00.000-07:002010-09-15T12:07:46.113-07:00First day of School<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvvOc9n0YOWoEOCdmzAbCemTWBno0ZS7Ag8lSRlLcIaeFzVnU_g_qubdw_rfUYGOm-XBPgUwgQ76l4HcCXLF5vzx381FF6I92MzCJFLChi3JMdA_VEPcf77d9EKFimFv72fQaMp_oRlpnQ/s1600/DSC_0185.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvvOc9n0YOWoEOCdmzAbCemTWBno0ZS7Ag8lSRlLcIaeFzVnU_g_qubdw_rfUYGOm-XBPgUwgQ76l4HcCXLF5vzx381FF6I92MzCJFLChi3JMdA_VEPcf77d9EKFimFv72fQaMp_oRlpnQ/s320/DSC_0185.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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Do these kids look excited for a new year of school or what?Tracy Parentin Drissellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747129170116070099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491476540592317770.post-66110311547445009562010-07-30T04:55:00.001-07:002010-07-30T04:55:54.799-07:00Summer Vacation '10<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1jAVi8eo45-MJ4hs5kRBhxVK9_iaiK3qxz7Q54OZ7xIuJJOxgOwBKG0EZV7bgpkWCH1AFH33rbEdOlKthK78ATRR9L_DGi3NZgdXGmW6h9iFd2HjS8cPXF3SbjsUBpI8qC_RxU0QdbSYW/s1600/7.28.10+095-754800.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1jAVi8eo45-MJ4hs5kRBhxVK9_iaiK3qxz7Q54OZ7xIuJJOxgOwBKG0EZV7bgpkWCH1AFH33rbEdOlKthK78ATRR9L_DGi3NZgdXGmW6h9iFd2HjS8cPXF3SbjsUBpI8qC_RxU0QdbSYW/s320/7.28.10+095-754800.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499666773239687074" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqpRJhuA_CZhfRGxTdUQBnLN-Rv7N2tlX1mFuoK2xSxLZS5YNy82ZC03xeyYFWCmvvDse0GggdRo_13e25r6BHYVakJqhHPTMlmHvl9Op9NvXKH8L4MAW7Mqk1LYrAvsUbyKtd-LLZeRLi/s1600/7.28.10+101-756608.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqpRJhuA_CZhfRGxTdUQBnLN-Rv7N2tlX1mFuoK2xSxLZS5YNy82ZC03xeyYFWCmvvDse0GggdRo_13e25r6BHYVakJqhHPTMlmHvl9Op9NvXKH8L4MAW7Mqk1LYrAvsUbyKtd-LLZeRLi/s320/7.28.10+101-756608.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499666782939301330" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrQOzFxgO1i8gxZEg85vZOORrdzQqhQ-7Sxh0TA5hT2aJ9sQzTpQLW3nnaJVUmIIVs9o-F3XhezaYl7NHInOyJRvbzwBbzcOdLV4xZC9flp8JM0ztqMozG270MZTreFmIq4NlmWgNPtN9P/s1600/7.28.10+102-757814.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrQOzFxgO1i8gxZEg85vZOORrdzQqhQ-7Sxh0TA5hT2aJ9sQzTpQLW3nnaJVUmIIVs9o-F3XhezaYl7NHInOyJRvbzwBbzcOdLV4xZC9flp8JM0ztqMozG270MZTreFmIq4NlmWgNPtN9P/s320/7.28.10+102-757814.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499666785544772818" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzDeOE2S5KJ4L-HUu6WUgn-HLim8-k4UlLY8B9epr7f42mzcjZpfgW2w9BtWWyPKzFo5Rrn9I7tCp3bdJvGRXk_UNC4uQtB9dv32GA4DYqInQFu0BJGLUa-AtDfM_0a9jJatVbWS5ZortM/s1600/7.23.10+008-760690.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzDeOE2S5KJ4L-HUu6WUgn-HLim8-k4UlLY8B9epr7f42mzcjZpfgW2w9BtWWyPKzFo5Rrn9I7tCp3bdJvGRXk_UNC4uQtB9dv32GA4DYqInQFu0BJGLUa-AtDfM_0a9jJatVbWS5ZortM/s320/7.23.10+008-760690.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499666796294104626" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWDLCLG6kIDFtL0rfoxf-qy8ErSAOjMAQ3IKjPO8UGPm_RZxmMrYPB6z30qd-QEEgSNSMsd8hAV-qcmOApCdmpr6nl4TdsrHvY7c6q9vQHH0mo4qf-gdBI3SK1GptBzLps36vtpK2FPBET/s1600/7.28.10+010-761835.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWDLCLG6kIDFtL0rfoxf-qy8ErSAOjMAQ3IKjPO8UGPm_RZxmMrYPB6z30qd-QEEgSNSMsd8hAV-qcmOApCdmpr6nl4TdsrHvY7c6q9vQHH0mo4qf-gdBI3SK1GptBzLps36vtpK2FPBET/s320/7.28.10+010-761835.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499666803820202418" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRkII3dQJMzd40y0V-wLGCiPVNk1348UkHsf-C0F9Kfj6xpopEbZ9FLAwjcfhNu83WXJyzl5ePFNKkJNu6biYFuE_atrDKOTAnTBCAdC4zwjuzWpXs3k4fCUT25ei8e4C55sheZWoOI4MM/s1600/7.28.10+085-762702.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRkII3dQJMzd40y0V-wLGCiPVNk1348UkHsf-C0F9Kfj6xpopEbZ9FLAwjcfhNu83WXJyzl5ePFNKkJNu6biYFuE_atrDKOTAnTBCAdC4zwjuzWpXs3k4fCUT25ei8e4C55sheZWoOI4MM/s320/7.28.10+085-762702.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499666806121058626" /></a></p><DIV><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=093032911-30072010>A great last few days at Captiva with plenty of fun, sun and KIDS. Enjoyed beach time, bike rides, "Big Blue" (rest if peace), and beautiful sunsets. . .</SPAN></FONT></DIV>Tracy Parentin Drissellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747129170116070099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491476540592317770.post-72398045432633260602010-07-28T21:24:00.000-07:002010-07-28T21:26:50.507-07:00Summer Vacation '10 - Horizon Format<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPuARDqVWEMCMA0Miy2vCdDlbsFTawcRZyiNYacHCvwLMhVMACyXu-qzgwpBIxKA2ZjOe2IYaL4Hi4NP1cBYhnb0Vl7COdoFa_-GNXOjOJiVhLibjKq1RKaktrYpQzCm2J0WmwJtTkt3SY/s1600/7.28.10+037-710508.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPuARDqVWEMCMA0Miy2vCdDlbsFTawcRZyiNYacHCvwLMhVMACyXu-qzgwpBIxKA2ZjOe2IYaL4Hi4NP1cBYhnb0Vl7COdoFa_-GNXOjOJiVhLibjKq1RKaktrYpQzCm2J0WmwJtTkt3SY/s320/7.28.10+037-710508.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499179964061403506" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a 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href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Bbb7UDjZNQyOkdMbv20L4K3RZ3XxlVQQqYIpSOBw_792pY0gSSzCfDqw7BQBZM8Fk2550ctkWjNE8-KNxvaPqqAfh4lzqzrDwX-fJc62ceB_ovPR05_UF-DvmttkvmDx54gayc6qVZDd/s1600/7.26.10+192-731300.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Bbb7UDjZNQyOkdMbv20L4K3RZ3XxlVQQqYIpSOBw_792pY0gSSzCfDqw7BQBZM8Fk2550ctkWjNE8-KNxvaPqqAfh4lzqzrDwX-fJc62ceB_ovPR05_UF-DvmttkvmDx54gayc6qVZDd/s320/7.26.10+192-731300.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499180053311463554" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMaiBq_KwVtIUw5wO1keHiP8tQPI34m8ItAMxdUScyfS0jNdjHjCuSOhdyao9GOtg0pefdnQ0mqIR_7c8v4g8UfKgRsoPYW-McKIX2jrdDO6VS1SZXGfXTe1wVrFxnQhkhqcJUVzBJM-8b/s1600/7.19.10+133-732698.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMaiBq_KwVtIUw5wO1keHiP8tQPI34m8ItAMxdUScyfS0jNdjHjCuSOhdyao9GOtg0pefdnQ0mqIR_7c8v4g8UfKgRsoPYW-McKIX2jrdDO6VS1SZXGfXTe1wVrFxnQhkhqcJUVzBJM-8b/s320/7.19.10+133-732698.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499180058952456690" /></a></p><DIV><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=359231804-29072010>Felt inspired to go horizontal. . .Will be closing out and packing up tomorrow for the journey home.</SPAN></FONT></DIV>Tracy Parentin Drissellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747129170116070099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491476540592317770.post-88078990444371798602010-07-26T21:37:00.000-07:002010-07-26T21:38:05.683-07:00Summer Vacation '10 - Day 10, Fishing Trip<p class="mobile-photo"><a 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href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizIf7_bKpt-FFTfYhtRjh0L7Xx_oTuPHdmZzQ9NxNdbcyEetCcN2UryUvhUZ-ETbNjfR_x4mS9hJsr44mT3GUEfgU-k9qyeEVeA-i0V_5LNCVomfqn9ug4gjo4pl2GqihRe7mTxLECpz0L/s1600/7.26.10+227-797057.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizIf7_bKpt-FFTfYhtRjh0L7Xx_oTuPHdmZzQ9NxNdbcyEetCcN2UryUvhUZ-ETbNjfR_x4mS9hJsr44mT3GUEfgU-k9qyeEVeA-i0V_5LNCVomfqn9ug4gjo4pl2GqihRe7mTxLECpz0L/s320/7.26.10+227-797057.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498440743281174658" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBi234LMAhpR6sVY4ZXc2vFyKMF3l6U1hCeCbr-1BKyUVMdi63lR6RuFiRNiYr5Qtl3QJdhId413GvnoAFqXCOUXyLs7CYahbJAQLBPHsDaH_9ZLFW9b_ROEf5Qa6r6yiUbXvFXOGIZ967/s1600/7.26.10+241-798981.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBi234LMAhpR6sVY4ZXc2vFyKMF3l6U1hCeCbr-1BKyUVMdi63lR6RuFiRNiYr5Qtl3QJdhId413GvnoAFqXCOUXyLs7CYahbJAQLBPHsDaH_9ZLFW9b_ROEf5Qa6r6yiUbXvFXOGIZ967/s320/7.26.10+241-798981.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498440753009059954" /></a></p><DIV><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=406392004-27072010>The boys enjoyed a guided fishing excursion today that went much better than expected (aside from Dave, not a lot of fishing experience out there. . .).</SPAN></FONT></DIV> <DIV><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=406392004-27072010>Starting at sunrise, Capt. George got us set up with tackle, bait, rods and the right places to drop a line.</SPAN></FONT></DIV> <DIV><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=406392004-27072010>We ended up catching and releasing over 50 fish, with 4 keepers (three spotted sea trout, one flounder).</SPAN></FONT></DIV> <DIV align=left><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=406392004-27072010>An exciting morning of new experiences and a great fresh fish dinner this evening (followed by desert courtesy of Bubble Room!).</SPAN></FONT></DIV> <DIV><FONT face=Arial size=2></FONT> </DIV>Tracy Parentin Drissellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747129170116070099noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491476540592317770.post-34861559857192844072010-07-23T20:55:00.001-07:002010-07-23T20:55:57.194-07:00Summer Vacation '10 - Day 4-7<p class="mobile-photo"><a 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src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgomuPSQaUWLxZGA_olS3bLL8NFPVz83g-_G_VycJeNRN3FDSXAoz8FNSZupGUTnWFlQU9LwLhXY9gBy47YUq3vbX_vccr-YG7xvSRaPgRvmlQgteLK9J3S8VKqRHrjOp4tqo1El8NI4LAe/s320/7.23.10+004-758378.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5497316583341835554" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGctUpXYTNLJFwwREPeHTx-2FhuKz_66LVOBOaMwhyd-4HwN_pE3y0N2_Z9dVupEhC1_ccZxzX9gGjQ8hyphenhyphenWlc9wXeW2AkkiYSOejognCwKLel4yD4H8k3t0cEONAfzlDsnwFN3ub5nq9Nu/s1600/7.23.10+018-759750.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGctUpXYTNLJFwwREPeHTx-2FhuKz_66LVOBOaMwhyd-4HwN_pE3y0N2_Z9dVupEhC1_ccZxzX9gGjQ8hyphenhyphenWlc9wXeW2AkkiYSOejognCwKLel4yD4H8k3t0cEONAfzlDsnwFN3ub5nq9Nu/s320/7.23.10+018-759750.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5497316586318079106" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a 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src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbtWBlbUIiJtJj5CusKvP3AYSvG2yquoPRZyjV1-DGSdCA0BFgcZ2RDHK0brLRFTOQ3FJrsxJwZY901IRJr33MWrXJYxDYdmDD3YAhOM_vajwheS98-a6Y8Jc4JA2nf99SViy6YnDVrr4t/s320/7.23.10+050-762271.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5497316602802804082" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_SUcSQdz0Pvp2vZD9Q3vu-6LlyxZc3YlPOvJXrPTZxYZcPv2wCo0Bs-Yp46c4vU07AiJ9heWdeKVo6-gWYXHTfI2UclhQxRM33WlZAFJEZhiUr1C-BPyOBDUHcCG3xmJn4Tgaqxlj6BIs/s1600/7.23.10+092-763309.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_SUcSQdz0Pvp2vZD9Q3vu-6LlyxZc3YlPOvJXrPTZxYZcPv2wCo0Bs-Yp46c4vU07AiJ9heWdeKVo6-gWYXHTfI2UclhQxRM33WlZAFJEZhiUr1C-BPyOBDUHcCG3xmJn4Tgaqxlj6BIs/s320/7.23.10+092-763309.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5497316604180237906" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidM7YxRJS3oXSuXfBm7JD9agVJaSQh89qktae-1uzliX4ePqXhHJS2BljExq2oKOVwU1g7svXe1hhoxjFedtM2RfJ6COGHp-DmjFh-mOjZUFtXWTPC6Gdh9uQiLpK5jPuwbgHj3h5gZBxL/s1600/7.23.10+061-764278.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidM7YxRJS3oXSuXfBm7JD9agVJaSQh89qktae-1uzliX4ePqXhHJS2BljExq2oKOVwU1g7svXe1hhoxjFedtM2RfJ6COGHp-DmjFh-mOjZUFtXWTPC6Gdh9uQiLpK5jPuwbgHj3h5gZBxL/s320/7.23.10+061-764278.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5497316609615285810" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuEvV5FlUi0QuuxgpEZx7F9vUWB_W2uzm-QEtvD4kbM_X3PsKs6jRdSjt8X_2sbgC8_YqJyHQRu8t0UleuMH2tYWFGeBRSHCoNfm-qRcziYkaunf3XbpZmVM3u10cjmfnTZuNcmN08DhGh/s1600/7.23.10+148-766541.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuEvV5FlUi0QuuxgpEZx7F9vUWB_W2uzm-QEtvD4kbM_X3PsKs6jRdSjt8X_2sbgC8_YqJyHQRu8t0UleuMH2tYWFGeBRSHCoNfm-qRcziYkaunf3XbpZmVM3u10cjmfnTZuNcmN08DhGh/s320/7.23.10+148-766541.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5497316619978587426" /></a></p><DIV><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=765160003-24072010>The past few days have just flown. . .typical Captiva days of beach time, sandcastles, biking, tennis, walks and swimming at the pool. We have enjoyed sunny skies and warm weather all week long, but today, Tropical Storm Bonnie rolled in and changed all that. Not as bad as we expected; the rains have been steady and the winds picked up, but not nearly the carnage we expected. It did give the boys time in the surf with the biggest waves yet!</SPAN></FONT></DIV> <DIV><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=765160003-24072010></SPAN></FONT> </DIV> <DIV><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=765160003-24072010>We also picked up Dave, Lannette and Maisyn at the airport last night as they are joining us for the week. We enjoyed their company today for more fun at the beach (and pool) as well as shelling (Dave pulled several large whelks from the sand) and of course, a fresh seafood dinner. Maisyn seems to love the water as much as Lexi and they are looking forward to hours of swim time together.</SPAN></FONT></DIV>Tracy Parentin Drissellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747129170116070099noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491476540592317770.post-20330929202976318722010-07-19T21:53:00.001-07:002010-07-19T21:53:48.405-07:00Summer Vacation '10 - Day 3<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4LtAQYuUof0l9UZSRrV7FNh9yQhuDkXZe5_4zVmn87wPSJDQfQtqDDNbWUrs3z3-3kJ4JkLXkOhQMSnuoG75slyCb6fQRcZrwXPmcX64CAI6YIKjg7VfxbhHiMPGo8emcqFuDt53BQOGy/s1600/7.19.10+096-728407.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4LtAQYuUof0l9UZSRrV7FNh9yQhuDkXZe5_4zVmn87wPSJDQfQtqDDNbWUrs3z3-3kJ4JkLXkOhQMSnuoG75slyCb6fQRcZrwXPmcX64CAI6YIKjg7VfxbhHiMPGo8emcqFuDt53BQOGy/s320/7.19.10+096-728407.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495847147108728082" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJrGT-kGkgtgYLfRv39eDr6sNZD3bL9PKV0gxiY8izVmpqQWAqi9FeI0KsuC4D502WTRkkGBEsE_kFnZ1hVTmu4ByjgyQbJ-S-VXlPcWKZ4bY5-ZW_xx6cGtjU48ofQOODYHSUX4eVFWpE/s1600/7.19.10+124-729765.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJrGT-kGkgtgYLfRv39eDr6sNZD3bL9PKV0gxiY8izVmpqQWAqi9FeI0KsuC4D502WTRkkGBEsE_kFnZ1hVTmu4ByjgyQbJ-S-VXlPcWKZ4bY5-ZW_xx6cGtjU48ofQOODYHSUX4eVFWpE/s320/7.19.10+124-729765.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495847151497746962" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs243f8kyYKNsBAICztFVExCiTzKc-QaKlivEgS_i8tEmcOO-qHTNIguZWuoxnFLvLQrpTshiYA2GZaS_-z3oOJV_01ICol8M1KAGnkcPZ32b28b8faGMY_8f3TeHFxwd8XIC7hyphenhyphenEYSLNJ/s1600/7.19.10+129-731337.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs243f8kyYKNsBAICztFVExCiTzKc-QaKlivEgS_i8tEmcOO-qHTNIguZWuoxnFLvLQrpTshiYA2GZaS_-z3oOJV_01ICol8M1KAGnkcPZ32b28b8faGMY_8f3TeHFxwd8XIC7hyphenhyphenEYSLNJ/s320/7.19.10+129-731337.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495847158923363090" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtiHP0Yg86PnKv0K6kC2ziBD8wPzZz9gRh4F4rsKzJrQR0ctFDOcCuhuq2epEsvK2EG5VJvcviTB867QCljMi-bTeE9uBTtOxWVOJVebRcZ3p9MmoiWgtwLqK8-H9H6AUmKCIBTCIlsKA5/s1600/7.19.10+143-732724.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtiHP0Yg86PnKv0K6kC2ziBD8wPzZz9gRh4F4rsKzJrQR0ctFDOcCuhuq2epEsvK2EG5VJvcviTB867QCljMi-bTeE9uBTtOxWVOJVebRcZ3p9MmoiWgtwLqK8-H9H6AUmKCIBTCIlsKA5/s320/7.19.10+143-732724.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495847162785461298" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvw1E1mmA-F9H9euJQHA1TfYmjpjckZvcH9TSkvDUETfr6UILXqXGtEbR6uZEveM0kOhWQcqVG8jo9ymYI-2RHkHBFnpLEpc4m8q919VqJgu1suJgDHM8V6PjhLnLsTByXa_0YiIGKW2rI/s1600/7.19.10+150-733995.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvw1E1mmA-F9H9euJQHA1TfYmjpjckZvcH9TSkvDUETfr6UILXqXGtEbR6uZEveM0kOhWQcqVG8jo9ymYI-2RHkHBFnpLEpc4m8q919VqJgu1suJgDHM8V6PjhLnLsTByXa_0YiIGKW2rI/s320/7.19.10+150-733995.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495847171912521234" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoOryRrUlGlH-Ocy-KPMoNbJ3RGnREuAZx0sVWdsTBoEUC6H7qJYk9fdyuk-0SoD-mtfxfhvgqBJcEPT8zkcwgs3xhA-5BjoZ45RrcW80IjVQRHMYg-h1VtQa2QZU6I5avdrsOoO4YYam1/s1600/7.19.10+148-736179.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoOryRrUlGlH-Ocy-KPMoNbJ3RGnREuAZx0sVWdsTBoEUC6H7qJYk9fdyuk-0SoD-mtfxfhvgqBJcEPT8zkcwgs3xhA-5BjoZ45RrcW80IjVQRHMYg-h1VtQa2QZU6I5avdrsOoO4YYam1/s320/7.19.10+148-736179.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495847178938712034" /></a></p><DIV><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=835333404-20072010>Pretty exciting morning, as it was both Lexi's and Jack's first trip to the beach! Both were extremely brave, as they did not waste any time jumping in. Water was warm, but there were the usual stories of large fish, sting rays, and sharks. . .but no official spottings, and certainly not enough to hold us back. In fact, Jack not only swam in the ocean, but paddled out to the buoys with the boys. We had a great time finding a few starfish, playing a little tennis, and swimming at the pool before it poured this afternoon (which apparently has been pretty common around here lately. . .a quick, afternoon shower to cool things off).</SPAN></FONT></DIV> <DIV><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=835333404-20072010></SPAN></FONT> </DIV> <DIV><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=835333404-20072010>Temps not too bad, the water not too hot, but the "no-see-'ums" out in force. . .Tonight had dinner at R.C. Otter's and took a stroll down to the beach at the Mucky Duck. No sunset to write home about, but beautiful darker cloud formations. That, along with the lightning show last night, and the afternoon storms today, has started things off with exciting weather patterns here at Captiva. (Also wanted to report to the Powells that Sally was successfully released back to nature last night, much to the delight of her family. . .)!</SPAN></FONT></DIV>Tracy Parentin Drissellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747129170116070099noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491476540592317770.post-64731816674655471872010-07-19T21:26:00.000-07:002010-07-19T21:27:19.992-07:00Summer Vacation '10 - Day 1-2<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTOzaYrlnhhWtBP7G4CNbXE8AkVgeuAkeTzzy_2MwhwVsYTTmhAwjaHVSrpGonpLpHneiDKitFAifdTkJ2jWwlTfrnHP9WPBzJOF2DDmryEQ0v7LY_3RwNcElq2V9jM3axqRTxhzCbVw2q/s1600/7.19.10+085-739993.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTOzaYrlnhhWtBP7G4CNbXE8AkVgeuAkeTzzy_2MwhwVsYTTmhAwjaHVSrpGonpLpHneiDKitFAifdTkJ2jWwlTfrnHP9WPBzJOF2DDmryEQ0v7LY_3RwNcElq2V9jM3axqRTxhzCbVw2q/s320/7.19.10+085-739993.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495840324553938402" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtUdQxKHfwCL0g-IXyqffhcKerp3jaZYYvk2ElPEXx1DS0W6aeo9YnsOo8A3kyKGiLW1J-dnT-noxmmQhII5FH2qO5imOFQDTqd_91dvpNs-3xtbwZs4xn47WUWwF7DX-SIguIaRdMpIwp/s1600/7.19.10+014-741143.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtUdQxKHfwCL0g-IXyqffhcKerp3jaZYYvk2ElPEXx1DS0W6aeo9YnsOo8A3kyKGiLW1J-dnT-noxmmQhII5FH2qO5imOFQDTqd_91dvpNs-3xtbwZs4xn47WUWwF7DX-SIguIaRdMpIwp/s320/7.19.10+014-741143.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495840329705718738" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia3PSmrTxkLinoFPfM5GwIxiS1Ww57kOeHOLo0liw7pwCSLodNjixX0zzy1dDdtkJokdwUCmjzx4dTHEdrpo7ATx-QQl1VvWPS0fghi6J1_22WYD-blTEPByE8vYOgQW8fpSKFpl-iTHvy/s1600/7.19.10+026-742544.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia3PSmrTxkLinoFPfM5GwIxiS1Ww57kOeHOLo0liw7pwCSLodNjixX0zzy1dDdtkJokdwUCmjzx4dTHEdrpo7ATx-QQl1VvWPS0fghi6J1_22WYD-blTEPByE8vYOgQW8fpSKFpl-iTHvy/s320/7.19.10+026-742544.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495840336239990546" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWqVv8YnBYr7kgavIbuOP5QG2HF3ZGRP0_u456l-MJdRy2IBupGZuHm_bAEKR-0Dggc3DluiimdFvO3q_kbKh9oBpoDKS4GxA8H-TmqwW1gamAiIviFiIghY-f0haIzVm0JtAlZLj9coGq/s1600/7.19.10+059-743783.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWqVv8YnBYr7kgavIbuOP5QG2HF3ZGRP0_u456l-MJdRy2IBupGZuHm_bAEKR-0Dggc3DluiimdFvO3q_kbKh9oBpoDKS4GxA8H-TmqwW1gamAiIviFiIghY-f0haIzVm0JtAlZLj9coGq/s320/7.19.10+059-743783.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495840340409740546" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLCNNdyx37ckBxkpQZr2J9hP2SHCkbhVS6vqyz92m8oZzQ9x2IOwtmcQ0qZGqCjtax251JX2xydUgJO5hGWGl-h2imQe7ZVSsH1zZr9wyL89GNCBYV5Z-BLVBgXFG3fYulgK5pNNJMxrN4/s1600/7.19.10+064-745308.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLCNNdyx37ckBxkpQZr2J9hP2SHCkbhVS6vqyz92m8oZzQ9x2IOwtmcQ0qZGqCjtax251JX2xydUgJO5hGWGl-h2imQe7ZVSsH1zZr9wyL89GNCBYV5Z-BLVBgXFG3fYulgK5pNNJMxrN4/s320/7.19.10+064-745308.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495840347241146306" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWCrB2C8ulxIZJVOfrsuMua6l4OkKbbI1nf4-cBJ7REXzO80UNm5Av6Esis7z38sBttOlMgq_V0DiEY5xAZqTOcTKwLyLB2CQd2gYsXvGgSnllY3PniP0K26s15H9tdlZxfhDanDM0nDKn/s1600/7.19.10+075-746619.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWCrB2C8ulxIZJVOfrsuMua6l4OkKbbI1nf4-cBJ7REXzO80UNm5Av6Esis7z38sBttOlMgq_V0DiEY5xAZqTOcTKwLyLB2CQd2gYsXvGgSnllY3PniP0K26s15H9tdlZxfhDanDM0nDKn/s320/7.19.10+075-746619.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495840352403172002" /></a></p><DIV><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=976210104-20072010>THE JOURNEY TO CAPTIVA</SPAN></FONT></DIV> <DIV><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=976210104-20072010>Don, Cullen and Jack headed out on the open road the morning of Saturday, July 17. They stopped along the way in Metropolis, IL (home of Superman, of course), had some of their favorite Dippin' Dots, and later met up with the north-bound Powell family in north GA. The Powells had a stow-away salamander in their van (we named Sally), which they passed on to us to return to her rightful home on Captiva as soon as we arrived. Later, the boys had a late-night swim at the hotel and sipped hot chocolate 'til the wee hours. </SPAN></FONT></DIV> <DIV><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=976210104-20072010></SPAN></FONT> </DIV> <DIV><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=976210104-20072010>Day 2 was even more exciting as we approached the Florida border. It was Jack's first trip to the Sunshine State, so we took in all the sites in along the way, which included spotting the first palm tree, sampling fresh oranges at the first road-side stand we could find, and testing Jack's patience as we drove for endless hours to reach Tracy, Brogan and Lexi at the Ft. Meyers Airport Sunday night, finally arriving at our destination (South Seas) around 11pm; unloading the van, and passing out from exhaustion after a long day of excitement.</SPAN></FONT></DIV> <DIV><FONT face=Arial size=2></FONT> </DIV>Tracy Parentin Drissellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747129170116070099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491476540592317770.post-55895525092518487192010-06-17T20:56:00.000-07:002010-06-17T21:00:19.222-07:00Bathtime!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="clear: left; float: left; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">We have been home from China for almost 5 months! She thinks baths are awesome!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="clear: left; float: left; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
<img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilRVOVcLWcL95xrd0WFQLh22jO5OeUm5fDrCdMxG7BC_hlm3mThnh1UQdX9cbFSB_mPC1_WxugdS7fhiiZMZ9x4bPAhmegMLcm5H0zZ5O2qQ1WS4N0AgGxcBbL-uMoy1-8Tj_Yiv7vlMKc/s320/Dryish+Lexi.jpg" width="214" /></span><b></b></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXuL19FcHqdhFq6oVfPCw60LA2erAALMEx7JMyU360EwXkSopLsSrMc9qEhlxnLcVIM5fmTsPN01qJ9P2oWf-1b25DbhLPW9msrxttSGZT4wXo9uRZM4-oYCc6pRfls6A7y99IHgWN5D07/s1600/cute+Lexi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXuL19FcHqdhFq6oVfPCw60LA2erAALMEx7JMyU360EwXkSopLsSrMc9qEhlxnLcVIM5fmTsPN01qJ9P2oWf-1b25DbhLPW9msrxttSGZT4wXo9uRZM4-oYCc6pRfls6A7y99IHgWN5D07/s320/cute+Lexi.jpg" width="214" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg71jsttz1SBM94jXi8bmKcKUmgYRrYXTHn6z75TVtHL5bnG-Uj77WF6CZZYE2wB_S-zA77NF4k5JxehgxrovjJfpkPxrgZVfLULwuAY8VS3hUn7uvd1HqHpa2NA1ZzDtMwVgilAt0jedNK/s1600/Cheeky+Lexi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg71jsttz1SBM94jXi8bmKcKUmgYRrYXTHn6z75TVtHL5bnG-Uj77WF6CZZYE2wB_S-zA77NF4k5JxehgxrovjJfpkPxrgZVfLULwuAY8VS3hUn7uvd1HqHpa2NA1ZzDtMwVgilAt0jedNK/s320/Cheeky+Lexi.jpg" width="214" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6eO0mRy12Dvia_vc_b1mFnVQzFZNrCY0v8VjzMXeImgr7JyTiOOZSOJj2FzoP7QzIt8f6Eb199sy_azIDM-Lbpyj5ABwQG4bPxpgPFIv_FYs1H4cVZSrNnaba1rLKW1hk4fNQRdORsD2A/s1600/Soapy2+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6eO0mRy12Dvia_vc_b1mFnVQzFZNrCY0v8VjzMXeImgr7JyTiOOZSOJj2FzoP7QzIt8f6Eb199sy_azIDM-Lbpyj5ABwQG4bPxpgPFIv_FYs1H4cVZSrNnaba1rLKW1hk4fNQRdORsD2A/s320/Soapy2+.jpg" width="214" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik69yUKhN51GXIpAygZ1xcPNejHgVNLPYsdGIMcj0_I_rfmSZDClhDIntnnwroPpmfPs00vB49E31icV8MFq2Ra84YbWsDMBVG1-9Nt89Z_rPoIlpD8SYXOeCoYM9mcdH7Lm-1O6RzPSDz/s1600/Last+Lexi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik69yUKhN51GXIpAygZ1xcPNejHgVNLPYsdGIMcj0_I_rfmSZDClhDIntnnwroPpmfPs00vB49E31icV8MFq2Ra84YbWsDMBVG1-9Nt89Z_rPoIlpD8SYXOeCoYM9mcdH7Lm-1O6RzPSDz/s320/Last+Lexi.jpg" width="214" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik69yUKhN51GXIpAygZ1xcPNejHgVNLPYsdGIMcj0_I_rfmSZDClhDIntnnwroPpmfPs00vB49E31icV8MFq2Ra84YbWsDMBVG1-9Nt89Z_rPoIlpD8SYXOeCoYM9mcdH7Lm-1O6RzPSDz/s1600/Last+Lexi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>Tracy Parentin Drissellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747129170116070099noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491476540592317770.post-29840596779597075742010-05-05T20:19:00.000-07:002010-05-05T20:19:14.332-07:00A Visit to the Botanical Gardens<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande'; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;">Lexi and I met our neice Amanda and her son, Blaise at the Missouri Botanical Gardens. We walked through the Climatron and played in the children's garden. She loved the "market" area...filling her baskets and sorting the food.</span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande'; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;">She watched the other toddlers for a while in the "water" area. She was very serious and intense trying to figure out where the water was coming from, when it would spout and why all the other kids were running around screaming.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande'; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;"><br />
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margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7QoMBivsm0_2qa6l4OrSmXFpeIxDbixwNrbGWap3I1VdPWeUYMAMu5ZHtvcEwCndKKCpFfjF7w_SgTMy7BttibHhDVMJ8Q6_cEX_SoK9JEdQub3SpWt9LvOUXYjBGXAoLnAVk9bdD3PFM/s320/DSC_0182.jpg" /></a></div>Tracy Parentin Drissellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747129170116070099noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491476540592317770.post-16107141695988341052010-03-29T07:57:00.000-07:002010-03-29T08:17:37.335-07:00Weekend in Chicago!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We were actually there about 30 hours. Brogan toured the School of the Art Institute, we had some deep dish pizza, looked at some art and walked through Chinatown.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAhd4u0wo2pad7rTl8fIZHPU-dxbxD9y4Jl_4fFbJcCGNeTGdeXwpX3qYjlrfK2bbfFzUOVvV6ll0YmNTicDERHJVJtSIqQPl1hypNKfIYWZmbWEkaNi0mtpYshpwqAbj2Gt9Lv1lKEGPp/s1600/cullen+chi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAhd4u0wo2pad7rTl8fIZHPU-dxbxD9y4Jl_4fFbJcCGNeTGdeXwpX3qYjlrfK2bbfFzUOVvV6ll0YmNTicDERHJVJtSIqQPl1hypNKfIYWZmbWEkaNi0mtpYshpwqAbj2Gt9Lv1lKEGPp/s400/cullen+chi.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYxZ0SGAn_7csKxV5BXhTWe1dSolXn2G8Shwg4tYXDobazWJ9TUPM2nT4UT0pczQXxuJtWdBDI5aCc1fE3inhNbyn_yBOcu90JVyOhJrzCuQkggQXZlPeZ2LYF2zm-PaMVXihFlSR7awYG/s1600/chi+lex:pizza.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYxZ0SGAn_7csKxV5BXhTWe1dSolXn2G8Shwg4tYXDobazWJ9TUPM2nT4UT0pczQXxuJtWdBDI5aCc1fE3inhNbyn_yBOcu90JVyOhJrzCuQkggQXZlPeZ2LYF2zm-PaMVXihFlSR7awYG/s400/chi+lex:pizza.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi85b3TT5TQZCOoxHwJY8VWQ8lqZXz78SkatB06YzPOV6aJ1vBVSXGoTGZOEV8-jyNGJF3et772t1WKobvya_y5WJn9KSPZfHrRO1Isy_SrlghHHhj4Qs33QC6VlzqXrdR3DAIz-akkCWB5/s1600/chi+reflection.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi85b3TT5TQZCOoxHwJY8VWQ8lqZXz78SkatB06YzPOV6aJ1vBVSXGoTGZOEV8-jyNGJF3et772t1WKobvya_y5WJn9KSPZfHrRO1Isy_SrlghHHhj4Qs33QC6VlzqXrdR3DAIz-akkCWB5/s400/chi+reflection.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd2Tnngk9wx76BL-t2IGCEQE_x98EDefsxtkG-FUaV2wbide1BJFny0Foe2On5ooWyg5WrBj1LfBLGJ5MBS0p1WWcMrHtCUmS5T93NWr4-RXNCWxscMvDgMZLCWC1dSRtEo_as6CZyni3L/s1600/brogan+chi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd2Tnngk9wx76BL-t2IGCEQE_x98EDefsxtkG-FUaV2wbide1BJFny0Foe2On5ooWyg5WrBj1LfBLGJ5MBS0p1WWcMrHtCUmS5T93NWr4-RXNCWxscMvDgMZLCWC1dSRtEo_as6CZyni3L/s400/brogan+chi.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZo7InUFLfDGkHTleIFBaFU-FR9B2xmeIiCeGFM6PicbHEDz0yi918uvdfpflNz0HU7OoLoyEasa_6NNMtDARs_6YryIAeeiSHUr_wkpWIDGEgCMNbdAZy84iaVzLcKc1N0yiUR8UfP74Y/s1600/mom+and+lex+chi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZo7InUFLfDGkHTleIFBaFU-FR9B2xmeIiCeGFM6PicbHEDz0yi918uvdfpflNz0HU7OoLoyEasa_6NNMtDARs_6YryIAeeiSHUr_wkpWIDGEgCMNbdAZy84iaVzLcKc1N0yiUR8UfP74Y/s400/mom+and+lex+chi.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwQyVcxmmLZgRzUftioK3t97WCq2Th3Lh73BW0MVnFt9Qp_ihqes7PD-4X3XpUUcWSfV8wn-gvpypuZip09sXTUr_BjT9r_mud4AHdmqdkVNr100dCc2H1RLOoaPLYEtWqv0Z-ztwLid5A/s1600/chi+dad+and+lex.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwQyVcxmmLZgRzUftioK3t97WCq2Th3Lh73BW0MVnFt9Qp_ihqes7PD-4X3XpUUcWSfV8wn-gvpypuZip09sXTUr_BjT9r_mud4AHdmqdkVNr100dCc2H1RLOoaPLYEtWqv0Z-ztwLid5A/s400/chi+dad+and+lex.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkowtJRz7aDpGRUJXrnWiLZVKxYEsUdma4OeoMdRDDBD80dmtmr-mWE6NHtmIzS2sBp_tvUW-6BY_PiW7EClpxJcY1XR4OBXTp1lcJr28KYToBky7gzvMWu_ufS4wBazqE9p1L95jUvJwZ/s1600/mom+and+lex+chi2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkowtJRz7aDpGRUJXrnWiLZVKxYEsUdma4OeoMdRDDBD80dmtmr-mWE6NHtmIzS2sBp_tvUW-6BY_PiW7EClpxJcY1XR4OBXTp1lcJr28KYToBky7gzvMWu_ufS4wBazqE9p1L95jUvJwZ/s400/mom+and+lex+chi2.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJbNdlT3awYE9f3pZCBBaX2SDtwoyr1aJwJwpgmqEpDnv53H_IayvmpGhMgCLagRtUf3kmAkjcxH6FQ2qR16sA-R-_NCHDC0mvufvk8-Qj54iK2zG6dv3JIiPHfNWm-gHjP_sv1_7Zcy8b/s1600/chi+cullen:art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJbNdlT3awYE9f3pZCBBaX2SDtwoyr1aJwJwpgmqEpDnv53H_IayvmpGhMgCLagRtUf3kmAkjcxH6FQ2qR16sA-R-_NCHDC0mvufvk8-Qj54iK2zG6dv3JIiPHfNWm-gHjP_sv1_7Zcy8b/s400/chi+cullen:art.jpg" width="267" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoObQs_xjNfIeOD0yNMJnMf1dHkZFoEnG4Wxx_eWu-P4hKsj8ON31FYwZVqClLveK8wJ1y0DGyXPlLyr503nuJEm92LbBm1PqT_N3-GnfQeSm0wylTq4VE475Ond3b5MzCcWk_zchnHmtC/s1600/brogan:art+chi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoObQs_xjNfIeOD0yNMJnMf1dHkZFoEnG4Wxx_eWu-P4hKsj8ON31FYwZVqClLveK8wJ1y0DGyXPlLyr503nuJEm92LbBm1PqT_N3-GnfQeSm0wylTq4VE475Ond3b5MzCcWk_zchnHmtC/s400/brogan:art+chi.jpg" width="267" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi85b3TT5TQZCOoxHwJY8VWQ8lqZXz78SkatB06YzPOV6aJ1vBVSXGoTGZOEV8-jyNGJF3et772t1WKobvya_y5WJn9KSPZfHrRO1Isy_SrlghHHhj4Qs33QC6VlzqXrdR3DAIz-akkCWB5/s1600/chi+reflection.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFDW6BNmeAEbR2GmYANov-_BoUwqZQ9h1AfJEPqFEsqlZeSajSjbeOMpi7HS4uG-jREWONuJfXaT8_xnlxHD8vooZVCuNqNOjWK3tWz1sENyWBNOkz2ZIpchL5Ze6wBuDNKKUV23ewbdDb/s1600/chi+chinatown.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFDW6BNmeAEbR2GmYANov-_BoUwqZQ9h1AfJEPqFEsqlZeSajSjbeOMpi7HS4uG-jREWONuJfXaT8_xnlxHD8vooZVCuNqNOjWK3tWz1sENyWBNOkz2ZIpchL5Ze6wBuDNKKUV23ewbdDb/s1600/chi+chinatown.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFDW6BNmeAEbR2GmYANov-_BoUwqZQ9h1AfJEPqFEsqlZeSajSjbeOMpi7HS4uG-jREWONuJfXaT8_xnlxHD8vooZVCuNqNOjWK3tWz1sENyWBNOkz2ZIpchL5Ze6wBuDNKKUV23ewbdDb/s400/chi+chinatown.jpg" width="267" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWpi4NPmD4QYLZJVJraFjEynf1NG5EiURRw0kR9rZfg6z8Er93NRla_RnJPmj26HLUizqPZC9joY_CyOTu-vC_j96XBFkrnIoY2UxQQqvZu54vqG-NMFscI8N5euNvRzvmyRnzHNB0Sv79/s1600/chi+cullen+and+lex.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWpi4NPmD4QYLZJVJraFjEynf1NG5EiURRw0kR9rZfg6z8Er93NRla_RnJPmj26HLUizqPZC9joY_CyOTu-vC_j96XBFkrnIoY2UxQQqvZu54vqG-NMFscI8N5euNvRzvmyRnzHNB0Sv79/s400/chi+cullen+and+lex.jpg" width="267" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkowtJRz7aDpGRUJXrnWiLZVKxYEsUdma4OeoMdRDDBD80dmtmr-mWE6NHtmIzS2sBp_tvUW-6BY_PiW7EClpxJcY1XR4OBXTp1lcJr28KYToBky7gzvMWu_ufS4wBazqE9p1L95jUvJwZ/s1600/mom+and+lex+chi2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a>Tracy Parentin Drissellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747129170116070099noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491476540592317770.post-27585683218638114662010-03-12T17:52:00.000-08:002010-03-12T17:53:38.449-08:00Meet Lexi's "Chinese" Grandparents<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKsPxdj4uwSqmEejcjMwHqB0HYKQ4Bm8vb7UsWouiSv6NNFPclB-eKj8iWg-1u7WyZto181QzqqXlDy_kRXcRU43nZWZFtRCuU09g9wlKjbbkeiy1K42GTfl7Doehr06DTNmQbVHYNLgGj/s1600-h/DSC_0097.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKsPxdj4uwSqmEejcjMwHqB0HYKQ4Bm8vb7UsWouiSv6NNFPclB-eKj8iWg-1u7WyZto181QzqqXlDy_kRXcRU43nZWZFtRCuU09g9wlKjbbkeiy1K42GTfl7Doehr06DTNmQbVHYNLgGj/s400/DSC_0097.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We would like to introduce Ron and Sue Burns. They are an amazing couple from Australia who cared for Lexi after her surgery just after her birth in China. They are volunteers with ICC, International ChinaConcern, who are working in part of the Social Welfare Institute that was caring for Lexi. Since meeting them via an email introduction, they have sent us stories, photos and video.<br />
Yes, video of Lexi first walking!<br />
We were able to make a Skype call to them a few days ago and Lexi was so excited to see her Ye Ye (Grandpa) and Nai Nai (Grandma). She was calling to them, blowing kisses and waving. We are all so lucky!<br />
We feel like our family has grown by more than Lexi! We feel so connected to everyone in China who played a part of creating this amazing little girl that we have the privilege to raise as our daughter.<br />
ICC's motto is "Love, Hope and Opportunity to Every Child". Thank you ICC!</span><br />
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</div>Tracy Parentin Drissellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747129170116070099noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491476540592317770.post-48708054752598583282010-02-22T19:48:00.001-08:002010-02-22T19:48:36.325-08:00A little more Lexi!<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd0jT0bqRK6RuWoBVLwZsz3PF1KEtqrRmVs1qq8E53MwhyphenhypheniL1WRKFCyfUc01-MvSJ_61xmf8z4s4wQdwECe1HsiwUQsp_99j_A9CH4LarkfDJIIfbZJidizsbw2UphBhd3Rdbkhho2EL22/s1600-h/DSC_0223-716326.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd0jT0bqRK6RuWoBVLwZsz3PF1KEtqrRmVs1qq8E53MwhyphenhypheniL1WRKFCyfUc01-MvSJ_61xmf8z4s4wQdwECe1HsiwUQsp_99j_A9CH4LarkfDJIIfbZJidizsbw2UphBhd3Rdbkhho2EL22/s320/DSC_0223-716326.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441280828745932370" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghS0YTxohb6eDDZwMJR2u4PArv3WDjNNgHbxdXtfuNBqGivJPgYCWvN3tASEeYA6_5ttnEjh_RGOXJZLqPSUyVQ6CIj671NsZDLm3HHPRXkT9ocTKdltlm0Sr02CYUo19Ou279oYhRMSgK/s1600-h/DSC_0224-719091.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghS0YTxohb6eDDZwMJR2u4PArv3WDjNNgHbxdXtfuNBqGivJPgYCWvN3tASEeYA6_5ttnEjh_RGOXJZLqPSUyVQ6CIj671NsZDLm3HHPRXkT9ocTKdltlm0Sr02CYUo19Ou279oYhRMSgK/s320/DSC_0224-719091.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441280842086080050" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrUjv2Q04v6diOqf2sL64FYeYfZdRrBn0HrH3UGslm7cE-AU4bf_owkw-3ZmSJGXIFIWAyqVenH6VTjt1MM5sv0r68AwuYEQuR4B_xJX6umG2vEMZ187iKR-vBIdJ7YnO7w_lR2qVWANNF/s1600-h/DSC_0229-721946.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrUjv2Q04v6diOqf2sL64FYeYfZdRrBn0HrH3UGslm7cE-AU4bf_owkw-3ZmSJGXIFIWAyqVenH6VTjt1MM5sv0r68AwuYEQuR4B_xJX6umG2vEMZ187iKR-vBIdJ7YnO7w_lR2qVWANNF/s320/DSC_0229-721946.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441280854776911218" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzrHWMronaGLH5mizcLcTpCObuxr01-n88dGoIOmwIRaLX2OpvNEWPpJBKzQxcAF6nnUndwIew-HY__Dtc5OxkbOlJd6Ux-n6BMiezCW3X00Er_J0Ik9vdZalgi2IRf6Zdgq6a8Ts9Bwas/s1600-h/DSC_0283-725164.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzrHWMronaGLH5mizcLcTpCObuxr01-n88dGoIOmwIRaLX2OpvNEWPpJBKzQxcAF6nnUndwIew-HY__Dtc5OxkbOlJd6Ux-n6BMiezCW3X00Er_J0Ik9vdZalgi2IRf6Zdgq6a8Ts9Bwas/s320/DSC_0283-725164.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441280860787516962" /></a></p>Lexi and I were just hanging out this morning....Tracy Parentin Drissellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747129170116070099noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491476540592317770.post-42693126711851357852010-02-08T12:04:00.000-08:002010-02-08T12:04:43.447-08:00Ragtime winner!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_pT4nQFAjR_pLSVKwrtSqJ3j4C2NY_OadxFEdEyzvza1SnDpwm8rG4qnStQecbm7WKzmXfzRynA9AMz511_8Ds2ElDIngqemSTfLclhyet3j69ErR3iTkioTbnF5GXl716EftXroPct-n/s1600-h/DSC_0046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_pT4nQFAjR_pLSVKwrtSqJ3j4C2NY_OadxFEdEyzvza1SnDpwm8rG4qnStQecbm7WKzmXfzRynA9AMz511_8Ds2ElDIngqemSTfLclhyet3j69ErR3iTkioTbnF5GXl716EftXroPct-n/s320/DSC_0046.JPG" /></a></div>Cullen placed second in the Metro South Arts Council's <span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: blue; font-family: 'Lucida Sans'; font-size: 16px;">Scott Joplin Ragtime Competition</span><br />
last weekend with the Maple Leaf Rag.Tracy Parentin Drissellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747129170116070099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491476540592317770.post-31859884892061685722010-02-02T19:49:00.000-08:002010-02-02T19:49:50.570-08:00Home from China!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXQrJIKHUTARC6Fb7W_MrOjkGKjTmambznIxMdnk5SQQotfFbxowfyyjz7K6p5xPx5M4suLkxXlGerFGgZnoNtdb4Ai6QIuOzlWt1bcowPY503AHMi_OXo02UMQ7Xf_TZ-1xb7VuLanPbb/s1600-h/DSC_0034.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXQrJIKHUTARC6Fb7W_MrOjkGKjTmambznIxMdnk5SQQotfFbxowfyyjz7K6p5xPx5M4suLkxXlGerFGgZnoNtdb4Ai6QIuOzlWt1bcowPY503AHMi_OXo02UMQ7Xf_TZ-1xb7VuLanPbb/s320/DSC_0034.jpg" /></a></div><br />
LEXI'S FIRST WEEK HOME <br />
Our travels home from China and the first day back went pretty smoothly. On our first night's sleep, we all dozed at least 12 hours straight.<br />
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Apparently we celebrated too early. . .Over the next few days, we all suffered jet-lag, Lexi was wakeful and coughing through the night, none of us could sleep, and at one point, we were all up at 3AM eating cereal! Lexi's cough went to pneumonia; she was treated, and we are happy to say, she has made a strong recovery.<br />
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Our sleep has now balanced out, the boys are back to a regular school schedule, and things are somewhat back to normal. We apologize if we have not extended invites for all to meet Lexi as we are now just getting her out of the house. Thanks for the greetings, calls and stop-overs. . . hopefully, we can visit more in the coming weeks!<br />
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For those who commented, "how about more Lexi?" on the blog. . .well, here you are! She truly is our ray of sunshine. . .brightens any room and puts a smile on every face.<br />
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</a>Tracy Parentin Drissellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747129170116070099noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491476540592317770.post-63882264925440655962010-01-21T06:50:00.000-08:002010-01-21T06:51:48.850-08:00DAY 15 - China Adventure<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGbbF1HWpYwgRI8OZ5jRnyFIYhyphenhyphenG6NolnxraJiHcRlH6p2iqLlp8Ma8lsk3VUwWowr11VJ-PrZtGZjsUhHr6JMVoGqpx1kJyiVLw0jM_LtMzU8LIFq1OVEW1FWlwTp4CnECRnPqZGCEsDM/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.21.10+003-708851.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGbbF1HWpYwgRI8OZ5jRnyFIYhyphenhyphenG6NolnxraJiHcRlH6p2iqLlp8Ma8lsk3VUwWowr11VJ-PrZtGZjsUhHr6JMVoGqpx1kJyiVLw0jM_LtMzU8LIFq1OVEW1FWlwTp4CnECRnPqZGCEsDM/s320/Copy+of+1.21.10+003-708851.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429205917050400738" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB6f2oeTYBeyPUXs3tGA8rwAtseosfD_FaAGe-tQK8wK2LVFT_tJhi7fO1jGWCrg9t0Xzs0RxEYNfuMSn82eKv2ojYm8v1dIQ2cpG4KS8mWQNFa8AoY_-OC77rCJLT_I2Q1lfnzyhozue2/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.21.10+026-710107.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB6f2oeTYBeyPUXs3tGA8rwAtseosfD_FaAGe-tQK8wK2LVFT_tJhi7fO1jGWCrg9t0Xzs0RxEYNfuMSn82eKv2ojYm8v1dIQ2cpG4KS8mWQNFa8AoY_-OC77rCJLT_I2Q1lfnzyhozue2/s320/Copy+of+1.21.10+026-710107.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429205926632044018" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwnCAJ6IdMfbnH2OxwQXqCcrBtoIeil3ZUU_yce_YTxS3K1Dzp11Y5627tFwC1LslopUqFNG51kiWIW7t5RpStMk8vdL2p7I1Z7224nkRkkW-VeJIFnLqHEXaRYwJggxba9MzWJUqBtYTW/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.21.10+030-711030.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwnCAJ6IdMfbnH2OxwQXqCcrBtoIeil3ZUU_yce_YTxS3K1Dzp11Y5627tFwC1LslopUqFNG51kiWIW7t5RpStMk8vdL2p7I1Z7224nkRkkW-VeJIFnLqHEXaRYwJggxba9MzWJUqBtYTW/s320/Copy+of+1.21.10+030-711030.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429205931153225938" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnMo3kC2UiFrDHozUdtzn-TAPu7i0fDvC4CRKSVE87o9Ia4YfvRzIwO53p8yuLbhHmkIvff4swZMwsbnsRA-OE3JhJWkeivrPxY2jxyvtfZaedaNIKf17nUdlL9eRRC8zhqf6-Jh3voLcY/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.21.10+032-711775.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnMo3kC2UiFrDHozUdtzn-TAPu7i0fDvC4CRKSVE87o9Ia4YfvRzIwO53p8yuLbhHmkIvff4swZMwsbnsRA-OE3JhJWkeivrPxY2jxyvtfZaedaNIKf17nUdlL9eRRC8zhqf6-Jh3voLcY/s320/Copy+of+1.21.10+032-711775.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429205929108024290" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoK1cIkZw3fxzXW8IotiNCsM6NLiMp5QtjjNY9nwHWRWQ6029iTKF7ylK53ByJTlLFaMc_vA-9O3VT7KoCgREege7qcx81XUxiKsrYuRDEAvNb_Y2Fga9aZDs0YlHSMJnQuTXZOqhhEnnG/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.21.10+033-712531.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoK1cIkZw3fxzXW8IotiNCsM6NLiMp5QtjjNY9nwHWRWQ6029iTKF7ylK53ByJTlLFaMc_vA-9O3VT7KoCgREege7qcx81XUxiKsrYuRDEAvNb_Y2Fga9aZDs0YlHSMJnQuTXZOqhhEnnG/s320/Copy+of+1.21.10+033-712531.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429205936980131794" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIwixMJ2QpilVv_tseELwQ1rPHDpQaC93M2vXZJ7Uqu9vrY9bN3IFKYHdCpsee866xRSLFKliKZIZtgu6Z-kBGf5B5p-S1Zz26IHpDwnqT7rkVdVSUT2vFVIQQPlqIvevGX8Q0C_81hVUR/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.21.10+034-713419.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIwixMJ2QpilVv_tseELwQ1rPHDpQaC93M2vXZJ7Uqu9vrY9bN3IFKYHdCpsee866xRSLFKliKZIZtgu6Z-kBGf5B5p-S1Zz26IHpDwnqT7rkVdVSUT2vFVIQQPlqIvevGX8Q0C_81hVUR/s320/Copy+of+1.21.10+034-713419.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429205939216538274" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDsojcHWUIwvgVTUsmtdWOPj59ZJpLddaOkF5fwbg8IEsP1jDvA4c2dNQ33ZSbs_-pLZjmOz0oFMVxi0tElhFjk6V6pptXRUcIQqLY_rpu9G40Xm3og4KbEZcvM9E_3dMMlh5dYMX1-tUs/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.21.10+041-714530.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDsojcHWUIwvgVTUsmtdWOPj59ZJpLddaOkF5fwbg8IEsP1jDvA4c2dNQ33ZSbs_-pLZjmOz0oFMVxi0tElhFjk6V6pptXRUcIQqLY_rpu9G40Xm3og4KbEZcvM9E_3dMMlh5dYMX1-tUs/s320/Copy+of+1.21.10+041-714530.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429205945833544882" /></a></p><DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><FONT face=Arial><FONT size=2>CHINA ADVENTURE, DAY <SPAN class=026201916-16012010>1<SPAN class=362575212-21012010>5</SPAN></SPAN></FONT></FONT></SPAN></DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><SPAN class=026201916-16012010><SPAN class=420050113-17012010><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=490030815-18012010><SPAN class=521061615-19012010><SPAN class=611501315-20012010><SPAN class=362575212-21012010>Well, our final day in China has arrived, we received Lexi's passport and Visa today, and we are nearly packed and ready for departure in the morning.</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><SPAN class=026201916-16012010><SPAN class=420050113-17012010><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=490030815-18012010><SPAN class=521061615-19012010><SPAN class=611501315-20012010><SPAN class=362575212-21012010>Before we go though, we asked the kids to help conclude our blog posting with their final thoughts on our Great China Adventure. </SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><SPAN class=026201916-16012010><SPAN class=420050113-17012010><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=490030815-18012010><SPAN class=521061615-19012010><SPAN class=611501315-20012010><SPAN class=362575212-21012010></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN> </DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><SPAN class=026201916-16012010><SPAN class=420050113-17012010><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=490030815-18012010><SPAN class=521061615-19012010><SPAN class=611501315-20012010><SPAN class=362575212-21012010>Here is what they came up with:</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><SPAN class=026201916-16012010><SPAN class=420050113-17012010><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=490030815-18012010><SPAN class=521061615-19012010><SPAN class=611501315-20012010><SPAN class=362575212-21012010></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN> </DIV> <DIV><FONT face=Arial><FONT size=2><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><SPAN class=026201916-16012010><SPAN class=420050113-17012010><FONT><SPAN class=490030815-18012010><SPAN class=521061615-19012010><SPAN class=611501315-20012010><SPAN class=362575212-21012010>Getting LEXI, The Great Wall!, Herbal Market, Chinese boys with weird haircuts, the weddings, pollution, spot lights, traffic!, Crazy Taxi, 50km/hour cab rides, metric system is awesome. . .the US should use it, same with military time, eating shrimp heads, ping pong in the hotels. . .Cullen the Champion!, low tide sludge on the Pearl River, only one bout of food sickness, six dollar Starbucks, ICE CREAM, no fat Chinese people, the Safari Zoo, white tigers, Monkey King Show!, dead dog in bag, sugary duck skin (one liked it, one didn't), water dripping from the buildings on Shamian Island, dust, squatty potty (none in the streets like we were told), Cullen's weapons!?, 7-11, 200 calorie sodas, pizza at La Dolce Vita, Chairman Mao, cruisin' on the river, laser pointers, Beijing, Helen, Learning Chinese ("shay-shay"), spitting indoors, smoke!, big Justin from the orphanage and his Canadian friend, Jade factory, squeaker shoes, the fake Monk, creepy Carnival in Changsha, Tiananmen Square, The Forbidden City, Santa Claus posters, the Tea Room, pee pee boy, Army training, "granny mummy", the Toy Market, </SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN>a<SPAN class=362575212-21012010>nd INSANE breakfast buffets!</SPAN></FONT></FONT></DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><SPAN class=026201916-16012010><SPAN class=420050113-17012010><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=490030815-18012010><SPAN class=521061615-19012010><SPAN class=611501315-20012010><SPAN class=362575212-21012010></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN> </DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><SPAN class=026201916-16012010><SPAN class=420050113-17012010><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=490030815-18012010><SPAN class=521061615-19012010><SPAN class=611501315-20012010><SPAN class=362575212-21012010>Well, that about sums it all up. If you have any questions on any of the above items, feel free to ask either kid (or Lexi) when we return. </SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><SPAN class=026201916-16012010><SPAN class=420050113-17012010><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=490030815-18012010><SPAN class=521061615-19012010><SPAN class=611501315-20012010><SPAN class=362575212-21012010>See you all stateside!</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></DIV></DIV> <DIV align=left> <DIV align=left><FONT face=Tahoma size=2></FONT></DIV></DIV>Tracy Parentin Drissellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747129170116070099noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491476540592317770.post-50322334398698057922010-01-20T08:25:00.000-08:002010-01-20T08:26:59.203-08:00DAY 14 - China Adventure<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJiTcm97wUT88FIbJhS9mLwmrRKoUYsJM3H4ib5PE5GZFxGIhPSVfywsH_XV7XtzPu05o3kAKx5fL2YA8B5P_PXYEW4VtybD4cpjEzN-vifE161nPT2AQT8cW2HZ4GzXVu1qeJSvci27od/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.17+252-719205.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJiTcm97wUT88FIbJhS9mLwmrRKoUYsJM3H4ib5PE5GZFxGIhPSVfywsH_XV7XtzPu05o3kAKx5fL2YA8B5P_PXYEW4VtybD4cpjEzN-vifE161nPT2AQT8cW2HZ4GzXVu1qeJSvci27od/s320/Copy+of+1.12.17+252-719205.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428859363614902178" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifocaCF_Lb-dw9l10K7HJnbCkUz4F785g6W05OBhO6x7DL2NbwU8GRXebEbROM7Vjf1yVogbHzSXzsOL4u380Yh_aK8OFSu8HR54Z26PweRIQ2w3fNeCABnjp4MJM3vQT70lbY0hlsRl5z/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.17+172-720897.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifocaCF_Lb-dw9l10K7HJnbCkUz4F785g6W05OBhO6x7DL2NbwU8GRXebEbROM7Vjf1yVogbHzSXzsOL4u380Yh_aK8OFSu8HR54Z26PweRIQ2w3fNeCABnjp4MJM3vQT70lbY0hlsRl5z/s320/Copy+of+1.12.17+172-720897.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428859370528617426" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjORd9cs4bPVzcwx2f0ZYg_Fg72ICjtbCmkUbZN5bdvAFoL6Sk8K0ahIDDl1Nghs7onKFXuSiU7_bI4EACJ0uZfU-ggJpAcPrU79XzwnUUD0Vn7ndkU3Ad3ZUb_JdzdpR0s0R3I40mlkSQk/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.17+208-722568.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjORd9cs4bPVzcwx2f0ZYg_Fg72ICjtbCmkUbZN5bdvAFoL6Sk8K0ahIDDl1Nghs7onKFXuSiU7_bI4EACJ0uZfU-ggJpAcPrU79XzwnUUD0Vn7ndkU3Ad3ZUb_JdzdpR0s0R3I40mlkSQk/s320/Copy+of+1.12.17+208-722568.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428859375784170002" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWxrtlxoQgx0Y9b2qQJ6C04LqqsfZulkh-TUGGvr_Oujqoc2ibXNf3Jg5TOQpFX7xLa4FT8Nbr9e1WzYidoBGb4DkECx53izqcQywufxgfs1qEgwjf76dXuLSKB3lKycCzx2fhuKa7Awkm/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.17+229-724772.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWxrtlxoQgx0Y9b2qQJ6C04LqqsfZulkh-TUGGvr_Oujqoc2ibXNf3Jg5TOQpFX7xLa4FT8Nbr9e1WzYidoBGb4DkECx53izqcQywufxgfs1qEgwjf76dXuLSKB3lKycCzx2fhuKa7Awkm/s320/Copy+of+1.12.17+229-724772.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428859388680144114" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvY7-eyj9XspAhBWRmwQ0No8Vpn3H7OIvfB39SjnCuaUDvaXdyglVMSW6SYKTOpdaVua4J_8wBTF9WPc0Mw0S88K-CduSwY6swyliMd2GK_s4ZfIi4lKWuCKz4uC3Jx8BcTz6Nm0SemYLd/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.17+285-727678.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvY7-eyj9XspAhBWRmwQ0No8Vpn3H7OIvfB39SjnCuaUDvaXdyglVMSW6SYKTOpdaVua4J_8wBTF9WPc0Mw0S88K-CduSwY6swyliMd2GK_s4ZfIi4lKWuCKz4uC3Jx8BcTz6Nm0SemYLd/s320/Copy+of+1.12.17+285-727678.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428859401794809170" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz55mqvU-_UjVikx1SyFeVtV-QfMKCKclmHoi2diHZu4hQ7I9XVo6ZLXlxna57e7vq_x-Toa9mxkkxzrNR8z3CGYC0_mWFo4HkgvR8wJkdW-umR-0KBW5T4brMQhmhaJ-nBymEf-kWUPrA/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.17+334-729131.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz55mqvU-_UjVikx1SyFeVtV-QfMKCKclmHoi2diHZu4hQ7I9XVo6ZLXlxna57e7vq_x-Toa9mxkkxzrNR8z3CGYC0_mWFo4HkgvR8wJkdW-umR-0KBW5T4brMQhmhaJ-nBymEf-kWUPrA/s320/Copy+of+1.12.17+334-729131.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428859414106572722" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7O8zF-PYyIrQyAs0SfolvI7YB51nY4SidgScc2iINEa_aBbtnPUdiAFpTLvMLwnTNV-Eb94BNYxXjYCEkNFPoUy6xBDZJdyYcNXpJMvLYeWhS9UVZu1dVGIOgu4AhwUpMgz_QJsC02gtf/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.17+339-733260.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7O8zF-PYyIrQyAs0SfolvI7YB51nY4SidgScc2iINEa_aBbtnPUdiAFpTLvMLwnTNV-Eb94BNYxXjYCEkNFPoUy6xBDZJdyYcNXpJMvLYeWhS9UVZu1dVGIOgu4AhwUpMgz_QJsC02gtf/s320/Copy+of+1.12.17+339-733260.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428859424431372386" /></a></p><DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><FONT face=Arial><FONT size=2>CHINA ADVENTURE, DAY <SPAN class=026201916-16012010>1<SPAN class=611501315-20012010>4</SPAN></SPAN></FONT></FONT></SPAN></DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><SPAN class=026201916-16012010><SPAN class=420050113-17012010><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=490030815-18012010><SPAN class=521061615-19012010><SPAN class=611501315-20012010>Realizing that we only have a few more days left, we are packing as much activity into the day as possible. Today we started at the Xiangjiang Safari Park to view pandas, but found so much more. We were able to explore two halves of the park by train and by foot, viewing not only pandas, but lions, white tigers, bears, giraffe, koala, rhinos, etc. in their natural environment.</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><SPAN class=026201916-16012010><SPAN class=420050113-17012010><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=490030815-18012010><SPAN class=521061615-19012010><SPAN class=611501315-20012010></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN> </DIV> <DIV align=left><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><SPAN class=026201916-16012010><SPAN class=420050113-17012010><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=490030815-18012010><SPAN class=521061615-19012010><SPAN class=611501315-20012010>Richard then picked us up and shuttled us to the American Consulate in downtown Guangzhou for our final act to complete the adoption; the Oath. We, along with about 20 other adopting families (following a brief meeting with a consulate official), stood and pledged our commitment to raise our adoptive children in a loving and healthy environment. Certificates were passed out, and it was done! Now, the only thing left, is to receive Lexi's Visa and travel papers, which should arrive tomorrow, and then we are able to travel home with her this Friday!</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><SPAN class=026201916-16012010><SPAN class=420050113-17012010><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=490030815-18012010><SPAN class=521061615-19012010><SPAN class=611501315-20012010></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN> </DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><SPAN class=026201916-16012010><SPAN class=420050113-17012010><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=490030815-18012010><SPAN class=521061615-19012010><SPAN class=611501315-20012010>To celebrate tonight</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><SPAN class=026201916-16012010><SPAN class=420050113-17012010><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=490030815-18012010><SPAN class=521061615-19012010><SPAN class=611501315-20012010>, Lexi first posed with her new friends on the traditional "red sofa" at the White Swan Hotel, and then we all took a dinner </SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><SPAN class=026201916-16012010><SPAN class=420050113-17012010><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=490030815-18012010><SPAN class=521061615-19012010><SPAN class=611501315-20012010>cruise on the Pearl River. A terrific finale to our two week odyssey.</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><SPAN class=026201916-16012010><SPAN class=420050113-17012010><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=490030815-18012010><SPAN class=521061615-19012010><SPAN class=611501315-20012010></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN> </DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><SPAN class=026201916-16012010><SPAN class=420050113-17012010><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=490030815-18012010><SPAN class=521061615-19012010><SPAN class=611501315-20012010>One final note. . .as we celebrate one of the most memorable events in our immediate family history, our hearts ache for all those affected by the earthquake(s) in Haiti as we have been keeping up with the disaster in the news. Our thoughts and support go out to all those affected by this disaster as we now prepare to leave for home.</SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></DIV></DIV> <DIV><FONT face=Arial size=2></FONT> </DIV>Tracy Parentin Drissellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747129170116070099noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491476540592317770.post-40279203886681451692010-01-19T07:35:00.000-08:002010-01-19T07:36:49.051-08:00DAY 13 - China Adventure<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJTQ5I-t8h8JHIyVU08NFJOcXiGfzmN4q2RTCWkQwlnJpOXrhUEWDbPpptm01zsSZHjsx92S48SbGB33tEqdGjV_AZJPtW8bx8h45nr8dsAUxnyBasHzW6mccB1uSeRNHiLZ-BPiY7o20U/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.16+080-709052.jpg"><img 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href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOIvk2tfdnjd-826js0IJVdTCClAMeYTaayHKSDopsBwTU5nRAl1REcBy-MyRoqyEMSFKiO8J7wtmktpcnGqf2w-pWjEkzGgYaH0p3LyDJI_BvApN_1Y9oTza1kFICApPlS82aEAljKu-Y/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.16+044-712300.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOIvk2tfdnjd-826js0IJVdTCClAMeYTaayHKSDopsBwTU5nRAl1REcBy-MyRoqyEMSFKiO8J7wtmktpcnGqf2w-pWjEkzGgYaH0p3LyDJI_BvApN_1Y9oTza1kFICApPlS82aEAljKu-Y/s320/Copy+of+1.12.16+044-712300.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428475360400455298" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZsYog2FRxQtLeY-wWTt2ANxvWaeL5JfsUR6JI_YCUWwxTpp43Azon1AiRr7bRlGKYdff6DELB314lkEogZk3GrA6PEj5u3NGsdESKMlO33MOusTjMHNXaFie4s5UkmVUgSmjb5MDcsmpB/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.16+011-713620.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZsYog2FRxQtLeY-wWTt2ANxvWaeL5JfsUR6JI_YCUWwxTpp43Azon1AiRr7bRlGKYdff6DELB314lkEogZk3GrA6PEj5u3NGsdESKMlO33MOusTjMHNXaFie4s5UkmVUgSmjb5MDcsmpB/s320/Copy+of+1.12.16+011-713620.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428475364338331522" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH-iXbDhmBt5iOi-QwRaP57dYy42lGqCXO5E0MQTHQcpd5IuiX3J7rjx8OAHY4lKIlvezql31Dbn6poYn0m7uJouqATudyVq29ksyljSfNBaHiGytHqQ7oKGxGEYhR49VuDYD-At-4y5Rj/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.16+020-715592.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH-iXbDhmBt5iOi-QwRaP57dYy42lGqCXO5E0MQTHQcpd5IuiX3J7rjx8OAHY4lKIlvezql31Dbn6poYn0m7uJouqATudyVq29ksyljSfNBaHiGytHqQ7oKGxGEYhR49VuDYD-At-4y5Rj/s320/Copy+of+1.12.16+020-715592.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428475374497393650" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcd9JaANu1OGcSrTrfHfGIPeRnteMGKkKwjsf0VbOBw3U8dqwK_HwWtahYl0vK-Pr00x1NOT7hxd9Gg0QbGyMORXvDrLL0LAg8bMvPbtuZMydb1TZq6sOM4WuS5vFCJfYpcsb0bT8kpz5I/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.16+022-716819.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcd9JaANu1OGcSrTrfHfGIPeRnteMGKkKwjsf0VbOBw3U8dqwK_HwWtahYl0vK-Pr00x1NOT7hxd9Gg0QbGyMORXvDrLL0LAg8bMvPbtuZMydb1TZq6sOM4WuS5vFCJfYpcsb0bT8kpz5I/s320/Copy+of+1.12.16+022-716819.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428475376738983714" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnXQUa8EUZUnSLfWwk4r5aR-kBCdAi7IDWjaQelPvt187jVu_uPKoVYFBeUAsN7mgvRPVVrKC7t6J2Yg18q_cezEM5gQWaszX0N8OGAkL5rXDxdpOPf_PiH_-1xjoAj2bK7wiJ1-nPL4n5/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.16+052-717943.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnXQUa8EUZUnSLfWwk4r5aR-kBCdAi7IDWjaQelPvt187jVu_uPKoVYFBeUAsN7mgvRPVVrKC7t6J2Yg18q_cezEM5gQWaszX0N8OGAkL5rXDxdpOPf_PiH_-1xjoAj2bK7wiJ1-nPL4n5/s320/Copy+of+1.12.16+052-717943.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428475386163541666" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuJnv9wYp2FiUXoV8MEApT697dz8-E6CHcCwZ0J_8HYsgoyWCf-5G9q0tY-cv8U6keWbo_7svkAXczCptPf6M8gJ_VvpNikTmfj5zvOyZOC88ccBmP-xYcrTmnj6uH8z_znoObziOkszm5/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.16+057-719300.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuJnv9wYp2FiUXoV8MEApT697dz8-E6CHcCwZ0J_8HYsgoyWCf-5G9q0tY-cv8U6keWbo_7svkAXczCptPf6M8gJ_VvpNikTmfj5zvOyZOC88ccBmP-xYcrTmnj6uH8z_znoObziOkszm5/s320/Copy+of+1.12.16+057-719300.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428475391740396866" /></a></p><DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><FONT face=Arial><FONT size=2>CHINA ADVENTURE, DAY <SPAN class=026201916-16012010>1<SPAN class=521061615-19012010>3</SPAN></SPAN></FONT></FONT></SPAN></DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><SPAN class=026201916-16012010><SPAN class=420050113-17012010><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=490030815-18012010><SPAN class=521061615-19012010>We had a "free day" today without appointments or guidance from Richard, and of course, we chose to spend our time on Art and Architecture! First, the Guangzhou Museum of Art with collections of local artists in different media. Following playtime in the plaza, a brisk cab ride over to the Guangdong Museum of Art for more of a contemporary collection of work from Chinese artists.</SPAN></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><SPAN class=026201916-16012010><SPAN class=420050113-17012010><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=490030815-18012010><SPAN class=521061615-19012010></SPAN></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN> </DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><SPAN class=026201916-16012010><SPAN class=420050113-17012010><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=490030815-18012010><SPAN class=521061615-19012010>Following a recent pattern, this afternoon we went shopping near our hotel. We bought Lexi a stamp with her American and Chinese name on it, her first set of Chinese "squeaker" shoes, and her first traditional Chinese dress (she picked purple!). </SPAN></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><SPAN class=026201916-16012010><SPAN class=420050113-17012010><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=490030815-18012010><SPAN class=521061615-19012010></SPAN></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN> </DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><SPAN class=026201916-16012010><SPAN class=420050113-17012010><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=490030815-18012010><SPAN class=521061615-19012010>Hard to believe we have been in China almost 2 weeks already! It has been a memorable and enjoyable trip, but we will certainly be ready to come home Friday. We can't wait to introduce friends and family to our newest family member.</SPAN></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></DIV></DIV>Tracy Parentin Drissellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747129170116070099noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491476540592317770.post-8360246828311790532010-01-18T08:19:00.000-08:002010-01-18T08:21:05.980-08:00DAY 12 - China Adventure<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0J2eeoeLmheMuimrzqJGYiX5HeLtrXrrtONq2CLXd93OBtweBvTFnDsXScSDjR9ad90zS3-ZC4ZWCNmRnWaD05haElRY8tFIyzrP7VCySKLG0RlpCMB4JKQUk0W1ehyznOWlJEy4InrzZ/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.15+006-765981.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0J2eeoeLmheMuimrzqJGYiX5HeLtrXrrtONq2CLXd93OBtweBvTFnDsXScSDjR9ad90zS3-ZC4ZWCNmRnWaD05haElRY8tFIyzrP7VCySKLG0RlpCMB4JKQUk0W1ehyznOWlJEy4InrzZ/s320/Copy+of+1.12.15+006-765981.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428115676428289794" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ7Eu7RCbwsyRwkvwP6nyA7s6G5n8RsSr5484j5IWPEejuou-xfQLVJJPUyNpdw8Oh9Akow5mki2WkTKFdl3UMRbTiz1zTu6PxQnr1YSL1AZZ1gIBHpnJ6XtvtFgdk64_-lnhheE0MCoxm/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.15+014-767136.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ7Eu7RCbwsyRwkvwP6nyA7s6G5n8RsSr5484j5IWPEejuou-xfQLVJJPUyNpdw8Oh9Akow5mki2WkTKFdl3UMRbTiz1zTu6PxQnr1YSL1AZZ1gIBHpnJ6XtvtFgdk64_-lnhheE0MCoxm/s320/Copy+of+1.12.15+014-767136.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428115680971089266" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRSZesKkIlxprN95hQ07UZ5pmOgmZ8uWKHf0PpqzOH3FEoTntd8EeQezgFppPA2-zvdC2W32ToQLK60TiFApuQliT6Dj1xLfT_krq6haYrUT0XYDAnL7h1Vr5Zb70VBkSGKsYGKfBddBgL/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.15+015-768325.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRSZesKkIlxprN95hQ07UZ5pmOgmZ8uWKHf0PpqzOH3FEoTntd8EeQezgFppPA2-zvdC2W32ToQLK60TiFApuQliT6Dj1xLfT_krq6haYrUT0XYDAnL7h1Vr5Zb70VBkSGKsYGKfBddBgL/s320/Copy+of+1.12.15+015-768325.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428115682493292594" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUMie1vK5kGxo88UOpbA3Me9G7VX5dF_fz6x5CLGBo0WI75OBTCAXV2TPAg4NdbJZOkagVdeJJZ8CX2mt_CsJzObw8kTZtGKV5P8G5JDY1rIniW-PdRxNiTDpUFUEobmBXPn43Mnf1G3Y7/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.15+022-770221.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUMie1vK5kGxo88UOpbA3Me9G7VX5dF_fz6x5CLGBo0WI75OBTCAXV2TPAg4NdbJZOkagVdeJJZ8CX2mt_CsJzObw8kTZtGKV5P8G5JDY1rIniW-PdRxNiTDpUFUEobmBXPn43Mnf1G3Y7/s320/Copy+of+1.12.15+022-770221.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428115692223718066" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgaAdZft163OkkbjmZgF9972ZfhA4Nj7gkIuodRmwDNT0ddyPFX7HTKzCRLs5EORYXTD8Z1Mng2k728bQVn7hdKUtsFJBwc8dDFj7-OtJCPpYtq8Ar6zBiokNey94vqfSkMop8J42EK0Dw/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.15+041-771026.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgaAdZft163OkkbjmZgF9972ZfhA4Nj7gkIuodRmwDNT0ddyPFX7HTKzCRLs5EORYXTD8Z1Mng2k728bQVn7hdKUtsFJBwc8dDFj7-OtJCPpYtq8Ar6zBiokNey94vqfSkMop8J42EK0Dw/s320/Copy+of+1.12.15+041-771026.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428115697697668114" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoUz_zBhbqNrOasJffpo3ygPhK0IGJxQ1Q2tIyCJMfziIOSPU264j_PiCV2nJ_JB3oN6LBeExYzsFAaSiXff7XpOLTT8RPs-Qrpgz7Eu-lsJFMYqf578s01nbZ2MuXh1SLKM1_Pca9ahkn/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.15+062-772125.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoUz_zBhbqNrOasJffpo3ygPhK0IGJxQ1Q2tIyCJMfziIOSPU264j_PiCV2nJ_JB3oN6LBeExYzsFAaSiXff7XpOLTT8RPs-Qrpgz7Eu-lsJFMYqf578s01nbZ2MuXh1SLKM1_Pca9ahkn/s320/Copy+of+1.12.15+062-772125.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428115700173686386" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEMUg0I6lhiFSEkJybLnsvIRRDUNFEFwXNltMAea4MswyZgbiqOpJUQn_NZQWT9FWsM_B4s-Z-mEJPe5QkwFpB07BfULkNcMWEpszwnhfjjwvOJHn2Ghkwe8mZ0ec8GdyKl-aiJ_TUR9Gq/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.15+078-772873.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEMUg0I6lhiFSEkJybLnsvIRRDUNFEFwXNltMAea4MswyZgbiqOpJUQn_NZQWT9FWsM_B4s-Z-mEJPe5QkwFpB07BfULkNcMWEpszwnhfjjwvOJHn2Ghkwe8mZ0ec8GdyKl-aiJ_TUR9Gq/s320/Copy+of+1.12.15+078-772873.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428115702747683682" /></a></p><DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><FONT face=Arial><FONT size=2>CHINA ADVENTURE, DAY <SPAN class=026201916-16012010>1<SPAN class=490030815-18012010>2</SPAN></SPAN></FONT></FONT></SPAN></DIV> <DIV><FONT size=+0><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><SPAN class=026201916-16012010><SPAN class=420050113-17012010><FONT face=Arial><FONT size=2><SPAN class=490030815-18012010>Today we toured once again with Richard and the first stop was to the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees, an active Buddhist temple</SPAN>.<SPAN class=490030815-18012010> There, Cullen threw a coin through an urn for good luck, Monks joined in procession through the courtyard, and we marveled at the Flower pagoda (a structure dating back to 1097 and named for its bright colors). </SPAN></FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></FONT></DIV> <DIV><FONT size=+0><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><SPAN class=026201916-16012010><SPAN class=420050113-17012010><FONT face=Arial><FONT size=2><SPAN class=490030815-18012010></SPAN></FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></FONT> </DIV> <DIV><FONT size=+0><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><SPAN class=026201916-16012010><SPAN class=420050113-17012010><FONT face=Arial><FONT size=2><SPAN class=490030815-18012010>We then visited Yuexiu Park, <FONT face="Times New Roman" size=3><FONT face=Arial size=2>one of the oldest parks in the region. Among the sites, we saw the Five Rams Sculpture which has become a symbol of Guangzhou. According to the local belief, the statue is the outcome of an ancient myth and is known to bring good luck and fortune to the city.</FONT> </FONT></SPAN></FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></FONT></DIV> <DIV><FONT size=+0><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><SPAN class=026201916-16012010><SPAN class=420050113-17012010><FONT face=Arial><FONT size=2><SPAN class=490030815-18012010></SPAN></FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></FONT> </DIV> <DIV><FONT size=+0><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><SPAN class=026201916-16012010><SPAN class=420050113-17012010><FONT face=Arial><FONT size=2><SPAN class=490030815-18012010>We have been getting to know Lexi more and more each day, and find her extremely easy going, friendly, intelligent, out-going and well-behaved. She is also a good sleeper, and a VERY good eater. We all find her wit and charm irresistible and s</SPAN></FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></FONT><FONT size=+0><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><SPAN class=026201916-16012010><SPAN class=420050113-17012010><FONT face=Arial><FONT size=2><SPAN class=490030815-18012010>he compliments the family very well!</SPAN></FONT></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></FONT></DIV></DIV>Tracy Parentin Drissellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747129170116070099noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491476540592317770.post-37029407498975316082010-01-17T06:58:00.000-08:002010-01-17T06:59:55.017-08:00DAY 11 - China Adventure<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuuPHc3gp707G7Fwq5PUkadyAhn5yf4oOimKpM611mtnhMby7sVVuQztApBNbvMfx7McOGNwZwDt9dnMgTdc7t9w4Dx-la5HfKoAmYfHiJKQKO9JCbMy4Uoj0DpLvVyl6l3WxHsAocOpMc/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.14+017-795018.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuuPHc3gp707G7Fwq5PUkadyAhn5yf4oOimKpM611mtnhMby7sVVuQztApBNbvMfx7McOGNwZwDt9dnMgTdc7t9w4Dx-la5HfKoAmYfHiJKQKO9JCbMy4Uoj0DpLvVyl6l3WxHsAocOpMc/s320/Copy+of+1.12.14+017-795018.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427723669346005010" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbdxYBpxIunryu5bvzsMsBFTe5KShoBsAMvNDnSH_hxq8V_TtLEgS8TgNMYNkM9GI16tZphi7WeDG3VQGk4dvTgJtaglTB6W6ci3KMI0sW_LBNWIbW75E1SZ7HVoPID20HB98cRWhQma5Y/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.14+023-796226.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbdxYBpxIunryu5bvzsMsBFTe5KShoBsAMvNDnSH_hxq8V_TtLEgS8TgNMYNkM9GI16tZphi7WeDG3VQGk4dvTgJtaglTB6W6ci3KMI0sW_LBNWIbW75E1SZ7HVoPID20HB98cRWhQma5Y/s320/Copy+of+1.12.14+023-796226.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427723674540390434" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ5-tefUrzHLxvEQ_V3GS3XTWAOE2_koCx_nFR1Gp_Ir8o_sCLikuHJSr-wHWNrNykL-xkxR2m8YMeYS7OEW5fD34Ad4pe8-TE12YfIdBeMRBjq1MfXl3bK1mTXmpFBEDar9UAFQCNHvET/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.14+034-796943.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ5-tefUrzHLxvEQ_V3GS3XTWAOE2_koCx_nFR1Gp_Ir8o_sCLikuHJSr-wHWNrNykL-xkxR2m8YMeYS7OEW5fD34Ad4pe8-TE12YfIdBeMRBjq1MfXl3bK1mTXmpFBEDar9UAFQCNHvET/s320/Copy+of+1.12.14+034-796943.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427723671727108610" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8s1jJSpQ-OZZe1BhxtESgRRZ2spQ1oxUD7JW8sAOFMpoU5ffccqkvMqZf6mjZTIyhs1eqXi0qAmIKC5KMvZF9A1YmQre8lZhyUN5-unD7mUDnrZx5Qmt40xMNmtsnKnCKWJM7QJM7nM9_/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.14+036-797857.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8s1jJSpQ-OZZe1BhxtESgRRZ2spQ1oxUD7JW8sAOFMpoU5ffccqkvMqZf6mjZTIyhs1eqXi0qAmIKC5KMvZF9A1YmQre8lZhyUN5-unD7mUDnrZx5Qmt40xMNmtsnKnCKWJM7QJM7nM9_/s320/Copy+of+1.12.14+036-797857.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427723678339641010" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxIEvYIqXnOpKY8CvnGrQ50QMEve8iYQor6lk0IEKqm13QdB3TC3O-gxVZxxQaq8GdDhY4CtpN2725YPUo5ip525-ZUwnMMRk76SBjRH5u78N9OWUCvIRCpIdnj0WdSlObiVg9olf5bOE5/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.14+061-798640.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxIEvYIqXnOpKY8CvnGrQ50QMEve8iYQor6lk0IEKqm13QdB3TC3O-gxVZxxQaq8GdDhY4CtpN2725YPUo5ip525-ZUwnMMRk76SBjRH5u78N9OWUCvIRCpIdnj0WdSlObiVg9olf5bOE5/s320/Copy+of+1.12.14+061-798640.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427723681072899506" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKx7QavJH-jPjIG_Wh9v-tDRTyqw68dhCH1OenmUHN1umKgyntYryt11J36wrXS6-PCAa1u3rs4FTVrzUMxiR0e-gf8TofnyjYzxqjCIoL2KQuHRxM7SxlPrUDaeEndNDgsARNyEFAdr5Q/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.14+065-799472.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKx7QavJH-jPjIG_Wh9v-tDRTyqw68dhCH1OenmUHN1umKgyntYryt11J36wrXS6-PCAa1u3rs4FTVrzUMxiR0e-gf8TofnyjYzxqjCIoL2KQuHRxM7SxlPrUDaeEndNDgsARNyEFAdr5Q/s320/Copy+of+1.12.14+065-799472.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427723685582380578" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXInhLw53nqPHiQ6QJ69YSr5CPQgeytE3_7GD4Nf-A3FjksWsWm728e-XsdzR_ITzHyIfIJB-h25mSg2i4Rk-7xi5cf6jvVtb1qYuzz-G9x85AD3igjx21TOJrooAYp27BF7r4D5qu5afU/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.14+085-700199.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXInhLw53nqPHiQ6QJ69YSr5CPQgeytE3_7GD4Nf-A3FjksWsWm728e-XsdzR_ITzHyIfIJB-h25mSg2i4Rk-7xi5cf6jvVtb1qYuzz-G9x85AD3igjx21TOJrooAYp27BF7r4D5qu5afU/s320/Copy+of+1.12.14+085-700199.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427723690807942786" /></a></p><DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><FONT face=Arial><FONT size=2>CHINA ADVENTURE, DAY <SPAN class=026201916-16012010>1<SPAN class=420050113-17012010>1</SPAN></SPAN></FONT></FONT></SPAN></DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=026201916-16012010><SPAN class=420050113-17012010>Day 2 in Guangzhou started with a ping pong tournament and ended with Edy's Ice Cream. . .what a day! This morning, we took a stroll around our new neighborhood; Shamian Island (not actually an island, but a area of the city where wealthy merchants once lived and built a moat for protection). This afternoon, R</SPAN></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=026201916-16012010><SPAN class=420050113-17012010>ichard took us to the Guangdong Folk Art Museum, a beautiful collection of buildings celebrating the art of the common Chinese people. </SPAN></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=026201916-16012010><SPAN class=420050113-17012010></SPAN></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN> </DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=026201916-16012010><SPAN class=420050113-17012010>We also visited several shops, along with the famous Pearl Market, which is actually a HUGE mall full of wholesale jewelers. Outside was the most crowded shopping street we have ever experienced. Thousands of people jammed into a mile-long stretch of road with shopping and food. . .and yes, we were the only Westerners around. Tonight, had dinner at a nice Italian Restaurant not far from the hotel with several other adopting families. . .with ice cream afterwards. . .oh, and by the way. . .Cullen won the ping pong tournament.</SPAN></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></DIV></DIV>Tracy Parentin Drissellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747129170116070099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491476540592317770.post-45220369641481589122010-01-16T08:59:00.000-08:002010-01-16T09:01:02.900-08:00DAY 10 - China Adventure<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtpNYUJ0FzLdTpn_N-o6Po3Dce2Vrbiby76OGocuevjUSPlxcD5q8YQbZvCGfuAOh_4nd0NmvbvSE0fwtQ86rjw4FslKkaEGuFHNmaqhlJWs3yuR8hkONUrAd6VgHLvpHDWSnki1FQFmh2/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.13+002-762901.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtpNYUJ0FzLdTpn_N-o6Po3Dce2Vrbiby76OGocuevjUSPlxcD5q8YQbZvCGfuAOh_4nd0NmvbvSE0fwtQ86rjw4FslKkaEGuFHNmaqhlJWs3yuR8hkONUrAd6VgHLvpHDWSnki1FQFmh2/s320/Copy+of+1.12.13+002-762901.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427383795355378818" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwkOiXK5SCmROwKvd-TkuJwnmVqy2mVESCuJ0KF5y0XnGIkDzGiUTa-1PWIWdjuStxg5IPBeHL65EtOh7xd1NPigMMSo4QjbH-Zj-JYLoXpa-SrO-cor5EVushBXXt8sUtCAxhngBEertl/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.13+004-764067.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwkOiXK5SCmROwKvd-TkuJwnmVqy2mVESCuJ0KF5y0XnGIkDzGiUTa-1PWIWdjuStxg5IPBeHL65EtOh7xd1NPigMMSo4QjbH-Zj-JYLoXpa-SrO-cor5EVushBXXt8sUtCAxhngBEertl/s320/Copy+of+1.12.13+004-764067.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427383805577123458" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg56T2HUd3Psk5oBSjZeBPpbA3JtkLGXoK6Xwlzw5EMrzIbgtSsGjqznN5skxb-tHgv5v90B4mV-UtCXprKDr0Xl1N80srkA0sebyERTs0jVd8KeREkPxukglK5vaus3GJz-DeMwTXXTE-f/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.13+027-765020.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg56T2HUd3Psk5oBSjZeBPpbA3JtkLGXoK6Xwlzw5EMrzIbgtSsGjqznN5skxb-tHgv5v90B4mV-UtCXprKDr0Xl1N80srkA0sebyERTs0jVd8KeREkPxukglK5vaus3GJz-DeMwTXXTE-f/s320/Copy+of+1.12.13+027-765020.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427383808366566994" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSvILTYUOJSq10KU_WZIJx89cTG6bhsahFYuH2mFXwt1Ziel-rkdFnwB5TIGC09mdzoWi1M_6Okhe_-qN98shAtMxG5cCGNAV7mqPgiZgN65k_SuuKU5YqDClJ234tcnt-lci1X9vSVPkc/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.13+045-766221.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSvILTYUOJSq10KU_WZIJx89cTG6bhsahFYuH2mFXwt1Ziel-rkdFnwB5TIGC09mdzoWi1M_6Okhe_-qN98shAtMxG5cCGNAV7mqPgiZgN65k_SuuKU5YqDClJ234tcnt-lci1X9vSVPkc/s320/Copy+of+1.12.13+045-766221.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427383812564595250" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVWkpErlpPQzXWrVg4Mth-Dq4nR8q0jByM7Oe4c-jJ6CmbYUj9O29A9xguGBKWqSCbql4P1IA9fhYxs7CW6-9kWNZ9X0QkN8Tpm-q0y8D7CfLlJiqjQLACddUw4rotO6XFQlxaQYoOL131/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.13+054-767083.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVWkpErlpPQzXWrVg4Mth-Dq4nR8q0jByM7Oe4c-jJ6CmbYUj9O29A9xguGBKWqSCbql4P1IA9fhYxs7CW6-9kWNZ9X0QkN8Tpm-q0y8D7CfLlJiqjQLACddUw4rotO6XFQlxaQYoOL131/s320/Copy+of+1.12.13+054-767083.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427383816785357986" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuWaPEbEJzlkd8vqbVYzQd2fiDcAmRfwRr6nIuGslR7iJCZhDApFl5MdWwegQOmnjOjpF4wcq4PiCe-7KNPayNPmHUVnhCzvV6motbAjF7HcsH6HfwtA6yFTZqtap0qu9nS_TektCzhICd/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.13+016-767940.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuWaPEbEJzlkd8vqbVYzQd2fiDcAmRfwRr6nIuGslR7iJCZhDApFl5MdWwegQOmnjOjpF4wcq4PiCe-7KNPayNPmHUVnhCzvV6motbAjF7HcsH6HfwtA6yFTZqtap0qu9nS_TektCzhICd/s320/Copy+of+1.12.13+016-767940.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427383817352484850" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7bDWYjARl66fMroPjFvqiWfIkzpvGgbm-b4UB2hUk7FALKlUqmRUrdu7Oa1mn_bYnFoCXYDhjEG7ya-3n2sZyeEJp92qkFKB6dSHVXUYPeSMfvq-bF0vDhpGcFj9t7F5nyVW_j-hg4QZU/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.13+055-769198.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7bDWYjARl66fMroPjFvqiWfIkzpvGgbm-b4UB2hUk7FALKlUqmRUrdu7Oa1mn_bYnFoCXYDhjEG7ya-3n2sZyeEJp92qkFKB6dSHVXUYPeSMfvq-bF0vDhpGcFj9t7F5nyVW_j-hg4QZU/s320/Copy+of+1.12.13+055-769198.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427383826462974626" /></a></p><DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><FONT face=Arial><FONT size=2>CHINA ADVENTURE, DAY <SPAN class=026201916-16012010>10</SPAN></FONT></FONT></SPAN></DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=026201916-16012010>Woke in Guangzhou to our warmest day yet (in the 70's). Beautiful neighborhood where we are with boulevards, palm trees and brick streets. . .reminiscent of Savannah. Latitudinally, Guangzhou is equal to south Florida, so all of a sudden, it seems like a vacation! The only problem is that most of the city is under renovation due to the Asian Games due here in the Fall. </SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=026201916-16012010></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN> </DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=026201916-16012010>Lexi had her official physical this morning at a nearby clinic and all checked out OK. We then strolled along the riverfront, had lunch at a Western-style Cafe (burgers-n-fries, fish-n-chips), and listened to a traditional Chinese music group play for the leisure Saturday afternoon crowd in the park.</SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=026201916-16012010></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN> </DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><FONT face=Arial size=2><SPAN class=026201916-16012010>Met and talked with many other adopting families this afternoon. Most families come to Guangzhou to finalize their adoption process due to Consulates being located here. We have met families from all over the US, many with smiling little girls similar to Lexi; one family with 6 biological kids and 3 adopted, and one family adopting two 13-year-old boys. Great to see such international support for kids in need.</SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></DIV></DIV>Tracy Parentin Drissellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747129170116070099noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4491476540592317770.post-62266316834796781792010-01-16T00:58:00.000-08:002010-01-16T00:59:41.318-08:00DAY 9 - China Adventure<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIYMhHqoyv7wtkz72hPx3bl_nfacz_QLWgb2hghO_B4DBvpUr25PIRoima4vd2TYaiG4sMT4PdaWN17nVpf2Ngq7yHWldXMztDWqQNyZ1AvcIahN3_aCS8yWEOQxbvSrrf_Dlagg4iMGhD/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.12+031-781319.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIYMhHqoyv7wtkz72hPx3bl_nfacz_QLWgb2hghO_B4DBvpUr25PIRoima4vd2TYaiG4sMT4PdaWN17nVpf2Ngq7yHWldXMztDWqQNyZ1AvcIahN3_aCS8yWEOQxbvSrrf_Dlagg4iMGhD/s320/Copy+of+1.12.12+031-781319.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427259752904228898" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_k9SK680hJ1-QXKhqQAMgocFb7tag0rJlOEa-U7qjFVOWICNYMnu39YjfSy1HoVy4PLFlk2te1qzamVaWSLHCvASfxHS5tSTn8-kmgZ_pA3HLy2S-789a07yto4s2iYXVg21PrHmnbNBl/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.12+023-782450.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_k9SK680hJ1-QXKhqQAMgocFb7tag0rJlOEa-U7qjFVOWICNYMnu39YjfSy1HoVy4PLFlk2te1qzamVaWSLHCvASfxHS5tSTn8-kmgZ_pA3HLy2S-789a07yto4s2iYXVg21PrHmnbNBl/s320/Copy+of+1.12.12+023-782450.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427259756410951362" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSkjBP31y_1O9kacWXBzvA1WxzjM4ljOmKpN_3S23OLCKS9ISHGExObvo5Icd8FhXZEmxXpuB9yBiOwVkuNXVug53XlatcCAbB6xIXP6nUNIVacXyc4QRG3VenrfkLLV9-b2EDBR1KX9-X/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.12+024-783600.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSkjBP31y_1O9kacWXBzvA1WxzjM4ljOmKpN_3S23OLCKS9ISHGExObvo5Icd8FhXZEmxXpuB9yBiOwVkuNXVug53XlatcCAbB6xIXP6nUNIVacXyc4QRG3VenrfkLLV9-b2EDBR1KX9-X/s320/Copy+of+1.12.12+024-783600.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427259761395644834" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK32vh1w28_IgLpg_3sjD2Lj-ZQLm7LL_CH2rvMeNH2pMEPjkID3pULa4ULkjrGB9nm-OP22o0cLa0fpDXlV297VgbUhao_TVSNfx0nmShiJUL1izn9z1iJsIQlsRK5uHoebJpbe59Ch80/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.12+026-784299.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK32vh1w28_IgLpg_3sjD2Lj-ZQLm7LL_CH2rvMeNH2pMEPjkID3pULa4ULkjrGB9nm-OP22o0cLa0fpDXlV297VgbUhao_TVSNfx0nmShiJUL1izn9z1iJsIQlsRK5uHoebJpbe59Ch80/s320/Copy+of+1.12.12+026-784299.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427259765079104834" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMr3fJAPpoMIwGJzwi341i7PuqBUQmg2dRhDCPj-Sw4M_M308KILrxhg4cm5VA8TwGS2deXutwBf8mpyG1gypfiHctXwnOUFHAkwApe-rtM9JwSYfjC89GMreVdPWrQVG4opDR_6pRoBW-/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.12+036-785457.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMr3fJAPpoMIwGJzwi341i7PuqBUQmg2dRhDCPj-Sw4M_M308KILrxhg4cm5VA8TwGS2deXutwBf8mpyG1gypfiHctXwnOUFHAkwApe-rtM9JwSYfjC89GMreVdPWrQVG4opDR_6pRoBW-/s320/Copy+of+1.12.12+036-785457.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427259771780336210" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO7jo5_nFrOD2AA1uMpuPop_wIFQvwa-UPQ0g2hEcV0ZaX76LUIIRTk1SQPIxYZCflsd0FgZId13jBhB3ZcZ5T3-qlBL5Yr7lFiRQw7JtkV5Fs4loY72CfzyifVdBTp4rYMq9ILbeLod6c/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.12+058-787061.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO7jo5_nFrOD2AA1uMpuPop_wIFQvwa-UPQ0g2hEcV0ZaX76LUIIRTk1SQPIxYZCflsd0FgZId13jBhB3ZcZ5T3-qlBL5Yr7lFiRQw7JtkV5Fs4loY72CfzyifVdBTp4rYMq9ILbeLod6c/s320/Copy+of+1.12.12+058-787061.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427259778078795554" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_a29zRuXqDvp8nIxbJficnMlVRTPv31P6GDxOtSgJKhMk93aslzfYnTI8H04h-L2de-8TWhI_0ALbr3g9HWXDIyyoJpMw4hMMZNXntRiONYrYh7wMyhQbJXxevzWViuFb96hg9WxeIh87/s1600-h/Copy+of+1.12.12+059-787975.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_a29zRuXqDvp8nIxbJficnMlVRTPv31P6GDxOtSgJKhMk93aslzfYnTI8H04h-L2de-8TWhI_0ALbr3g9HWXDIyyoJpMw4hMMZNXntRiONYrYh7wMyhQbJXxevzWViuFb96hg9WxeIh87/s320/Copy+of+1.12.12+059-787975.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427259777784634050" /></a></p><DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><FONT face=Arial><FONT size=2>CHINA ADVENTURE, DAY <SPAN class=046142600-16012010>9</SPAN></FONT></FONT></SPAN></DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><FONT face=Arial size=2>We ventured out into the city this morning to Changsha's largest park complete with lake, aquarium, mini-amusement park, musicians, and of course, people selling their wares. The boys chatted briefly with a Buddhist monk and each bought a bead bracelet.</FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><FONT face=Arial size=2></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN> </DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><FONT face=Arial size=2>The cab rides are always interesting in China, and the ride to the park was no exception. Drivers typically do not follow the lines on the road, pedestrians are not yielded to, and chosen speed is up to the driver. Our cabbie even "bumped" another cab, a few words were exchanged, and they drove on.</FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><FONT face=Arial size=2></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN> </DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><FONT face=Arial size=2>We had an evening flight out to Guangzhou and all went smooth (although taking our "Circus" on the road is no easy task with lots of luggage, and now baby in-tow). Before departure, we had to say good-bye to our doorman at the Hotel Dolton, one of the most famous in all of China!</FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><FONT face=Arial size=2></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN> </DIV> <DIV><SPAN class=796123814-07012010><SPAN class=010084915-08012010><SPAN class=162190114-09012010><SPAN class=696324014-10012010><SPAN class=840180414-11012010><SPAN class=727400115-12012010><SPAN class=588513315-13012010><SPAN class=909111815-14012010><SPAN class=046142600-16012010><FONT face=Arial size=2>Arrived late in Guangzhou and fell directly to sleep.</FONT></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></SPAN></DIV></DIV>Tracy Parentin Drissellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05747129170116070099noreply@blogger.com0